Creating a Graphic Novel : Art – Food – Photography

French artist Geoffo is the current featured artist (who was bitten by a radioactive pen when he was born). His showcase is an amazing mix of some of comics’ most recognisable characters (namely Superman, Spider-man, Batman and Wolverine).

Splash Page :

Superman Panel 1 :

Superman Panel 2 :

Completed Superman Panel :

What type of comics did you read growing up?

I was raised by different comic book cultures, not just the American one but European and Asian cultures. I am also interested by the different movie culture, paintings and advertising for inspiration. I try to put everything I know and learn everyday in my drawing, or in upcoming projects.

That’s a big range of influences. How did create your stories?

I try to create stories which would goes beyond a mere genre and would be something people wern’t expect. For instance I love to illustrate songs I’ve heard. I did that as an exercise at school and would love to do it on some NIN songs. Plus I think you have to take in consideration the new technologies like the iPhone, the iPad and other devices that’s creating its own niche illustration market.

So my usual question in my work is how can I reach the iPhone generation, who barely know what it is to buy stuff when you can get it for free on the web? They may not know what it is to read a novel when you can wait one year to see it adapted on screen.

I have to agree, I think with the advent of new technologies the medium is changing.

Exactly! Why read a comic book when you can have so much fun on the internet with applications? The majority of these generations are far removed from taking a book and sitting on the couch all day.

However even with the economic crisis and people will need their escape into good stories, so I don’t think comic book is going to disappear but I think it has to evolve. It’s about transmitting the information into a new format.

What motivated you to become an artist?

I wanted to provide some entertainment to people and give them “good vibrations” for their lives. It’s too easy to be negative!

How would you describe your artwork?

I have had several period in which I emulate a particular artist before trying a new style. I feel I will continue that way as it’s a continuous learning process. I always try to make my drawings dynamic, creating an impact for the viewer. I don’t mind being compare to other artists (what the shame in it?) as long as the reader can still recognise my work.

Are you currently enrolled in any formal training?

Since 2009, I have started at an Animation Art School. I learnt a lot through the years thanks to forums, meeting people at convention.

However I have to admit, I’ma lazy guy, I was at a point in my life where I knew I had to study the basics including anatomy, perspective, colours etc. and that why I enrolled. Getting a fixed schedule and guidance was important. I needed to have someone on my back showing me where I was wrong and teaching me topics I wouldn’t I would have otherwise ignored.

I know you mentioned a lot of influences to your work but any specific artistic influences?

I am heavily influenced by the comics medium, of course, both current guys on the market and the older ones, Paul Pope, Tim Sale, Sergio Toppi, Hugo Pratt, Darwyn Cooke, Alex Toth, Eduardo Risso, Stuart Immonen and RM Guéra.

As always, there is too many people to reference but these are some of the people who keep to give me strength in my work, both in their art and in their reflection.

Where can we see some of your completed works?

My published work so far was made for Foolstrip, a french webcomic called Gifted. It was about 2 losers who try to manage to get some powers.

You can read it here:
http://www.foolstrip.com/index.php?lang=english&id=16&serie=12

I am also currently on some unpublished projects which more details to come!

Thanks so much for your time!

For more of Geoffo :

• DeviantArt Page
• Blog (French Only)

If interested in a commission, please contact him on his deviantart page.