Behind the Panels | Interview with BLOODRUTH Interior Artist and Inker Michael Montenat
ISOM #2 Fan Art Contest Winner Illustrates The Rippaverse's FIRST Horror Book
- Book Releases, Campaigns, Social
- Published
Jen & Sylvia Soska
Michael Montenat is a brilliant artist with a dark and intimate style, making him the perfect match for BLOODRUTH. After entering one of the Rippaverse’s Fan Art Contests, Montenat’s talent shone with his submission of the anxiously anticipated NORFRICA, standing out in a competitive field. Now, tasked with bringing BLOODRUTH’s dangerous and devious world to life, Montenat delivers a visual feast. BLOODRUTH is set to become a fan favorite in the Rippaverse, featuring the return of the scene-stealer Sydnee Bloodruth from ISOM #2.
Did you always know you wanted to be an artist, and what attracted you to the medium?
Michael Montenat:
Yes, but I had no clue what type of art. I concentrated on illustration in college, but by my senior year, I was creating large abstract expressionist paintings. After college, I explored gallery shows and other artistic avenues before refocusing on comics, which initially drew me to art.
What inspires you as an artist?
Michael Montenat:
Movies are a big inspiration for me.
Which artists are you influenced by?
Michael Montenat:
There are many, but the biggest influences are Jae Lee, Tim Bradstreet, and Andrea Sorrentino.
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What was your first gig as a working artist?
Michael Montenat:
My first job was for Tales From The Cobra Wars, a G.I. Joe anthology. Technically, it wasn’t a comic, though.
What advice would you give artists wanting to break into working in comic books?
Michael Montenat:
It’s tough—it’s a niche industry, so expect a lot of hard work, competition, and disappointment. Learn how to market yourself and handle the business side of things. (I’ll admit, that’s something I’m not great at!)
What has been your favorite project to work on and why?
Michael Montenat:
I have to say BLOODRUTH, because of the freedom and time I’ve been given. Working on Happy Hour for AHOY Comics was also great for similar reasons.
What has it been like working on BLOODRUTH?
Michael Montenat:
It’s been difficult. I’ve never done castle scenes before, and that’s the setting for the majority of the comic. Drawing a dragon for the first time was tricky, but I feel I improved on it in later scenes.
- What do you think fans will like most about the book?
Michael Montenat:
Fans will love the demons created by the Soska Sisters and the progression of their power levels from one to another.
You can check out Michael’s work on his website, armheadstudio.com, and Instagram page!
Rippaverse comics and horror fans alike can pre-order Bloodruth #1 NOW!
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