April 11: Laura Lee Gulledge’s New Graphic Novel Book Launch in Charlottesville

THE DARK MATTER OF MONA STARR, A NEW GRAPHIC NOVEL EXPLORING MENTAL HEALTH BY LOCAL AUTHOR, LAUNCHES AT THE BRIDGE PAI

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (March 5th 2020) - The Bridge PAI will be hosting a book launch for local author and artist Laura Lee Gulledge’s new YA graphic novel THE DARK MATTER OF MONA STARR. (Abrams Books)

This free interactive event for ages 10 and up will take place Saturday April 11th 2020 from 1:30 to 4:00pm at the Bridge Progressive Arts Initiative located at 209 Monticello Road.

 This event is the official launch party which will feature hands-on art activities inspired by the book as well as a station where guests can learn how to make their own self care plan. Plus there will be a live reading from the book, projected drawing videos, free door prizes, and celestial inspired cookies by Bowerbird Bakeshop. Drinks from Potter's Craft Cider and signed books will be available for purchase.

The graphic novel is about a depressed teen named Mona who is struggling with her “Matter,” which is how Gulledge personifies depression. Gulledge, a former Louisa County public school art teacher, strives to use her stories to help inspire readers to overcome their inner doubts and fears through modeling healing, expression, and Artner love. In creating the book Gulledge received support from McGuffey Art Center, numerous Patron supporters, and a local SOUP grant through New City Arts Initiative.

“I’m excited that Mona’s story is part of a broader conversation about our collective mental health, especially for young people. Some have even coined this new sub-genre of comics as ‘graphic medicine.’ I think comics as an art form can express such emotionally charged content in a uniquely visceral, accessible way. For oftentimes when I’m struggling I don’t have the right words to express how I’m feeling…but I do have pictures.”

 

"I will also be at Awesome Con May 1-3rd in Washington DC during my book tour. Here's the book trailer in case you'd like to check it out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJuE2UaS49Y "

LAURA LEE GULLEDGE is an Eisner Award nominated author, illustrator, and teaching artist. She is the creator of the YA graphic novels Page by Paige and Will & Whit in addition to her interactive book Sketchbook Dares: 24 Ways to Draw Out Your Inner Artist. Laura Lee also enjoys exploring comics journalism, interactive event production, contemplative dance, street art, and developing the Will & Whit DIY musical. She is based in Charlottesville and found online at whoislauralee.com.

Laura Lee's Website & Blog 

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