Comics Grid-Journal of Comics Scholarship
Scope & Guideline
Advancing Scholarship in Comics and Visual Culture
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Interdisciplinary Research on Comics:
The journal welcomes research that intersects with various fields such as literature, art history, cultural studies, gender studies, and sociology, reflecting the diverse applications and implications of comics. - Exploration of Identity and Representation:
A consistent focus is on how comics engage with themes of identity construction, representation, and social justice, examining how various narratives in comics reflect and challenge societal norms. - Historical and Cultural Contexts:
The journal also emphasizes historical perspectives on comics, exploring their evolution and cultural relevance across different time periods and geographical contexts. - Comics as a Pedagogical Tool:
There is a notable interest in the use of comics in education, particularly in how they can be employed to teach complex subjects, engage students, and facilitate discussions on contemporary issues. - Digital and Webcomics Studies:
The journal addresses the rise of digital comics and webcomics, analyzing their impact on the comics industry and the ways they influence storytelling and audience engagement.
Trending and Emerging
- Comics and Social Justice:
There is a growing trend of exploring how comics address issues of social justice, identity, and representation, with recent publications delving into topics such as gender, race, and environmental justice. - Pandemic Narratives:
The COVID-19 pandemic has catalyzed a surge in comics that reflect on personal and societal experiences during this time, including themes of grief, mental health, and community resilience. - Transnational and Cross-Cultural Studies:
Emerging themes include the exploration of comics across different cultures and nations, examining how comics can serve as a medium for dialogue and understanding in a globalized world. - Digital Comics and Webcomics:
As digital platforms gain popularity, there is an increasing focus on the study of webcomics and their unique storytelling techniques, audience engagement, and implications for traditional comic forms. - Comics as a Tool for Health Communication:
Recent publications highlight the use of comics in health communication, particularly in educating audiences about medical issues, mental health, and public health initiatives.
Declining or Waning
- Traditional Comic Forms:
There appears to be a waning interest in the examination of traditional comic forms in isolation, as more scholars are exploring comics in conjunction with other media or within broader cultural contexts. - Purely Aesthetic Analyses:
Research solely focused on the aesthetic aspects of comics, such as drawing styles or artistic techniques, is becoming less common, as the journal increasingly favors analyses that incorporate social, political, and cultural implications. - Historical Narratives Without Contemporary Relevance:
Studies that focus solely on historical narratives without connecting them to contemporary issues or current scholarship are becoming less frequent, indicating a preference for research that contextualizes the past within present discussions. - Single-Author Studies:
There is a noticeable decline in papers concentrating solely on individual creators or authors without a broader thematic or comparative analysis, suggesting a shift towards more collective or thematic studies.
Similar Journals
Journal of Contemporary Drama in English
Advancing Scholarship on Today's Dramatic LandscapeJournal of Contemporary Drama in English is a prestigious academic publication dedicated to the exploration of contemporary drama written in English. Published by WALTER DE GRUYTER GMBH in Germany, this journal serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students engaged in the fields of literature, literary theory, visual arts, and performing arts. With an impressive impact factor reflected in its Q2 ranking in both Literature and Literary Theory and Visual Arts and Performing Arts categories for 2023, the journal demonstrates its relevance and influence in academic discourse. It provides a platform for critical examination and innovative scholarship, covering a broad range of topics related to contemporary dramatic texts and performances. The journal is committed to fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and exploring the socio-cultural contexts of drama, making it an essential reference for anyone invested in the contemporary landscape of theatre and performance studies.
AMERICAN QUARTERLY
Charting New Territories in Cultural Studies and HistoryAMERICAN QUARTERLY, published by Johns Hopkins University Press, stands as a prestigious journal in the fields of Cultural Studies and History, reflecting its remarkable reputation with a Q1 ranking in both categories as of 2023. With an ISSN of 0003-0678 and an E-ISSN of 1080-6490, this journal serves as a vital platform for interdisciplinary scholarship, exploring diverse narratives and critical theories that shape the American experience. Although it does not currently offer open access, AMERICAN QUARTERLY remains an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students committed to understanding the complexities of cultural and historical dynamics. Its rich interdisciplinary approach and rigorous peer-review process ensure that the journal consistently publishes high-quality articles that resonate with contemporary global discussions, making it indispensable for anyone looking to contribute to or enhance their understanding of American culture and history.
Renaissance Studies
Illuminating the Cultural Tapestry of the RenaissanceRenaissance Studies, published by Wiley, stands as a vital academic platform within the disciplines of Cultural Studies, History, Literature and Literary Theory, Religious Studies, and Visual Arts and Performing Arts. With an impressive history of publication spanning from 1987 to 2024, this journal is recognized in 2023 metrics as a Q2 journal in four categories and Q1 in Literature and Literary Theory, reflecting its substantial impact in promoting interdisciplinary dialogue and research. The journal's robust Scopus rankings further underscore its relevance, including a position in the 83rd percentile in Literature and Literary Theory. Although not an open-access journal, it provides readers and contributors with access to curated, high-quality scholarship that explores the complexities of the Renaissance and its enduring influence on contemporary thought and culture. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find Renaissance Studies invaluable in fostering discussions that bridge historical context with modern inquiry.
West 86th-A Journal of Decorative Arts Design History and Material Culture
Revealing the Rich Tapestry of Design HistoryWest 86th: A Journal of Decorative Arts, Design History, and Material Culture, published by University of Chicago Press, stands as a significant publication within the arts and humanities, particularly focusing on the interconnections among decorative arts, design history, and material culture. With its ISSN 2153-5531 and E-ISSN 2153-5558, this journal has evolved since its inception in 2011, diligently contributing to a deeper understanding of visual arts and their historical context. Although categorized in the fourth quartile for the year 2023 within Visual Arts and Performing Arts, it ranks #387 out of 667 in Scopus, showcasing a unique niche with a commitment to quality scholarship. Researchers, professionals, and students engaged in these dynamic fields are encouraged to explore this journal as it provides insightful analyses and discussions that enrich the dialogue on the significance and impact of material culture. While it is not open access, the journal’s contributions remain integral for those seeking to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of decorative arts and design history.
