Comic-Making Workshops

Comic-Making Workshops is a ninety-minute, hands-on comics workshop run by Mike Barry, the Sydney author and illustrator behind the Action Tank graphic novel series. Based in North Balgowlah, he takes the session into schools, libraries, bookstores and comic shops, and it is designed for children aged 8 to 12.

What happens in the session

• A short, plain-language introduction to how comics work
• Using panels, page design and word balloons to carry a story
• Each child invents a character and chooses a setting
• Each child works out a story, with Mike guiding the process
• Everyone finishes a complete one-page comic of their own

Where it runs

• Primary schools, including class groups and library sessions
• Public libraries, as a holiday or weekend activity
• Bookstores and comic shops
• Sessions have been run for schools such as Loreto Normanhurst

Learning areas it supports

• Creative writing
• Visual literacy and storytelling
• Early conceptual thinking

About Mike Barry

Mike is the author and illustrator of the Action Tank graphic novels, with two books published and sold through online retailers. He runs the comic-making workshop himself rather than sending a facilitator.

Common questions

How long is the workshop, and what age is it for?

Each workshop runs for about ninety minutes and is designed for children aged 8 to 12. That length covers the comics theory, the character and story work, and enough time for every child to finish a page.

What does my child come away with?

Every participant finishes a one-page comic they have written and drawn themselves, built around a character and setting of their own invention. Along the way they pick up the basics of panel layout, page design and word balloons, which is the toolkit for making more comics at home.

Can the workshop come to our school or library?

Yes. The session is built to travel and has been run in schools, public libraries, bookstores and comic shops. Mike is based in North Balgowlah on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Does my child need to be good at drawing?

No. The session is about telling a story visually, so it works from the child’s own ideas rather than their drawing ability. The theory section gives everyone the same starting point before any drawing begins.

How do I book a workshop?

Email Mike at [email protected] with the venue, the age group and the dates you have in mind. Schools and libraries usually book a date directly rather than through a ticketed session.

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