Welcome to Emanata, the group behind the first ever comics anthology at Virginia Commonwealth University!
Started by illustrator and comics artist Chris Kindred in 2014 with Weird, Vol. 1, Emanata is a student-run publication dedicated to uplifting the comics community here at VCU by providing an avenue for comics artists to publish their work in an anthology. Contributors work with our team of editors to great the best product possible in a personal one-on-one editorial process.
It is a registered organization at VCU under the Student Media Center, publishing an anthology annually in print and online. Emanata distributes locally on VCU campus, at conferences, and in participating stores in the Richmond area. See our events page to find out where else we’ll be throughout the year!
Emanata has a four-stage editorial/submissions process beginning with script submissions. The process begins each Fall Semester. All VCU students are encouraged to submit, regardless of skill or experience!
Staff
We are working hard to bring you the best experience yet!
Gabe Carlson
Editor in Chief
Gabe Carlson is a senior nursing major with a minor in psychology. He acts as the first-ever non-art major student to be Emanata’s EIC. Gabe grew up reading superhero comics, but has expanded his tastes exponentially. Gabe has always had a passion for creating comics and hopes to one day publish his own.
Jordan Kalafut
Senior Editor
Jordan Kalafut is a junior Social Work major with hopes to work ER social work. Outside of Emanata, Jordan is the current EIC for Amendment. Jordan likes to play puzzle games and listen to music in their free time.
Malia Achico
Social Media Manager
Malia Achico is a current sophomore Comm Arts major. She is Emanata’s current Social Media Manager. Malia loves creating comics and sharing stories with people, to whom she hopes to create outreach through her position at Emanata. Malia is excited and eager for her work with Emanata this year.
Hannah Perlow
Communications Manager
Hannah is a junior majoring in Comm Arts and Political Science. As communications manager, she will be managing the Emanata Discord server and monthly newsletter, so please let her know if there are any questions about dates or events. Hannah loves art, crocheting, and bugs. She is excited to be working with the SMC this year and will work hard to make Emanata great.
Awards
Emanata has earned honors from national and regional competitions.
2024
Society for News Design Best of News Design Creative Competition: Magazine Cover or Spread, Award of Excellence
College Media Association Apple Award: Best Magazine Cover, Third place
College Media Association Pinnacle Award: Best Literary Magazine, Third place
2023
Society of Professional Journalists Region Two Mark of Excellence: Best Ongoing Student Magazine, Winner
College Media Association Pinnacle Award: Best Literary Magazine, Honorable mention
2020
College Media Association Apple Award: Best Magazine Cover, Honorable mention