

Discover more from @GlowingComics
Manga Teen Classes + Andor Rocks!
Hi Folks,
I’ve been radio silent the last few months as I’ve taken up a new role as Visual Artist / Programs Coordinator at Pine Street Creative Art Centre, which is part of the City of Sydney Council. I’ve taught STEM/STEAM classes for years as part of the City’s Library network, however teaching art classes and how to make manga style comics is a bit of a dream job. I already taught my first sold out class, and we are running another one for teenagers 13-17 tomorrow night. If you live in Sydney, Australia then I’d definitely consider sending some kids along.
We’ll be experimenting with some more advanced materials, including traditional dip pens with ink and even manga screen tones! The class has just two spots left. The workshop is suitable for those that want to learn about how to create manga style comics and we’ll focus on character design. All materials are provided. 5.30-8pm Tuesday 13th December - book tickets here:
https://whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/events/manga-comic-book-workshop-13-to-17-years
In other news Andor - the latest Star Wars TV series has been absolutely thrilling. This tweet sums it up perfectly:


The show starts out slow yet it rewards those who are patient with the measured style of storytelling. Andor was something I was certainly doubtful of as prequels tend to disappoint and are usually not required. We know all too well after Star Wars Episodes 1, 2 and 3 were released. Possibly the worst prequels in history.
Tony Gilroy is the key showrunner was the one who stepped in to fix Rogue One after the script ran into some story problems. Tony and his writing team managed to create something unique; a well crafted, character driven narrative. One develops a genuine concern for the key players because they are three dimensional and lovable. In the case of the Empire’s servants, even though we may not like them we at least understand their motivations. We have met people like this in life. Therefore when the action unfolds, you actually care about what happens.
Please do yourself a favour and don’t miss this stellar offering. I honestly don’t know how something so well made was let through the production committee at Disney. These happy accidents aren’t always met with universal acclaim however audience and critics alike have been giving the show rave reviews.
In short, how would you describe Andor? It’s as if Lucasfilm cherry picked the very best elements Star Wars universe and from the George Lucas cannon, and trimmed all the fat. I don’t want to spoil the show as it must be experienced, however THX 1138 (an early dystopian Lucas film) gets a very special call out that ties in beautifully to the mythos of Rogue One.
The Guardian newspaper said:
“With no Jedi or Skywalkers to be seen, this politically charged, slow-burn thriller adds human stakes and a real sense of the fascism behind Star Wars’s endless civil war.”
Remember, it’s never too late to join the rebellion.
Nima