Shining Llght on the #VisibleWomen Movement

Last week comic content creators took to Twitter with the goal of placing a spotlight on female artists and writers through the tag #VisibleWomen. Female creators were encouraged to tweet their portfolios using a specific format to have their information added to the #VisibleWomen spreadsheet, a document that is given to hiring professionals in the comic book industry.

“The goals of the initiative are to raise the visibility of women in our industry and to get you work,” stated Milkfed Criminal Masterminds, the production company responsible for the campaign. 

The production company, Milkfed Criminal Masterminds, created the biannual #VisibleWomen event to generate equal representation for female comic creators after zero women were nominated for awards at the 2016 Angoulême International Comics Festival. The second largest comic festival in Europe, and the third largest in the world with 200,000 visitors, awarded and recognized 30 men while leaving women in the dark. The efforts of #VisibleWomen serve as a way to challenge the common defense provided by the male-dominated industry, that women would be hired if quality female artists were more prevalent.  #VisibleWomen highlights female creators and emphasizes their existence. This event ensures that female illustrators, colorists, writers, and inkers are seen by more than just the comic book industry, but also the world.

The importance of this event transcends beyond the impact it has in the realm of comics.  #VisibleWomen is a statement. It is a reminder that women have roles in male-dominated fields. Athletics, business, broadcast, publishing, and STEM are professions and areas that, while being in no way exclusive to men, are still labeled as “boys only clubs.”  It can be a daunting journey for a woman to break into the field, but it is possible. Events like #VisibleWomen are testaments of this.

“#VisibleWomen is intended to raise the profiles of women comic creators, but we also welcome (and have always welcomed) non-binary creators too,” clarified the event on its official site after an influx of questions regarding submission guidelines.

Rather than adding to the competitive atmosphere of gaining industry experience, #VisibleWomen builds a system of equal opportunity for those that want to take part in it. This is why the event is so valuable. It creates a support network. It validates, encourages and creates opportunities for those who seek it. The event explores the various talents individuals have to offer in a manner that unites an uplifting community.

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