Striking the perfect balance: navigating creativity and functionality in a comic design

O'Sullivan (2023) notes that designers widely recognise the challenge of balancing creativity and functionality, particularly in the realm of comics. A comic artist must juggle artistic expression with the need to communicate effectively, capturing the reader’s attention and advancing the storyline. Each decision about layout, colour, typography, and character design must be intentional, serving both an aesthetic purpose and the practical goal of storytelling. At the heart of comic design is the tension between creative freedom and the structured demands of narrative flow. Comics often have specific conventions, such as panelling and speech bubbles, which serve functional roles by guiding readers’ eyes across the page in a particular sequence, Gavaler (2022). Breaking these conventions can create dramatic effects, but it risks confusing the reader if overdone. Therefore, a comic artist must find a balance, using creative layout choices that enhance, rather than hinder, the reading experience. For instance, highly detailed artwork can immerse readers in a visually rich world, showcasing the artist’s creativity. However, an overly intricate background or too many visual elements might detract from the central action or dialogue. Cluttered visuals can confuse readers, pulling them away from the narrative. According to Poon (2022), simplifying backgrounds or using strategic focus on characters in critical moments can maintain clarity without sacrificing creativity. A comic artist must decide when to add or subtract detail to serve the story effectively.