Methods of Research and Setting out Intentions

 In order to understand where to begin my research, I must first outline my intentions for my practice. I would like to use this course as an opportunity to create an illustrated novel. I am interested in writing stories, and I feel that pairing this with my illustration work could be really interesting. I will need to identify how I set about doing this, who my audience is, and where this work could exist.

There are many ways my work could exist - this could include pitching to publishers (so I must find out what is required to do this, and which publishers would be appropriate to contact), or finding a way to self-publish (research cost, marketing strategy, platform). 

As I am not at the stage where I am ready to publish, I want to use the time to investigate other ways I could reach my goal. These might include:

• Attending relevant visiting lecturers/professionals and following up with questions after an introduction

• Taking my work to art markets or conventions such as ThoughtBubble (to sell)

• Speaking to other practitioners at conventions such as ThoughtBubble (as a visitor)

• Utilising any existing contacts I may have - ask friends, family or industry connections I already have for advice or explore opportunities

• Social media - use my existing audience or try to find my new audience by creating content online (snippets of work, short videos of the creation etc)

• Find relevant publishing agencies and see what requirements they have for pitching

• Speak to small / local businesses / comic shops (independent retailers)

• Self publishing platforms - Amazon seems like an accessible option from what I have previously read. 

In this early stage of my project, I'll start by exploring my options for self publishing. This will mean reaching out to other professionals either online or in person (at a comic convention for example) and finding various avenues for me to sell my work (as well as addressing production).