Portland Comics Questions 53 : Kevin Cross

Born again Skateboarder Kevin Cross, is an illustrator and cartoonist currently living in Portland, Oregon with his wife and new daughter. He has worked as a professional illustrator for 13 years. He has also written and illustrated his owns comics. He has been playing guitar for various punk rock outfits since 1985.

His personal portfolio

Kevin co-hosts Big Illustration Party Time with  co-host Joshua Kemble. This is a podcast that follows the two illustrators as they discuss the ins and outs of freelance illustrators. The show was started in 2009 and you can see how their life experiences, such as becoming a new father, affected their life in illustration.

Illustrator * Punk * Skateboarder * Dad

Doug Dorr: What projects are you working on currently? –
When I'm not working on client work, which I usually can't talk 

about while I'm working on it, I'm

working on a children's book and scripting a four issue story arc for a new comic series that I will get to after the children's book is finished.

DD:   What is your artistic Process? –
First I write, rewrite, then rewrite some more. Then I thumbnail and pencil digitally. When that's done, I print the digital pencils out using a non-photo color and ink traditionally with brush and ink on bristol. I do this because then I can sell the originals. A must for illustrators these days, I think. Then I scan the page into the computer and finish coloring with Photoshop. I hate Adobe illustrator and am starting to hate digital fonts, so Adobe Illustrator is getting phased out. When its all finished, I pat myself on the back and go skateboarding.

DD:   When are writing, what is your process working with the writer?
When working with a writer for children's books, I breakdown the script into beats and thumbnail the illustration keeping in mind that I want the art to further the story and not just be a visual representation of what is written. I haven't worked with a writer in comics, who isn't me, but I'm 99.9 percent sure my process would be the same. However, I have a short list of comic writers I'd like to work with as I'd rather stick to doing my own work.

DD:   What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?
Anything by Roger Langridge!!!

DD:   What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?
That's tough because I'd need to know what kind of stuff said person is into, but again... anything by Roger Langridge is high on the list. Also, "Three Shadows" by Ceril Pedrosa is fantastic and is a great example of how great this medium can be.

DD:   What skill would you like to learn?
I'd love to be able to pull off a McTwist.

DD:   What's the most important thing you've learned?
Don't judge your art against someone else's. Compare and despair!

DD:   Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?
Yes, I do. Its mostly Bronze Age stuff and I'm stoked that I have the whole run of "Howard the

Duck".

DD:   What is your favorite genre of Comics?
All of them, especially if comedy is part of it.

DD:   What is your favorite TV show/ movie?
The original "Jonny Quest" cartoon from Hanna-Barbera is my favorite TV show. "Planet of the Apes" (the original, not that Tim Burton version) is tied with "Conan the Barbarian" (again the original with Arnold) for my favorite movie. Funny thing... while I love those movies, they are an example of having to separate the artists from the art because I can't stand Heston or Schwarzenegger's right wing politics. 

DD:   How does the Portland comics culture shapes your work?
I don't know if it has. I feel like an outsider when it comes to the comic scene here.

DD:   What was your first comic convention?
APE in SF. A long time ago.

DD:   If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?
Making money.

DD:   Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?
Los Gorditos!

DD:   How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?
I've been here almost 7 years. I moved here because San Francisco got way too expensive for a native who is an artist to live there because of everyone moving there from everywhere to work in the tech/computer industry. I didn't want to leave, but I also fell in love with a girl who lived here and the long distance relationship was getting way too expensive too. Now we are married with a one year old daughter. So... here I am.

DD:   What is your favorite part of Portland?
Food carts and record stores.

DD:   Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?
The airport. I really need to visit my family and friends soon!

DD:   Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? Or write a character from another media, for example, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?
I wouldn't mind working on licensed characters in or out of comics as long as it paid a decent rate. Otherwise, I'd rather just work on my own books.

Portland Questions 52: Leia Weathington

Brinson Thieme 

Leia Weathington is a writer and  illustrator recently moved from San Francisco now living in Portland, Oregon. She is part of the San Francisco based Couscous Collective. She is working with Erika Moen in the new kickstarter  project Smut Peddler.

She has a long running web comic called Legend of Bold Riley. The strip was collected and colored by Vanessa Lynn.   It features several artists, Jason Thompson, Kelly McKlellan, and Konstantin Pogorelov.   It will be published by Northwest Press in the summer.

You can catch up with her on the podcast Chronicle of the Nerds and was recently on Nerd Fight II.

Her blog is A Happy Go Lucky Scamp

And her team just won the Art Battle at Stumptown 2012.

What projects are you working on currently?
I'm wrapping up book one of The Legend of Bold Riley, a full color book out this summer from Northwest Press. My big projects for this year is the art for a detective comic called K.I.M Investigations with local writer Ben Coleman and the the script for a Sci-fi story for Madison, WI artist Joanna Estep. I've also started scripting Bold Riley, book 2.

