CROM Update 056 with Jason Schoonover’s Penciled Pages for Cromdahar
In the 56th episode of CROM Updates, host Kurt Brugel and indie artist Jason Schoonover discuss Jason's progress on the seven-page indie comic Cromdahar, a sword-and-sorcery tale inspired by the legend of the Kandahar Giant. Jason shares insights into his artistic process, his struggles with penciling, and how he refines his approach through feedback. Kurt, acting as an art director, gives suggestions on refining characters’ identities and making layouts clearer for inking. They discuss Jason’s tendency toward minimalist pencils and how adding character model sheets and clearer compositions will help maintain visual consistency.
Beyond the art itself, the conversation delves into today’s publishing landscape and the struggles of indie creators. Kurt shares his perspective on self-promotion, distribution, and the importance of networking in the independent comics scene. He emphasizes how artists today must juggle creative work with the business side of comics. They also touch on the influence of different artistic mediums, such as fine art and film, in shaping their storytelling approaches. Jason draws inspiration from David Lynch's non-linear storytelling and Frank Miller's visual framing techniques, which influence his page layouts.
Kurt and Jason discuss the broader implications of indie publishing, the saturation of mainstream comics, and the need for fresh perspectives. They criticize the over-reliance on legacy franchises like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and X-Men, arguing that true artistic evolution comes from blending unique inspirations. The episode highlights their shared vision of pushing the boundaries of sword-and-sorcery storytelling, encouraging artists to embrace unconventional influences. They also plug upcoming projects, including Jason’s YouTube content, his work with Crom Anthology, and Kurt’s free script offerings for aspiring creators.
Watch the CROM Update 056 video on YouTube:
Use these links to find out more about Jason.
Use these links to find out more about Kurt inker Brugel.
Theme: ACTION!
8-Pages
Children of Thogyu follows Crom, a fierce Aesir barbarian, and Ka’Zhul the Unyielding, the indomitable chieftain of the Cymri apemen, as they unite against the alien invaders known as the Children of Thogyu. These grotesque, elephant-headed beings raid the Cymri lands, sacrificing themselves in relentless waves to gather precious gemstones hidden in rivers and caves. With the help of Crom’s cunning sister, Lalla, who uses the fertility mask of the Cymri goddess Omdre to rally the defeated Cymri warriors, the heroes discover the aliens’ secret hoard of jewels. As the Children of Thogyu unleash their mind-controlled shaggy tuskers in a final, devastating assault, Crom and Ka’Zhul turn the tide with fire and ferocity. But even as they triumph, questions linger about the true purpose of the gemstones and whether the Children of Thogyu’s threat is truly at an end—or if a greater danger looms.
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Kurt Brugel's Virgin Cover Edition of the 2024 CROM Collected Comic is a must-have for fans and collectors alike. This special edition features an exclusive, stunning cover art by Kurt Brugel himself, showcasing his unique vision of CROM the Barbarian in all his glory.
Inside, you'll find 140 pages of intense, black and white sword and sorcery adventures that transport you to a world of epic battles, fierce warriors, and ancient magic. This magazine-size (8.5x11) comic book is meticulously crafted to deliver an immersive reading experience, staying true to the raw and untamed spirit of classic fantasy comics.
What makes this edition truly special is there is no waiting for weeks to get your hands on this collector's item. By purchasing Kurt Brugel's Virgin Cover Edition, you not only own a piece of unique comic art but also support the continuation of CROM's epic journey and the talented artists behind it.
Secure your copy today and join CROM in his legendary quest!
ISBN-13 979-8-9910745-0-6
