The first workshop is at Wollongong Art Gallery this Sunday, and will giving budding artists some tips on developing their own characters including the silhouette of the character, the design, principals and different formats.

“We’ll be looking at what kind of things to think about when creating a character that’s going to help from a story perspective and really bring that character to life,” he said.

Joyce has been involved with the Wollongong festival since it’s inception four years ago, as a small event at Corrimal Library, and said it’s evolution was “immense”.

“Each year is keeps getting bigger and better but maintains the feel of a smaller community-based event,” he said.

Joyce works as a professional illustrator and animator, he’s been producing his own comics and zines as a hobby for years and has exhibited nationally and internationally.

“I think [comic books are] a very collaborative medium. As a reader you really feel like you’re part of it as you’re reading it … it really connects with you deeply,” said Joyce.

“At a base level you can do what they’re doing, all you need is a pen and paper which is really cool.

“There’s no limits on technology or budget or other stuff which comes with other storytelling mediums it just boils down to you, a pencil, a piece of paper and your imagination – which I think is really interesting, powerful and inspiring.”

Louie Joyce will be holding workshops at Wollongong Art Gallery on Sunday May 1 ($25, materials supplied) and Sunday May 14 ($10, materials supplied).

For more information visit wollongongartgallery.com.

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