Picture a New Zealand artist spinning ancient Greek myths into a vibrant, modern love story—meet Rachel Smythe! This Wellington-based folklorist and comic creator skyrocketed to fame with her webcomic Lore Olympus, a dazzling retelling of Hades and Persephone’s romance. With her unique blend of humor, heart, and bold colors, Smythe has captivated millions, proving that perseverance and creativity can conquer personal challenges like anxiety, ADHD, and dyslexia.
From her early days posting art online to becoming a New York Times bestselling author, Smythe’s journey is a testament to the power of storytelling in the digital age. Her work doesn’t just entertain—it redefines how we connect with mythology today.
The Making of Rachel Smythe
Born and raised in New Zealand, Rachel Smythe graduated from the Whanganui School of Design in 2007 with a degree in Computer Graphics and Design. Her passion for storytelling was sparked early, fueled by Disney’s Hercules and a love for Greek mythology. Initially dreaming of becoming a director, Smythe found comics to be her perfect medium, offering the creative control of directing without the need to retrain. She began posting art online around 2004, but it wasn’t until Lore Olympus that her work found a massive global audience.
Despite facing challenges with anxiety, ADHD, and dyslexia, Smythe’s determination shone through. She worked retail while honing her craft, balancing burnout and a tough job market. Her early webcomic, The Doctor Pepper Show, a dark neo-Victorian tale, showed her knack for bold narratives, but it was Lore Olympus that truly launched her career.
Rachel Smythe’s Unforgettable Stories
Smythe’s signature work, Lore Olympus, debuted on Webtoon in 2018 and became the platform’s most-viewed comic, amassing over 1.5 billion views by 2024. This modern take on the Persephone-Hades myth swaps abduction for a nuanced romance, tackling themes like consent, trauma, and empowerment. Smythe’s vibrant art—think glowing pinks for Persephone and moody blues for Hades—creates an immersive atmosphere, earning her three consecutive Eisner Awards (2022–2024).
Before Lore Olympus, Smythe created The Doctor Foxglove Show, a surreal thriller set in a neo-Victorian world. Though short-lived, it showcased her versatility. Her graphic novel adaptations, like Lore Olympus: Volume One, brought her webcomic to print, becoming instant bestsellers. Smythe’s style blends retro-chic vibes with emotional depth, making ancient gods feel like relatable twenty-somethings navigating love and drama.
Her storytelling isn’t just pretty pictures—it’s purposeful. Smythe weaves in discussions of mental health and recovery, reflecting her own experiences. By modernizing myths, she makes them accessible, proving that old stories can speak to new generations.
Why Rachel Smythe Matters
Rachel Smythe has redefined webcomics, turning Lore Olympus into a cultural phenomenon with over 6 million subscribers and an upcoming animated series with the Jim Henson Company. Her ability to blend humor, romance, and social commentary has made Greek mythology relevant again, inspiring a wave of creators to explore digital storytelling. For fans, her work offers a safe space to explore complex emotions, from love to healing.
Smythe’s journey—overcoming personal and professional hurdles—resonates with aspiring artists worldwide. She’s proof that talent, grit, and a good story can break barriers, even from a small country like New Zealand. Her impact stretches beyond comics, showing how digital platforms can amplify diverse voices.
About Rachel Smythe
- Birthplace: New Zealand
- Key Work: Lore Olympus (2018–2024)
- Awards: Eisner Awards for Best Webcomic (2022, 2023, 2024)
- Education: Bachelor’s in Computer Graphics and Design, Whanganui School of Design (2007)
Ready to dive into a world of gods, gossip, and gorgeous art? Grab Lore Olympus: Volume One and get lost in Rachel Smythe’s dazzling universe!