Stylistic, Thematic, and Technical Metamorphoses of Comic Strips in the Republic of Moldova in the Years 2000–2025

Abstract

The study presents the experiences of emerging artists from the Republic of Moldova in the field of comic strips between 2000 and 2025. Comic strip creation has undergone various periods of development, as well as periods of stagnation. The evolution of current technologies, with their implications for the visual arts, alongside contemporary societal imperatives and challenges, is shaping a new attitude amongst young readers towards documentation, information and knowledge. Drawing on current global trends regarding the relevance of publications with sequential graphic content, the aim of this article is to map the new visual discourses of emerging comic strip creators in the Republic of Moldova, documenting their stylistic and thematic contributions, as well as the role of digital technologies in their creative process. The objectives focus on analysing the artistic development, visual language and messages of key figures such as Octavian Curoșu, Cristina Grati, Alex Buretz, Inna Sacali, Călin Enachi, Valentin Enachi and others. The methodology combines case studies with stylistic and semiotic analysis, examining the structure of the comics, their layout and the relationship between text and image. The results reveal significant diversity. Octavian Curoșu combines the sensitivity of traditional techniques with digital media, addressing historical and socio-cultural themes. The artist Alex Buretz uses caricature and the grotesque as tools for civic activism and social criticism. Comic strip artists Cristiana Grati and Inna Sacali explore the world of family life and human relationships, using an expressive digital style and colour palettes that are either evocative or decorative. Graphic designers Călin and Valentin Enachi bring a youthful and adventurous touch to the narrative images, with experimental and original page layouts. All the artists featured make full use of specialised software (Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Procreate and others) and graphics tablets, modernising the creative process. The use of these tools has enabled the emerging artists to emulate traditional techniques, as well as create complex visual effects, optimising work on layers and facilitating publication on online platforms. Thus, through stylistic diversity and digital adaptation, these artists are strengthening the presence of comic strips within the cultural landscape, confirming a vibrant and modern revival of comic art in the Republic of Moldova.