Emi Gennis teaches comics, illustration, and storytelling.

She is currently Associate Professor of Comics & Narrative Practice at the Columbus College of Art & Design. Emi was previously Assistant Professor of Illustration & Visual Storytelling in Pittsburg State University‘s Department of Art, where she taught from 2013 until 2017.

Emi seeks to dispel the myth of the “starving artist” by demystifying the business aspects of being an artist to empower students entering creative careers.

She feels strongly that most art advice is just good life advice: don’t be afraid to make mistakes, your first idea is probably bad, and remember to take breaks and stay hydrated.


Emi has given artist talks, lectures, and workshops at numerous institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania, the Watkins Museum of History, and the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum. She also performs live readings of her work, and has participated in panels at events such as the Vancouver Comic Arts Festival and the Toronto Comic Arts Festival. 

If you are interested in having Emi speak at your school or event, please reach out to her at emigennis@gmail.com.


Past Events & Appearances

CXC 2023 "What We Talk About When We Talk About Bad Lettering"

CXC 2021 “Hand Lettering Fundamentals”

Kelly Writers House 2014 “Artist Talk: From The Beyond”

Tutorials for Students

Cleaning up scans in Photoshop

How To Clean Your Rapidograph Pen

Create A Book In InDesign