An Interview with Whit Taylor

We got to know Whit Taylor through her autobiographical minicomic, Montana Diary, which we presented on just a few weeks ago at the Southwestern Popular/American Culture Association (see our previous post for more details). We were fortunate to get a chance to hear from the creator herself - read her interview below!

Describe your comics journey--how did you get into making comics?

I started drawing, making picture books, and reading comics as a kid. It wasn't until I got to college and discovered indie comics, that I realized I could tell stories about my own life this way! I didn't have a formal art education, but learned how to make minicomics by trial-and-error (with assistance from Jessica Abel's Art Babe website). I started posting diary comics on my Blogspot too (this was the late 2000s, lol). From there I started bringing my comics to local comic book shops, attending small press shows, and sending out my comics for review. Now, after about 15 years of making comics, I split my time between cartooning, editing comics/graphic novels, and taking care of my toddler.

How did you develop your voice/unique comics style? Your comics include memoir and fiction - how do you decide the subject and angle each project?

I've always been a storyteller with an interest in exploring what it means to be human (I know that sounds cheesy, but it's true). I think that part of that comes from being inquisitive, a sensitive observer, and a socially anxious person. I keep coming back to the themes of identity, race, relationships, history, sociocultural stuff, mental health, public health, and nature. I like to learn about things through making comics. Memoir helps me process and explore my own feelings and experiences and connect with others. I also like writing about silly, absurd stuff relating to everyday life, pop culture, etc. I'm driven to make the things that excite me or challenge me and often find my angle through the process of creation.

Do you think the comics form creates a community forum?

I do! I've found community through attending comics shows over the years and by sharing my work online. I really value connecting with people who have resonated with my work and vice versa.

Are you working on something now?

I am currently writing a US public health history graphic novel, which will be drawn by Joyce Rice, for First Second (I have an MPH and my day job used to be in health education). Lots of research! I am also in the planning stages for some future projects, including Fizzle 4, which will come out from Radiator Comics when it's done! And I like to do quick Instagram comics here and there. So yeah, check out my Instagram! WhitlTaylor