In the realm of graphic novels, the essence of storytelling often transcends mere entertainment, delving into the intricacies of identity, culture, and personal experiences. A prime example of this is the graphic novel “Wash Day Diaries,” created by the talented writer-artist duo Jamila Rowser and Robyn Smith. Their work not only embodies the essence of graphic novels but also shifts representation for Black women in comics, offering a refreshing perspective that resonates deeply with readers.
Rowser and Smith’s journey began five years ago when Rowser, inspired by her own wash day routine, envisioned a mini comic that would celebrate the beauty and endurance of Black women and their hair. After overcoming self-doubt and collaborating with editor J.A. Micheline, Rowser reached out to Smith via Twitter, seeking to bring her idea to life. Instead of pitching to a traditional publishing house, they opted for a Kickstarter campaign, which proved to be a resounding success. Within two days, they surpassed their $5,000 goal, ultimately raising $16,785 from 720 backers worldwide. This initial project, titled “Wash Day,” was a 27-page slice-of-life comic that garnered critical acclaim.
Rowser reflects on the challenges of finding a publisher for a story centered on a Black girl’s wash day routine, stating, “What big publisher run by straight old white men is going to want a comic book about a Black girl going through her wash day routine? They don’t even know what that is.” This sentiment underscores the importance of self-publishing and creating spaces for underrepresented voices in the comic book industry.
Initially conceived as a one-shot comic, “Wash Day” caught the attention of Chronicle Books, leading to the opportunity to expand the narrative into a full graphic novel. Rowser embraced this challenge, creatively reimagining the story as a collection of interconnected short stories. This approach allowed her to explore the lives of four best friends—Kim, Cookie, Nisha, and Davene—through their hair routines, weaving in themes of friendship, self-love, mental health, and the impact of gentrification in their Bronx neighborhood.
The graphic novel, “Wash Day Diaries,” released in the summer of 2023, serves as a love letter to Black women, celebrating their hair and the resilience of sisterhood. Rowser emphasizes her commitment to creating comics for Black women, stating, “All I care about is Black women, and all I wanted to do is create comics for Black women, because we’re so underrepresented [and] misrepresented in comics.” This dedication to representation is evident in the nuanced portrayals of the characters and their experiences.
Smith, a Jamaican cartoonist, brings her unique artistic style to “Wash Day Diaries,” enhancing the storytelling with expressive visuals. Her background in creating autobiographical comics, such as “The Saddest Angriest Black Girl in Town,” informs her approach to illustrating the lives of Black women. Smith’s artwork captures the beauty and complexity of Black hair, a central theme in the graphic novel, and serves as a powerful visual narrative that complements Rowser’s writing.
Despite the increasing diversity in comics, the industry remains predominantly white, with Black creators often facing significant barriers. According to data from Zippia, 79.4 percent of comic book writers in 2019 were white, while only 5.8 percent were Black or African American. This lack of representation not only affects creators but also limits the availability of authentic stories for Black readers. In response to this disparity, Rowser founded Black Josei Press, a publishing company dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black and Brown women and nonbinary creators.
Rowser’s vision for Black Josei Press is to provide a platform for stories that reflect the experiences of marginalized communities without the need to conform to mainstream expectations. She states, “There’s so many amazing creators, and I want them to have the freedom to tell their stories.” This commitment to authenticity and representation is crucial in a landscape where many narratives are often filtered through a predominantly white lens.
In addition to their collaborative work on “Wash Day Diaries,” Rowser and Smith have also contributed to other projects, including the webcomic series “MariSole,” which follows the life of a young Afro Dominican sneakerhead. Rowser’s individual works, such as “Ode to Keisha” and “Wobbledy 3000,” further showcase her dedication to exploring themes of identity, friendship, and cultural experiences through the medium of comics.
As they look to the future, Rowser and Smith are committed to continuing their collaboration, creating more comics that center and celebrate Black women. Their goal is to invite more Black women and nonbinary individuals into the world of comics, allowing them to see themselves represented in stories that resonate with their experiences. Rowser articulates this vision, stating, “I want to show we can do it all. It doesn’t just have to be about Black pain. It can be about Black joy.”
The impact of “Wash Day Diaries” has been profound, particularly among Black women who have expressed their appreciation for the representation and authenticity of the stories. Rowser and Smith’s work exemplifies the power of graphic novels to convey complex narratives that reflect the richness of diverse experiences. By focusing on the everyday lives of their characters, they challenge the notion that comics must adhere to traditional superhero tropes or narratives centered on trauma.
In the broader context of graphic literature, “Wash Day Diaries” stands as a testament to the evolving nature of the medium. Graphic novels have the potential to explore intricate themes and personal stories, much like traditional literature. The term “graphic literature” encompasses a wide range of narratives, from memoirs to historical accounts, and serves as a more inclusive descriptor for the genre. This shift in terminology reflects the growing recognition of comics as a legitimate form of storytelling that can engage with complex ideas and emotions.
As the comic book industry continues to evolve, the importance of diverse voices and stories cannot be overstated. Rowser and Smith’s work is a shining example of how graphic novels can embody the essence of representation, offering readers a glimpse into the lives of characters who reflect their own experiences. Their commitment to authenticity and celebration of Black culture serves as an inspiration for future creators, encouraging them to share their stories and perspectives through the powerful medium of comics.
In conclusion, “Wash Day Diaries” is more than just a graphic novel; it is a celebration of Black womanhood, resilience, and joy. Rowser and Smith’s dedication to creating stories that resonate with underrepresented communities highlights the transformative power of graphic literature. As the industry continues to grow and diversify, the voices of creators like Rowser and Smith will play a crucial role in shaping the future of comics, ensuring that all stories are told and celebrated.
Source: ESSENCE, Zippia
