GROUNDED #15: October 2026
Updated: Oct 12
Hello dear readers, returning and new! Welcome back to the fifteenth issue of GROUNDED, hosted by Savannah-based, grassroots publisher Level Ground Comics. This October issue has no tricks, only treats! We hope that everyone has been having a gourd time this fall quarter. Ok, enough with the Halloween puns… They’re just eerie-sistible! As a matter of fact, the only fright coming up this month is midterms- so enjoy a break from work to scroll through some comic news!
SAVANNAH/SCAD:
Comics With Kate
Comics with Kate continues this month with Vol. 2 of The Nice House on the Lake by James Tynion IV and Álvaro Martínez Bueno.
Discussion will pick up from last month as Vol. 2 sees the conclusion of this arc! Professor Kate Sherron will be chatting about the book with peers and locals on Sunday, October 11, at 5 PM at Neighborhood Comics.
Neighborhood Comics is located at 1205 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401.
SAVage Zine Fest
SAVage FST is right around the corner! SAVage FST Mini-Comic & Zine Festival is a visual print culture exhibition celebrating self-published and small press zines, alternative comics, mini-comics, and the graphic arts.
Come out for a fun afternoon with local artists and creatives who will be tabling at this community event!
SAVageFST is on Saturday, October 17th from 12-6 PM on DeSoto Ave. at Two Tides Brewing Co.
SCAD Film Fest
SCAD Film Fest is coming up in a few weeks! There will be a wide variety of film screenings, panels, workshops, special guests, and more from October 24-30th.
Film Fest is honored to host an exclusive panel on the critically acclaimed comic series BRZRKR, featuring creators and writers Keanu Reeves and Matt Kindt, along with illustrator Ron Garney.
The panel will take a deep dive into the series development as creators touch on the series’ mythology, characters, distinctive visual style, and the collaborative creative process behind the comic.
The panel will take place Friday, October 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Trustees Theater.
The Trustees Theater is located at 216 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401.
INDUSTRY:
By Tace L. R. Palma
Tapas Announces Shutdown
With over a decade-long run, Tapas, the established webcomic institution, has announced that it will be shutting down all services in the upcoming year. This announcement comes as a shock to both users and creators alike, arising concerns of viewership, ownership, and mismanagement.
As listed in the FAQ on the website, the last day to use ink (the in-app currency), unlock episodes, and access content through the Tapas service is March 31st. Unsurprisingly, frustrations by both users and creators have been voiced across platforms.
Many have expressed feelings of betrayal and surprise by the company’s announcement to shut down, as well as concerns regarding content access. Users who wished to continue reading their favorite series can no longer access new chapters if they have not already purchased ink as the final day to buy was October 1st.
Furthermore, any content that has been purchased on the website is non-downloadable or transferable. This is even applicable to titles that exist on Tapas, KakaoPage, and KakaoWebtoon; if a fan was hoping to read their favorite series on another platform, they will have to empty out their pockets and purchase all the chapters again.
Frustrating on a financial level, creators who hoped to pivot to compatible web-publishing sites may be unable to legally own their IP, despite the total shutdown. If a creator has signed a contract with Kakao, granting the company exclusivity, they do not immediately regain ownership of their works. As stated on the Tapas website;
“Questions regarding exclusivity will need to be reviewed based on the applicable agreement.”
While creators are able to submit an inquiry about the rights to the work they created through the Tapas Creator Inquiry form, this decision is currently devastating creators who relied on the pay-per-chapter format of Tapas. The revenues of hundreds of creators who once had a steady impact will take a significant toll, causing a crisis online.
Posted by @authorbread on X (formerly Twitter), “I need Kakao to give me back my contracts NOW so I can move on to platforms who will support me and my readerbase. I am literally in a financial crisis without my book income! I’ve been skipping meals and canceling commissions for refunds since getting the news to save $$”
Similar statements from various creators have been voiced across platforms.
The most surprising announcement regarding this shutdown is that creators will still be able to publish new material for the time being. If you still have ink to spare, you may be able to finish reading the series you love!
