A Very Sad Day for the World of Cartooning!

It’s with a very heavy heart that I share with you that my friend Bill White passed away this past Saturday. Bill was one of the funniest, most talented individuals I knew!

Bill studied animation at The Kubert School of Cartoon and Graphic Art under former Disney animator Milt Neil. As a penciler, inker and writer he contributed artwork and stories to many comic book publishers including Marvel Comics, DC Comics, Archie Comics, Walt Disney Publishing and Harvey Famous Entertainment. The Flintstones, The Jetsons, Scooby Doo, Donald Duck, Roger Rabbit, Casper and Richie Rich are just a handful of characters he illustrated.

In addition to illustrating other people’s characters, Bill had a comic book that featured his own characters, Kaptain Keen and Kompany. Having a six issue run Kaptain Keen and Kompany was optioned for a television show in 1986. In the animation field, Bill worked for Spumco ('Ren & Stimpy'), DIC Productions ('Inspector Gadget') and Walt Disney Feature Animation.

Bill was also an exceptional caricature artist and was a guest lecturer at all of the cartooning classes I took over the years. More than any of the above, Bill was one of the funniest, nicest, giving people I knew. He shared his love of all things cartooning with me, including recommending books and introducing me to some of the legends in the field such as Ernie Colon. He was also the very first cartoonist to participate in my Cartoonist Surveys.

Words can’t express how much Bill influenced me and what a giant hole his loss has left. I’m really going to miss “geeking out” with Bill about some cool new action figure or Star Wars toy.

Please keep Bill’s wife Sharon (a.k.a. PW…Perfect Wife) and his entire family in your thoughts and prayers as they struggle with their loss. May their memories of Billy’s love and laughter bring them comfort and smiles in the years to come.

Here are a couple of Bill’s originals that he drew for his blog and gave to me…they will be treasured even more now.

Even though he said he didn't, I still say he used me as a model for the Batman!

Bob Almond - Cartoonist Survey #274

Bob Almond is a professional inker, columnist and creator of the Inkwell Awards. He was born in Seoul, South Korea in January of 1967 and moved to the US soon after. He began his life-long love of comics at the age of nine when he started reading Marvel comics. His favorite comic series was The Avengers, which featured the artwork of George Perez. Bob, along with his brother Mike and a few like-minded friends, created their own comic book group in 5th grade called ‘Torpedo Comics’. Together they created comics based on their own characters. Bob worked on these homemade comic books, gaining valuable experience, up until his sophomore year of high school. After high school he studied at the University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth where he graduated with a BFA in Illustration in 1990.

He spent the next two years after college sending out penciling and inking samples. Finally, with the help of Bernie Wrightson and Jim Starlin, Bob broke into the business inking Marvel’s Warlock and the Infinity Watch. He worked on Warlock and the Infinity Watch until 1994 when he moved on to other titles for Marvel including Black Panther, Silver Surfer, Star Masters and Nova. Throughout the 90’s Bob worked on numerous titles for most of the leading comic book publishers such as Malibu, Penny-Farthing, Acclaim, Marvel and DC. Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Power of Prime, Siren, Foxfire, Ultragirl, Mission Impossible, JLA, Bloodshot, Metal Men, Batman: No Man's Land Secret Files, Decoy and The Victorian are just a few of the comic books he contributed to during this time.

The 2000’s were also a busy time for Bob, with runs on Aquaman, Captain Gravity and the Power of the Vril, JSA: All Stars, A Nightmare on Elm Street, The Perhapnauts, Annihilation: Conquest- Quasar, Vampirella: Revelations, Danger’s Dozen, Saga Six and many others. Bob’s inking of Sal Velluto’s pencils from 1999 to 2002 on Black Panther earned him two Squiddy Awards and an Ook Award for Best Inker. In addition to comic books his artwork has been used by TwoMorrows Publishing’s for “The Jack Kirby Collector” and also in many of the DK Publishing comic related books such as "The DC Comics Encyclopedia", "The Marvel Encyclopedia", "Fantastic Four: The Ultimate Guide” and “Avengers: The Ultimate Guide".

Besides inking, Bob is a columnist with an encyclopedic knowledge about everything comic book related. He has written many articles for Krause Publications’ “Comics Buyers Guide” and has been a regular contributor to Sketch Magazine, writing the column ‘Inkblots’.