What is your artistic Process?

When I'm writing I tend to sit staring off into space for an inordinate amount of time just thinking of how I want to go about a particular story then have bursts of actually writing. When it comes to the drawing side of things I try to make my self do something everyday. Writing is much more natural for me than drawing so in order for things to get done art wise I have to make myself draw even when I really don't want to. Even if a drawing doesn't turn out the way I like there is at least something on the page for me to work off of when I do get in a really good groove later.

When are story writer, what is your process working with the illustrator?  Do you do more writing or Illustrating?
I worked with 5 other artists for Bold Riley and made the mistake at first of trying to really tightly control the visuals of the comic. That was something I learned to back off from pretty fast. If you are working with artists you probably decided to get into a collaboration with them for a reason. SO TRUST YOUR ARTIST! What I've started doing is making model sheets characters, objects and places that must look a certain way to maintain continuity in the story, after that I send photo references, script and descriptions of mood and setting and turn the artist loose to have fun with it.

Jason Thompson

I've prefer to write but I've been trying to refine my skills as an artist and work harder at pushing myself out of my comfort zone. I guess when I unironically came up with a concept of a race of characters whose features ended at the knee and floated around an entirely forested environment was when I realized I should cut the shit and draw things I don't like in order to not be a laughingstock.

What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?
Oh my god! Everyone, go buy Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez, Locke & Key! Trade 5 should be out pretty soon and it's one of the most creative, addicting series I've ever read and the art is tasty as hell.

But, uh...I've also heard the Bold Riley book coming out from Northwest Press this summer is supposed to be pretty good too...

What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?
That one really depends on what sort of stories a person likes! For younger readers Jeff Smiths 'Bone' and Gene Yangs 'American Born Chinese' and the always fun Cartoon History of the World by Larry Gonick. For older readers try Brian K Vaughan Ex Machina, David Bs Epileptic and Fumi Yoshinagas Antique Bakery. Actually everyone read everything by Fumi Yoshinaga. She's a rockstar.

How involved are you with the illustration, the look and feel, of the books you write?
I always want to be involved in setting the tone of a comic but I don't ever want to step in and try to dictate the style or nitty gritty layouts of a comic because that's the artist job and I don't want to throw salt in their game. I'm working pretty much freelance so I'm the one picking my colaborators on comics. If I didn't like the way they drew I wouldn't work with them. Every artist works differently too, Some want very, very detailed scripts that go over panel sizes and "camera" directions, Some work better with a loose script that opens up the possiblities in layout. It's just knowing your collaborators and playing to each others strengths.

What skill would you like to learn?
All of the photoshops and the computer bits and why my scanner makes that noise like I spilled coffee on it but I haven't spilled ANYTHING on it I promise.

What's the most important thing you've learned?
For the love of god be organized, don't take on too much at once, If you leave an illustration on the floor the cat will vomit on it.

Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?
All of my hard covers editions and and everything I've bought directly from an artist at a convention. I can't pick just one thing I love...That's like picking which burrito filling I want, it changes daily.

What is your favorite genre of Comics?
Horror! or anything gory, gross, sticky and serious. The weirder the better.

What is your favorite TV show/ movie?
Avatar the Last Airbender and Black Books for TV shows and Strange Days and Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs for movies.

How does the Portland comics culture shapes your work?
It makes me work harder! When 18 of your friends are coming out with hardcover trades every other week it really lights a fire under your ass.

Konstantin Pogorelov

What was your first comic convention?
Alternative Press Expo, San Francisco in 2007 I think.

What is your favorite part of comic conventions?
Meeting new people and going to the after parties.

If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?
There are things other than comics? I don't... I don't think I understand. I guess I'd be a toothless boxcar hobo, eatin' beans from a can and drinking Thunderbird.

Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?
Fonzi’s Bakabana Cabana on SE 32nd and Hawthorne is one of my favorite food carts. I always get the jungle bowl with sweet African chicken. I could eat that every day.

How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?
I moved up here in August 2011 from San Francisco mainly to focus on my comics career and because I fell in love.

Kelly McKlellan

What is your favorite part of Portland?
The bars! Nowhere does happy hour like Portland.

Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?
I'd like to go to Astoria at some point and I haven't been to the Rose
Garden yet.

Would you like to Illustrate for another media? or conversely, how would you feel about Illustrate a comic of a character from a different media, for example, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?
I really like doing art for bands. I listen to a lot of music when I'm working. I've done some illustration for local band Asteroid M and I should be doing the album art for Hail the Sun, a band in California.

Portland Questions 51: Aaron Duran

Aaron Duran  is a writer and media producer in Portland, Oregon.   He is the host of Geek in the City Radio (alongside co-host Scott Dally), webmaster of GeekInTheCity.com, and a regular guest on the Cort and Fatboy Show  and Funemployment Radio show.  He is also a writer for newarama.  Duran organized a failed effort in 2008 to rename Portland's 42nd Avenue to Douglas Adams Boulevard after science fiction author Douglas Adams.

