Indie Interviews – Zac Rorick
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This week we sit down and talk to the awesome person Zac Rorick. If you like comics, and we’re sure you do, you’ll want to take a peek at what Zac Rorick is up to. After you’re done, be sure to check out their work here.
What was your reason for getting into comics? That is, how did you end up involved in comics?
I got into comics because I always loved the artwork. Jim Lee’s work on the X-Men really drew me in and I was hooked ever since. That is when I began collecting comic books. I collected the books that had artwork I enjoyed. I was always drawing superheroes and dreamed of being a comic artist one day. That is what led me to create my first comic ‘New Beginnings,’ and I have been drawing ever since.
Who would you say is your comic book inspiration as a writer?
I really like Frank Miller’s writing. The Dark Knight Returns and 300 are two of my favorite graphic novels. While they are not comic book writers, my biggest inspirations for storytelling are Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings. I love the work of J.R.R. Tolkien and George Lucas. Every time I read or watch any of their stories I get inspired to create my own work. The fictional worlds and characters that they created are beautiful and inspiring.
Before comics, what did you do? If you’re still doing it, what are you doing?
I am a graphic designer by day and comic book creator/illustrator by night. I am a full-time graphic designer and that really helps with my comic art. There is a lot of design, typography, and layout involved in creating comic books, so the two fields of work really mesh well together! While I love graphic design, I would love to be a full-time comic book creator someday.
What was your first work in comics like?
It was a lot of trial and error. I was creating my first personal comic ‘New Beginnings’ and I knew how to draw, but I didn’t have a workflow yet. I had no process to go through. I watched a lot of YouTube videos because I wanted to find the best possible way to create my work.
How many years have you been working in comics?
I have been drawing and creating characters and stories my whole life, but just last year I created my first independent comic book. I have been seriously working in the industry for about two years now.
Tell me a little bit about your work. Where does it draw inspiration from? Where do you come up with your ideas?
My comics ‘New Beginnings’ and ‘Ned the Explorer’ both take place in the same universe. They take place on a new planet after Earth, and the new planet has just suffered from a nuclear world war and a disease has been spreading across the planet as a result. The environment and story draw inspiration from sci-fi movies like Star Wars and post-apocalyptic stories like The Walking Dead.
Who have you worked alongside in the industry?
I have done a few pieces and have some upcoming stories and work planned with a friend of mine, Evan DeChellis. You can find his work here https://www.dechellisart.com/ as well as on his social media. We have a comic in the works, and it will be a science fiction graphic novel. I’m excited to announce more once we have more of the story and design figured out! If you want to be up to date on everything follow my social networks!
Growing up, who is your favorite character or team? Who is it now?
I have always loved Batman and his stories. I loved that he was human and that made him more relatable. I would say that he is still my favorite. HUSH and The Dark Knight Returns are my favorite stories!
Do you have any advice for a new writer who is just getting into the business?
As an artist, I just tried to put my work out online daily. As a writer, I would suggest the same thing. Whether it’s a blog or website, try to get your ideas out there! If you can’t draw your stories, then reach out to amateur artists you like online. Send them a message and tell them your story, they will most likely be happy to work with you because artists are always looking for new and exciting projects!
Where do you see your work taking you?
I plan on creating and drawing more of my own stories. I hope to publish some art books as well as graphic novels. I also plan on getting more into webcomics. I think this is where the industry is headed, and I want to create digitally in order to reach a larger audience.
What are you up to next?
Right now I am working to finish my ‘New Beginnings’ series. The first book is complete and posted on my website . I am currently drawing the second book and will be posting updates on my social networks for anyone who is interested!
Where do you see the direction of the comic industry heading in 20 years?
The industry is already heading in a digital direction, and I see that trend continuing. I’m sure comics will become more digital, with motion graphics and I would even like to see them in the virtual reality realm. I think comics in a virtual reality setting would be amazing, and I think that is a real possibility in the future.
How can people get ahold of you?
My E-mail address is [email protected] and anyone can reach out to me at any of my social media outlets. Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @ZacharyAlanArt and like me on Facebook Zachary Alan Art. Send me an E-mail or a direct message and I would be happy to chat about ideas or business opportunities!
Where can we buy and/or see your work?
I have an Etsy shop where I sell prints and original artwork located here . However, I also do giveaways and sell work through my Instagram, so definitely look out for that! You can see my work on my website and you can read my comics for FREE here. I post regularly on social media, so those are the best places to find my most recent drawings, sketches, and illustrations. Here are the links:
Any last words for the industry?
I love where the industry is, and where it is going. I have really enjoyed finding new talented comic book artists on Instagram, Twitter, and all over the Internet. The Internet has created a larger audience for comics and artists to reach. I believe it is now easier to be a comic artist and get your work seen. If you have an idea for a comic, just go for it and put it online, use the Internet to your advantage! Start building an audience and put out content daily.
A Little History…
Zac Rorick is an independent comic book artist and illustrator. He is formerly from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania but currently lives in North Carolina in the greater Raleigh/Durham area with his wife. He is a big basketball fan, so when he is not drawing, he loves watching his favorite teams or playing a game of pick up basketball. He also enjoys spending time outdoors; he also loves going to the NC beaches as well as the mountains.
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