Comic Book Resources

Idol Thoughts 10/12

Here is a quick Q & A with the guest judge for the first round of Comic Book Idol 3, Aspen Comics Editor-in-Chief, Vince Hernandez!

1. Is the script you wrote any different from a normal Aspen script?

No, the script I provided for round one is exactly how I write my scripts for Aspen. Of course, at Aspen we try to cater to the writer’s sensibilities so there’s no finite way I ask writers to produce their script. Although I do request that they provide the full-script as opposed to a plot script because I feel it’s a more comprehensive process.

2. Did you gear your script specifically to spotlight any particular skill?

Absolutely. First and foremost, I wanted to evaluate their storytelling skills. Their ability to tell the story visually from panel-to-panel is the most important aspect for me when judging their talent, and this script was tailored with that in mind.

3. Have you been following the submission thread at all before the ten finalists were picked?

No I didn’t really check through the submissions except for a quick glance over. I wanted to start with a fresh slate with each contestant and give my opinions following their round one entry.

4. Have you checked the galleries of the ten finalists? If so, any first impressions? Any early front-runners?

No, for the same reasons as above. All of my opinions will be formed during round one.

5. Did you follow the past seasons at all? If so, how do you think this year’s group compares?

I had a fair amount of knowledge of the contest, especially considering Aspen artist Micah Gunnell’s past involvement in the contest. I’m not much for comparing, but I must say this group from my short, initial impressions look very talented.

6. During each round, is there any one thing that you plan on looking for first in an entry?

Well beyond the obvious for me–storytelling, I think I’ll look to find each respective artist’s individual style and whose best serves the sample script.

7. Do you plan on following the “play at home” thread to see work by artists who did not make the top ten?

Oh yeah, for sure. I’m always on the prowl for new talent.

8. Do you find the Comic Book Idol format helpful in finding artists who can meet a deadline? How important, relatively, is it to you to have an artist who can work relatively quickly?

The Comic Book Idol contest is a perfect hunting ground for an artist who has the talent–but is also ready to work on a professional schedule and meet deadlines. It is essential for Aspen to have an artist that can work relatively quickly. After all, it’s late books that are the bane of every comic fan’s existence.

9. When you are looking at art submissions, what is the most important aspect in an artist’s sample pages that you look for?

Bar none, the most important elements to include in any potential artist submission sent to us is the inclusion of sequential art, and the the ability to visually tell a story.

10. Conversely, what is the biggest mistake that you see artists make with their sample pages (not counting “not doing sequentials”, as that should be ingrained in the mind of anyone reading this by now)?

To be honest, it really does differ from artist to artist. Of course it goes without saying about the sequential stuff, but bad anatomy, empty backgrounds, inconsistent faces, and a lack of a knowledge of perspective are some of the most common mistakes I encounter.

Thanks so much for answering the questions, Vince!