Part 6/12:
The Historical Context
The founding of Image was a reaction to dissatisfaction with Marvel, where creator rights were minimal, and profits often favored the publishers. The creators—who were the primary revenue generators—wanted more control and a greater share of the profits. The company was a bold experiment in creator-owned comics and a symbol of rebellion against corporate control.
Ironically, many argue that the current push from office staff to unionize and gain influence over titles contradicts the original ethos. Critics contend that the employees are seeking to impose bureaucratic oversight on a company that was founded to oppose such structures.