Prescription: Comics
10ccs
1) What inspires you to create and keeps you going?
Being someone who enjoys comics books and pretty much did art all my life, this is a great combination. Being able to do both at the same time is so great. You know what they say, if you enjoy what you do, you never work a day in your life.
2) Do you have a set routine?
I do have a set routine. When I'm working in comics, I will usually work on all the background first. Then characters faces, hands, and finally the figure. In that exact order.
3) What kind of output do you try to achieve?
I like to do one page a day. But when deadline comes knocking, I still work the same pace... just longer hours to get the job done. Being disciplined by staying at the drawing table and sometimes sacrificing sleep to get the deadline finished.
4) What inspires you WHEN you create? Music? Noise? Silence?
Usually I have the television going on in the background. I don't watch it, I just listen and if there's something of interest, I'll take a quick glance. But it's more for the sound when you're working in a studio by yourself all day and night.
5) Who was the first comic book creator that influenced you to pursue this?
Absolutely Arthur Adams. Not just because I see his work in comic books. But because he was the first comic book artist I've ever meet and he was kind enough to help me along the way.
6) When did you realize you could follow this path yourself?
I didn't. I was just constantly working, one project leading to another and here I am today. Thinking about it now, I think I've come to the realization that I'm on the path now.
7) What do you find to be a challenge in creating?
Some say writers block and artist block. Have you ever heard of Inking block? That doesn't really happen. The pencils are already there. Just pick up the inking tools and do it.
8) What else do you have to learn?
Oh, I'm constantly learning new tools, trades, and techniques. Never settle on what you know. Always try to evolve in every way possible. When you feel you know everything, that's when you give up as an artist. Never give up.
9) What keeps you motivated to get better?
I like looking at other peoples work and constantly getting inspired by what others to. Not only in just the comic book industry. But in every other medium and I use that energy to see if I can translate it into my work.
10) Can you turn your brain (creativity) off (and on)?
My brain turns off when I'm sleeping. Unless I'm dreaming, then it's never off.
Booster Shot
1) What advice do you have for aspiring creators?
Draw or create every day. The more you practice, then better you'll get. This goes for everything.
2) Do you ever worry about running out of ideas?
No so much running out of idea. For me, it's more about is there enough time for all my ideas.
3) How do you handle the slow times?
When there are slow times, I would work on something else. Editing video for my YouTube channel, Walden Wong Art, or catching up on commission. There's always something that needs to be done just waiting for me to complete.
4) How do you feel about the industry?
The comic industry is great. Good times to be working in the field where all these movies and TV shows about comic books are out. Seems like everybody has an interest in the comic book industry, which is great!