Upset with the current state of comics, Aaron, began working on his own comic in 2007.   He started the writing La Brujeria, and when he was joined by artist James Sinclair the story solidified.      La Brujeria's plot involves a Mexican American woman named Althalia who has a temp job at a Pawn Shop.    But, with Werewolves, Elementals, & Chupacabra as co-workers;  she was recruited by the Golden Bought Pawn Shop’s real goal of fighting the monsters of the under the streets of Portland.        At present the comic is available at most comic stores in Portland  and you can or it online at Geek in the City.    If you are going to be at Stumptown you can pick up the latest  issue 3 of La Brujeria. 

He has started his radio show up again called Crimson Mist, co-created by Jayesunn Krump. 

Doug Dorr:    What projects are you working on currently?

I am in the middle of a couple of projects at this time. Currently, James Sinclair and Jenn Alvin are working on issue 3 of La Brujeria, which will debut at the 2012 Stumptown Comics Fest in Portland. I am also wrapping up a new script for an all-new Adventures of the Crimson Mist audio play for Comic Book Month in April with the Incubator Lounge. And, as always, I work on the weekly podcast, Geek in the City Radio.

DD:  What is your artistic Process?

Coffee. Lots of coffee. Okay, seriously. My process is a lot like a sprinter. I try and write about 6 – 7 hours a day, but very little of it is usable. Most of what I write is just dreck, something to keep me going through the motions. However, when I dive into a project, I become incredibly focused and very hard to distract. So while I say it takes me a week or so to complete a draft on a script, in all honesty, I tend to burn through the first draft in a constant 8 – 10 hour writing marathon. Then, it's all about the re-writes.

DD:  When are writing, what is your process working with the artist?

It all depends on the artist. When I'm writing descriptive scenes in a comic, my style is very flexible according to the needs of the artist. As I have a background in film / video production, my writing has a very cinematic style to it. As such, a lot of my scenes are broken down like camera angles and shots. With James, the artist on La Brujeria, we've got a pretty strong short-hand now. So, I can simply write “horrible beast dude” and he knows exactly what I mean. But, were I to work with someone new, I'd be far more descriptive.

DD:  What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?

Right now? The Sixth Gun is still my favorite series on the shelves. There might be single issues from other comics that hit me harder once in a while. However, month in, month out, it's Sixth Gun that turns in the win for me.

DD:  What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?

It all depends on the person. If they only know superhero books from films, and want to read more capes and cowls, I'd recommend Joss Whedon's run on Astonishing X-Men, The Sinestro Corp War from Johns, or Bendis' Ultimate Spider-Man. But, if they want something else, I've got a short list. Stumptown from Oni Press, Chew from Image, Northlanders and Scalped from Vertigo, and of course, The Sixth Gun.

DD:  What skill would you like to learn?

In comics? Pencilling. My art skills are some of the worst you will ever see. I've taken courses, I've practiced for years, I've even had highly talented friends and professionals give me tips. Nothing. These fingers just can't make the pretty pictures. It's very frustrating, as I have one or two highly personal stories I'd like to tell, stories that I want to be 100% from me. But I get so frustrated with my own lack of penciling skills, I keep pushing them back.

 

DD:  What's the most important thing you've learned?

Be nice. No, really. You never know if the person you're complaining to or about will someday be someone you have to work with. Or, even worse, someone who could review your work one day. Years ago, I was all about making as much noise as possible in order to be noticed. Making noise meant yapping off about things I knew little or nothing about. It was all about what I thought, and as the consumer, I just had to be right! Well, it's one thing to have an opinion, it's another to be a total a-hole about it. I was that a-hole, but I got really lucky. Lucky in that the people I rambled on about saw that I was being just that, a young and hungry a-hole and let it slide when I grew older and more mature. Not everyone is going to be that lucky. So, be nice. Also, hit your deadline. If you can be nice and hit your deadlines, you'll go far.

DD:  Do you have a collection?   If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?

Oh, I have quite a few collections. What good geek doesn't? I've got a fair amount of Batman action figures, I've recently started collecting original comic book art, and I have all the Hallmark Star Trek Ships ornament collection. However, when I think about the items I always unpack first, the ones I always show people, regardless of their interest, it would have to be my RPG book collection. Don't know why, but I'm obsessed with collecting first editions of various Role Playing Games. Haven't even played most of them, but I love to collect and read them.

DD:  What is your favorite genre of Comics?

Cliché as it sounds, I'm a child of superheroes and I still love the genre to this day. Weird / supernatural mash-ups are a very close second.

DD:  What is your favorite TV show/ movie?

