16 Queer Chameleon comics that brilliantly represent the LGBTQ+ community

Editor's note: This article was originally published on December 17, 2021. It has since been updated.
 
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, artist Amee Wilson recognized that there was definite room for improvement when talking about queer representation. Wanting to bridge the gap a bit herself, Wilson took it upon herself to turn queer stereotypes into funny and relatable illustrations that now have the internet's heart. Speaking to Bored Panda about how her Instagram page Queer Chameleon came to be, the artist explained that she was inspired to make a series about queer identity and sexuality after she got a lot of attention for a comic about a chameleon turning the colors of the pride flag.

While mostly based on her own experiences of coming out, Wilson's Queer Chameleon comics also tackle other well-known stereotypes and inside jokes. "It was kind of intended to take back some of the things people say to us and turn them into something wholesome or funny," she said. "We have a lot more understanding now about different identities but there's still a big gap in seeing them shown anywhere."

"I am still quite blown away, it's amazing! But it's also quite humbling, I have a lot to learn too (I can only really talk directly about my own perspective) so it's been great when people comment and talk amongst themselves to help us educate each other," Wilson said of the positive response to her comics. "It's just a hobby for fun that I've had over the years! I used to do a lot of sketching but used to be obsessed with using biros! I've always drawn cartoons - I'm actually terrible at most other forms of art. Don't let me near a paintbrush!"

"Once I've come up with the concept. Picking the idea is the hardest part (and the bit I worry about the most!) so once I get to the line work it's more fun as it's seeing it come to life," she explained. Wilson revealed that the most challenging part about creating chameleon comics is accurately capturing the experiences of the multifaceted community. "I only have one perspective that is uniquely mine - but I want to still try and represent as many others as I can," she said. "So I am trying to find collaborators and make sure I don't misrepresent anyone else's experience!"

Here are some of our favorite Queer Chameleon posts:

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