The Virtual Memories Show Episode 461 - Matt Madden
Nov 23, 2021
In this discussion, Matt Madden, a cartoonist and teacher known for his innovative comics, delves into the making of his book Ex Libris. He shares insights on balancing formal experimentation with engaging storytelling, inspired by literary icons like Italo Calvino. Madden reflects on his creative evolution, including the challenges of style-switching and the impact of a two-cartoonist household with Jessica Abel. He also explores teaching comics in a diverse classroom, the influence of digital tools, and the necessity of mastering techniques before breaking the rules.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Philadelphia Bookstore Scene
- Madden praises Partners and Sons and local Philadelphia bookstores for anchoring the comics community.
- He'll exhibit original Ex Libris pages there and notes vibrant used-book shops nearby.
Complementary Creative Household
- Living in a two-cartoonist household created sustained mutual support and collaborative teaching projects.
- Madden and Jessica Abel co-authored textbooks and edited anthologies while balancing family life.
Classroom Demographics And Webcomics
- Comics classrooms shifted from male-dominated to female-majority in the 2000s, driven by manga and webcomics.
- Webcomics enabled students to monetize and publish outside traditional channels early on.