Currently, it's A Game of Thrones. All time? Star Trek: The Next Generation. I know it isn't the best, it isn't even the best Trek (that's Deep Space Nine). But, it has a pretty hard hold upon my nostalgia string and it just ain't gonna' let go.

DD:  How does the Portland comics culture shapes your work?

It doesn't really shape it. Well, that's not true. There are so many great and talented creators in this town, it forces me to keep up my game and skills. Not that I think I'd ever knowingly phone in a project, being around so many talented people keeps me honest.

DD:  What was your first comic convention?

This dingy little “convention” in Reno, NV. A couple of shops set-up this 10 – 12 table convention in the middle of Old Town Mall. It was really just a flea market with some collectors selling their stuff, but to my 10 year-old eyes, it was the most awesome event of all time.

DD:  If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

I don't honestly know. Some form of writing. Some form of narrative writing. I love to tell stories, so I'd find some way to tell my stories. Or, I'd actually become a chef like my grandparents wanted.

DD:  Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

Autentica in North Portland. They serve some of the finest Mexican food in the city.

DD:  How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?

I moved to Portland in September of 1998, so I've been here for over 13 years. (Long enough for locals to call me an official “Portland Native). I moved here to become a chef. I was enrolled in the Western Culinary Institute, event went through orientation. Then, panic set in and I canceled the whole dang thing.

DD:  What is your favorite part of Portland?

I love the weather here. Honestly. The clouds and the rain, I love it. It also helps me appreciate our summers, even if I am one of those people that starts to complain around August about the heat. And, I love how every neighborhood in Portland it like a small town unto itself.

DD:  Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

I wander around the city a lot, so I don't miss much in Portland. I'd like to spend more time in the northern coast, I love that region. I'd also like to explore more of Eastern Oregon. I've only passed through it a couple of times, so I'd love to explore some of the region.

DD:  Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media?   Or write a character from another media, for example, Dr. Who, James Bond?  What would you explore?

Well, I wouldn't want to stop writing comics. I don't see comics as a stepping stone to other media, but I am also open to writing within others. I love the idea of writing for video games. The potential for branching and interactive stories is something I really dig and I think games are the perfect format for that. As to other characters. Well, I wouldn't want to suggest I'd do any better than people currently writing known characters, because I highly doubt that. Still, I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to add my stories to Batman, as well as Star Wars and Star Trek. I know, it's stunningly predictable, but these universes had such an influence on me, it'd be a blast to add my own.

Portland Comics: Questions 50: Matt Grigsby

Mathew Grigsby is an illustrator, focusing on Conceptual Design, Sequential Art and Graphic Design. He graduated from the Pacific Northwest College of art in 2009 with a BFA in Illustration.    His first published work was in Legends of the Dark Crystal for Tokyopop.   You can check out his weekly web comic Grigsgaggleby he started in Jan 2012.   His art can also be see on the sketch groups blog Sketchery.   

Art Blog/Portfolio
Tumblr

DD:   What projects are you working on currently?
Matt Grigsby:   I have all kinds of things on the slate in 2012 that I’m really excited for! Back in January I started my weekly auto-bio web comic series titled “Grigsgaggleby” where people can follow along with the events,  life struggles and nerdy shenanigans that go on in my life. So far it’s been a blast to create and I’ve already learned so much about the do’s and dont’s of web comic creation. It’s daunting putting yourself out there for people to read, but I like the idea that people can relate to it… one big ya know, ya know? Haha. My second project is a new comic series written and created by local podcast host and writer Mikey Nielson. The series is titled “Extra/Ordinary” and it stars two young high school graduates that travel across the country learning about their newly acquired superpowers and the relationships around them. It’s a wonderful coming of age story laced with action, humor and heart. It’s brilliant. My third big project I’m working on is a section in volume 3 of local artist/writer Leia Weathington’s series “Bold Riley”. I’m in the development stages on that one, but man will it be cool. Leia’s created a beautiful fairytale about a princess and her adventures in a world stitched together with aspects of cultures from all around the globe. It’s a powerful story and I’m honored to be a part of it.

DD:   What is your artistic Process?
When I work on comics, I typically pull out some cheap printer paper and start sketching rough layouts and character designs to get a feel for what I’m creating. It’s really important to me to find the tone of the story so I can pack it full of emotion. I typically look through art books and search the internet for visual inspiration while I listen to various movie scores and soundtracks to get in the mood to create. When that’s all underway, I begin sketching out my page on larger format Bristol paper and draw away. I ink directly over my line art and scan it into Photoshop so I can do digital touch ups and coloring so I can get it ready for final print.

DD:   How involved are you in the guiding the story?
Luckily I’ve only worked with writers who are incredibly flexible and open-minded so far. Often times a script will call for a lot of action in one scene, or might need a slight restructuring in pacing so it reads well on the page from a visual standpoint. I think communication is key in creating a solid story with a writer so it’s good to discuss if something needs a slight edit. The story is already created so if I have anything to say it would be only for the visual direction of it to help make things read better.

