the FIRST MUSLIM Superhero Comic Book by an American muslim Artist
the FIRST MUSLIM Superhero Comic Book by an American muslim Artist
the FIRST MUSLIM Superhero Comic Book by an American muslim Artist
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
How did you come up with the idea of BURAAQ?
Growing up we were both fascinated by comic books and used to read all the major super hero stories. I had a passion for art and used to draw my own comics even as a kid. The passion got lost in the middle years in pursuit of higher education and a professional career. Over the many years, we began to see an increasingly negative portrayal of Islam and Muslims in the entertainment/news industry. Muslims were almost always shown as villains or the bad guys. We got tired of this propaganda and wanted to do something about it. In the last couple of years, we saw an influx of Superhero movies that made it big at the world box office. We felt a strong urge to rediscover our passion and to counter this bias. What better way than to introduce a Muslim superhero? and the idea of "BURAAQ" was born, and SplitMoonArts was founded in December of 2010.
Just to clarify, "BURAAQ" is not the first Muslim superhero, as there are other comic book characters already out there, rather he is the very first Muslim Superhero by a Muslim artist.
What is the goal of this character?
With BURAAQ, the goal is to dispel the myths and negativity surrounding Islam through the comic book medium. The mission not to preach, but to provide wholesome family entertainment. The underlying message would help create better understanding and it is our hope that readers around the world will walk away with a smile, and a positive image of Islam.
Does the name BURAAQ has any connection to President Barack Obama?
Not at all. In Islamic history "'Buraaq" is the name of the symbolic white winged horse which carried Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) to the heavens from Jerusalem in a miraculous night journey.
Do you think that BURAAQ will be successful in fostering better relations between the West and the Muslim World?
That is certainly our goal. BURAAQ is "Yusuf Abdallah," a regular guy who happens to be a practicing Muslim in a fictional city, Nova City. BURAAQ will embody the true spirit of Islam that champions humanity, justice, and tolerance. He has friends from all backgrounds, and his adventures will take him to all parts of the world.
What are his powers?
BURAAQ is still discovering his powers. He has super strength, the ability to fly, and to control elements and to some extent the gravitational field. He is also the operations director for a large relief organization, so when he's not saving lives as a superhero, he is serving the local and international community.
Are you trying to change the way muslims are perceived in the US and the western world?
That is the main reason why we felt it was important to introduce a superhero like BURAAQ. We wanted to hear an alternative voice, an unbiased portrayal of a practicing Muslim in the West. Sadly, the mainstream entertainment and news industry has been promoting an untrue picture of Islam. Good and Evil are universal and cannot be tied to one people or faith.
BURAAQ is being read by fans from all faiths and backgrounds around the world. They want to see more. Diversity in comic book characters is a growing need and trend.
How many issues of the book have been released and is it available in book stores? What is the price and is it available only in America?
The first two issues can be downloaded in digital format (PDF) from our website www.splitmoonarts.com for free, and published copies can be ordered online and shipped around the world. The first issue is $4.99 and the second issue is $5.99 (plus shipping).
The third issue is in the works and will be launched online end of 2011
We are currently looking for distributors and would welcome those who would be interested in the global distribution of our products in local stores and outlets. Our fans always ask about availability at the local level, and making that happen is one of our top priorities.
Tell us about your current and future episodes?
1st issue, we wanted to focus on a problem that has been on the rise in the West, hate crimes. BURAAQ makes his appearance and saves a Muslim lady from one such incident in a parking lot, and delivers a stern message "Let it be Known, God's justice knows no race or color!" and that sets the tone for the series.
For the second issue, we wanted to introduce the man behind the mask, Yusuf Abdallah, a regular Muslim guy who serves his local community, and is a favorite on the block. BURAAQ is seen in full action, saving local fire fighters from a towering inferno. The message is clear, he is a superhero for all, regardless of faith or background. And what drives him is his sound faith in God.
The third issue promises to have more action and adventure : New characters and a creature will be introduced in this issue, so stay tuned.
SplitMoonArts Team
www.splitmoonarts.com
