RASL

Several years ago, I was working at the “Poultry and Game”, a small shop in the North Market that sold self-described goods. Jeff Smith and his wife and business partner, Vijaya, were regular customers. I had read and loved BONE and, over the course of several customer service interactions, got to know Jeff and Vijaya superficially. Jeff knew I aspired to write comics. One day, Jeff brought in two large books, placed the first on the wobbly corner top table then drew a picture and signed it. The book was RASL. Jeff Smith, an icon in the field of comics, gave signed books to an aspiring comic writer that sold him his chicken. May we all aspire to be as gracious and kind a person as him.

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10 Questions with Victor Dandridge

Victor Dandridge Jr. created Vantage:Inhouse Productions in 2011. Since then, he’s created a list of thought provoking and engaging properties including “The Samaritan,” “Origins Unknown,” “The Trouble w/Love,” as well as the novella series, “8 Mins.” and the writer for the all ages friendly “Wonder Care Presents: The Kinder Guardians.” Vantage:Inhouse Productions is also aiming to educate, encourage, and inspire future creators through its U Cre-8 Comics brand, an education-based line of products and programming designed to bridge comics with classroom fundamentals. As if that wasn’t enough, Victor freelances as host/moderator at comic and pop-culture conventions meeting celebrities of all varieties. He also hosts a youtube channel where he critiques comics with Comic Town Owner, Ryan Seymore, called “Black, White, and Read All Over.” Did we mention he also has a fiancé and five kids?

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Spotlight on All-Ages Creators: Nick Dutro and Patrick Lay

Patrick Lay is a cartoonist from northwest Ohio. His comics are teen and all-ages stories about our relationships with each other and the ups and downs of a wild world. He earned a B.S.F.A in Oil Painting from Valparaiso University and recently earned an MFA in Comics from the California College of the Arts. Nick Dutro works in economic development in northwest Ohio and formerly was a reporter and editor at a daily newspaper. He graduated from Ohio Northern University with a degree in journalism. He lives with his wife and two daughters. Continue reading “Spotlight on All-Ages Creators: Nick Dutro and Patrick Lay”

10 Questions with Rafael Rosado

Rafael Rosado has had a long career working on some familiar properties. The Boondocks, The Avengers, Teen Titans, The Venture Brothers, and Animaniacs are just a few of the many credits to his name. On top of being a talented storyboard artist and animator, he and his writing partner, Jorge Aguirre, have created a three part all-ages graphic novel series The Chronicles of Claudette including Giants Beware!, Dragons Beware!, and Monsters Beware! Originally born in Puerto Rico, Rafeal is now based in Columbus.

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Spotlight on All-Ages Creator: Lee Smith

Lee Smith’s work is not only entertaining, but also educational. As a teacher, he knew comics would be a great vehicle to help his students get excited about Ohio history. After Lee was unable to find anything being currently produced, he decided to create his own series called Ohio Chronicles. Each 16 page comic highlights true stories of Ohio history and many come paired with Teacher’s Editions so educators can include his comics in their courses. Continue reading “Spotlight on All-Ages Creator: Lee Smith”

10 Questions with Bob Corby

Bob Corby has been publishing fine small press comics under the company name Back Porch Comics since 1986. In 1988, he started OH, Comics, an anthology supporting the work of comic creators throughout the Midwest. In 2000, Bob started the Small Press and Alternative Comics Expo or S.P.A.C.E. which will be holding its 20th show this year at the Northland Performing Arts Center on April 27th and 28th. Admission is free and will be attended by comic creators throughout the country. Continue reading “10 Questions with Bob Corby”

Spotlight on All-Ages Creator: Joel Cramer

Honzy and Joel are the lead investigators of the Kragon Detective Agency. Joel’s martial arts and keen wits have often saved the day while Honzy, his pint-size dragon partner, has the ability to breath fire. They are joined by Kara, an ex-police officer, who joined the Kragon Detective Agency after falling in love with Joel. Claw, an alien of great strength, and Copper, Joel’s pilot roommate, round out the group of heroes. Continue reading “Spotlight on All-Ages Creator: Joel Cramer”