COMICENTRIC INTERVIEW! (Patreon)

Hi, Dear Patrons!

I just completed an interview for a site that's focusing on African American comic book creators post-1960s, concentrating on their debut books, mine being HUGO back in 1982. I'll let you know when it's posted.

I'm working on April's Patron Bonus and you'll be getting yours tomorrow!

Best Wishes and, as always, Thanks for Your Support,

Milt

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How did you get involved with Fantagraphics?

A friend took me to their place in Connecticut feeling I was a good fit. They said yes.

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What did you learn about the publishing process with Hugo? How did that shape your approach to future comics work?

It helped me realize I can't keep a bi-monthly or quarterly 32 page schedule unless I'm well paid and appreciated.

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How did you feel about how Hugo was received by the comics industry and readers? Did you feel that you and your work were supported by the industry?

I don't feel I was or am supported by the comics industry. I've done comics ever since and some people think very well, but I am not part of the industry and don't pay attention to it.

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How did your introduction to adult comics come about at such a young age?

I always wanted to. For many cartoonists, the art is a way of retreating into their childhoods. When I was a kid, I saw it as a breaking out of it. I was seduced by the “adult” cocktail napkin and Humorama gag cartoons of the 60s & 70s. Learned a lot from cartooning manuals of the time. It came so naturally that when I was encouraged to SCREW Magazine in 1980 or so, I went right for it and got a three page gig in the first interview.

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In what ways did the adults in your life support or influence your artistic endeavours?

I was encouraged & supported by Mr. Castelano, my high school English teacher, who was instrumental in encouraging me to develop an original sense of humor. A Marvel editor, Larry Hama, browbeat me about technique, which was painful but helped a lot. Illustrator Elwood Smith gave me references and art supplies. Comics artist Howard Post was a longtime close friend and was always there to look and give criticisms and encouragement. There are others I'm sure.

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You've gone on to work on several comics titles, animation, and gallery work. Do you have a preference based on your experience? Are there other creative approaches you would like to try?

Presently, I am most excited about painting. Every day a new thought, but I've been so busy with commissions for paintings, comics & ad work, I haven't had time to think of a brand new avenue; I've done just about everything. I wrote my first novel in 2017, and it's actually one of the works I'm fondest of. Perhaps next time, I'll try to write one that's publishable!

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Do you have a current or recent project that you are particularly passionate and proud of?

The paintings I'm excited about. I'm breaking from the confines of what we think of as “comics and cartoons”. And very slowly I'm completing a short animated film.

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