The Washington PostDemocracy Dies in Darkness

A new book captures stories of sexual violence, harassment and survival, in comic form. Here’s a glimpse inside.

In ‘Drawing Power,’ a forthcoming collection of comics, more than 60 artists share their accounts

Perspective by
Multiplatform editor
September 10, 2019 at 1:18 p.m. EDT

Images, like words, tell stories — and sometimes sketches are even more potent than sentences. In “Drawing Power: Women’s Stories of Sexual Violence, Harassment, and Survival,” a comics anthology publishing Sept. 17, more than 60 artists bravely recount personal, often deeply painful, experiences.

The artists are diverse — of different religions, races, nationalities and sexual orientations — as are their stories. Some share accounts of rape, attempted rape or incest, others recall incidents of catcalling and other forms of objectification.

Below is an excerpt from “Drawing Power,” edited by Diane Noomin. The comic, titled “Bailanta,” is by artist Powerpaola.