This is a Graphic novel Project currently in development.
Alya, a botanical witch is invited to participate once again in the Herbomaquia, a magical competition that annually tests the skills and dexterity of the best magic wielders of the kingdom.
She's back after winning last year’s event, but last time she just got lucky, at least that's what everyone thinks.
In 2023, I participated in an art residency in Casa del Autor, Zapopan (Mexico) Where I inked the first two chapters of this project.
Even though this story is set in a fantasy world, this story is very personal, since it deals with the feeling of impostor syndrome.
The reason why Alya starts the story as the current victor is because her journey is about learning that all the awards in the world won’t matter if you don’t learn to see the value in your own work. By the end of her journey, she looks at what she did and thinks “I did a good job and I’m proud of myself.”
Plus, during the last competition, due to the enormous effort and amount of energy she spent, Alya loses a hand. She now needs to learn to find the balance between working hard and giving it her best without literally wearing herself down to the bone.
It’s a difficult journey, but with enthusiasm, effort and the support of her friends, she and I will strive to find work-life balance and be proud of our work.
