Nerdy Mewzings

Kickstarting Dreams: A Conversation with Comic Book Artist & Writer Rojo Cova

In this episode James sits down with comic book creator and YouTuber, Rojo Cova! They explore Cova's artistic journey, his recently launched Kickstarter for his creator owned comic 'AWOL,' and his path from rediscovering comics during the pandemic to establishing a unique presence on YouTube. He shares insights into his work ethic, inspirations from manga and anime, and his commitment to delivering high-quality, passion-driven comics. Tune in to hear about the challenges and triumphs of comic creation, the importance of planning, and Cova's thoughts on the ever evolving landscape of comics and nerd culture!
Back AWOL Number One on Kickstarter NOW!: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/awol1/awol-1
Rojo's Offical Website: https://www.avoccomics.com/shop
Subscribe to Rojo Cova's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Covaslookout
Follow Rojo Cova on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therojocova
Join the Cova's Lookout Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/covaslookout
 

The Kubert Comic Book Art Legacy: Artist & Writer Emma Kubert

In this episode James is joined by mega talented comic book artist & writer Emma Kubert! They chat about Emma's artistic journey, growing up in the legendary Kubert family, and her experiences at the Kubert School both as a student and instructor. Emma shares her love of art and storytelling, her serious decision to uphold the Kubert family legacy, and highlights the importance of maintaining fun while working in comics. She also talks about her new online comic creation course, 'How to Create Comics with Emma Kubert', and teases her secret projects, as well as her current work on Frank Miller's 'Pandora'. Aspiring artists will find plenty of valuable insights and inspiration in this engaging conversation!
Checkout Emma's official website here: https://emmakubert.com/
Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmakubert
Subscribe to her YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@emmakubert19
See what she's up to on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emmakubert
 

Mastering Comic Book Coloring with Steve Canon: Art, Creativity, & Capullo

In this episode James is joined by professional comic book colorist Steve Canon! They dive into Steve's journey from discovering comics in a discarded box, to painting custom guitars, and ultimately becoming a professional comic colorist. The conversation covers the evolving landscape of social media for artists, the importance and challenge of coloring in comic art, and working with renowned artists like Brett Booth and Danny Earls. Steve also shares insights into his workflow, overcoming technical hurdles, and his love for line art. They discuss his recent works for Todd McFarlane, their shared love of Greg Capullo's art, and excitement about Steve's upcoming secret projects. Join them for a journey into the nuanced world of comic book coloring!
Follow Steve on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevecanon/
Keep up with him on X: https://x.com/SteveCanon_
 

Art, Graphic Design, & Comic Books: Kim Bailey AKA CitrusGoldFish

In this episode James sits down with the multi-talented Artist, Graphic Designer, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, Kim Bailey AKA CitrusGoldFish! They discuss her journey through art, finding healing through martial arts, her inspirations, her approach to traditional vs digital art, and the impact of AI on the creative industry. James and Kim also delve into personal stories, sharing their experiences in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and how they both began their artistic pursuits. Tune in for an engaging conversation that blends creativity, passion, and perseverance!
Visit Kim's Official Website: https://citrusgoldfish.com/
Subscribe to her YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@citrusgoldfish
Make sure to follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/citrusgoldfish/
Follow her on X: https://x.com/Citrusgoldfish
Check her out over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Citrusgoldfish
 

From Crayons to Comics: Ryan Benjamin on Jim Lee, Frank Miller, & Vampire Hunter D

In this episode of the podcast, James sits down with acclaimed comic book artist Ryan Benjamin! They discuss Ryan's journey from a young artist inspired to draw on school notebooks and sketch poses from kung fu magazines, to becoming a leading figure in the comic book industry, both as an artist and instructor. Ryan shares his early career experiences working at WildStorm, his dedication and focus that landed him the job with Jim Lee, and his ongoing projects, including work with Frank Miller, as well as the upcoming Vampire Hunter D series. The conversation also delves into the creation of Comic Pro Bootcamp, Ryan's mentoring endeavors, and the benefits of in person and online instruction. Tune in to hear insights from a true modern master of comic book art who continues to push boundaries and inspire others!
Checkout Ryan's Official Website: https://www.ryanbenjamin.com/
Follow Ryan on Instagram: https://www.ryanbenjamin.com/
Serious about becoming a Comic Book Artist? Go to Comic Pro Bootcamp: https://www.comicprobootcamp.com/
 

