State of the Site

Launching a website these days is easy.  But launching a site that brings true value to its audience and maintains a high level of quality for its readers is a real challenge.  As ComixTribe enters its fourth month of existence, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve accomplished thus far, and what we have coming up in the near future.

With ComixTribe, it was always our intention to start with a small, strong set of features, and build from there. To that end, I think we’ve delivered.  I’ve been able to return to the ranks of weekly blogging with Comix Counsel every Monday.  And  Steven Forbes’ Tuesday Bolts & Nuts and Friday The Proving Grounds have been must read stuff.  Scripts for TPG continue to roll in, as plenty of writers have recognized the benefit of sharing their work for public analysis.  (In fact, one of my own scripts is on the editing block next.) Tommy Patterson’s Draw Over! feature for artists is a huge hit as well, and we plan on bringing more DO! to the site as soon as possible.

Last month, we launched a new column called Trenches, which is a series of articles by hardworking creators interested in offering stories, inspiration, tips and insights about how they make comics.  This month, John Lees has joined the Tribe, and has launched The Creator-Owned Zone, where he reviews creator owned comics available for purchase.  John does extremely thoughtful, well-crafted reviews, and especially enjoys shedding light on comic works that might not be getting a ton of coverage.

With three months of work, and zero promotion besides word of mouth, we’ve managed to generate:

• 2,400+ unique visitors
• 14,500+ page views
• 4.5 minutes average time on the site per visit
• 360+ comments

By no means are these earth shattering traffic stats, but it’s a start.  The feedback has been positive, and the trendlines are heading in the right direction.  So for those of you who are reading this, THANK YOU.  You’re a part of our Tribe and you’re making this happen.

What’s Next?

At ComixTribe.com

In April, the columns you’ve come to expect from ComixTribe will continue right on schedule.   More creators will contribute to the Trenches series, including both big names in comics and new voices worth listening to. Steven’s been working on a new column (yup, a third!) which may debut soon as well.  And we’ve just launched a ComixTribe Facebook Page, which will syndicate our site’s feed, and other valuable content CT Editor-In-Chief Steven Forbes finds throughout the internets.  If you’re an active FB user, please like us up!

In May, we’re considering adding a forum to the CT site, and will be planning additional site improvements throughout the summer.

Publishing

In addition to the ComixTribe.com site, ComixTribe is also a new publishing imprint.  Steven is hard at work on a collected edition of Bolts & Nuts which we’ll be releasing in both print and e-book format.

On the comic book side of the house, ComixTribe is releasing a new print volume of Tears of the Dragon – Volume I, the fantasy book I write with artist Koko Amboro.  This volume is available for Pre-Order now.

ComixTribe will also be publishing John Lees’ first book, The Standard, via our digital distribution partners. More on that in the weeks to come.

Convention Season

ComixTribe will also have a presence at a number of conventions this year.  Come see us at the following show:

April 17, 2011
Albany Comic Con, Albany, NY

April 31-May 1, 2011
Boston Comic Con, Boston, MA

May 7, 2010
FREE Comic Book Day @ Comically Speaking, Reading, MA

August 20-21, 2011
Baltimore Comic Con, Baltimore, MD

August 27, 2011
ComiCONN, New Stamford, CT

September 10, 2011
“Faster than a Speeding Bullet: An Exploration of Funnies, Superheroes and Comic Book Art”, Stamford, CT

September 17-18, 2011
New England Comic Con, Boston, MA

October 14-16, 2011
New York Comic Con, New York, NY

As you can see, we’re keeping busy over here!  Thanks again for being a part of the Tribe.  If there’s anything we can do to help you, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Best,

Tyler James

Creator, Publisher, Comics Fan for Life

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Category: ComixTribe News