The world of comic books is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of imagination, artistry, and storytelling. For over three decades, I’ve been fortunate enough to contribute my own threads to this grand narrative, navigating the highs and lows of the industry, from the independent scene to major publishers and back again. As 2024 draws to a close, it feels like the right time to reflect on this incredible journey – a journey that has taken me from the offbeat world of The Tick to the sprawling universe of the Malibu Ultraverse, and finally to the personal realms of my own creator-owned comics, Shanghai and Extraterrestrial.
Early Days: Learning the Ropes and The Tick’s Unforgettable Impact
My career began in a time of great change and experimentation in the comic book industry. One of my earliest professional credits was inking the legendary Ben Edlund’s pencils for the original Tick series. The Tick, for those unfamiliar, was a wonderfully bizarre and hilarious parody of superhero tropes, born from the creative mind of Ben Edlund in 1986. It started as a humble newsletter mascot for a New England comic shop, but quickly exploded in popularity, capturing the hearts of fans with its unique brand of humor.
Working on The Tick was an unforgettable experience. The energy, the creativity, the sheer absurdity of it all – it was infectious. It was a privilege to contribute, even in a small way, to a comic that would go on to become a cult classic, spawning an animated series in the 90s and cementing its place in pop culture history. It was during this time that I honed my skills as an inker, learning the nuances of translating a penciler’s vision into crisp, bold lines. It was also an invaluable introduction to the world of independent comics, a world where creativity often reigned supreme.
The Malibu Ultraverse: A Universe of Innovation
The 1990s saw a surge in independent comic book publishers, and one of the most ambitious and innovative was Malibu Comics. I was fortunate enough to contribute to their groundbreaking Ultraverse line, a shared universe of superhero titles that pushed boundaries with its creator-owned model and eye-catching holographic covers.
During my time at Malibu, I worked on a variety of titles, including The Solution, Street Fighter, Prime, UltraForce, Rune, Prototype, and Hardcase. The Solution, in particular, was a highlight, allowing me to contribute to a team book with a diverse and compelling cast of characters. Each title offered unique artistic challenges and the chance to collaborate with some of the most talented writers and artists in the industry.
The Ultraverse was a bold experiment, and while it ultimately faced challenges in a market dominated by the “Big Two” (Marvel and DC), it left an undeniable mark on the industry. It’s a testament to the creative spirit of the time that so many talented individuals came together to build this unique universe. Even though Marvel acquired Malibu, the Ultraverse remains largely dormant, a nostalgic reminder of a time of great experimentation in comics. It is still remembered fondly by its fans to this day.
The Path to Independence: Shanghai and Extraterrestrial
After years of working within established universes, I felt the pull to create something entirely my own. This desire for creative control led me down the path of self-publishing, a path increasingly embraced by comic creators seeking greater autonomy and a direct connection with their audience.
My first major independent project was Shanghai, a fantasy adventure centered around Corinne, a young woman who inherits a magical amulet containing the soul of a dragon. Suddenly thrust into a world of ancient magic, battling robots and the undead, Corinne’s journey is one of self-discovery and courage. Shanghai allowed me to flex my creative muscles not just as an artist, but also as a writer, crafting a story that blended action, fantasy, and a touch of humor.
Following Shanghai, I launched Extraterrestrial, a science fiction epic set in a universe where humanity has ventured into the stars, collecting alien creatures for a galactic zoo. The story follows a group of mercenaries tasked with capturing these exotic specimens. Extraterrestrial gave me the opportunity to explore themes of colonialism, exploitation, and the ethics of scientific pursuit, all within the framework of a thrilling space adventure.
Both Shanghai and Extraterrestrial were funded through successful Kickstarter campaigns, a testament to the power of crowdfunding and the direct connection it fosters between creators and fans. It’s incredibly rewarding to see readers embrace these stories and characters that I’ve poured my heart and soul into.
Connecting with Fans: The Convention Scene
Today, I’m deeply involved in the vibrant Central Florida comic convention scene. You’ll often find me at events like Daytona Beach Comic Convention, Shadow Con, and First Coast Comic Con, selling original art, prints, and copies of Shanghai and Extraterrestrial.
Conventions are more than just a marketplace; they’re a vital link between creators and fans. There’s nothing quite like meeting readers face-to-face, hearing their feedback, and sharing a mutual passion for comics. It’s a reminder of why I started this journey in the first place: to tell stories, create art, and connect with people through the power of this incredible medium. It is also a great opportunity to meet with other creators and discuss the craft.
Looking Ahead
My current project is Clockwork Diva. I’m currently working on the first issue of the comic, along with writing a novel and an EP of music to accompany it. I will be launching an Indygogo or Kickstarter for it in the near future.
The comic book industry is constantly evolving, presenting new challenges and opportunities. But one thing remains constant: the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of the comic book medium. As I look back on my career, from the early days of inking The Tick to the exciting world of Clockwork Diva, I’m filled with gratitude for every opportunity, every collaboration, and every reader who has joined me on this journey. And I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Thank you for being a part of my artistic journey!