Questions like this come in all the time on Tumblr and I never know how to answer them. I don’t feel qualified to give an answer because what I do isn’t all that special. Everything is trial-and-error and I’m not that great of a writer or artist and whatever ends up working is usually more or less a freak accident.
Maybe you’re right and you aren’t qualified to answer the question, who knows. But, your art kicks ass and the fact that you ARE doing comics is a step ahead of a lot of people. When I get asked these questions, I usually just say “just start doing it”. Cuz that’s all I did. Dreaming and talking is a lot easier than DOING, so you gotta give yourself some credit. And seriously, again, look at the majority of the comics online, you’re art is awesome. Far from being amateur. I feel like most artsy people are winging it most of the time, cuz shit man, we are making something from nothing. It’s trial and error, but hopefully with keen eye.
Anyway, I’ll quit blabbin. Maybe this would have been better as an email
naw, I appreciate it.
Ha, I said “you’re” when I meant “your”. embarassiiiiiiiiing.
SINNER
You wear a hoodie in the summertime?
Weirdo.
It’s actually been in the 60s here the last few days.
Evening temps don’t count!!
u jelly
Nah. I’ll take warm nights over, you know, being snowed in all the time.
Pshh whatever snow is awesome.
you’re a regular Scott McCloud!
lolno
Damn it… this has got to be like… five dollars!
Trial and Error is exactly what you tell them if that’s what you do.
Ok. Take this to heart, because it’s very very true. The fact that people ask you, and want your opinion is enough of a prerequisite to prove you worth in this industry. There are better writers, better artists, and some people who are both. You are one of those people though! You are better than the people who ask you, because they know they can, and want to learn form you!
The only advice I give people is “Draw as often as you can” – ideally every day. Because regular practice seems to improve my abilities more than following any other kind of advice.
Now, if only I could write…
Yay!! ahdok! Excellent advice! In fact, I drew two comics today, and one yesterday.
…Now all’s I need is a scanner to get the things online…
Seriously, though; Joe, everyone has a different drawing style and just coz you prefer someone else’s style to your own doesn’t make it better, just different. Personally, I really like your stylised, blocky figures. They are very expressive and free. My own style tends to be kinda tight, or wound-up. I get too caught up in details sometimes, and I’ve no energy left for backgrounds (which I HATE doing). I wish I could loosen up my style. It’s something I’ve gotta practice. Heh. Messed-up, no?