Renowned artist Alexandra Grant has unveiled an exciting project set to captivate comic book enthusiasts: a three-part series entitled “Nano.” In collaboration with acclaimed illustrator Matt Kindt, known for his work on the popular BRZRKR series alongside Grant’s partner, Keanu Reeves, this project emerges from a deeply personal and transformative experience.
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The seed for “Nano” was sown during a challenging period in Grant’s life when she contracted a severe form of COVID-19. Isolated for 16 days, she found herself grappling with both the physical and mental repercussions of the illness. “I got super sick, I had super COVID,” she recounted. “I was testing positive for 16 days and hallucinating. By day six, I wondered what I could do while stuck in my room. I found an old novel I had written two decades prior and began to rewrite it, albeit in the haze of a COVID fever dream.” This creative revival ultimately led her to conceptualise the sci-fi narrative that would become the foundation of her new comic series.
Set against a backdrop of intrigue and action, “Nano” tells the story of Sana, a resourceful operative embedded within an underground organisation tasked with infiltrating a mysterious research facility. The narrative embodies themes of empowerment and resilience, reflecting Grant’s desire for her character to be “completely kick-ass,” intelligent, and assertive against oppressive societal norms. Grant elaborated, “It speaks to the power of nature clashing with themes of masculinity, toxicity, and authoritarianism.”
While developing the storyline, Grant recognised the importance of a diverse artistic representation to bring her vision to life. Initially presented with a roster of potential illustrators that consisted mostly of “white males,” she sought out a unique perspective and was thrilled to discover Brazilian artist Natacha Bustos. Grant expressed her admiration for Bustos, highlighting the artist’s exceptional abilities to encapsulate the essence of the narrative. “Natasha had never been given a comic book to do from start to finish… and she’s completely exceptional,” Grant stated. “She took the words and imagined and embodied them perfectly.”
The collaborative process began as Grant approached Kindt, who had frequently been at her home collaborating with Reeves. After some initial hesitation, an invitation arose, leading to a comic book deal through Kindt’s imprint at Dark Horse Comics. Reflecting on this chance encounter, Grant said, “I asked if I could send him something and he eventually replied saying, ‘I want to offer you a comic-book deal,’ which was incredibly validating.”
Through their partnership, Grant contributed the foundational story and characters while Kindt helped refine the narrative structure. Commenting on the project, he stated, “This started as a literal fever dream that Alexandra shared with me. The vividness of her ideas was compelling, making it a perfect fit for the comic medium.”
Both Grant and Kindt acknowledge the peculiar silver linings that arose from the pandemic. For Grant, the severe isolation proved to be a crucible for creativity, echoing the experiences of many artists during those tumultuous times. “I think we’re all still suffering in ways from COVID, but the isolation also fostered connection and creativity,” she noted.
“Nano” is not just a mere comic book but a manifestation of Grant’s twenty-year-long daydream—an exploration of the interplay between technological advancement and elements of magic intertwined with nature. The first instalment of the series is set to hit comic shops on 29 July 2026 and is now available for pre-order at a price of £8.99.
As fans anticipate this upcoming release, it emerges as a compelling addition to the comic genre, underlining the capacity of art to thrive even in the face of adversity. Through “Nano,” Alexandra Grant not only shares a tale of adventure and empowerment but also celebrates the resilient spirit of artists navigating the challenges of our times.