Comic Con's latest graphic novel explores mysticism of henna

The new graphic novel 'Drawn' will be released at Middle East Film & Comic Con, Dubai. Art by Siya Oum. Courtesy Jabal Entertainment

The new graphic novel 'Drawn' will be released at Middle East Film & Comic Con, Dubai. Art by Siya Oum. Courtesy Jabal Entertainment

It was only one year ago, while covering the first Middle East Film and Comic Con, that the idea to create a graphic novel was formed. Following the accidental yet fascinating journey into this creative world, my fantasy-based comic series 'Drawn', will be released during MEFCC's second installment next week.

Drawn, transports readers into the mystical world of henna artistry and symbolism where each design is met with a power beyond our imagination. When main character Rayann Lawsonia, encounters an enigmatic henna artist one evening, she is instantly captivated. The intricate henna tattoo 'drawn' on her hand she discovers, goes far deeper than its tangible beauty

Developed and published by US-based Jabal Entertainment, an IDW Publishing (Star Trek, Transformers) partner, Drawn is set to usher in a new era of strong female lead characters. And, with it's compelling antagonist Agraab, the graphic novel attracts a diverse international audience.

The series, is the second for Jabal Entertainment, following the launch of Jinnrise created by the company's founder Sohaib Awan last year and published by IDW Publishing. Awan, is also the founder and host of Fictional Frontiers, a weekly radio show discussing comics, film and popular culture with guests including Anthony Del Col, co-creator of Kill Shakespeare and Mike Costa - Lead writer on G.I. Joe: Cobra and Transformers ongoing series

Sohaib Awan, founder of Jabal Entertainment and creator of Jinnrise. Courtesy: Jabal Entertainment.

“In popular culture, developing female characters with inner and outer strength has only just begun,” says Awan.

Working with prolific talent in the industry like Awan, and artists Siya Oum (Heroes) and Mark Torres (The Walking Dead 100: Hero Initiative), was an extraordinary experience. Stay tuned to Arts & Life, for a more detailed article on the creative process involved in this exciting project

Both Drawn & Jinnrise will be available at MEFCC 5-6 April in Dubai: For more information visit:www.jinnrise.com and https://www.facebook.com/Jinnrise