October Update
Current Events
Hello, reader!
Welcome to another exciting installment of the Micah Champion Art blog. The current-ness of my events is thus:
I’m still working hard on my comic LITTLE GODS, chipping away at my story with nearly every spare minute that I’m able. I’ve posted four completed pages and two blog posts on inspiration and process. As autumn kicked off, and I went back to work, my momentum inevitably took a hit. Pile on top a cold and sinus infection, you get nearly a full stoppage…if you’re some mere mortal! Which I, most definitely, am. I don’t know about you, but when I’m working on a passion project, a week of pitting my ambition against my ability to breath through my nose doesn’t produce much of anything noteworthly.
I’m pleased to meet you -koff-koff- FINALLY. Panel from iss. 1 pg. 1 of LITTLE GODS.
Speaking of noteworthy - another project I have underway is the quotidian task of selling and shipping. This isn’t a subject I’ll write about at any real length here, other than to say, costumer service and it’s infinitesimal components has become a deep point of interest. As an illustrator and creative, I never saw myself fretting how my deliverables would reach you, my dear readers. It’s pregnant with surprising interest.
Let’s Be Sociable, Now.
Heres my September/October 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. 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
Al Williamson in his studio.
I first discovered the work of Al Williamson as a small boy at my grandpa's house, nestled along the bank of the Umpqua River. It was in the bottom dresser drawer, located in a small room just off the living room. The dresser served as the ultimate annexation of all kid-friendly entertainment in his house, where us grandkids could find respite from the parents. They would be milling about, playing cards, drinking beer and whiskey, and talking about real estate, politics, and sports. The only other alternative was wandering around outside for hours, up and down a gravel road in the middle of nowhere. Wait, what was I talking about again? Right, my first encounter with the art of Al Williamson.
My memory is a little foggy on the details, but I remember playing a small vinyl toy recorder player of The Empire Strikes Back while reading along with the accompanying comic that Williamson had illustrated. Marvel Comics and Buena Vista Records collaborated to create a multimedia package that included a comic book and a 7-inch vinyl record. This package allowed readers and listeners to experience the story of The Empire Strikes Back in both visual and audio formats. The vinyl record typically contained an audio adaptation of the comic book, with voice actors narrating the story and sound effects to enhance the experience. And boy, howdy, did I wear that vinyl thin listening to that record. I didn't know it was Al Williamson's work at the time, but it left a lasting impression that carried me along this artistic path.
Al Williamson was a highly influential and celebrated American comic book artist, known for his exceptional skill and contributions to the medium. Born on March 21, 1931, in New York City, Williamson's work spanned several decades and encompassed a wide range of genres, but he is perhaps most renowned for his science fiction and fantasy illustrations. His artistry left a lasting impact on the comic book industry, influencing many artists who followed in his footsteps.
Williamson's career took off in the 1950s when he began working for EC Comics, where he produced some of his most iconic work. His detailed and evocative style made him a perfect fit for science fiction and horror titles like "Weird Science" and "Weird Fantasy." His ability to create intricate, otherworldly landscapes and lifelike characters set a standard for the industry.
Flash Gordon by Al Williamson.
One of his most notable contributions was his involvement in the revival of the classic comic strip "Flash Gordon." Working alongside writer, Archie Goodwin, Williamson brought new life to this beloved character, earning critical acclaim for their collaborative efforts. Williamson's art for "Flash Gordon" showcased his mastery of dynamic action scenes and intricate, lush backgrounds, making the adventures of Flash Gordon and his companions visually captivating.
My favorite of his works, if I had to choose, is X-9 Secret Agent Corrigan. It is a continuation of the strip created by Dashiell Hammett and Alex Raymond. Corrigan was a renowned American comic strip that ran from 1967 to 1996. The strip follows the exploits of the titular character, Secret Agent Corrigan, in a world of espionage and international intrigue. What sets this strip apart is the exceptional artwork of Al Williamson. He is known for his meticulous attention to detail and beautifully rendered characters and settings. Archie Goodwin, a skilled writer, crafts engaging storylines that add depth to the characters and keep readers enthralled. It is notable for its contemporary themes and real-world relevance, often incorporating current events and geopolitical situations, while always keeping action, suspense, and intrigue central to the strip.
X-9 Secret Agent Corrigan. Art by Al Williamson. Story by Archie Goodwin.
Throughout his career, Al Williamson demonstrated a versatility and mastery of various artistic styles and genres, from superhero comics to adventure strips and beyond. His legacy endures as a testament to the artistry and creativity that can be achieved within the world of comic books, and he remains a beloved figure and my in the history of the medium and one of my all-time favorites.
Show A Little Gratitude
Several years ago, I was diagnosed with and treated for non-Hodgkin's follicular lymphoma. Around that same time, two neighbors and a young woman I knew through my wife were also diagnosed with cancer, though different kinds. Unfortunately, while I survived, they did not. I'm not really sure what I'm trying to say here, other than I feel deeply indebted to their memories and the shared path we all walked together. We encouraged each other through the journey. I don't know if the moral of this little anecdote is to hug your loved ones while they're still here, or to "seize the day," or some other piece of wisdom that appears simultaneously profound and trivial. But what I can state is that I'm grateful. I'm grateful that I knew them and that, even though I stood at the fringes of their lives, their deaths still hurt deeply. I'm grateful for the encouragement they gave me and my family, even while they endured their own suffering. I'm grateful for our shared brokenness. Just simply grateful.
Until next time.
