Comic:Starblind Nation
From CGWiki
| Starblind Nation | |
|---|---|
| |
| Artist: | Andrew Lenahan |
| Writer: | Andrew Lenahan |
| Characters: | Ash |
| Updates: | Irregular |
| Began: | 2005 |
| Ended: | |
| Art style: | Comic strip |
| Rating: | Web-G |
| Website | [Andrew Lenahan Starblind Nation Website] |
Starblind Nation is a popular photo-webcomic started in 2005 by artist Andrew Lenahan. Its primary unique feature is the use of handmade and hand-painted characters and "sets".
Although rated G and generally quite "cute", Starblind Nation is not really a childrens' comic. Although it contains no objectionable material, the writing is clearly aimed at adult audiences.
Contents |
Methodology
Although other photo-webcomics exist, they primarily feature either actual human beings or pre-made toys (such as action figures). Starblind Nation is believed to be the first photo-webcomic based on handmade characters and sets. Each panel is set up inside a wooden frame box with interchangable backgrounds. They are then photographed using a Sony DSC-717 camera and migrated to a computer for final adjustment and the addition of word balloons, which is done in Photoshop.
Plot
So far, the series has not followed any particular plot or exhibited continuity. Each episode has been self-contained, mostly satirising the webcomic format in general. Andrew has, however, expressed interest in a more plot-driven version at the conclusion of its current run.
Characters
As of the fifth episode, the only reoccuring characters have been the spotted snakelike creature, Ash and an unseen narrator who controls the strip.
Ash is a creature of unknown origin. He vaguely resembles an upright white snake with circular black ring markings on his skin. He seems to be very intelligent and somewhat sarcastic.
The Narrator directs the strip. He is not seen, but his voice appears to come from above Ash. He is apparently rather vapid and prone to following trends. He is willing to put Ash in unpleasant situations to increase the popularity of the strip. This puts Ash and the narrator in frequent good-natured conflict as the strip progresses.
Chapters
As of August 2006, there have been 4 chapters.
Chapter 1: Prague Spring
Ash attempts something a bit highbrow, to which the narrator objects.
Chapter 2: Now With More Broccoli
The narrator tries a minimalistic theme.
Chapter 3: Christmas Special
Ash joins the Three Wise Men.
Chapter 4: Underestimating Comics
Ash reveals the true meaning of the wordless comic strip panel.
Critical reception
The response to Starblind Nation has been overwhelmingly positive. The first episode received 13 comments on DeviantART, which is good for a brand new comic without an established fan base. As a result of the encouraging reaction to the first few strips, Andrew has said that he plans to continue the strip indefinitely, although there will likely continue to be a long wait between episodes.
Trivia
- The original wooden model of Ash won first place as a wooden sculpture at the Orange County Fair in 2006.
- The substance on Ash's nose at the end of Episode 1 was actually mud.
- The "broccoli muffin" shown in Episode 2 is food from a Hamtaro playset.