The Bubble Pops: Popverse Lays Off News Column Staff
Announced a little over a week before the Tapas closure, ReedPop quietly shut down Popverse News, making September the last month they released original content. Corresponding with Heidi Macdonald, a Popverse spokesperson attempted to quell concerns that the platform would be shutting down in the following statement;
“Popverse is not shutting down. While Popverse will no longer serve as an editorial news platform, we remain committed to our original mission to provide our passionate fans with a hub for content, community, and fandom in all forms” (from Comics Beat)
The statement goes on to explain what content fans will still have access to, such as streaming panels and access to presale tickets for Popverse Superfans. This, however, still leaves a bad taste in the mouth for comic fans and enthusiasts who used their site as a source of information, and also raises the question as to who is leading the filming of these livestreams, as both the editorial and video teams were laid off.
On September 25th, multiple previous staff members spoke up about the unfortunate closure. Trent Cannon, former Popverse editor staff, wrote a post on Bluesky detailing the closure and concerns about the future of comics news reporting. While income was of course a concern, Cannon reports how the shutdown was a surprise, as the editorial team was “smashing” their reading target goals.
“We were on track to double our annual traffic for the second year in a row. Considering it was such a small team, this is remarkable.”
Former Editor-in-Chief, Chris Arrant, also released a statement on LinkedIn, titled, “What Popverse Built Together.” Despite the unfortunate circumstances he and the team now face, the post was overwhelmingly positive, with themes of resilience and community. Arrant elaborated on how each individual on his team made themselves useful in a workplace environment, speaking to larger audiences, finding their niches, and being able to appeal to both casual and hardcore fans.
While all editors have expressed their frustrations and concerns regarding the end of this era of Popverse, a positive message prevails through all of them. The catalogue of work this small team was able to produce was astounding, covering industry news daily at an increasingly large scale. They were able to double their news viewership annually, covering stories in the media and comics industry that spoke to a large range of audiences. If anything, the legacy of the Popverse editorial team should not be that they were laid off, but that the dedicated work of a collective group can make an impact.
Since the layoffs, Trent Cannon has written for Radio Times and edited for Anime Herald. He, Graeme McMillian, Ashley Robinson, Grant DeArmitt, Jules Greene, Tiffany Babb, and many others are still looking for more permanent job positions. Please consider viewing and following their work in the aftermath of all these layoffs.
Marvel Unlimited Shutdown
Continuing with the theme of shutdowns, Marvel Unlimited, the comic book website library of Marvel comics, has announced the app will be shutting down in December. This closure comes as a surprise to many fans after almost two decades of online services.
The rollout for this closure has been marketed as a “sunset” by the company. The timeline goes as follows: new members are unable to join as of October 5th, and new content will no longer publish to the app or website after December 7th. If you are an existing member with a Marvel Unlimited subscription, you will be able to browse through your library and reading history until December 21st, and the official sundown will occur on December 28th, 2026, when the Marvel Unlimited app will shut down and be removed.
While this is a sunset for the Marvel Unlimited website itself, fans will see a new “sunrise” with the “Marvel Comics” app launch. Powered by Webtoon, the service will launch November 16th, 2026, with the ability to pre-order the service available on the Webtoon App currently. Users who have an active Marvel Unlimited subscription are able to be refunded for the remainder of their unused subscription once the Marvel Comics app is up and running.
The new website is advertised with perks listed such as user-friendliness, a full digital library of Marvel Comics, and a faster issue release rate. Users will be able to access new issues one month after release instead of the Unlimited standard of three months. Furthermore, Unlimited subscribers will be able to transfer their digital libraries to the new app through Webtoon services.
The overall goal for this closure is a smooth transition to a claimed “improved” Marvel Comic app, but there are still questions left unanswered regarding Unlimited exclusive series and IP ownership.
Cherly Lynn Eaton, a writer of comics including Black Panther and Marvel’s Voices Infinity Comic, asked about the transfer on Bluesky, stating, “As someone who has written a few Marvel Unlimited Originals, I’m curious what happens to those stories? Do they just transfer to Webtoons? Do they go into digital storage?”
