Why I’ve Been So Quiet Lately
I’ve been pretty quiet on the blog recently, and I wanted to take a moment to share why. Over the past few months, I’ve been deeply immersed in a new and exciting project—illustrating a comic book with Michael Barron. This is my first time illustrating a comic book for someone else, and it’s been both a thrilling and challenging experience.
The Challenge and Joy of Sequential Storytelling
The most time-consuming aspect of this project has been the conceptual creation of each scene. Getting the right atmosphere and tone for the comic is challenging enough, but maintaining character consistency throughout is a whole other level of difficulty. Ensuring that every detail, from expressions to posture, remains consistent across panels is incredibly demanding. Then, there’s the task of making sure the story sequencing flows naturally, which requires meticulous planning and a deep understanding of the narrative. On top of all that, I’ve had to grapple with the weird guilt that comes from spending my days drawing and imposter syndrome. Turning this creative endeavor into a 9-to-5 job, and treating it with the seriousness and structure of a day job, has been a significant shift for me.
Adjusting My Routine
Balancing this work with life’s daily demands has required me to set strict start and stop times, lunch breaks, and even dog walking schedules. It’s been a real exercise in discipline, but it’s also allowed me to fully commit guilt-free. I’ve had to create boundaries with those around me, ensuring that I have the space and time to focus. The dogs are the toughest to make understand this new boundary.
What Excites Me Most
One of the most exciting aspects of this project is simply the journey itself. Being able to illustrate a comic book is a dream come true, and I’m thrilled to be on this path. While I can’t share too many details without giving away spoilers, there’s a particular part of the comic that I’m extremely eager to draw.
This project is also a significant departure from my previous work. It’s horror-themed, and while I’ve always been drawn to psychological topics, diving into the intense and sometimes gory imagery of this comic has been a new challenge. It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible.
Exploring Psychological Depths
One of my favorite aspects of this comic is how it explores the psychological nuances of life—the polarizing opposites of good and bad, light and dark. This story really makes you stop and think about how things aren’t always as they seem. It’s not as black and white as you might expect, and that’s what makes it so compelling.
Working with Michael Barron: A Seamless Collaboration
Working with Michael Barron has been an incredibly positive experience. Finding a good workflow with someone new, especially when they’re giving you critique on your work, can often be challenging. However, the process with Michael has been nothing short of respectful and streamlined. He’s been wonderfully professional, providing constructive criticism in a way that’s clear and helpful, and always letting me know what he needs and is looking for in the project. And despite my own quirks and "weirdness," he hasn’t complained once! It’s rare to find such a smooth working relationship with a stranger, and I’m grateful for the collaboration we’ve built.
And as a fun side note, his wife is a dolphin trainer! I know that shouldn’t be the highlight of this experience, but I am dying to sit down and have a conversation with her. It’s not every day you get to connect with someone who has such a unique and fascinating profession.
Continuing the Journey with The Hive
Throughout this whole process of opening and then closing my studio, one of the hardest parts has been the distance it’s created between me and The Hive community. Working with this group of people as closely as I have over the last 6-7 years has truly changed my life. They are a part of who I am, and their absence in my daily routine has been deeply felt.
The Hive has been more than just a place for art and creativity—it’s been a space where connections were made, stories were shared, and lives were enriched. I’ve seen so much growth, not just in the people I’ve worked with, but in myself as well. The relationships I’ve built there are irreplaceable, and while my current projects have taken me in a new direction, I want The Hive to know that they are still very much with me on this journey.
As I continue to grow and evolve in my work, I’m committed to finding ways to keep The Hive close, to integrate them into this new chapter of my life. They’ve been a vital part of my story, and I want them to continue to be a part of it as I move forward. This is not the end of our journey together—it’s simply a new beginning.
Staying Humble and Focused
I try not to compare myself to others too much, which is incredibly hard. I’m working on keeping my head down, staying humble, and doing the work that’s needed to get the best results for Michael. I’m also trying to soak up as much as possible, learning the best workflow for myself while considering what the audience might need. This balance is something I’m still figuring out, but I’m committed to the process.
A Difficult Decision: Stepping Back from Teaching
Because of the workload involved in this project, I’ve made the tough decision to step back from teaching the kids during the fall portion. This was a hard choice, but it was necessary to fully commit to this comic book. I absolutely love working with the kids, and I’ll definitely be reaching out to them with exciting new scheduling plans in the future. But I did feel like I was abandoning them, and that’s been a challenge to come to terms with.
Personal Growth Through the Process
Moving from personal projects to becoming a paid comic book illustrator is an honor I don’t take lightly. I’m holding this opportunity like a Fabergé egg—carefully, humbly, and with a deep sense of responsibility. It takes a lot of work and discipline, and even on the days when I don’t feel like drawing, I’ve made it a point to show up and do the work. This process is teaching me the importance of consistency and dedication, and I’m finding it easier to push through the difficult days.
Furthering My Craft: The Comics Experience Writing Course
In addition to this project, I’ve also enrolled in the Comic Book Experience writing course, which you can learn more about here. This course is helping me refine my writing skills, particularly for graphic novels, as I continue to work on my own projects, like "The Chaos of Lucifer" and others that are on the horizon. This course is a vital part of my journey, giving me the tools I need to tell compelling stories through both words and illustrations. I am eager to see what they and others have to offer course-wise.
The Experience of Collaboration with Ted Davies
Working with Ted on our podcast was an enriching experience. We explored various creative themes, and our conversation reminded me of the power of art in connecting people and ideas. Ted’s insights into the creative process were both thought-provoking and inspiring, making our discussion one that I hope will resonate with listeners as much as it did with me.
Ted's Artistry in My Collection
The artwork I’ve acquired from Ted is more than just visually striking; each piece tells a story, evoking emotions that are both personal and universal. His work, such as the “Lighthouse” and the “Steampunk Airship,” transports you into imaginative worlds, blending elements of fantasy with a sense of grounded reality. I’m particularly drawn to the piece “You Are Worthy,” which serves as a daily reminder of self-worth—a message that Ted’s art powerfully conveys.
A Creative Journey Worth Sharing
Ted’s influence extends beyond his artwork; his commitment to the creative community is evident in everything he does. Whether through his YouTube channel, his writings on Substack, or the art he shares on Instagram, Ted Davies continues to inspire fellow artists and art lovers alike.
I’m excited to share more about our podcast and the art that now holds a special place in my collection. If you’re looking to explore Ted’s work, I highly recommend checking out his platforms and immersing yourself in the creative universe he has crafted.
Youtube: Ted Davies Artistry - YouTube
Substack: Ted Davies, ARTISTRY | Ted Davies ARTISTRY | Substack
Facebook personal: Facebook
Business facebook: Facebook
Instagram: Ted Davies (@teddaviesartistry)
Store: Shop All | Ted Davies Artistry (square.site)
Staying Connected
As I’ve been immersed in these projects, I haven’t had as much time to engage on social media or update my blog regularly. But I’m looking forward to sharing more about my journey, my work, and the experiences that shape my art. Stay connected with me on Instagram and Facebook for updates, sneak peeks, and more behind-the-scenes content. Just look for PURPLE INKWELL STUDIOS!
April