Tell The Damn Story, ep 364: How Global Artists Redefine Cultural Identity in Comics & Animation
"And How Hidden Histories and Universal Themes Play A Part In It."
On this special international episode of "Tell The Damn Story," hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons team up with a panel of extraordinary artists and storytellers from across the globe, thanks to the East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention (ECBACC).
Joining them are Micheline Hess of Mishmash Arts (NYC), acclaimed cartoonist and illustrator Tayo Fatunla (UK/Nigeria), and Jesse Sunkwa-Mills, CEO of Mills Media in Ghana.
Together, they dive into the transformative power of comics, graphic novels, animation, and storytelling as vehicles for culture, representation, and change.
Through personal origin stories, the panel explores their earliest inspirations, ongoing creative challenges, and the passion that keeps them pushing boundaries in their fields.
They discuss the importance of self-education, the hurdles of making your way as an artist in underserved industries, and the necessity of seeing your own story and face represented in media.
Whether it’s resurrecting folklore, uplifting African narratives through animation, or fighting for visibility as an artist of color, these creators are united by a drive to tell stories that haven’t been told before.
Tune in for a conversation filled with hard-won wisdom, shared laughter, global perspectives, practical advice for emerging creatives, shout-outs to other creators, and some can’t-miss recommendations.
If you’re looking for inspiration or real talk about the journey from dreamer to doer in storytelling, you won’t want to miss this episode.
Tayo Fatunla shares his work on Instagram (@tfatunla123) and runs a personal website where his art awaits your discovery. (www.tayofatunla.com)
Jesse Sunkwa-Mills and his studio, Mills Media, share insightful content about their projects on Instagram (@millsmedia_).
Micheline Hess showcases her vibrant storytelling through her brand, Mishmash Arts (mishmasharts.com), and actively shares updates on Instagram. (@michmasharts)
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00:00 African Storytelling Through Animation
10:55 "Beginning of My Storytelling Journey"
12:19 Journey of a Pioneering Cartoonist
17:39 Journey from Advertising to Storytelling
22:36 Panel Nods: Self-Education Insights
31:03 "Passion and Cultural Impact"
33:23 "Early Artistic Journey"
38:54 African Stories Through Comics
46:27 Global Stories and Diverse Voices
52:56 Exploring VR Storytelling with Quill
56:36 Empowering Local Animation Talent
01:05:57 Cultural Storytelling and Global Influence
01:07:04 "Storytelling Evolution and Impact"
01:12:47 Appearance Matters in the Comic Industry
01:18:20 Artistic Spotlights: Dalitha & Harpork
01:22:47 "Honored to Meet You"
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