Introducing Substack’s first Writer in Residence

Cartoonist and illustrator Adrian Tomine will kick things off.

We’re always looking for new ways to empower writers and give them the tools and space to get creative. This month, we’re introducing the first in a series of writer residencies designed to give established writers a place to experiment, share knowledge, and inspire other writers and readers in the Substack community.

Award-winning cartoonist, writer, and illustrator Adrian Tomine will start things off as Writer in Residence for the month of October. Known for his distinctive style and storytelling in works such as comic book series Optic Nerve, graphic novel Killing and Dying, and cover illustrations for The New Yorker, Adrian plans to share a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his process and experience. That could mean everything from answering reader questions, to sharing what tools and supplies he uses, to writing about why no one seems able to say his name correctly (including himself).

Substack is home to a dynamic and growing community of readers and writers eager to collaborate with and learn from each other. Our aim in hosting a Writer in Residence program is to enrich that community by giving readers a direct line to these writers’ perspectives and know-how, and by inviting Writers in Residence to experiment with the creative and collaborative opportunities of a Substack publication.

Each residency will run for one month. Substack compensates Writers in Residence for their work and time spent on supporting other writers in the community, but as always, what they write is up to them.

Subscribe to Adrian’s Substack here, and stay tuned for updates on future Writers in Residence. In the meantime, leave a comment if you have questions about Adrian’s process, techniques, and experience.