Artist Thomas Nachlik: Crafting Gritty Art for Todd McFarlane's Spawn Comics & Beyond

Join James as he chats with comic book artist Thomas Nachlik! They dive into Thomas's early inspirations, including his love for art sparked by his uncle and a famous animation studio in Poland. Thomas shares his journey from submitting his work to DC and getting rejected, to eventually breaking into the industry with Top Cow and working for Todd McFarlane on titles like Sam and Twitch. They also discuss the benefits of digital tools in comic creation and Thomas's process for producing quality work at a fast pace. Plus, they touch on the importance of social media in getting noticed by big industry names. Along the way, expect some fun banter about their shared love of cats and more!
Checkout Thomas' Official Website: http://thomasnachlik.com/
Follow Thomas on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thomasnachlik/
 

Art, Influence, & Independence: Ghost Man Creator Raymar Brunson

Join James as he dives deep into the artistic journey of Raymar Brunson, a talented comic book artist known for his dynamic and motion-filled artwork! They discuss Raymar's influences, from iconic artists like James Harren and Sean Gordon Murphy to the impact of Marvel and DC cartoons on his style. Raymar shares his experiences transitioning from filmmaking to comics, his approach to art and storytelling, and his latest work on his creator-owned series, Ghost Man. Raymar also offers valuable insights for aspiring creators and reflects on the importance of continual growth and practice in the craft of comic book artistry.
Purchase Raymar's comics, original art, & commissions here: https://cosmiclionproductions.com/
Follow Raymar on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofbrunson/
Check him out on X: https://x.com/artofbrunson
 

Matt from WHAM! Stand: 3D Printing Innovations for Comic Book Collectors

In this episode James is joined by Matt, the founder of WHAM! Stand to discuss his use of 3D printing to create innovations for comic collectors, vendors, and more. Learn how he transformed a fun hobby into a business that provides tailored comic stands with interchangeable magnetic emblems. They dive into the evolution of 3D printing technology, feedback and success stories from comic cons, and collaborations for custom designs. Matt also touches upon his culinary background and how it influenced his creative processes. Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion on comics, 3D printing, and bringing innovative ideas to life!
Visit the official Wham! Stand website: https://whamstand.co/
Become a Wham! Stand Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/whamstand
Follow Wham! Stand on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whamstand/
Check out Wham! Stand on X: https://x.com/WHAMstand
 

The Comic Book Art of Edward Lilley: From Digital Tools to Traditional Techniques

Join James as he welcomes the mega talented comic book artist Edward Lilley! They discuss everything from overcoming technical challenges, to their art inspirations and influences, digital versus traditional art, and strategies for overcoming creative blocks. Ed shares his journey of reconnecting with his passion for art, the role of social media in the art community, and an exciting upcoming Kickstarter project. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed full of insights and inspiration from an upcoming talent set to take the comic book world by storm!
Subscribe to Ed's official YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@EdwardLilleyArt
Make sure to follow Ed on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edwardlilley_art/
Check him out on X: https://x.com/eddart_76
 

Fine Arts Teacher to Comic Book Artist: The Creative Journey of Yevgeny Sokolov

In this episode join James as he sits down with rising talent, fine arts instructor turned comic book artist, Yevgeny Sokolov! Discover how Yevgeny transitioned from a promising basketball career to exploring and teaching fine arts, eventually discovering his passion for comic book art, and making it the main focus of his artistic pursuits. They discuss their favorite comic storylines, the process of creating art, the challenges of breaking into the comic industry, and the journey of writing and illustrating original stories. Yevgeny also shares insights into his commission work and the intricacies of developing a portfolio for publishers. Watch as they delve into the techniques, inspirations, and aspirations of an artist navigating the wonderful world of comic books!
Keep up with Yevgeny on X: https://x.com/yvsokolovart
Follow Yevgeny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yevgeny_sokolov_art/