DD:   What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?
Oh man, that’s a tough one. I think one of the best trades I’ve ever read was “Batgirl: Year One” by Marcos Martin, Scott Beatty and Chuck Dixon. The writing is top notch and Marcos Martin certainly knows how to lead your eye through a page. Plus, Barbara Gordon is adorable!

DD:   What skill would you like to learn?
Screen Printing and using a letterpress. That would help me so much!

DD:    What's the most important thing you've learned?

Patience and diligence. Not something I would imagine people would say right away, but it’s true. I have been out of college for almost three years now and the transition from student to professional is a long, frustrating road. It’s hard to see friends and colleagues move forward with their careers and feel left in the dust when you want that big break so badly as well. Just remember, if you put in the work it will reward you in time, it might be a week away, or years away, but it WILL reward you. As long as you put your head down to the drawing board and create you will make it. Don’t ever expect to have things fall into your lap like the rare, lucky 5% of humanity, instead, just work your butt off and you will get there.

DD:   Do you have a collection?   If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?
Yes! I love being surrounded by little shrines and altars of vinyl toys and plushes from various media. Beyond my massive collection of Ewok stuff, I recently found a figurine of Goldar from the Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers at an antique mall for $4. It was destiny.

DD:   What is your favorite genre of Comics?
Depends on my mood, but I pick up superhero books on a weekly basis, so that should probably say a lot about me. Haha!

DD:   Do you have an Ipad?   If so what do use it for the most.

Not yet! I look forward to having one though. It’s great for showing a digital portfolio, reading, and sketching ideas on the go. Plus I’ve seen folks using it for credit card scans at conventions and I think that is so cool!

DD:   What is your favorite TV show/ movie?
Sadly, television and I have a close relationship. There is no way I can choose one so I will rattle off some things that I love currently: Mad Men, Faceoff, Community, Parks & Recreation, Misfits, Breaking Bad, Pawn Stars, Hoarders and a few others.

As for movies, I have the same problem with deciding. I was born in ’86 so I had the golden opportunity to grow up on Spielberg, Lucas and the magic of movies in the late 80’s/ early 90’s. I love Hook, Jurassic Park, Star Wars, Indiana Jones Mrs. Doubtfire, Pleasantville, That Thing You Do, The Wizard, Ninja Turtles and so many more. It’s insane.

DD:   How does the Portland comics culture shape your work?
The comic scene in town is nuts! In today’s world with social media, you will most likely receive 5+ event invites every day to go to a book release party, gallery opening, costume/music event, birthday party or more! It’s great. Every time I get a chance to go mingle with my fellow artists in town and see the work they’ve just completed, I get filled up with inspiration and  want to run home and get back to work. Art is a drug in this city and we are all taking it. Haha! I had the wonderful opportunity to work as an intern at Periscope Studio years ago, and then as an assistant at Tranquility Base. In the time I spent with folks at each studio I learned so much about the art of making comics and the industry around it. It was a serious honor to have rooms full of artists taking time away from their work to come and mentor me. I’ve made some wonderful friends in this city over the years and they’ve played a valuable part in my growth as a person, and a professional.

DD:   What was your first comic convention?
I believe it was either the Portland Comic Book Show or Sakura Con in Washington back in middle school! Oh man, anime cons are something else…

DD:   What is your favorite part of comic conventions?
Fan interaction. Hands down. Cons are always crazy and somewhat stressful, but it’s so awesome being able to interact with fans and people who have just as much passion for the medium and geek culture as you do. It’s also great being able to get hundreds of people in the industry together under one roof to interact and hang out with. We all run on such crazy schedules so it’s hard to ever see people. Thankfully cons bring everyone together to enjoy each other’s company!

DD:   If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?
Ya know? I’ve always thought about this question and my answer would definitely have to be a Marine Biologist. I love sea dwelling creatures so much! It would be a blast to educate other folks about what kinds of life are found in the ocean. My only issue with that is my fear of outrageously deep water. I would like to study tide pools and mini ecosystems found closer to shore. I geek out over this stuff!

DD:   Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?
Now THAT, is a tough question… We are pretty spoiled in this city and there is so much to choose from. I do have a top three when I’m feeling fancy and have some cash to spend. I would recommend Bamboo Sushi in SE Portland for the most fresh, delicious sushi you’ll ever eat. The Screen Door on Burnside is always a treat for NW fusion southern comfort food and tasty cocktails and Podna’s Pit BBQ in NE Portland has the best ribs I’ve had in town. As for quick eats that are more affordable and delicious, I would check out Pho Hung on Powell, The Waffle Window on Hawthorne, Foster Burger and Killer Burger and our massive amount of Food Carts all over town!

DD:   How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?
I’m a Portland native so I haven’t lived anywhere else yet, but some day I would like to get away for a few years and try something new.

