Lee Milewski is a professional illustrator from South West Florida, where he currently lives with his wife Kathleen. Lee is actively involved in comics (mostly self-published / independent works) and standalone pieces.
Besides making comics, Lee loves film, video games, tea, and running.
Get in touch with Lee at l.milewski@yahoo.com ,
http://leemilewskiart.tumblr.
https://www.kickstarter.com/
1. How long have you been creating comics, and when did you decide to pursue it as a profession?
I've been drawing since I was really young, but my fascination with comics didn't really start until I was out of college. I studied film and art, so the process of creating panels and storyboards came naturally. Professionally, I've been drawing for three years.
2. You recently had a successful Kickstarter campaign for your graphic novel Tangled Weeds. How did that project come about, and how great did it feel when it succeeded?
Tangled Weeds was the first real "jump" into sharing my work with an audience who really seemed interested in the work. Because the Kickstarter was successful, I was able to print up (great quality) copies and build a small fan base. The concept grew from my love of 80's sci-fi movies and Lovecraftian horror themes, which really shows when you read through the collected edition.
3. Speaking of Kickstarter, what advice would you give a creator getting thinking about launching a campaign?
Kickstarters are super tough, no matter how much you prepare or over analyze your campaign! I would always recommend telling those interested in pledging about the launch a few weeks in advance, along with trying to build relationships with the people involved with spreading comic news online. Get involved in the forums, email everyone you know, and give your campaign time to grow.
4. You use traditional pen and paper to produce your initial pages. What are your thoughts on digital drawing tools?
My primary tool is a Pentel Brush Pen, which comes highly recommended to anyone interested in using brushes! I also have a Wacom Intuos4, which I probably use just as often. Digital coloring/drawing/correcting is essential in today's comics, so I have nothing against the use of it. In fact, I would say that most artists should get MORE accustomed to the digital side of things, just to sharpen their skills.
5. You have a very unique art style. What artists, in or out of comics, have influenced you?
There's too many to name, but Mike Mignola, Studio Ghibli, and Paul Pope are current favorites.
6. What comics are you reading these days?
I don't actually read too many modern comics, but Prophet, Hellboy, BPRD, and a lot of webcomics are always at the top of my list.
7. Besides creating comics, what are some of your other interests?
I love spending time with my family! Also, film and video games if I get a spare minute.
8. Your work has been creator owned projects. Can you ever see yourself doing mainstream work-for-hire?
I could see myself doing it if I was ever asked, though the process of submitting to publishers feels... tiresome. I used to send pitches out, even if just to get hired for a more main-stream title, but it's not a priority right now.
9. What can you tell us about your current project, The Somber Crown?
The Somber Crown is everything that I would look for in a comic. It has action, adventure, a gripping story, and meticulously drawn panels. I briefly describe the comics story as " A courageous Elf searches for vengeance in a world overcome with fantastic monsters", and that's essentially what I will be offering with it. This first issue will be 40+ pages long and have full color interiors!
10. Have you given any thought to what your next project might be?
I am hoping to stay on The Somber Crown for awhile, possibly getting the second issue released before the year's done. This world is both fun and wondrous for the reader to inhabit (and me to illustrate), so I would love to continue with these characters for awhile.
Check out this preview of the first five pages of The Somber Crown by Lee Milewski!
No comments:
Post a Comment