Beyond Boundaries: Queer Comic Writing Workshops in Bundaberg
Beyond Boundaries: Queer Comic Writing Workshops in Bundaberg
The Beyond Boundaries - Queer Comic Writing Workshops offered a transformative space for LGBTQIA+ individuals aged 18–35 in Bundaberg to express their stories through comic art. Developed by Wide Bay Kids Community Inc. in collaboration with local LGBTQIA+ advocates, artists, and community groups, the initiative fostered self-expression, connection, and advocacy for queer narratives. Funded by the Local Services Plans Community-Led Support Fund, the program addressed mental health, isolation, and the need for authentic queer representation.
Empowering Narratives Through Art
The workshops aimed to empower participants to reclaim their narratives, build supportive networks, and promote acceptance through storytelling. By providing creative outlets, the program enhanced mental well-being and reduced isolation for queer individuals within the community.
Program Development and Delivery
The initiative followed a structured approach:
- Engagement and Co-Design: Stakeholders and community members collaborated to shape workshops and establish safety protocols from January to June 2024.
- Workshop Delivery: Five workshops ran between July and September 2024, offering training in creative writing, character illustration, and comic creation. Expert artists, including Bexlyum Art and Selena Silcox, guided participants through transforming personal stories into meaningful art.
- Art Showcase (Deferred): A planned exhibition was postponed due to participants’ concerns about sharing deeply personal stories publicly.
- Evaluation and Sustainability Planning: Feedback highlighted the need for smaller-scale sharing options and hybrid workshop formats to enhance accessibility.
Community Impact and Learnings
The workshops yielded significant outcomes:
- Participants reported increased empowerment, self-acceptance, and a stronger sense of belonging.
- Safety protocols were developed to ensure future workshops are inclusive and trauma-informed.
- Challenges with attendance and readiness for public showcasing underscored the importance of tailored, gradual approaches to sharing work.
A Foundation for Growth
Beyond Boundaries aligns with regional goals by addressing mental health, fostering collaboration, and advocating for queer visibility. Remaining funds will support additional workshops through a newly formed community group, with plans to expand accessibility through hybrid formats and online engagement.
This initiative demonstrates the power of art and community in amplifying queer voices, paving the way for future programs that promote inclusivity and connection in Bundaberg.
