The Gateway to Imagination
From Batman to the Marvel Universe, comic books have become some of the most valuable entertainment and storytelling mediums today. The blockbuster success of Black Panther was no anomaly; Black fans have long sought stories that reflect their perspectives. Yet, as is often the case, major publishers have been slow to meet this demand, leading Black creators to take the reins—publishing, distributing, and sharing their own stories with the world.
Comic books are a powerful tool for expanding imaginations and a great way to spark a love for reading, especially among younger audiences. They’re perfect for anyone who loves captivating stories, and they make excellent gifts, too. The 15 Black-owned comic book brands below offer a range of digital and physical editions that are sure to add something special to your collection. Visit their websites to explore and support these talented creators today.
Godhood comics is an Atlanta based imprint created by Tyler F. Martin. The company focuses on creating and publishing high-quality, diverse intellectual properties featuring 100% Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) leads. Their mission is to highlight comic diversity through stories centered around BIPOC characters and concepts. In addition to publishing, Godhood Comics is committed to community and education, providing lessons on comic book creation and offering tools and resources to aspiring creators through their School House Initiative.
Notable titles include Mega Woman, Sharpshooter and the Antagonists whose rights were acquired for possible adaptation in 2021. You can check local comic shops for copies or visit their website for digital versions.
Konkret comics began in 2019 with producing a variety of diverse comics in genres like adventure, sci-fi, horror, and also conventional super heroes. This award winning company was created by Derek ‘Lonzo Starr’ Allen and features a great team of writers and creatives. Right now you can get physical copies of their lines such as Akolyte, Deja Vu, and Watchman.
SoulHammer Comics, is an independent comic book publisher dedicated to creating iconic Black superheroes and enriching the comic book world with their narratives. Their mission is to deliver classic story arcs, epic lore, and top-notch artwork, focusing on characters of color while embracing a truly diverse universe of superheroes. Characters feature Luscious Hammer, inspired by African American folklore and the Harlem Shadow, a renaissance era and inspired comic that harkens back to the early age of serials. Get your copies here when you’re ready to order.
Dream Fury comics was created in 2016 to produce new and entertaining comics. The two titles under this banner are “Kisha” and “Crescent City Monsters”. These books feature award winning artwork and stories based on African myths and folklore.
Monarchs is a manga by Indianapolis resident Josh Bullock. Incorporating African and black cultural themes, the series follows two friends on their journey to become the greatest fighters in the world. But Monarchs isn’t the only series from Bullock, as he is just about to release a football manga titled Clutch!, bringing some new flavor and fun to the genre.
Sensiil Studios, established in 2022 by Basi White, is Iowa’s first Black-owned comic book and animation company. The studio is dedicated to creating comics that celebrate stories from the Black and Pan-African community, aiming to provide authentic representation in the science fiction and fantasy genres. The studio’s name; “Sensiil” is derived from the Amharic language, combining “sensul,” referring to early Ethiopian manuscripts depicting linear movement, and “si’il,” used to describe comic books from Black culture, reflects their mission to craft narratives that resonate with the Black Experience.
Stone Harbor Comics is an independent comic book company dedicated to creating engaging science fiction stories that champion diversity. Founded by Royce Adkins, the company aims to provide fresh narratives featuring diverse characters and perspectives, enriching the comic book industry with inclusive content. You can support their titles such as “Outcasts”, and “Legend of Althea” with both comic books and merchandise.
133art Publishing, founded by illustrator Jason Reeves, is a Black-owned comic book publishing company based in Los Angeles, California. The company is dedicated to producing a diverse range of genre stories, including superhero, sci-fi, fantasy, and all-ages comics, with a focus on showcasing the depth and complexity of the Black comics experience. This includes titles like “Pax-Sampson” and “Kid Carvers” for younger readers, alongside slightly more mature fare.
133 Art also offers services to other creators like character creation and small run printing.
Legend Comics was founded in 2021 by twin sisters Brittany and Bree Haigler. This independent comic book publishing company is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The two sisters are bringing their experience in screenwriting and story telling to the world of comics.Their mission is to become a leading innovator and publisher by delivering high-quality entertainment through fresh stories, original characters, and immersive worlds.This includes the company’s flagship series, The Legend Universe, introduces readers to a diverse array of superheroes, including Storm Glider and Green Darner.
TDJ Comics Studio, based in Virginia, is a multimedia entertainment company specializing in comic books, animation, and video production. Founded by self-taught artist Tarik DJ Holmes in 2013, the studio is committed to creating diverse stories that appeal to audiences of all ages. That includes teaming with his youngest brother, Javon Holmes, a middle school student and the creator of TDL Comics’ “Waffle Boy” which is Javon’s own creation
Midnight Comics is a black owned comic and manga publisher from Atlanta, Georgia. Titles include “The Grey”, “The Unbeloved”, and “Sol”. Written for audiences 13 and older you can get their entire collection for your own bookshelf or as a gift in physical form from their website.
Stranger Comics, founded in 2007 by Sebastian A. Jones, is an independent publishing company dedicated to creating authentic and timeless stories that reflect diverse cultures and experiences. The company is renowned for its rich fantasy universe, particularly the world of Asunda, which features a blend of African, Asian, and European mythologies. Stranger Comics has received acclaim for its commitment to quality storytelling and representation. The company’s works have been featured in various media outlets, and the company’s Niobe character has been highlighted as a significant addition to the fantasy genre.
Tuskegee Heirs
One of the more well-known comics from Black creators is Tuskegee Heirs. Tuskegee Heirs is a futuristic sci-fi action-adventure comic book series set at the end of the 21st century. It follows a squadron of young, gifted aviators who defend Earth against a menacing race of artificially intelligent villains. Created by Marcus Williams and Greg Burnham, their series is one that not only entertains but also educates. The series has been well-received, with multiple issues available for readers. For those interested in exploring the adventures of these young aviators, the official website offers access to the comics and additional information about the series.
Six Fifteen Comics is an independent comic book publisher founded by Malcolm McFadden, a 31-year-old hip-hop artist, writer, and audio engineer from Annapolis, Maryland. Inspired by his older brothers, McFadden developed a passion for comics at a young age and began creating stories and characters. In 2018, he decided to share his creations with the world, leading to the establishment of Six Fifteen Comics and the Six Fifteen Universe. The Six Fifteen Universe is a connected world of Black heroes and heroines. A world with limitless potential told through the lens of its characters; Evora Leigh (Evora Leigh: A New Breed), Amari King aka Maahes (The King’s Domain), Malik Mitchell aka The Black Vigilante (The Legacy), and Hell Hawk (Hell Hawk).
Danny Quick’s 4th Wall productions is a black owned publisher based in Burlington, North Carolina. Featuring hero characters Aceblade and Lumberjax, you can find a nice size run of stories to sink yourself into in both physical and digital editions.
