July Update

Little Gods

I'm thrilled to share with you that I'm currently developing a comic book titled "Little Gods." This supernatural crime fiction story takes place in the charming town of Clara Vista. Our protagonist, Matthias Brand, arrives in Clara Vista to assist his partner, Troy Gregory, in investigating a life insurance claim filed by the newlywed wife of industrialist Russell Turner. However, as the story unfolds, we quickly realize that Clara Vista is not the serene desert town it appears to be. Both ordinary and otherworldly forces lurk within its houses, streets, and ultimately lead to the Mission Hospital.

I'm incredibly excited to bring this story to life. The first issue is already written, and I'm nearing completion of the layouts. My plan is to share each page with you as soon as I finish it, and you can find them posted on micahchampion.com within a dedicated membership area. By becoming a member, you'll gain access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content, live streams, and even have the chance to be featured in the comic as an extra! Additionally, when I print physical copies or launch crowdfunding campaigns, members will receive extra merchandise and acknowledgments as special rewards.

Social Media

My June wrap-up of my social media posts. I post four to six time a week on Instagram. The content ranges from sketches, process reels, and posts of more finished work. I’m going to start livestreaming weekly, but admit I’m a little nervous. The hope is that my following will grow enough to qualify for extra feature that would allow for sales and specials. If you enjoy my work and would like to support me, please follow me on Instagram and subscribe to my newsletter here at micahchampion.com.

Inspiration

Stan Drake was a highly skilled illustrator known for his distinct and captivating drawing style. Born in 1921, Drake gained fame for his work in the world of comic strips, particularly for his widely acclaimed series "The Heart of Juliet Jones" and "Blondie." His illustrations exhibited a remarkable level of craftsmanship and attention to detail, making them stand out in the realm of comic art.

Illustration by Stan Drake.

Drake's drawing style was characterized by its elegance, sophistication, and realism. He possessed a unique ability to bring characters to life on the page, capturing their emotions and expressions with remarkable precision. His figures were beautifully rendered, with fluid lines and intricate shading that added depth and dimension to his illustrations. Drake's attention to detail was particularly evident in his depictions of clothing and fashion, as he had a keen eye for capturing the latest trends and styles.

One of the hallmarks of Stan Drake's illustrations was his exceptional storytelling ability. He had a knack for creating dynamic compositions that guided the reader's eye through the narrative, using visual cues to convey mood, tension, and drama. Drake's illustrations were not merely static images; they were dynamic scenes that transported readers into the world of the characters, engaging them on an emotional level.

Beyond his technical skill, Stan Drake's illustrations were renowned for their emotional resonance. He had a rare ability to depict the complexity of human relationships and capture the subtleties of human interaction. Drake's characters were not just visually appealing; they were relatable, flawed, and authentic. Through his illustrations, he brought forth a range of emotions, from joy and love to sadness and heartbreak, allowing readers to connect deeply with the stories he illustrated.

Kelly Green page illustrated by Stan Drake. Written by Leonard Starr.

Stan Drake is a remarkable artist with an unparalleled drawing style. His work possesses a unique combination of meticulous attention to detail and ethereal beauty that never fails to captivate viewers.

Watching

Although listed as a comedy on Hulu, "The Bear" is more accurately described as a drama. The relentless pace and gripping tension surrounding a struggling restaurant's kitchen staff in Chicago keep viewers on edge, ensuring an engaging experience. If you're seeking a thrilling series that doesn't rely on guns, explosions, and hordes of villains in balaclavas, this is the perfect choice. The clock, money, the staff, and perhaps even you, become the enemy in this gripping narrative.

The story revolves around Carmen, who returns to Chicago to take ownership of his late brother's sandwich shop, The Beef. With his background as a skilled chef who once ran a Michelin Star restaurant in New York, Carmen is portrayed by actor Jeremy Allen White with a compelling blend of intensity, occasionally erupting into anger and sadness, but more often channeling compassion, humor, and understanding. The remaining cast members deliver outstanding performances as well.

In essence, the series serves as a character study, delving into the lives of flawed individuals driven by their pursuit of excellence.

Moving on to another show, "Frazier" remains one of the greatest sitcoms ever created and quite possibly the best spinoff in television history. While I casually watched it during my childhood, I never truly appreciated how impeccably each character, including Niles, Daphne, and even the elusive Maris (whom we never meet), was fully developed from the very first episode. Each character possesses their own likable and good-natured qualities. The writing is skillfully crafted, and every episode—without exception—delivers a satisfying conclusion, an impressive feat considering its eleven-season run.

Personally, I can't recall a single episode that didn't make me laugh. The show's well-timed one-liners, comebacks, pranks, and punchlines are reminiscent of a perfectly arranged row of dominoes that continually surprise us as they fall by episode’s end.

Thinking

I’m thinking about how to attract more customers to my website; how to give them what they want; and how to what I do fits into that. Suggestions always welcome.