As of now, neither creators nor fans know if the new app powered by Webtoon has acquired the rights to these comics.
With closures such as Tapas and now the Marvel Unlimited website, fans wonder how accessible digital media comics will be in the future. While webcomics themselves have existed since the dawn of the internet, these two large blows mark a shift in online comics culture. Webtoon is mentioned the most as an alternative site for fans and creators for the consumption or creation of new content, and in Marvel’s case specifically, it is the de facto alternative.
While Webtoon was originally a hub for independent creators to publish their digital comics, the platform has since expanded to have numerous partnerships with large-scale publishing companies such as D.C., Marvel, Archie Comics, and Dark Horse. Grossing over a billion dollars in net worth and now having integrated AI into the app, the competition for this company is looking rough.
More information about closures, releases, and account transferring is available on the Marvel website.
LGC NEWS:
Fall 2026 SPiCE was a huge success story! Through the hard work of everyone who was involved in the book production, merchandise, promotion, and tabling, Level Ground Comics had a great day. Level Ground Comics will be tabling next at SAVage FST on October 17th and Mini Comics Expo on November 14th.
For the first time, Level Ground Comics will be hosting a book launch for our latest anthology, Reach for the Stars, at Neighborhood Comics on October 18th from 3-4:30 PM. The launch date also celebrates their 7th anniversary. Guest speakers Keelin Meany, Olivia Tipton, Char Tobin, and Mad Olson will be sharing their experiences about their respective roles in the production of Reach for the Stars.
This month, our writer’s workshop with James Venhouse will be hosted on October 25th! Come to Planet Fun to share your work, get critique from peers, and network! Follow along on the Level Ground Comics Instagram for more updates, and many thanks to James and every writer who comes to our workshops.
Lights, Camera, Traction: A Looney Comics Resurgence
Article by Ella Tudman
With the release of the film Coyote vs. Acme in theaters this past August, the zany cast of the Looney Tunes has been gaining quite the public traction in recent months amongst Gen Z audiences. The underdog story told in the film and behind its release has inspired folks to revisit the older Looney Tunes cartoons from the golden age (1930-1969). For others, it has sparked interest in the comics from both Gold Key Comics (1962–1984) and DC Comics (1990–present). Going down this rabbit hole, I’ve found profound interest in the evolution of their depictions of the classic cast, especially with our Sisyphean Wile E. Coyote and the impossible-to-catch Road Runner.
In the Gold Key Comics, they published a series called “Beep Beep the Road Runner starting in the late 1950’s. These comics drastically change fundamental aspects of the characters that we know so well based on the cartoons. For example, both the Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote speak to each other, with the Road Runner speaking in rhymes. Furthermore, the Road Runner is also accompanied by three young sons, who never make an appearance outside of these comics. Despite these changes, the addition of dialogue makes sense for the comic format at the time, helping to clarify the plot for children readers. Overall, these comics are a fun read and an interesting take on these beloved characters. I found myself chuckling at the scenarios and interactions between Wile E. and the Road Runner, the added dialogue helping to further strengthen the fun rivalry between the characters. It leads to some entertaining banter and back-and-forth, especially when Road Runner’s rhyming comes into play.
The DC Looney Tunes comics, on the other hand, stay more true to the characters. With issues beginning in the mid-90s, the desert duo dons more on-model appearances as they revert to silence, except for Road Runner’s famous “Beep Beep!” These comics play into the classic slapstick comedy of the cartoons with exaggerated expressions and actions. These comics also display a wider range of stories that take the duo out of their desert setting. For example, in Lights, Camera, Traction, Wile E. is brought on by a studio executive to make the Road Runner Documentary he is producing more exciting and entertaining, of course leading to his classic hijinks and string of failures. Seeing Wile E. interact with characters other than the Road Runner leads to some fun new dynamics, all while keeping true to his character (very similar to how Coyote vs. Acme handled Wile E. interacting with the live-action cast).
