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Janelle Monáe is taking her world-building talents to the comic book realm. The multi-hyphenate artist and Afrofuturist icon recently revealed her new graphic novel, The ArchAndroid, at Blerdcon. Read more and check out the viral reveal inside.
Monáe attended Blerdcon, the convention celebrating Black nerd culture, to share Chapter one of her latest venture – a graphic novel. In a social media post capturing the moment, Monáe showcased the striking cover art, sending fans into a frenzy as they anticipated another exciting venture from the visionary storyteller.
Expanding the Monáeverse
Monáe has long embraced futuristic, sci-fi narratives in her music, film roles, and previous literary work. Her critically acclaimed 2022 anthology, The Memory Librarian: And Other Stories of Dirty Computer, built on the world of her 2018 album Dirty Computer, weaves together stories of resistance, identity, and love in a dystopian society. Now, with her foray into graphic novels, she’s bringing her signature storytelling to a new medium.
At Blerdcon, Monáe spoke passionately about the importance of Black representation in science fiction and fantasy. “We deserve to see ourselves as heroes, as revolutionaries, as the architects of our own futures,” she said to an excited crowd. The graphic novel, which she described as a “love letter to the rebels and dreamers,” promises to continue exploring themes of liberation, identity, and radical imagination.
The story is written by creative director of the Wondaland Arts Society and co-collaborator on Janelle Monáe’s debut LP The ArchAndroid/, the same name as their upcoming graphic novel. The novel stars Janelle and illustrations created by Chad Weatherford.
A Perfect Fit for Blerdcon
Blerdcon, known for its celebration of Black creatives in the sci-fi, fantasy, and comic book industries, was the perfect stage for Monáe to unveil her latest project. Fans, many decked out in cosplay inspired by her Dirty Computer era and The ArchAndroid aesthetics, erupted in cheers as she discussed the novel’s origins and inspirations.
While Monáe kept many details under wraps, she hinted that the novel would feature a powerful Black femme protagonist navigating a world that challenges everything she knows. Given Monáe’s history of crafting layered, thought-provoking narratives, fans are expecting a story that is equal parts visually stunning and socially resonant.
What’s Next?
Though the release date for the graphic novel has yet to be confirmed, Monáe assured fans that more details would be coming soon. In the meantime, speculation is running wild about how this new work will tie into her larger creative universe.
From redefining music to reshaping sci-fi, Janelle Monáe continues to push boundaries. If her past work is any indication, this graphic novel is set to be a must-read, blending her visionary storytelling with a message of empowerment.
Congrats, Janelle and team!
