How to Become a Comic Book Artist

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:BecomeComicBookArtist
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How to Become a Comic Book Artist

Introduction

Many people dream of becoming or creating superheroes and villains seen in comic books or graphic novels. For people with talent, ambition and a passion for the medium, becoming a comic book artist can be a lucrative and rewarding career. If you have artistic talent and enjoy doodling superheroes and villains, a job as a comic book artist may be for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Make a Portfolio

Things You'll Need

  • Artwork
  • Art supplies
  • Folder, binder or portfolio

Steps

1

Step One

Know what comic book editors are looking for. When reviewing an artist's portfolio, most editors look for 3 essential elements. The first is sequential storytelling, or the ability to tell a story through the action in sequential frames. The second element is the ability to draw realistic and interesting landscapes. The third element is the ability to create a variety of emotions in your characters' faces.
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Step Two

Asses your skills and know which you excel in. Comic books are illustrated through penciling, inking and coloring. Remember your strengths when building a portfolio and provide examples that showcase each of your skills.
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Step Three

Gather or make samples of your artwork for the portfolio. Present the art in a clean and organized way. Be original with your samples and display your use of sequential storytelling. Editors like to see at least 6 pages of sequential storytelling in a portfolio. Add a few pages of splashes or pin-ups of characters that also showcase your talents.
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Step Four

Place your work in a portfolio or folder. Use plastic sleeves to hold your art within a binder. This displays the art in an organized way and keeps the pages from wrinkling or bending.

Tips & Warnings

  • Not all comic books and graphic novels are about superheroes. Many give opportunities to draw various subjects without having to draw Mighty Mouse all day.
  • Try to showcase your talent within 10 to 15 pages.
  • Use your most recent artwork.
  • Do not send originals in a portfolio. Make color copies of the originals and send those.

Apply for the Job

Steps

1

Step One

Ask prospective publishers what their artist guidelines are. Major publishers list their submission requirements on their websites. To find the name of a specific comic book's publisher, look at the credits in the comic book.
2

Step Two

Make a cover letter. This letter must give a brief description of yourself, your talents, career interests and your contact information.
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Step Three

Send your cover letter and portfolio to more than one editor at each prospective publishing company. In order to get into the comic book industry, many artists start working for a smaller publisher to get experience and work on their skills before moving on to a bigger publishers such as DC or Marvel Comics.
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Step Four

Listen to any feedback the publishers give you. You may receive a phone call or a letter from the publisher stating that your portfolio has been placed on file. Do not be discouraged. The publisher has looked at your material and you may be called later when a position opens up. If you receive a rejection or negative letter, read the response carefully and use any criticisms to improve your portfolio or skill base.

Tips & Warnings

  • If you are determined and have enough capital to start publishing small comic books, consider self-publishing.
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