Hello Mr. 'Babyface',
We met at the convention (Wizard World Chicago) this past Sunday. Your lecture was very informative. It was an unexpected pleasure (Although I was disappointed you didn't glow in the dark).
As a punk kid, I admired your rendition of Iron Man and the humor from Hercules was outrageous. It was in the pages of the Bullpen Bulletins that you, amongst others, became 'real' to me when Jim Shooter needed some comic relief. I thought to myself, 'These guys seem like an okay bunch. I want to work for Marvel!'
And then life happens...
I know my portfolio arsenal needs more work. I've read the books. I've taken the classes. I think what would really help me would be an internship/ apprentice position (not unlike the lovely Sorah).
I'm wondering, do you know of any artist in the Milwaukee area that would be interested? (I would travel up to 90 miles, which includes the Chicago area)
In the meantime, I'll concentrate on unifying my shadow lines and getting my proportions right. Thank You.
Sincerely,
Ryan Clements
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Dear Ryan,
First off, allow me to thank you for taking the time to attend my seminar, “Bob’s Simple Rules of Thumb” that I conducted at Wizard World Chicago Convention. (For those of you who might be interested, check out this month’s videoblog for the first half of that hour-long art class).
I’m honored that my contributions to the Marvel universe was something that helped launch your interest to be a comic book artist. Most of us strive to simply create entertaining stories. But occasionally, I found that the work will also inspire others to follow in your footsteps. It is a privilege to have one’s work be an inspiration.
Although I can’t recall of anyone who lives in your area of the country, my advice would be to keep your nose to the grindstone and attend as many local conventions as you can. I’m sure somebody from the comic industry is within your area and could possibly be looking for an assistant.
In the meantime, go back and watch this month’s video and try to take as many of those lessons to heart as you can.
Thanks for writing,
Bob