In the world of science fiction, irony, dark humor and bold ideas intersect, Stories from Erotech Stand out as a collection that undoubtedly pushes boundaries. This anthology weaves eight original stories from ten independent creators, combining nightmares of dystopian technology, weird relationship consultation, and everything in between. While it does contain NSFW content, Erotech manages to blend provocativeness with profound ways to make it impossible to ignore. From underground comics to surrealism, this collection explores the messy human emotions that tangle in our interactions with technology and desire. It’s not only about gender and robots, but about the original, unfiltered human drive.
The beat reaches to Shawn Hainsworth, Dean Haspiel Discuss the project more and find out what makes the comic so important, especially now the two remaining days of activities.
Diego Higuera: The Story of Erotech is an anthology created in the world introduced into the world. This setup makes you want to expand into a larger universe with multiple creators?
Shawn Hainsworth: The short film “Technical Support” is based on Sex-6000, which is a 12-page single-shot comic in the world of Erotech. Geoffrey and I have created a lot of fun, and we think there are many possibilities for gender robot stories. Erotech is a relationship about our growing and dependent relationship with technology, which is our sexual desire, which is a powerful part of what it means to be human. We think it would be great to have a group of talented independent creators improvise the same idea. The only rule is that there must be a sex robot, it must be human. Apart from that, the creator can do anything – any type, any style, etc.
Higuera: The anthology combines humor, technology and eroticism – the three genres don’t always blend together in comics. How do you think this mix resonates with modern audiences, and why do you think the appetite for humorous porn comics is growing?
Hinesworth: I love mixing genres. I think most people can struggle with technology and deal with bad bosses and office politics. The trick to erotic is to keep it personal, raw and fun. Every creator finds his own genre balance, and many tend to be horror rather than humor. I think modern audiences like stories from different perspectives. Today, porn is considered a legal genre of literature, rather than something that is seen as illegal or shameful, opening up many possibilities for creators.
Higuera: Dean Haspiel’s story draws inspiration from OMAC #1 and its vision of artificial companionship. Are there other significant influences (whether it’s comics, science fiction, or real-world technology) that shape the theme of Erotech’s story?
Hinesworth: The original scripts grew from my experience as a software engineer. I started thinking about what it would be like to actually build a working sex robot. What would it actually be like to have sex with a robot? This is the starting point for all creators to develop their own stories and themes. From mid-century illustrations to classic Bronze Age comics to surreal and underground comics, artistic influences really achieve the entire range. That’s what makes this book such a great read: There are so many different influences on the table that each story is very unique.
Dean Haspiel: For decades, I’ve been haunted by the first page of Jack Kirby’s OMAC #1, one of whom is an unwise woman, part of the futuristic “Architecture-Friends” initiative. It foresees love dolls, sex robots and artificial intelligence. I can only imagine how the kids felt when they first opened that comic book in 1974. It can be said that I had to do some honor but drove out the weird electric choke in my mind. I’m glad to have the opportunity to tell a tragic romance between two unlikely lovers on the Erotech page.
Higuera: From Chloe Brailsford to Alan Flops to Dean Haspiel, with such a wide range of creators involved, how did you assemble your lineup? Do you want to make sure that you represent a specific voice or viewpoint?
Hinesworth: First, we want to showcase the artists we like and feel, which really resonates with the material. Apart from that, we also want to include creators of various perspectives on gender, gender and technology. The ultimate goal is to make it a regular series so that we can also provide a platform for more creators!
Higuera: The campaign is being launched on Kickstarter, which has become the main platform for indie comics. How crowdfunding has changed the way stories like Erotech are, and so far, what are the reactions of supporters?
Hinesworth: Crowdfunding makes projects like Erotech (Type Bending, NSFW). It is not easy to get such a project off the ground. We have carried out three successful campaigns for Erotech, which allows us to continue developing materials and stay true to our original vision. Supporters of these movements are true mini investors and help bring a story that cannot be done to life.
Higuera: Tales from Erotech explores various themes, from the dark prophetic sci-fi irony. Do you want you to bring all these different stories together?
Hinesworth: I think what connects these stories is that each of them represents the creator’s personal vision. Each story is shaped by a unique perspective, artistic style and passion created by the creator. I hope this makes Erotech’s story a great comic anthology.
Higuera: Any last words from fans and readers!
Hinesworth: Whether you intend to support a project or not, check out the project page and project updates. We have written all the artist profiles and linked to their personal pages and social media accounts. We hope you find another artist you like and want to follow.
