Current mood:

pensive

Women in Manga/Comics
Observations on the women portrayed within shoujo (Actually, this link contains another link with the "Women in Shoujo" essay, but I found Christopher's commentary/blog to be worth checking out)

Observations from a woman working in the comics industry

The first link inspired the second one, which is written by Elin Winkler of Radio Comix. I pretty much agree with every point that she brings up. Honestly, I am not a big fan of the majority of the new anime series these days, because it almost all seems the same to me. Wimpy, unassuming, socially-retarded guy with harems of beautiful women vying for his affection? Perfect, air-headed, robot-girl love? What kind of "substance" is that? I'm not saying that every anime has to teach a meaningful lesson or be a "realistic" reflection of reality, but as a woman in this field I am frustrated to see such overwhelmingly frequent messaging. I suppose it's to be expected, since it's still a male-dominated industry, but I always try to hope for the best in these more modern times.

When I first started drawing comics, I used to be very concerned with portraying women in a powerful light. Almost all of my early published works (i.e. my old Ninja High School submissions in the mid-90's) reflect these ideas. It used to be one of my personal goals to spread a more "feminist" approach throughout the comic industry.

Now that I'm older, I know what an ambitious and difficult task that is. I haven't stopped thinking about that early goal, but I also don't want it to hamper the kinds of stories that I write and draw. I feel that simply existing as a woman working in comics already makes a statement, and I can choose how far to take that. Currently, I take a more relaxed and natural approach to my work, which means never compromising my personal comfort for the sake of a buck (that means no overt-ly fan-service art from me ^_-). Also, the majority of the female characters that I write tend to be on the stronger side and are not afraid to express themselves. I have difficulty identifying with many of the "softer, weak-willed" women that are often in today's anime/manga.

I would have to say that my work ends up being a touch on the feminist side simply due to the fact that I am interested in all that is about being a woman (and yes, to you lurkers who don't know me, I AM a woman :P). I do realize that a part of my work ends up being a self-exploration, whether it's in the process or the end result.

One part of Elin's post struck a chord within me. She writes about standing up for herself and being called a bitch. I remember a similar story where I stood up for myself (over a feminist ideal, no less ^_^;) and ended up embarrassing my male friend because I was being "rude in front of his friend." I wasn't ashamed for standing up for myself, but I was pretty upset that no one was taking my side. Ah, it's just a part of the every day struggle of being a woman. And not just a woman, but a small woman that is easily overlooked and underestimated. (Hmm, how many times have I been dissed by mediocre male artists until they find out I've been published? Oh, that's a totally different rant XD) I'm fully aware of how others might perceive me and am always seeking to turn it around. I guess there is some fun to being something of an underdog.

At any rate...yes, these links that I posted above reminded me of who I am and that those issues about women in comics/shoujo will always concern me.