In 2008, in an effort to bring more attention to the craft of inking, Bob founded the Inkwell Awards. 2012 marks the 5th year of this wonderful award whose mission is “to educate and inform the community about the craft of comic book inking, and to recognize it's artists, all for the celebration and advancement of the artform.” The Inkwell Awards website is a great resource which not only lists all of the past winners with quotes from the recipients, but also has links to art supplies, interviews, tutorials and much more.

Bob lives in New Bedford, MA and is a proud husband and father. Be sure to visit his Bob Almond Inkwell website to learn more about him and see much more of his work. His website also has a store where you can purchase autographed prints, original artwork and other goodies. You can also follow Bob on Facebook and Twitter. Want to meet Bob in person? You’re in luck as he will be appearing at the Rhode Island Comic Con on November 3-4 and at the Albany Comic Con November 11th.

What is your favorite pen to use?
I use brush (Raphael Kolinsky or WN series 7 sable) or markers (Sakura Micron markers and Pitt markers). Sometimes I use a quill Hunt 102.

Do you draw in pencil first and if so do you use a standard pencil or a mechanical one?
As an inker almost exclusively, I do very little drawing. But I use a standard pencil when I do.

Do you do your coloring by hand or on the computer?
I have done very limited digital coloring in Photoshop.

If you do your coloring by hand, what do you use?
The only coloring by hand I have done was in school (acrylic and oil paints, guache, pastel, Prismacolor pencils, etc.)

What type of paper do you use?
Usually supplied to me by the publisher or pencil artist to ink on. They tend to be Strathmore bristol 2-ply board of various levels of quality.

Do you buy your supplies from big chain art store catalogues/websites or a local one that you physically go to?
A local art supply store for almost everything.

Are there any rituals that you do before starting to draw?
Nope.

Do you listen to music while you draw and if so what genre?
Usually TV. But if I play my iPod the eclectic range can be from classic rock, hard rock, heavy metal, pop, easy listening, alternative, R&B, you name it!

What was the first job as a cartoonist/illustrator that you were paid for?
Warlock & the Infinity Watch for Marvel Comics in 1992.

Did you read comics as a kid and if so what was your favorite?
Marvel Comics and especially Avengers.

What is or was your favorite comic strip?
The Amazing Spider-Man when by Stan lee and John Romita.

Did you have any formal art training and if so where did you receive it?
I majored in Illustration at the art college at UMass: Dartmouth, formerly known as Southeastern Massachusetts University.

Do you feel that the Internet is a blessing or a curse?
Blessing.

Did either of your parents draw?
No.

Do you keep a sketchbook?
Of other artists’ sketches....not my own.

Have you ever taught cartooning/drawing and if so did you enjoy the experience?
I taught sequential art which involves storytelling, drawing, and inking at an adult learning center as well as inking at a high school for students at risk.

Do you feel that talent or passion is more important in drawing?
Discipline is, which probably leans more towards passion than talent.

Do you collect anything and if so what?
I've collected comic books since the age of nine.

Are you a righty or lefty?
Righty.

If you weren't an artist what would you want to do for work?
Something else related to the comic book industry.

In one or two sentences describe your drawing area.
A bedroom was converted to a studio with two drawing tables, art supplies/inking tools, lateral file drawers, a personal copy machine, books shelves, TV, art and/or prints hanging up and a few collectibles scattered about.

Do you play any musical instruments?
No.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wants to pursue drawing as a career what would it be?
Patience, perseverance, and passion (oh, and that discipline I mentioned above, too...it just doesn't fit in for the alliteration).

Who is your favorite artist?
I was originally inspired by George Perez....he's the reason I wanted to get into comics. Since then I've admired many artistic heroes and can't limit it to just one: Bernie Wrightson, Adam Hughes, Michael Golden, Jack Kirby, Jim Starlin, Frank Miller, Neal Adams, Gene Day, John Byrne, Jim Steranko, Jeff Jones, Mike Perkins, Howard Chaykin, Makr Texeira, Alex Ross, Tom Raney, and many more. My inking influences include Joe Rubenstein, Terry Austin, Mark Farmer, Klaus Janson, Tom Palmer, Bob Layton, and many I'm surely forgetting.

Thanks again for participating Bob!

Announcing the David Wasting Paper 2013 Young Cartoonist Contest

Announcing the David Wasting Paper 

2013 Young Cartoonist Contest 

The David Wasting Paper Young Cartoonist Contest was created to pique the interest of junior artists who aspire to one day make their career in the captivating world that is cartooning. Although not a professional cartoonist by trade, I have always had a passion for all things creative. This contest was established in 2012 to honor the memory of my mother, Patricia Petrone, who passed away suddenly in May. My mother had a sincere appreciation for artistic talent…even the novice talents of her son…and would be very pleased that her memory lives on through this inspiring event.

