Undo

I’ve taken a bit of a break from the 30-day drawing challenge to get an idea out of my head. I had this one in my sketch book for a while, and I figured I’d just get it out there – if only to get back into making comics.

Anyone in the creative industry can probably identify with this kind of scenario: You spend a long time on a project just to be told at the last second that the client decided to go a completely different direction whilst keeping the same deadline.

The process of making this comic revealed a couple areas with regard to craft where I can improve. First, I need to loosen my grip on the pencil/pen. Draw more with my whole arm rather than just my wrist. Do more sketches on scrap paper so I don’t worry too much about making a “perfect drawing”. The looser my lines, the more life my drawings tend to have.

Second, I need to go back and do a study of hands. I used to be able to draw these fairly well. Perhaps I’m just rusty. At any rate, I’m having a heck of a time with them now.

Third, I need to plan out the dialogue further in advance. This comic took much longer than it might have chiefly because I had to go back and alter text after it had been inked. The punch line, for instance, used to be: “YES!! That’s exactly the reaction I’m going for!” The words had already been inked before I thought of the current line, which I like far better. So, I wrote the revised line on a separate scrap of paper and glued it over the top of the old line. Other smaller adjustments had to be made after scanning.

Lastly, I’d like to add more atmosphere to my drawings by taking the time to draw backgrounds. A background helps by providing context and adding visual interest in general.

All that said, it feels good to be posting something that looks a lot more polished and composed than usual. It’s not perfect, but it’s satisfying for now. i’d like to sustain this momentum through the rest of the 30-Day Drawing Challenge. Next up: “Day 15: An Animal with a Superpower”

I’m once again writing this post super late at night, so I apologize if it feels a bit choppy/disjointed. I’d love to hear your feedback or comments on today’s post should you feel inclined to reach out.

God bless, and good night!

-Daniel