CROM Update: 032 with Guest Artist David Molina
Artist Proof Insights and Final Preparations for CROM Collected 2024: A Discussion with David Molina
In episode 32 of the "Crom the Barbarian Comics Collected Updates Podcast," Kurt Brugel is joined by guest artist David Molina to discuss the recently completed artist proof of the CROM Collected 2024 Revised Edition. David starts by praising the fidelity of the cover and detailing his process of adding Zip-a-tones and using high-resolution scanning techniques to maintain the crispness of the artwork. Kurt elaborates on the use of Lulu and Amazon for print-on-demand services, expressing his confidence in meeting the August 1st release date despite upcoming vacation time.
David provides specific feedback, noting a misspelled word "thong" instead of "throng" and appreciates the pulp-style sword and sorcery narrative. They discuss the chronological structure of the book, highlighting its different sections that chronicle Krom's life and transformation. David particularly enjoys the placement of illustrations within the text, which enhances the storytelling by providing contextual visuals as the reader progresses through the narrative. They also touch on the artistic techniques used, including the inversion method in Photoshop to achieve a scratchboard effect.
The conversation moves to the contributions of guest artists and the plans for the upcoming Crom Anthology. Kurt emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in the indie comics scene, detailing the QR code system for promoting guest artists. He also highlights the unique marketing strategy of offering limited-edition covers by guest artists for the first month of sales. Kurt and David conclude by discussing their ongoing project, "The Last Dryad," and the value of revisiting and revamping old works to deepen their creative expressions.
Watch the CROM Update 032 video on YouTube:
Here are a few educational highlights from the podcast discussion:
Zip-a-Tone Techniques: David Molina discusses the use of Zip-a-tones, a shading technique used in comic art to create textures and gradients, and explains how high-resolution scanning helps maintain the quality of these effects in the printed book.
Print-On-Demand Services: Kurt Brugel shares insights into using print-on-demand companies like Lulu and Amazon, highlighting their nuances and how they can be utilized for self-publishing comic books.
Community and Collaboration in Indie Comics: Kurt emphasizes the significance of building a community and collaborating with other artists in the indie comics scene. He explains the use of QR codes to promote guest artists and the strategy of offering limited-edition covers to drive attention and sales.
David Molina is one of the few Artists who has been invited to create a pin-up for the Revised Edition of Crom Collected.
Use these links to find out more about David.
Use these links to find out more about Kurt inker Brugel.
