Graphic Novel Terms

Panel

A distinct segment of the comic, containing a combination of image and text- often framed

Open panel

a panel with no borders- subject seems to stand outside storyline

Splash

a large panel, often spanning an entire page, designed to grab attention

Bleed

an image that extends to the edge of the page without margins

Frame

borders containing panels

Gutter

space between and around framed panels

Page composition

the arrangement of images, text, and panels on a page to guide flow and reader experience

• specific pacing or rhythm

• direct focus on certain things

• side by side contrasts

• control to the reader

Panel transitions

relationship between two panels next to each other- the change that takes placer between them

Closure

when the reader fills in gaps between panels