DD:   What is your favorite part of Portland?
I would probably say the comradery and vibrancy we have here. People are for the most part, very kind and accepting of one another, we have a rich art scene and our food and brew is top notch. I just love this city.

DD:   Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?
I really wanna go see that crazy vortex thing we have out in central Oregon. It sounds insane!

DD:   Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? or conversely, how would you feel about illustrating a character from a different media, for example, Dr. Who, James Bond?  What would you explore?
My dream since I was a little kid was to draw a Peter Pan story very true to J.M. Barrie’s original production. Petey and I go waaaay back and he’s always been my favorite fairytale. I don’t think I’ve ever tried to draw him yet because I’m so afraid nothing I do will ever do Barrie’s work justice. Hopefully, at some point I can conquer that fear and immerse myself in crafting my own Neverland!

Portland Questions 49: Randy "Rantz" Kintz

 I ran into Randy Kintz at a couple shows most recently the Portland Comic Book Show.   Randy “Rantz” Kintz is a freelance illustrator and professional comic book artist that has worked on Jason and the Argonauts for Blue Water Comics, Drone for Red5 Comics, and is currently working on God Play and Underbelly for Darkbrain.  He was first published by Blue Water Comics, in 'Power of the Valkyrie #2'.     His work was at the displayed at  "Comics at the Crossroads" at the Maryhill Museum in Goldendale, WA.  He has done a several different sketch cards collections most recently he is part of Betty Page collection.   His stylized art is unique and reminds me other artists like Humberto Ramos or Mateo Scalera.

Words of encouragement, and inspiration   

Deviant Art   

Facebook Rantz Fan page

 

DD:   What projects are you working on currently? 

I currently draw a series for Darkbrain Comics, called UNDERBELLY. I've also drawn GODPLAY #1 and #2, and GRACE #11 for them as well.

DD:   What is your artistic Process?

Since I do my own inking, I usually go from rough layouts, directly to inks. Very rarely do I ever provide finished pencils. For me, that just slows the process, and in this industry speed counts.

DD:   Illustrating, it is said is essentially storytelling.  Have you

thought of writing a story?

I have considered writing a couple stories, but as soon as I sit down to start, my thought process starts jumping all over the place. So I leave that process to the professionals.

DD:   What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?

For me, it’s either anything by Ramos, or Bachalo. Especially their creator owned stuff.

DD:   What skill would you like to learn?

Coloring - I think that is the one area that I would love to improve on, especially digital coloring.

DD:   What's the most important thing you've learned?

To have thick skin, and separating the constructive crits, from the blatant dogging. There are a lot of critics in this business. Some good, some not so good. Not everyone likes what I draw. Some people love it, some people just downright hate it. For me, I have to make myself happy with what I draw, and if other people like it, then great.

DD:   Do you have a collection?  If so, what is one of the items you're

most proud of?

I don’t have a collection anymore. I did collect early Iron Man books, way before the movies. I actually had a #2 that was in semi decent condition….wish I still have that. But right now, I pretty much only collect Ramos, and Bachalo.

DD:   What is your favorite TV show/ movie?

Oh that’s tough…The Glades was one of my favorites. Criminal Minds, SVU, Chopped, River Monsters, Scooby Doo, are a few others.

DD:   Has the Portland comics culture shaped your work?

Not really. I’m pretty much a hermit, since my studio is in my house, so I really don’t get out much.

DD:   What was your first comic convention?

Honestly, the one in Portland - many many years ago.

DD:   If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

I’ve been a lot of things in my life. Military man, HVAC Foreman, Sheet Metal Worker, Design Engineer, and now….a comic book guy…I love what I do now, and the freedom that it provides.

DD:   Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

Pastini’s….best….Italian…food…ever….not kidding. If I could eat there every day, I would.

DD:   What is your favorite part of Portland?

It’s a small big city, and the variety of cultures that we have. And Powell’s books…and the afore mentioned Pastini’s…and VooDoo!

DD:   Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

I love the high desert area’s, and so probably more time in central eastern Oregon.

DD:   Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media that you haven't yet done?    Is there a character from popular culture you would like illustrate, for example,? Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?

I think to be able to do story boards for a cartoon, would be kind of fun. And someday, I would like to see some of my creations that are bouncing around inside my head, to some form of larger screen.

Portland Questions 48: Conley Smith

I met Conley Smith at the Portland Comic Book show.    She is an aspiring illustrator here in Portland and she was displaying her and Dan Tabayoyon's new comic, Lady Red.   She is a member of the weekly sketch group over at Sketchery.  She also made an appearance as a guest artist at this year's Women of Wonder Day. 

This is her portfolio and you can checkout her blog ConleysDoodles

Doug Dorr:   What projects are you working on currently?

