Welcome back to another installment of Indie Comics Showcase, the weekly blog where we signal boost a few truly independent comics that are currently crowdfunding their projects, crowdsourcing their funding in some way, or just completely self-publishing on their own. Every little bit of support for these creators matters, from a single dollar pledge to the twenty-five dollar bundle, and of course the higher tiers are usually fun too! Even if you can’t back a campaign or buy a book, you can share or tweet about these projects to your friends and followers.
On Indie Comics Showcase, we interview the creators, show off some art, and tell you how you can check out the product for yourself. Below we have some outstanding crowdfunding campaigns this week for you to learn about, enjoy, and hopefully support by backing one or more of them! Thanks for checking these out and for being the best part of Indie Comics Showcase. Let’s jump in!
Check out the campaign here!
Chris Braly: Welcome to Indie Comics Showcase, Kerry! Tell us the pitch for your latest crowdfunding project.
Kerry King: It’s a 24-page color comic, called Phantom Lion. Issue #2 follows Lenny Conrad, a former journalist turned lion-powered hero, as he faces off against the cunning Circus Master, who uses Nano-Might tech to turn elephants into deadly weapons. With newfound abilities like stealth and healing, Phantom Lion must protect innocent lives while unraveling a sinister plot. As Lenny struggles to remember his family, he faces his first true supervillain battle, testing his resolve and his powers.
CB: Where did the idea for this comic come from, and made you decide to self-publish it?
KK: Growing up on comics, I felt inspired to write a story, exploring the themes of conspiracy and hidden truths as well as inter strength required in fighting overwhelming evil. I chose the superhero genre because of the infinite possibilities. I’m also inspired by the world around me as I go through life. As a hospice nurse, I often see the deeper meanings of life, which spark ideas. I’m always taking notes and jotting down thoughts for my stories. The book is being published through Star Cross Comics.
CB: What kind of comic readers is this suited for and who is it aimed at?
KK: Phantom Lion is ideal for teens and up who enjoy superhero stories with action, deeper themes of hidden truths, and inner strength. It’s suited for readers who appreciate thrilling battles but prefer comics without foul language, nudity, or sexual situations. Fans of engaging characters and exciting conflicts will enjoy this series.
CB: How far along is this second issue?
KK: The comic is fully inked and more than 50% colored, so I should be done before the campaign ends this week.
CB: What are you learning from self-publishing through this process? And what’s next after this campaign?
KK: I love the creative process. You can never predict what will resonate with people and what will be a dud. I’m going to finish the 4-comic miniseries that I started with Phantom Lion, then next up I have an exciting idea that does not involve superheroes.
CB: It blew me away that the comic is only $5, and you have a tier for $10 that includes the first issue letting readers get caught up. Anything about the campaign you’d like to mention?
KK: There are several stretch goals and everyone who pledges five dollars or more will get these free things. No, I’m not making money from giving away trading cards and holographic stickers, but backers will benefit and that’s all that matters!
CB: Thanks for your time and good luck, Kerry!
KK: Thanks for considering this project! I put my heart and soul into it.
Check out the campaign here!