Overall, the Looney Tunes have always been a name associated with revolutionary entertainment back in the day. But with the success of Coyote vs. Acme amongst younger audiences, it is finding a newfound appreciation amongst generations whose parents were raised by these cartoons. The timeless nature of these toons shows their true versatility in cartoons, movies, and comics, and hopefully, we can see more of these beloved characters on our bookshelves. I could go on and on, but it’s a limited number of signs.
Pencils Down! with Luke Reese
Have you ever hesitated pressing pencil to page? Paralyzed by the thought of opening up a sketchbook and making art that you consider imperfect? The number one change in my process that took me from a sheepish artist to an artist that can fill pages upon pages was grabbing myself a fountain pen. Ink is considerably one of the most powerful tools an artist has access to. The ability to make complex marks and strike contrast is just the tip of the iceberg of benefits to be gained from choosing ink over pencils.
I Ink, Therefore I am
The most obvious distinction between ink-based tools and graphite-based supplies is that ink creates permanent marks. Whatever you put down will almost inevitably be irreversible. This creates quite the daunting impression. The stubborn nature of ink takes an artist’s ability to second-guess away. By using ink, you are forced to make quick decisions and intentional observations before making a mark. The key to conquering this is confidence. Confidence can manifest in a plethora of ways. For example, I certainly did not start out a proud ink wielder. Instead, I very pitifully threw myself at the medium until I simply was not drawing with the intention of making anything good. In fact, I purposefully held my pen unsteadily and with disregard for what marks would result on my page. I found this to yield a style that was not only fun for me, but also charming and produced at a much more efficient pace. So if you are currently holding a pen in your hand and utterly shaking in your boots, I encourage you to cover your eyes, hold your breath, and break as many rules as you can.
Inkredible
You did it! You successfully broke your hesitation and are hopefully filling up your sketchbook with all kinds of silly, wondrous doodles. Now that the fear of starting is behind us, we can dive into the abundant materials and techniques associated with ink. Let’s start with the ink itself. Ink comes in many more colors than just black. In fact, it appears in a medley of hues. In a world of black, red, and blue writing utensils, choose the rainbow gel pens every once in a while. There are oil, acrylic, alcohol, and even water-based inks out there. Each has its own properties, and it is important to properly research which one fits your needs before making any purchases. As far as tools go, the world is your oyster, or perhaps squid is a more contextually fitting term in this case. Most people have used ballpoints or gel pens. These types of ink holders make for great sketches when used with proper pressure and are extremely versatile. In my humble opinion, dip pens and fountain pens are the most pleasant to work with. They can produce beautiful marks and help you quickly adjust line weight. Not to mention, there are so many types of nibs you can attach to unlock even more possibilities. Finally, ink can even be used with a brush in the style of paint. Your initial perception of ink may be one-dimensional, but take a moment to digest it, and you’ll find it is a well-rounded medium.
Closing
So, how are you fancying the pen? Maybe you’re off to be the next Franklin Booth. Or, you’re more likely just covered in an inky mess (firsthand accounts suggest rubbing alcohol cleans more than just wounds). It may start a little wobbly, but as I’ve expressed, looseness will lead to work that is expressive of you. Maybe move on to more ambitious experimentation. Ink can be used in harmony with all kinds of mediums! Blocking large shapes in watercolor and placing the finer details with a pen is one of my favorite combinations of practices. Just make sure that despite the outcome, you acknowledge that this is supposed to be playful and fun. Art doesn’t always have to be about perfection. Think of it like a never-ending staircase; no matter where you are, you can always go up. All you have to do is take the first step.
CLOSING COMMENTS:
That’s the end of GROUNDED, issue 15! Thanks for tuning in, and keep an eye out for what’s new in comics next month!
Meet the Writers!
Emma
Emma Sherman is a sequential artist from New York with a passion for strange, otherworldly stories. She has an abnormal love of shapes, cell patterns, and funny-looking bug creatures that bleed into her work. When she’s not spouting comic pages left and right, she enjoys long-distance running like any other normal person.
