Design issues in comics as a visual narrative method and a comic practice

The purpose of this study is to define the terminology specific to comics, explain their working principles, identify design issues faced during the creation of one and offer possible solutions. This research emerged upon observing the lack of studies looking into the effective use of comics as a narrative device whilst reviewing the literature. The origins of this art form which expresses itself in a rich and unique manner through the skilful combination of both literature and art, goes far back in time and spreads wide around the world. This led to comics as a narrative method not only evolving in a different way regionally and forming unique schools, but also its enrichment through the synthesis of different schools. Therefore, in the first section of this study the regional history of visual narratives is explored and the formation processes of comic schools that emerged from this synthesis is explained. Information is provided regarding the defining characteristics of different schools, their artworks considered to be milestones, their printing formats and publishing houses. In the second chapter terminology is explained through a focus on the structural features of comics, and the working principles of the method is explained through various examples. The third chapter deals with a number of visual design issues that may come up during the implementation of this method such as stagnation, problematic flow, and difficulty in following the structure. This section also offers possible solutions to the discussed issues. The fourth and final chapter displays the a comic practice and provides insight into the preparation of the set-up and page layout, as well as the character development process. Processes such as preparing the text, the first draft, drawing, inking, colouring, and preparing the cover have been explained through this comic practice.