Starting next week I will be sharing my comics tips and tricks teaching a class at the Albany Art Room.

The course is called Introduction to Comic Illustration and I am really looking forward to it.

Classes will take place Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30, May 18, 25, June 1, 8, 15.

The cost is $100 + List of supplies and it is ages 12 and up

This 5 week course will provide an introduction to the basic concepts of sequential storytelling and illustration.  Students will learn techniques for laying out roughs, pencils, inks and lettering as well as receive information on how to further their craft beyond the classroom.

The course is geared to individuals in middle school and high school and will be tailored to the specific interests and skill levels of each student.

Email Karen at the Albany Art Room to sign up.

Sometimes people ask me, I’d like to make comics what should I read? Well here is a start. A good library will carry one of these. Stay away from books that want you to trace characters or those that water down the creative process in how to make your manga character look battle damaged.

• Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud – An easy introductory read to learn about comics as a medium in general. Plus it’s a comic.

• Perspective for Comic Book Artist by David Chelsea – This is a little more advanced and yet a quick read. This technical book will show you how to make better use of your backgrounds. I works best if you practice the exercises as Cup does them.

• The Art of Comic Book Inking by Gary Martin – This is theory and techniques from some very accomplished inkers. Here you really get down to why inking is NOT tracing but rather rendering. You wouldn’t call penciling doodling would you?

• Drawing Words and Writing Pictures by Jessica Abel and Matt Madden – This massive book is everything a student needs, from tools to processes. It does take a while to read and I am still working my way through it.