NEUE RUNDSCHAU
Elevating the Conversation in Cultural StudiesNEUE RUNDSCHAU is a prominent journal published by S Fischer Verlag GmbH, specializing in the fields of literature and literary theory, as well as visual arts and performing arts. With its roots tracing back to its inception in 1969, this journal has evolved significantly, providing a platform for critical discourse and innovative scholarship in the arts and humanities. Although it experienced coverage changes, the journal remains a vital resource for researchers and academics, contributing to the rich dialogue surrounding cultural studies and artistic expression. Furthermore, while it is not available through open access, NEUE RUNDSCHAU offers essential insights into contemporary literary trends and artistic movements, ensuring its relevance and importance within the academic sphere. With Scopus rankings including a position in the 16th percentile for literature and literary theory, and a 10th percentile placement in cultural studies, the journal embodies a commitment to quality scholarly contributions, making it an invaluable asset for students, professionals, and researchers alike.
KOREA JOURNAL
Innovating Research for a Deeper Understanding of KoreaKOREA JOURNAL, published by the Academy of Korean Studies, stands as a significant scholarly resource in the fields of Cultural Studies, History, Literature and Literary Theory, and Visual Arts and Performing Arts. With an impressive impact factor highlighted by its Q1 and Q2 quartile rankings across multiple categories, the journal facilitates the dissemination of innovative research that contributes to the understanding of Korean society and culture, offering a platform for both local and international scholars. Open Access since 2020, ensures that its articles are readily available to a wide audience, thereby promoting broader academic engagement. By featuring diverse interdisciplinary studies, the journal aims to bridge gaps across various fields and foster dialogue among researchers, practitioners, and students alike. Located in Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, it continues to play an essential role in advancing scholarship related to Korean studies while maintaining academic rigor and quality.
Italian Studies
Fostering Critical Dialogue in Italian Cultural StudiesItalian Studies, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands as a distinguished academic platform in the fields of Cultural Studies, History, Linguistics, Language, Literature, and the Visual Arts. Established in 1937, this journal has fostered scholarly dialogue and innovation through its robust contributions and in-depth analyses that bridge historical and contemporary perspectives on Italian culture. With an impressive ranking in Q2 and Q3 quartiles across multiple categories, including Literature and Literary Theory, and a current impact factor reflecting its growing influence, Italian Studies serves as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Although not an open-access journal, it remains accessible via institutional subscriptions, ensuring that a wide audience can engage with its critically acclaimed research and articles. Located in the UK, Italian Studies continues to advance the understanding of Italy's rich cultural heritage, making it a vital cornerstone for those invested in the humanities and social sciences.
Film International
Unveiling the Social Significance of Cinematic Art.Film International is a prominent journal dedicated to the exploration of film and its cultural, social, and artistic significance. Published by INTELLECT LTD, this journal serves as a platform for interdisciplinary studies in the field of film criticism, theory, and scholarship, contributing valuable insights from both established and emerging researchers. With an ISSN of 1651-6826 and an E-ISSN of 2040-3801, the journal is an essential resource for those engaged in the realms of communication, cultural studies, and visual arts, though it is currently classified in the lower quartiles of these fields (Q4). Noteworthy for its critical perspectives and diverse content, Film International enhances the dialogue surrounding cinematic practices and their impact on society. Researchers, professionals, and students can explore its rich assemblage of articles and reviews that reflect the evolving landscape of film studies, making it a significant addition to the academic community focused on the art of film.
Visual Studies
Exploring the intersections of art, culture, and anthropology.Visual Studies, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading international journal that serves as a vital platform for interdisciplinary scholarship in the fields of visual arts, cultural studies, and anthropology. Established in 2002 and continuing strong through 2024, it holds impressive rankings including Q1 in Cultural Studies and Visual Arts and Performing Arts, as well as Q2 in Anthropology, reflecting its significant impact and prestige within these disciplines. With a robust Scopus ranking placing it in the 89th percentile for Visual Arts and Performing Arts, this journal does not only publish original research but also fosters rich dialogues on visual culture, representation, and critical theory. Although it is not open access, researchers, practitioners, and students alike can benefit from its rigorous peer-reviewed content, which contributes to advancing knowledge and understanding of visual phenomena. Located in the United Kingdom, Visual Studies continues to shape the conversations surrounding visual practices and their societal implications.
International Journal of Fashion Studies
Fostering Critical Analyses of Fashion's ImpactInternational Journal of Fashion Studies, published by INTELLECT LTD in the United Kingdom, is at the forefront of scholarly discourse in the realm of fashion, encompassing the intersecting fields of cultural studies and visual arts. With a strong focus on the socio-cultural dimensions of fashion, this journal has established itself as a valuable platform for researchers, professionals, and students to disseminate innovative ideas and critical analyses. Ranked Q3 in Cultural Studies and Q2 in Visual Arts and Performing Arts for 2023, it boasts notable Scopus rankings, positioning it among the top-tier journals in its respective categories. The journal is committed to exploring diverse perspectives on fashion phenomena through rigorous research and ethical inquiry. Notably, it provides essential insights into contemporary issues affecting the fashion industry while promoting an understanding of fashion's cultural significance. The International Journal of Fashion Studies is an indispensable resource for those looking to stay informed about the latest developments and trends in the dynamic field of fashion studies.