The contest is open to artists between the ages of 13 and 16 who have an interest in cartooning and/or animation. The contest runs from November 1, 2012 to January 31, 2013. The Winner will be awarded an impressive cartooning starter kit which includes several great books by renowned artists, drawing supplies from leading art vendors and a Wacom Drawing Tablet! (See below for complete details). One Honorable Mention winner will also be chosen. To enter the contest, please follow the checklist below:

Entry Checklist

1) Comic essay: A two to four page comic story, starring yourself, that explains why you would like to pursue a career in cartooning or animation. Comic must be original and legible.

2) 3 additional work examples: May include character designs/studies, comic strips or single panel cartoons.

3) Brief biography: A short, one paragraph biography of the applicant.

4) Consent to participate: All applicants must have parental/guardian consent to participate. Submissions must include a note from parent/guardian 1) confirming participant’s date of birth, 2) certifying that entry is the original and unassisted artwork of the participant and 3) providing their consent for the child to participate in the contest. This note must be signed and include the parent/guardian’s address and phone number. Winner’s parent/guardian will be notified by phone and prizes will be shipped to address provided.

DEADLINE: All required materials must be received no later than 11:59 pm (EST) on January 31, 2013.

SEND ALL REQUIRED MATERIALS TO:

David Wasting Paper * C/O David Paccia * P.O. Box 579 * Raynham CTR, MA 02768

SEND ANY QUESTIONS TO: David Paccia c/o dmp1234@yahoo.com

Restrictions: This contest is restricted to US residents only, between the ages of 13 to 16. Only one submission per child will be accepted. Material submitted will not be returned, and by participating you authorize David Wasting Paper to reprint your submission for promotional purposes. Failure to include all required material will result in disqualification. All decisions are final.

PRIZES TO BE AWARDED:

A subscription to Stay Tooned! Magazine subscription generously provided by the publisher of the magazine, John Read.

The Mad Art of Caricature!: A Serious Guide to Drawing Funny Faces by Tom Richmond (Paperback) generously donated by author and president of the National Cartoonists Society, Tom Richmond.

Art supplies including pens, mechanical pencil and storage, generously donated by Jetpens.com

Sketchbooks generously donated by Karen Doherty at Exaclair Inc.  (6 Exacompta sketchbooks which contain heavyweight 100 gr. cream-colored paper made by the Schut Paper Mill in the Netherlands which was founded all the way back in 1617.

Bristol paper pads generously donated by Strathmore Artists Papers - 3 pads: WindPower Bristol Smooth, 11x14 7 pads: WindPower Bristol Smooth, 9x12 5 pads 300 Series Bristol Smooth 9x12 5 pads 300 Series Sequential Art, Bristol Vellum, 12x12 7 pads 300 Series Bristol Smooth 11x14.

Cartooning the Head and Figure by Jack Hamm (Paperback)

Big Book of Cartooning by Bruce Blitz (Paperback)

Drawing in 3-D by Mark Kistler (Paperback)

How To Draw Comics The Marvel Way by Stan Lee (Paperback)

Comics and Sequential Art: Principles and Practices from the Legendary Cartoonist (Will Eisner Instructional Books) by Will Eisner (Paperback)

Making Comics: Storytelling Secrets of Comics, Manga and Graphic Novels by Scott McCloud (Paperback)

Drawing Words and Writing Pictures: Making Comics: Manga, Graphic Novels, and Beyond by Jessica Abel (Paperback)

Cartoon Animation (The Collector's Series) by Preston Blair (Paperback)

Drawn to Life: 20 Golden Years of Disney Master Classes: Volume 1: The Walt Stanchfield Lectures by Walt Stanchfield (Paperback)

Drawn to Life: 20 Golden Years of Disney Master Classes: Volume 2: The Walt Stanchfield Lectures by Walt Stanchfield (Paperback)

The Simpsons Handbook: Secret Tips from the Pros by Matt Groening (Hardcover)

Character Mentor: Learn by Example to Use Expressions, Poses, and Staging to Bring Your Characters to Life by Tom Bancroft (Paperback)

Wacom Bamboo Splash Pen Tablet – includes Autodesk Sketchbook Express and ArtRage software.

