Imani Younger

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

It's a varied collection of sequential art done during my time at MCAD, with mainly one page comics alongside two longer works. My focus during my foundation and sophomore years has been experimentation and widening the range of my storytelling, so many of the comics that were submitted have different styles of rendering. I hope to be able to experiment even more as I continue my education!

What's next for your practice? Anything you're really excited to make?

I mentioned submitting two longer works, but I'd like to create even more. Eventually I'd like to publish a full-length novel. Until then I'm trying to learn as much as possible about comic writing (as well as the technical fundamentals, of course). This summer, I'd like to try my hand at collaborating with artists in the community as well. It's one of the things I miss most about life before the pandemic hit. I think just throwing a couple of short stories together into one piece can add so much intrigue, and when there's an intentional sense of collaboration it's even better!

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

I was given the opportunity to attend the Pre-College Summer Session in 2018, and until that point, I wasn't sure if art school would be right for me. It was only after the program that I became determined to better my work ethic and skills, and I wanted to start that process in a place that felt familiar. MCAD was the natural choice for me—I loved the environment and the friends I had made that summer, and since then, I feel like my relationship with art has changed for the better.

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

I don't usually read webcomics, but Ring My Bell by Yeongol completely blew me away. It's a slice of life romantic comedy, and the writing really brings out the best of the genre. The characters are so well crafted that I immediately felt invested, which usually takes a while when I'm reading romance. As a bonus, aside from the writing itself, Yeongol has a beautiful rendering style. Even if you're not a fan of slice of life, I'd recommend reading it for the art if nothing else!

What inspires you?

I'm certainly influenced by things like TV shows and graphic novels, but I'm more directly inspired by my peers. Seeing incredible work created by people I already have a relationship with, whether it's through classes we share or the friendships I've developed over the years, is a breath of fresh air. The raw potential and incredible skill held by my peers keeps me engaged with my own work and it gives me the motivation and ambition I need to keep moving forward.