Young authors have more avenues for sharing their work and bringing their stories to life than ever before.

Many opt for the traditional route of finding a publisher or agent and jumping through the usual hoops. However, many find that self-publishing is often the most direct route, allowing the author to take full control over the creative process as well as the distribution and marketing of their completed work afterwards. 

Of course, one thing that a lot of DIY authors discover is that while the publishing process might be easily within their reach these days thanks to all the tools available, finding an audience and generating a buzz about the book are another.

Having connections and champions for your work certainly helps, as does having the skills and qualification to bring it to life on your own without outside assistance. In particular, if you’re hoping to put together either a children’s book or a graphic novel, having artistic skills like a solid background in 2D Animation can go a long way!

Looking for a real life example? 2D Animation graduate Matthew Senn was able to combine his life experiences as an introvert, and his love for art and writing, into something really cool – a graphic novel!

The self-published novel, ‘Quiet’, was recently released and has already gained some local attention. He’s had an appearance on the CBC Radio Morning Show, and even held a few local book signings. It would seem that not only is ‘Quiet’ here, but the attention it’s been receiving is  getting ‘loud’.

Since Matthew and his work are getting some attention, we felt it was important to catch up with him. We asked him about his journey to the College for Arts & Technology, his student experience so far, and his plans for the future.

Getting published is a lot of hard work, and it’s expensive, but if you really want to your work out there or get experience then DO IT – you learn a lot.” – Matthew Senn

Here is what Matthew had to say:

C&N: What is ‘Quiet’ about?

M: The story is about a girl named Claire, who goes to college for the first time in a new town. She is an introvert and wants to be left alone, but at the same time, wants friends and doesn’t know how to make them. We follow her journey in trying to fit in, as she adjusts to this big change.

C&N: Why a graphic novel?

M: Initially, it started off as a comic book. I Just started writing and kept going. It was around the 5th issue that I really started to play with the idea of a graphic novel.

C&N: What steps went into creating ‘Quiet’?

M: I would write the story, dialogue, and notes on my computer and phone. Then I would break it down into a 24-page format, figure out what each panel would look like, and sketch out thumbnails. Next, I would draw out the graphics digitally, using the free art program Manga Studio 5. I added the coloring and the shading, and finally combined them with text to get the finished product.

C&N: How did you get ‘Quiet’ published?

M: I first uploaded it online to Comixology. com, to a section for independent authors. Then I found a self-publishing company called Friesen Press, which had a program that was a good fit for me. With them, I was able to publish the novel on my own timeline.

C&N: Do you have plans for a sequel?

M: I have ideas for a sequel, but I am busy right now, and want to focus on getting the most out of school. I have a few other cool ideas I am working on.

C&N: How has your College for Arts and Technology experience been?

M: It is the best thing that has happened to me in years. I feel like I have found people with the same interests as me. I feel like I can finally be myself here.

C&N: What are your future plans?

M: I plan to go through school, and then get into the animation industry. I would like to work for a company like Bardell, or Yeti Farm. They both seem to have a fun atmosphere. Once I get more experience, I would like to revisit graphic novels.

C&N: What is your favorite comic series?

M: Right now ‘Fables’ (by Bill Willingham) – it is so smartly written.

If you want to read ‘Quiet’ for yourself, you can pick up a copy from Matthew himself through his Facebook page (facebook.com/ quietcomicbook), or from either Mosaic Books or Okanagan Sports Cards & Comics ($25).

Words: Carla du Toit & Natasha Di Luorio

Are you passionate about telling stories, crafting characters, and bringing worlds to life? Graduates from our 2D Animation program like Matthew have gone on to discover novel ways of sharing their talents and creations with the world!  

Check out our 2D Animation student reviews here!

If you’re curious to know more, fill out our online inquiry form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!