CROM Update 055 with Stephen Sonneveld - From Thundarr to Crom
In this episode of the CROM Updates Podcast, host Kurt Brugel welcomes guest artist and writer Stephen Sonneveld to discuss their shared love of Thundarr the Barbarian, He-Man, and classic Sword & Sorcery comics and literature. They reminisce about the inspiration drawn from the artistic styles of legends like Alfredo Alcala and John Buscema, and how such works continue to fuel their passion for creating comics. Stephen shares how a childhood exposure to Spider-Man comics sparked his interest in storytelling and artistic expression, setting him on a path of lifelong creativity.
Their conversation shifts to the modern publishing landscape, where Stephen talks about his experimental storytelling methods, such as using nine-panel grids and unique inking techniques. Kurt, in turn, highlights his efforts in building a community around CROM Anthology, ensuring contributors retain creative control of their work while fostering collaboration. He stresses that the project is not about ownership but about expanding Crom the Barbarian's legacy within the public domain. Stephen expresses enthusiasm for contributing, seeing it as an opportunity to push his own storytelling and artistic limits.
Kurt and Stephen also touch on the state of the Sword & Sorcery genre, lamenting its underrepresentation in mainstream media. However, Kurt sees CROM Anthology as a way to revitalize interest in the genre by giving artists and writers a platform to showcase their work. He emphasizes the importance of community-driven creation over corporate-driven content, ensuring that projects like CROM Anthology remain an artist-focused endeavor rather than a commercialized IP. The discussion concludes with an invitation for more artists to get involved, reinforcing the idea that making comics should be fun, inspiring, and creatively fulfilling.
Watch the CROM Update 055 video on YouTube:
Educational Highlights from the Podcast Discussion
The Evolution of Artistic Techniques – Stephen shares insights into different panel structures, inking methods, and storytelling styles, including how experimentation with format can enhance visual storytelling.
The Importance of Public Domain Characters – Kurt explains the benefits of working with public domain properties like Crom the Barbarian, allowing for creative reinterpretations without corporate ownership restrictions.
Building a Community-Driven Publishing Model – The discussion highlights the difference between corporate-controlled comics and artist-led, passion-driven projects, emphasizing the benefits of creative freedom and collaboration.
Use these links to find out more about Stephen Sonneveld
Use these links to find out more about Kurt inker Brugel.
