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Interview with Deadpool #900 Artist Shawn Crystal: Part 2
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Deadpool #900 signed by Shawn Crystal
Can you describe your process in creating the art for an issue?
Yes I can, in depth
First, I read the script. Then I work on the character designs. Knowing what the story demands of the characters, allows me to understand how to draw them. I also use this phase to get familiar with the shapes that compose the characters. So, yes, even when drawing established characters I have to spend time figuring out how I will draw them. (After each stage I scan the work in, and talk to my editor about what works and what doesn’t and make the necessary changes.) After that, I do my thumbnails. I put a lot of time into these, figuring out the storytelling, page designs, and spotting blacks. I draw these fairly small, about 2.5 inches tall. They are done in black and white so I can make sure everything is clear, and the design issues work out. There are like mini versions of the final page.
Next, on to the pencils. I pencil smaller than print size, about 7 inches tall. This forces me to stay with simple shapes (the complexity of form comes in with the inks.) I spend this time making sure I understand the surface planes of the forms and clearly define the spatial relationships. The storytelling has been figure out earlier, so I just need to stick with that. I take the pencils and blow them up to 11” X 17” in Photoshop. Turn them to a light blue, and then print them out on the bristol board. From here, I tighten the areas that need it. I try not to spend a lot of time doing this because if I over render the pencils, my inks will die. Then I go in and ink. If I’ve done my job right, there is enough pencil information down to play with, but no too little that I make a mess. Then I scan it, clean it up, and send it to my editor.
If you were given the opportunity to draw any comic book what would it be? Why?
This is frequently changing. I have issues. I’m also a comic geek, so I’ll name a few…
1) Scalped. My favorite monthly book out there. Maybe my work doesn’t fit it, but you gotta have dreams, no?
2) B.P.R.D . I LOVE what Arcudi and Davis are doing on this book. Great character studies and Wild and imaginative stories. Though if I did get to draw it; that would mean that Davis wouldn’t be, and It wouldn’t look nearly as good.
3) Wolverine and or Punisher. I think these books would be a good place to work on some of the inking techniques I’m investigating. My style isn’t terribly mainstream, but I think it would fit in with some of the solo books at Marvel. These two books seem to work with a grittier and cartoony style. Maybe one day soon.
Are there any writers and/or artists in the industry you’d like to work with?
Jason Aaron. He’s a writer in every sense of the word.
Garth Ennis. He’s another writer with a unique voice. What really amazes me about Garth is he’s never seemed to put his “name” before his writing. He’s a guy who could be the biggest name in comics, but has chosen to (at least seemed to) stay on projects where he can write from his heart. Not that he’s some small timer, he’s a powerhouse, and thus ends my dream of working with him.
Cullen Bunn. Another guy who’s tearing it up. Read “The Damned” now! Six Guns will be out soon to tear us all a new one.
I’ve worked with a great group of writers so far, and have plans to work with several others. All of which have been great experiences. Mike Benson and I had a great time on Games of Death, and have plans to team up again. He is really paving a blazing trail in comics. Adam Glass and I are also talking; we’ll cook something up soon.
Do you have any advice to those trying to break into the comic book industry?
DON’T DO IT! LEAVE NOW WHILE YOU CAN! Now, those of you who are still here, my misguided advice is simple… “Make it happen.” It’s an extremely tough field. It’s a freelance based industry, so money can come in waves, be prepared for the down times. Also, insurance is tough one. Those of us in it, and those of us who will be in it, are doing it because it’s a calling. It’s not a choice; we do it because it’s what we are. When I say “Make it Happen,” I mean it. Every artist has a different story about how they got in. There is no one road in; you need to find your way. Make comics and keep making them, even if you’re not getting paid. If you do this, and you do it well, one day you will be paid. Make Web Comics. Make Mini Comics. Go to conventions and network. Network A LOT. That’s my guess, I could be wrong ;) It worked for me…. So far.
What’s next for Shawn Crystal?
I am currently working on an issue of Deadpool Team Up with writer Stuart Moore. This book is a WILD ride. I wish I could say more, stay tuned to my Blog or my DA page for updates. After working with Stuart, I can say I’d truly love to work with him again. He really understands the responsibility of a page. After that, I just found out I’ll be working on something VERY exciting for me. I can’t wait to shout this one from the rooftops.
And lastly, what comics are you currently reading?
1) Scalped. This book is simply amazing. Jason has convinced me he grew up on an Indian reservation and has a meth lab in his back yard.
2) Punisher Max, the Ennis Parlov Stuff. I geek out on this stuff. HARD.
3) Shaman Warriors. A kickin’ Korean series. WOAH.
4) Asterios Polyp. Just finished it. To say anymore would warrant a dissertation on David Mazzuchelli. Knowledgeable
If you missed Part 1 of the Shawn Crystal interview you can find it here.
Please purchase Shawn Crystal's run on Deadpool and others at your local comic book shop which can be found here.
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If you have a suggestion for a topic or review you'd like to see, contact me at SusanReneePage@gmail.com
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