Ella
Ella “Griffin” Tudman is a cartoonist and story artist from south Louisiana. This old soul is a lover of obscure movies, vintage physical media, and all things horror. When not drawing, she can be found watching old Looney Tunes shorts and frequenting her local antique mall for clown dolls and old comics.
Mohsin
Mohsin Akhtar is a sequential artist from Lexington, Kentucky. His work focuses on action storytelling, rooted in the campy, yet personal dramas of over-the-top costumed super characters. Outside of drawing, he enjoys playing piano, touching grass, and collecting vintage comics.
Luke
Luke Reese is an illustrator specializing in scientific illustration and publication. Drawing inspiration from personal passions and lived experiences, they create imagery that encourages viewers to reflect and feel a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Through thoughtful design and purposeful storytelling, Luke seeks to contribute to a media landscape rooted in care, education, and genuine human connection. With the limited free time Luke is gifted, he is quite fond of collecting music boxes, skateboarding in the park, and baking pastries.
Olivia
Olivia Tipton is an illustrator, sequential artist, and editor from North Carolina. She has a passion for stories surrounding science fiction, and her greatest inspiration for her work is the ocean. When she isn’t drawing, she loves singing, listening to documentaries about early earth history, and swimming.
Tace
Tace L. R. Palma is a sequential artist, fairy fanatic, and writer born in Vermont and raised in North Country New York. They have a focus in graphic memoir and creating narratives surrounding identity, progress, and healing. When they aren’t overnighting at an academic hall, or ever-constantly tweaking their portfolio website, you can see them in a blur skating around downtown Savannah.
SOURCES:
SAVANNAH/SCAD:
“Comics with Kate.” Neighborhood Comics. Accessed October 7, 2026. https://events.neighborhoodcomics.com/series/graphic-novel-clubs-savannah/.
“Savage FST 2026.” SAVage FST. Accessed October 7, 2026. https://savagefst.com/fst-info.
“SCAD Savannah Film Festival.” SCAD. Accessed October 8, 2026. https://filmfest.scad.edu/.
INDUSTRY:
Arrant, Chris. “What Popverse Built Together.” LinkedIn, 25 Sept. 2026, www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-popverse-built-together-chris-arrant-hcvpe/.
Cannon, Trent [ @trentcannon]. “We were on track to double our annual traffic for the second year in a row. Considering it was such a small team, that is remarkable. Chris and Graeme are great editors, who gave us the freedom to do our thing and the guidance to do it well. They made me a significantly better journalist.” Bluesky, 25 Sept. 2026
Eaton, Cheryl [@cheryllyneaton] “As someone who has written a few Marvel Unlimited Originals, I’m curious what happens to those stories. Do they just transfer to Webtoons? Do they go into digital storage?” Bluesky, 5 Oct. 2026
[GiveMeThatBread] “I need Kakao to give me back my contracts NOW so I can move on to platforms who will support me and my readerbase. I am literally in a financial crisis without my book income! I’ve been skipping meals and cancelling commissions for refunds since getting the news to save $$.” X (formerly Twitter), 3 Oct. 2026
MacDonald, Heidi. “Updated: Popverse to End News at the End of the Month.” The Beat, 21 Sept. 2026, www.comicsbeat.com/popverse-to-shut-down-at-the-end-of-the-month/.
McWhertor, Michael. “Marvel Unlimited Is Officially Shutting down in 2026.” Polygon.Com, Polygon.com, 6 Oct. 2026, www.polygon.com/marvel-unlimited-shutting-down-webtoon-digital-comics-app/
“Marvel Unlimited | Sunset FAQ.” Marvel, 6 Oct. 2026, www.marvel.com/unlimited-sunset.
“Tapas End of Service FAQ.” Tapas, 1 Oct. 2026, tapas.io/newsfeed/271.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Cohen, Ivan. Lights, Camera, Traction! Ed. Harvey Richards. #251. Burbank: DC Comics, 2019. Print. Looney Tunes.
Maltese, Michael. Fast Company. Four Color #1008. Racine: Gold Key Comics, 1959. Print. Beep Beep the Road Runner.
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