Conley Smith:    I'm currently getting ready to begin working on a short comic project with Terry Blas, which should be a lot of fun! Besides that, just working on a couple little projects for myself, to keep busy.

DD:  What is your artistic Process?

I tend to draw inspiration from my own life experiences, as well as things that I enjoy! I prefer to draw and ink things on paper, then scan them and color in Photoshop. However I am in a tiny apartment, and recently had to get rid of both my art desk and my scanner, so I've been doing a lot more things completely in Photoshop lately. I've been trying to do some watercolors lately too. It's a lot of fun, but I miss ctrl+z a little bit, haha.

DD:  Illustrating, it is said is essentially storytelling. Have you thought of writing a story?

Several years ago I used to write stories all the time. These days though I've been much more focused on drawing... I'm pretty out of practice at writing! Hence working with other writers (Terry, Dan Tabayoyon.) I'm definitely trying to get back into it, though.

DD:  What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?

As far as comics that are currently coming out, I've really been loving Batwoman. On a completely different note, I think one of my favorite things I read this last year was Asterios Polyp. Upon finishing reading it, I immediately turned to the beginning and read it again, and have re-read it a few times since.

What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?

It really depends what they are into! When I started getting back into comics though, one of the first things I started reading was Fables.

What skill would you like to learn?

I would love to learn to animate. Many of my biggest influences are animated films, and I would love to work in that industry. Besides that, I'm really trying to get better at inking. I have basically the world's shakiest hands... it's getting better though.

What's the most important thing you've learned?

To draw constantly, and continue to strive for improvement! I know I still have a lot to learn, and am doing my best to get there.

Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?

Comic collection? Or just general nerd-ery? I have both. Too many collections, really! We have two large bookshelves in our tiny apartment that are completely full with comics, art books, collectibles and the like, and a giant list of prints still in need of framing. Comics-wise, I covet my Hellboy library editions. General stuff-wise, at Comic Con this year we got one of the Rusty Venture lunchboxes, and had it signed by the show's creators... it's awesome. And for art, a sketch of Bigby and Snow that I got from James Jean in 2007.

What is your favorite genre of Comics?

I enjoy some of pretty much anything, but lately I've been really back into superhero comics. The first comics I read were old Spiderman and X-men comics when I was in elementary school. However, watching Batman the Animated Series when I was younger has probably had the biggest influence on my current comic reading tendencies. Besides superhero comics, I enjoy autobiographical comics, some horror comics... really I'll try reading just about anything.

Do you have an Ipad? If so what do use it for the most.

Ha! I wish! Someday.

What is your favorite TV show/ movie?

My favorite TV show is definitely The Venture Bros. Its still at least a year though until the next season! Bummer! I also recently watched all of Mad Men on Netflix, which was great. As far as movies, my favorite movie of all time is Jurassic Park.

How does the Portland comics culture shape your work?

It seems like comic creators are everywhere in Portland! Having so many awesome creative people around, and going to events such as Stumptown, etc. is always hugely motivational in inspiring me to try and do new and better work.

What was your first comic convention?

The first I attended was San Diego Comic Con in 2007. So overwhelming! I went again this year, and fun as it was, that really tires you out. As far as actually having a table, my first was Stumptown of this last year. I also just shared a table at the Portland Comic Book Show with Emi Lenox! Lots of fun.

What is your favorite part of comic conventions?

Probably meeting different artists who I really admire. It's always great to talk to them, and I've met some ridiculously nice people at conventions!

If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

I would really love to work in animation some day, perhaps doing story boards or concept art. Making video games would be fun too! Basically... something art related.

Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

When I feel like getting a little fancy, I love Nostrana, which is an easy walking distance from my apartment. The butterscotch budino is AMAZING.

How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?

I've been here for a little over five years now. I originally moved here to go to college, ended up not being able to pay for it at the time, but stayed anyway due to loving the city, and meeting so many great people.

What is your favorite part of Portland?

I grew up in several much smaller towns, so I love the variety of things to do. Most of all, I love the variety of FOOD. There are so many great restaurants! I could probably never go back to a small town for that reason alone.

Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

I'm not sure of any Portland places I'd really like to go to but haven't yet. In Oregon, I've never been to the Newport Aquarium, and hope to change that soon.

Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? Is there another character from popular culture you would like illustrate, for example, Sookie Stackhouse, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?

I enjoy drawing fanart! I think it would be really fun to do a Star Wars comic aimed a little more at younger girls. I also enjoyed the older "Gotham Girls" shorts and comics that were spun off of Batman the Animated Series, and would love to do something like that.

Portland Questions 47: Nico Hitori De

Nicolas Hitori de has been a  freelance illustrator since 2002, trained in fine arts workshops in the city of Paris, following parallel courses in animation studios, he published his first drawings and cartoons in several fanzines and participated in numerous exhibitions and festivals since 1989.   

