For a long time Marvel and DC have dominated the comic industry, which is fair enough, given how awesome their characters are. Other publishers like Image and Dark Horse have produced some good stories as well, but Marvel and DC have always been at the top. Mainstream comics are great, yet it’s an exciting time for independent comics. Indie writers are hungry to get their work out there and are willing to take more risks than others who’re established in the industry. Here are my thoughts on the power of independent comics and why indie authors should be supported.
What’s the definition of an independent comic?
I believe that differs from person to person. I would define an independent comic as anything that isn’t Marvel or DC related. If it doesn’t involve any well-known character like Batman or The Hulk, then I’d consider it outside of the mainstream. Established writers like Brian Azzarello have created their own comics like the Moonshine series.
Other people might define an indie comic as something that hasn’t been published by any major comic imprint. There are many forms of independent comic that are waiting to be discovered.
Why should you read independent comics?
I love indie comics because there’s a lot of passion and creativity involved. A single writer might spend all of their spare time working on a series because they believe in it. They might draw the panels as well so they can retain full control. Some writers might collaborate with an artist and become a team. A lot of energy goes into creating a story from nothing and it takes a lot of confidence to want to put their work into the public eye.
You should read an independent comic because you never know what you’re going to get. I recently came across a graphic novel called Hillbilly written by Eric Powell, creator of The Goon. I decided to pick it up on a whim and after reading a few pages I was hooked. Powell was able to create his own fantasy world that mixed in western and supernatural themes. I wouldn’t have known about it unless I’d gone out with the mindset of wanting to read an independent comic.
Reading and buying an indie comic helps to create a platform for new voices. The writer/artist will find encouragement in knowing people are interested in what they have to say. Having diverse voices is crucial in any kind of publishing industry.
Most comic stores will have an independent section, and trying lesser known publishers is a good way to come across something new. Below is a list of a few indie comics that have been reviewed on The Comic Vault:
WesterNoir: Book 1 by Dave West
Ladies Of Market Street #1 by River Rock Comics
If you’d like your independent comic reviewed by The Comic Vault, then get in touch via the contact form.
The Comic Vault 
This reminds me of self publishing…which means I am obliged to support your view, since I’ve self published my books! It’s nice to know that there’s someone out there willing to give the underdogs a chance.
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Reblogged this on Manga Forum.
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I’m honored to be included.
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I prefer independent comics over mainstream. My problem with Marvel and DC are numerous. They keep resurrecting just about every dead character, they keep retconning, they will do shocking things just for the sake of shock. As a whole they have become poor storytellers. I used to love mainstream comics, but grew sick of them over the years. I have found so much better storytelling that lasts in independent comics.
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I do agree to an extent. Marvel and DC have constantly reworked established characters to try and create new stories and a lot of the time it hasn’t worked. For me, they get it right more than they get it wrong. But indie comics have opened my eyes to a whole new level of storytelling and I think they’re awesome.
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I agree. I love a lot of indie comics, meaning comics not Marvel or DC. My favorites tend to be French graphic novels and manga.
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It’s good to support independents because so many are excellent but overshadowed but the big names. It’s the same in any field. Nice post.
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