In the event any of the books listed are no longer available, David Wasting Paper reserves the right to substitute titles. Total value of prizes to be awarded is over $600.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the following for their generous donations:

Tom Richmond
John Read
Jetpens.com
Strathmore Artist Papers
Karen Doherty at Exaclair

I would also like to thank the following for their assistance and feedback:

Tom Gammill
Mike Rhode
Mike Lynch
Chris Gash
Stephanie Piro
John Klossner
Bill White

Finally, a huge thank you to my wife Patti who’s love and encouragement has been instrumental in getting this contest off the ground.

Phil Hands - Cartoonist Survey #273

Phil Hands is an award-winning freelance cartoonist, illustrator and writer, who was born in October of 1980.  He grew up in Detroit, MI and started drawing at a very young age.  He started having his cartoons published in the Grosse Pointe News when he was still in high school.  He graduated from Kenyon College in 2003 with a double major in Political Science and Studio Art.  During his four years at Kenyon he was the cartoonist for the school’s newspaper, The Kenyon Collegiate.  In 2005 Phil moved to Madison, WI to attend graduate school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.  He drew cartoons for that school’s newspaper, The Daily Cardinal, as well.  While at UW-Madison working towards his Masters in Journalism and Mass Communications, he was honored with a first place finish from the Associated Collegiate Press for best editorial cartoons.

He currently draws editorial cartoons for the Wisconsin State Journal in Madison, Wisconsin as well as contributing illustrations to other sections of the paper and writing columns for the opinion page. Phil’s cartoons are also distributed internationally through Artizans Syndicate. Being a political moderate, his editorial cartoons don’t pull any punches with either side of the aisle.  For three years straight (2005 – 2007) the Milwaukee Press Club chose one of his cartoons as the best for the year. He has also received national first place awards from the Society of Professional Journalists and was even a finalist, along with other staffers at the Wisconsin State Journal, for 2008’s Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing.  His cartoons have also been published in TIME Magazine, The Washington Post and USA Today.

A member of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists, Phil lives in Madison with his wife Tricia and their son Owen.  Visit his Phil Hands Cartoons website to see much more of his work as well as his Madtoons blog and his blog at the Wisconsin State Journal.  You should also his check out his Facebook page which he updates regularly.  As a side note, Phil is also a huge Green Bay Packers fan, but I won’t hold that against him…Go Patriots!

What is your favorite pen to use?

I ink with a brush. My favorite pen is a Micron number 01.

Do you draw in pencil first and if so do you use a standard pencil or a mechanical one?

Mechanical.

Do you do your coloring by hand or on the computer?

Computer.

What type of paper do you use?

I use 100 lb smooth Bristol board.

What thing(s) do you hate to draw?

Large crowds.

Do you buy your supplies from big chain art store catalogues/websites or a local one that you physically go to?

I buy what I can from local stores but I order specific items I can't always find.

Are there any rituals that you do before starting to draw?

Drink coffee.

Do you listen to music while you draw and if so what genre?

I always listen to something when I draw. Usually news and talk shows. Occasionally I'll listen to

Irish Music, Hip/Hop, Country or the Grateful Dead.

What was the first job as a cartoonist/illustrator that you were paid for?

Editorial Cartoonist Grosse Pointe News.

What is or was your favorite comic strip?

Calvin and Hobbes

What was your favorite book as a child and do you still own a copy of it?

Sneetches, my son has it now.

Did you have any formal art training and if so where did you receive it?

I have a Bachelor's in Art.

Do you feel that the Internet is a blessing or a curse?

Both of course. It's easier to share my cartoons with people. It's harder to get paid.

Did either of your parents draw?

No.

Who in your life is/was the most supportive of your art?

Mom, Dad, wife.

Do you keep a sketchbook?

Yes.

Have you ever taught cartooning/drawing and if so did you enjoy the experience?

Yes. It was just OK but I don't think I'm very good at it.

Do you feel that talent or passion is more important in drawing?

Passion can lead to skill, but you can't learn talent. I'm a skilled artist, but not all that talented.

Do you collect anything and if so what?

I collect little Christmas village houses and characters but if you tell anyone I'll have to kill you ;)

If you were an animated cartoon character who do you think you would be?

No clue.

Are you a righty or lefty?

Righty.

If you weren't an artist what would you want to do for work?

Editorial page writer and columnist, or Architect.

In one or two sentences describe your drawing area.

I have an exceptionally messy desk in the attic of my house.

Do you play any musical instruments?

Guitar and Harmonica.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wants to pursue drawing as a career what would it be?

Quantity breeds Quality. Draw lots and don't worry about making it too perfect.

Who is your favorite artist?

Bill Watterson

Thank you very much for participating Phil!