Lefty: Comics with soul, breathing life into Penang

Julian Kam, affectionately known as Lefty, transcends the ordinary with his unique approach to storytelling. With every stroke of his pen, he breathes life into graphic narratives that go beyond mere ink on paper.

Lefty’s art form, often referred to as “documentary comics,” seamlessly blends elements of journalism and biography, presented in the captivating medium of sequential art.

Lefty embraces real life to fuel comic worlds

At the age of 54, Lefty employs a technique he terms “sensory ethnography” to infuse his work with the essence and vibrancy of the themes or geographical locations he explores.

This immersive process involves relocating to the vicinity of his projects, where he observes, indulges in local cuisine, gets to know the people, gathers data, and conducts thorough research.

These experiences are then intricately integrated into the fabric of his storylines, creating a rich tapestry of real-life scenes and authentic moments.

“The Ferry Tales from Sama-Sama: George Town” stands as one of Lefty’s recent projects, an exploration of Penang’s iconic ferry services navigating the 11km-wide Penang Straits.

In this series, Lefty captures the soul of these ferry tales, transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary narratives.

Sketchpad to Shanghai: Comic journey takes flight

Lefty’s journey in the world of comics traces back to his formative years, where his early passion for drawing laid the foundation for a future in graphic design.

His professional odyssey has been diverse, evolving from an art director to a prominent figure in comic publication. Notably, he served as the editor-in-chief for Left Pocket Creatives in Shanghai, marking a significant chapter in his artistic career.

“I was in Shanghai for more than a year, between 2017 and 2019. Then I came back to set up a branch for the company in Penang. The name of the company is a happy coincidence,” shared Lefty, reflecting on his experiences in the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai.

Lefty’s love for documenting the past is evident in his choice to explore the older parts of Shanghai, showcasing a deep appreciation for the historical fabric of a place amidst the currents of progress.

He acknowledges the inevitability of change but sees graphic storytelling as a powerful tool to document and preserve moments before they vanish.

Lefty’s art rooted in local experiences

Returning to Penang after his stint in Shanghai, Lefty embarked on projects such as “I Am Home” and “Sama-Sama: George Town, A Multicultural Art Journey.”

These projects became his canvas, allowing him to depict the underbellies of Penang’s culture and history. Through his illustrations, Lefty weaves a narrative mirroring the depth and diversity of this beloved city.

Lefty’s artistic contributions extend beyond the confines of paper and bound pages. His work spills onto the streets of Penang through the Marking George Town project, where cast-iron sculptures detail candid moments from the city’s history.

Positioned at five locations on the streets of this UNESCO heritage city—Transfer Road, Steward Lane, Victoria Street, Chulia Street, and Muntri Street—these sculptures add a tangible dimension to Lefty’s storytelling.

Fueled by an inexhaustible well of ideas and an unyielding love for drawing, Lefty’s artistic journey promises a future adorned with more masterpieces.

His vision extends beyond personal projects; he aspires to expand his comic series, delving into narratives from other locales and regions. Through his work, Lefty aims to inspire readers to perceive cities through a wider lens and cherish their unique stories.

In a world where storytelling takes various forms, Lefty stands out as a visual storyteller, capturing the soul of Penang and beyond through the evocative language of graphic narratives.