CROM Update: 020 with Guest Artist Adam Dodds
Explore the convergence of creativity and legacy in the Crom the Barbarian Comics Collection, blending unique artistic expression with a homage to the genre's roots.
In the 20th episode of the Crom Updates Podcast, host Kurt Brugel and guest artist Adam Dodds discuss the progress and conceptual approach to Dodds' pin-up art for the Revised Edition of the Crom the Barbarian Comics Collection. Dodds shares insights into his creative process, highlighting the importance of a low-stress, stream-of-consciousness approach to art, which has guided him through periods of self-imposed stress over his work. The conversation touches on the eclectic mark-making style Dodds employs, aiming for a blend of conscious and subconscious elements in his art, with a focus on achieving a state of ease and flow.
The discussion expands to cover the significance of legacy in comics, particularly focusing on Gardner Fox's overlooked contributions to the industry despite his substantial impact, including the creation of the Justice League. Brugel expresses a desire to honor Fox's legacy through the Crom project and discusses the challenges and nuances of scanning and preparing comic book art for publication. They explore the technical aspects of creating high-quality reproductions, including the preference for TIFF files over JPEGs for maintaining image quality, and the logistical considerations of preparing the artwork for printing in the revised collection.
Finally, the episode delves into the broader context of the Crom Anthology and the evolving landscape of comic book art, blending commercial and personal creative expressions. Dodds and Brugel contemplate the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success, emphasizing the importance of personal vision in creating compelling art. They also consider the future of the Crom project, discussing plans for the anthology, the inclusion of varied artistic styles, and the potential for incorporating more artists into the Crom universe. The conversation concludes with reflections on creativity, the impact of digital technology on art, and the anticipation for the printed edition of the Crom Revised Edition, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between Brugel, Dodds, and other artists contributing to the project.
Watch the CROM Update 020 video on YouTube:
Adam Dodds is one of the few Artists who has been invited to create a pin-up for the Revised Edition of Crom Collected.
Use these links to find out more about Adam.
Use these links to find out more about Kurt inker Brugel.
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This version of CROM Collected will be retired once the Revised Edition has been released!
Embark on a journey through the ages with "CROM Collected Version One," an anthology that assembles all 8 riveting Crom the Barbarian comic book stories across 75 pages of vibrant narrative and artwork. This volume includes:
♦ Three original full-color tales from the 1950s by Gardner Fox and John Giunta.
♦ A 1971 Nearly Lost full-color masterpiece by Gardner Fox and Jack Katz.
♦ Four recent B&W stories from 2016 by Gardner Fox and Kurt Brugel.
Encased in a perfect-bound paperback with a mix of partial color and B&W interiors, this 84-page collection measures 6 inches wide by 9 inches tall. "CROM Collected Version One" is a must-have for fans and newcomers alike, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of a Sword and Sorcery icon.
