Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas, a celebrated Haida artist, has once again pushed the boundaries of graphic storytelling with his latest work, JAJ: A Haida Manga. This isn’t just another comic book; it’s a profound and visually stunning exploration of history, cultural identity, and the complex interactions between Indigenous peoples and European colonizers. Yahgulanaas masterfully blends traditional Haida art with the dynamic style of Japanese manga, creating a unique genre that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
A Tumultuous History Unfolds
JAJ, short for Johan Adrian Jacobsen, tells the story of a Norwegian ethnologist who traveled to the Haida village of Masset in the late 19th century to collect artifacts for a German museum. This historical backdrop allows Yahgulanaas to delve into the tumultuous period of first contact between Europeans and Indigenous communities on the northern West Coast. The narrative encompasses the devastating impact of the smallpox epidemic and the subsequent displacement of both Indigenous and European peoples, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of colonization.
The Blending of Art Styles
Yahgulanaas’s signature “Haida Manga” style is a remarkable fusion of distinct artistic traditions. He eschews the traditional panels of comic books, opting instead for the flowing, curvilinear forms characteristic of Haida art, often seen on totem poles. These shapes lend the narrative a unique sense of movement, effectively conveying the story’s shifting timelines and emotional registers. The book features vibrant and expressive watercolor paintings, adding depth and richness to the visual experience. This art style doesn’t just tell a story; it embodies a culture.
More Than Just a Graphic Novel
JAJ is far more than a simple retelling of historical events. It is a deep dive into the complexities of human nature, exploring the motivations and vulnerabilities of historical figures, both colonizers and Indigenous people. Even the villains are portrayed with nuance, often depicted as misguided opportunists, rather than outright evil characters, prompting a more empathetic reading of history. This approach avoids simple narratives, encouraging readers to understand the deeper forces at play during this period.
The Mural That Became a Book
The images in JAJ are derived from a mural that Yahgulanaas created for Berlin’s Humboldt Forum. This origin adds another layer to the book, as the mural itself acts as a commentary on the relationship between museums and Indigenous art. The panels in the book, when removed and assembled, form a large image reminiscent of a woven robe, connecting the book back to its artistic origins and traditional Indigenous art forms. This unique feature makes the book a work of art in itself.
A Groundbreaking Approach to Storytelling
One of the most striking elements of JAJ is its innovative approach to storytelling. Yahgulanaas skillfully interweaves historical events with personal narratives, creating a powerful and emotionally resonant experience for the reader. The narrative flow is not linear, allowing the story to shift seamlessly across time and space. This unique structure challenges traditional storytelling conventions, making the book feel both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.
Key Themes Explored
JAJ explores a number of key themes that are relevant to both historical and contemporary issues:
- Cultural Identity: The book delves into the importance of maintaining cultural identity in the face of external pressures and historical trauma. The blending of Haida and manga styles reflects a dynamic and resilient cultural identity.
- The Impact of Colonization: The graphic novel unflinchingly portrays the devastating effects of colonization on Indigenous peoples, including the loss of lives, culture, and land.
- The Nature of History: Yahgulanaas challenges conventional historical narratives, encouraging a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of the past.
- Humanity and Empathy: The book emphasizes the shared humanity of all individuals, even those who were on opposing sides of history. This allows for a richer and more profound reading experience.
- The Role of Museums: The connection to the Humboldt Forum mural adds a commentary on the collection and display of Indigenous artifacts, and the responsibility of museums.
Critical Acclaim and Recognition
JAJ: A Haida Manga has garnered widespread critical acclaim for its artistic merit and its powerful message. It has been described as a “masterpiece of cultural mash-up and historic grief.” The book has also been praised for its ground-breaking approach to graphic storytelling, with one reviewer stating, “This book is a necessary tale told by the perfect voice at the right time. It also uses graphic imagery in a way I’ve not seen before, and it feels ground-breaking.”
The book has received a number of accolades including being short-listed for the Bill Duthie Booksellers’ Choice Award, The Doug Wright Award for Best Book and the Jim Deva Prize for Writing That Provokes, and winning the Excellence in Graphic Literature Awards – Mosaic Award and being a finalist for Best in Adult Non-Fiction. These awards recognize the importance of JAJ as both a work of art and a valuable historical document.
A Must-Read
JAJ: A Haida Manga is a significant contribution to the graphic novel genre and a vital piece of Indigenous storytelling. It is a book that should be read by anyone interested in history, art, cultural identity, or the power of visual narratives. Yahgulanaas has created a work that is not only visually stunning but also intellectually and emotionally engaging, leaving a lasting impact on the reader. It challenges the way we think about history and art and celebrates the resilience and beauty of Indigenous cultures.
Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas: A Master Storyteller
Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas is a visual artist, storyteller, and public speaker of Haida descent. Raised on Haida Gwaii, he combines his cultural background with contemporary art forms, creating a unique style that has been celebrated internationally. His work challenges stereotypes and promotes a deeper understanding of Indigenous history and culture. His other notable works include Red: A Haida Manga and Flight of the Hummingbird. He continues to be an important voice in the world of contemporary art and literature.
