Trina Robbins, an influential American cartoonist and author known for being the first female artist to draw Wonder Woman, has passed away at the age of 85. Robbins began her career in the 1960s in New York, contributing to the counterculture newspaper East Village Other and drawing for other underground publications like Gothic Blimp Works.
She was a pioneer in female-driven comics, creating the first all-women comic "It Ain’t Me, Babe Comix" in 1970, and co-founding the groundbreaking all-female underground comics anthology, Wimmen’s Comix, which ran from 1972 to 1992. Robbins' work often featured strong female characters and she played a critical role in promoting female representation in the comic industry.
Her contributions extended beyond comics to writing books on the history of women in comics, including notable titles like "The Great Women Cartoonists" (2001) and "Pretty in Ink" (2013). Robbins also ventured into children's literature and authored books on various themes, reflecting her wide-ranging interests and activism, particularly in feminist causes.
Robbins leaves behind a lasting legacy in the comics industry and is survived by her partner Steve Leialoha, her daughter Casey, and her sister Harriet. Robbins passed away on April 10, 2024, but her influence in the world of comics and her pioneering spirit will continue to be felt.