How to Break Into Comics

This panel is meant to be a practical guide for artists who are interested in pursuing a career in comics. We investigate how to land gigs, stand out, and navigate the ever-shifting landscape of getting a job in comics. It features an esteemed panel of comics editors including Heather Antos, Greg Lockard, Kiara Valdez, and Anthony Marques.
These editors are currently working for (or previously worked with) comic publishers such as IDW, First Second Books, Image Comics, Marvel, and DC Comics. The panel is moderated by cartoonist Andrew Drilon.
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1:56 - Introduction of the Panelists: Heather Antos, Greg Lockard, Kiara Valdez, and Anthony Marques
5:21 - Describing the Comic Industry’s Current Landscape, and Giving Tips on How to Navigate/Excel in it
15:01 - Best Websites and Social Media Platforms for Comic Creators to Be On
16:33 - The Panelists’ Stance on Artist Referrals + Mentoring
19:43 - The Importance of Networking and Building Community
21:29 - Opinions on Bar-Con
24:41 - Stance on Cold Emails
30:42 - How being a Creator Influences the Experience of Being an Editing and Overseeing Creatives
39:32 - Qualities you should have when breaking in + advice
44:17 - Stance on Delivering work late
50:37 - The other jobs/avenues in comic industry + encouragement on knowing what you want to focus in
57:10- Q&A portions begin
57:34 - What is the day in the life of an editor look like?
58:47 - What do editors look for in a graphic novelist’s portfolio?
1:02:25 - How do writers break in?
1:06:08 - What do publication companies look for on a cover letter and resume for Editorial Assistant positions?
1:09:46 - Will it be on RUclips? Inquiring about Lynda Barry’s process and does it relate to the panelists at all?
1:13:18 - Where do you find the list of good working agents and who they represent?
1:13:49 - Does any of their jobs align with Marketing or Campaigning for comics?
1:17:13- How do you find a mentor as an independent artist? How did you each break into comics?