February is Black History Month, and Dark Horse Comics is taking that opportunity to spotlight projects from YouNeek Studios, the Roye Okupe-led studio that since 2021 has teamed with Dark Horse on a series of graphic novels spotlighting Black heroes and stories. Today The Beat is pleased to exclusively present behind-the-scenes character artwork from one of graphic novel series from YouNeek and Dark Horse, Windmaker.
The second volume of the Windmaker series, from the creative team of writer Okupe, artist Sunkanmi Akinboye, and colorist Toyin “Morby” Ajetunmobi, was released in comic shops last week. Here’s how Dark Horse describes the book:
The Republic of Atala’s president has turned into a ruthless despot, and one of his most trusted associates, Director Bo, is forced to choose a side in a civil war that threatens to destroy their beloved nation. The spirit of the Windmaker-an ancient and powerful protector of the Atalians-also begins to awaken within Bo. Is this awakening a ray of hope that will pave a path to salvation, or is this an omen signaling the end of a once prosperous country?
Windmaker was the first brand-new property to come out of the partnership between Dark Horse and YouNeek Studios. Dark Horse has also released both new volumes and new editions of previously-released books in series from YouNeek including Malika: Warrior Queen, Iyanu: Child of Wonder, and E.X.O.: The Legend of Wale Williams.
Check out the character artwork from Windmaker Volume 1 below. The first volume of the series is available everywhere now; Windmaker Volume 2 is out in comic shops now, and will be released in bookstores on Tuesday, February 28th.