His recent work has illustrated websites, apparel, advertisements, flyers and newspapers for children. Participating in various animated shorts, he worked for several years with the magazine release from Disney-Hachette Witch.  He is done several illustrations for CD covers and posters for a band called Virgin Princesse.  He is currently working with Jamie S. Rich and Joelle Jones on Spell Checkers.

Currently he is over in Portland on an extend stay work on Spell Checkers.   He is teaching comics  in and was asked to be an artist-in-residence for years 2012-13.

Catch up with him on his blog  or on twitter

Doug Dorr:   What projects are you working on currently?
Right now, I'm working on the third volume of Spell Checkers, and sometimes I still draw commissioned artwork for Disney. I’m also involved in a musical stage project for a friend from France’s. They are called Virgin Princesse. We plan to project animation during the play, and I’m really excited about it.

DD:   What is your artistic Process?
Kind of unusual. My work is both traditional and digital. I do thumbnails from Jamie’s script and then pencils on paperm but I’m inking and toning on computer. I’m really interested in digital drawing and I’ll probably switch to it sooner or later.

DD:   Illustrating, it is said to be essentially storytelling. Have you thought of writing a story?
I started writing a semi-autobio comic before working with Jamie and Joëlle. It's a very personal project about when I came back from Paris to my hometown after a break-up. I hope to finish writing it and start drawing pages soon. Maybe after volume 3. 

DD:   How did you become involved with Witch magazine?
A friend saw my work at a comic convention and it happened that he sometimes wrote articles for Disney magazines in France. He recommended me to them, and when I g0t my first commission, I couldn't believed I was working for Disney. It’s been more than 10 years now that I’ve I worked for them, and it’s still great.

DD:   I understand you had an internship at Disney Accademia in Milan, how did you change after the experience?
I learned a lot of drawing techniques there and working every day with such talented comics artists was really inspiring. They asked me to stay after, but that would have meant changing my art style to the Disney house style. It was a real tough decision to make but I turned it down. I prefer being independent.

DD:   What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?
I'm a big fan of Vanyda's The Building Opposite. She’s a friend and a great inspiration for me. In terms of Portland artists, I can’t wait for Emi Lenox’s Emitown 2 and Natalie Nourigat’s first graphic novel Between Gears. Image is publishing both of them in February, 2012.

DD:   What skill would you like to learn?
Painting, especially digitally. I'm so bad at it. I also wish I could draw faster. Drawing all of the clothes and background details takes me many, many hours…

DD:   What's the most important thing you've learned?
I think skill is not the most important in comics. I’m more impressed by storytelling and personal art styles that technical demonstration. I’m also amazed by the indie comics scene in the US. Publishers like Oni are way more curious and open minded than French ones.

DD:   Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?
I'm not really into collecting, but my favorite items are probably Gorillaz's Rise of the Ogre, Atsushi Okubo’s Soul Eater Soul Art, and the Furi-Kuri concept design book. I’m also a proud owner of some Joëlle Jones original artwork.

DD:   What is your favorite TV show/ movie?
There are too many of them! I love all kind of movies, especially old musicals, ‘70s Italian horror, arthouse, animation... I'm also a huge fan of John Hughes but maybe my all time favorite is Wong Kar-Wai's Chungking Express. I’m not really into TV show but I can watch Twin Peaks, Spaced, and Freaks & Geeks anytime.

DD:   Has the Portland comics culture shaped your work?

Totally. First in the way I work : being here makes everything easier, especially in terms of working with Jamie S. Rich and Joëlle Jones.  As I set the book in Portland, it really helps to feel the mood of the city. Meeting local artists is also a great inspiration.

DD:   What was your first comic convention?
I was at Stumptown in 2010. I met a lot of my favorite comics artists all on the same day and I have great memories about it. I also was in San Diego and New-York the same year and it was totally crazy. It was awesome to sign books and talk with readers.

DD:   If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?
I'm really into photography. I actually took some classes about it when I was younger but I chose comics instead. I sometimes still hang out with my camera, but comics take up too much time. Same with music, my guitar is kinda dusty now…

DD:   Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

It's been only two months since I arrived here so I usually follow my friends. Maybe you can recommend me some?

DD:   What is your favorite part of Portland?
I actually love the city. I enjoyed being in NE and hanging out downtown and Old Town. It’s probably because it’s the first part of the city I saw, but I have a special affection for NW sights.

DD:   Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?
I already visited Mount Hood this last Sunday, and it was gorgeous. I may sound a little geeky but I went to Astoria this week because I wanted see the Goonies sets. I’d love to see the coast now.

DD:   Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media that you haven't yet done? Is there a character from popular culture you would like illustrate, for example,
Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?
I already did two drawings for Jim Henson's Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. I'd love to work on something with Jamie Hewlett. Right now, I'm trying to explore more sketchy inking like Jim Mahfood and experiencing things like speed painting. I'm also interested in the Superflat artistic movement.