For the last 6 years, I’ve illustrated the “Ask Ask” comic in Ask, a science comic for kids published by Cricket Magazine Group. What fun it is every month to get the new script and read what questions the kids are asking! I received the latest issue this morning, and realized I haven’t shared any of the Ask Ask comics here.
I draw and color these digitally on my iPad in Procreate. One thing I’ve really appreciated about this job is having an excuse to learn more about and practice digital illustration and coloring. I’m a mostly self-taught artist, and all of my limited training is in physical media—hand setting lead type, carving and inking wood blocks, stabbing and sewing together paper booklets, dipping pen nibs in inkwells. I’ve always found digital illustration and color intimidating, because I know and appreciate what it looks like when it’s done well, and my work isn’t that. I know there are tools and tricks that I’m missing, and every time I start a new one I feel a little lost and just kind of go for it. After 6 years of diving in, I finally feel comfortable and confident with the kid-friendly style that has emerged.
Also, what a treat to draw cicadas peeing! Ha!
Have a great weekend!
Xoxo Marn
Brilliant. Great work and what a cool subject to work on.