This project saw me attend the 2023-2024 Thought Bubble Comic Convention as a exhibiting artist and as a competitor in the 2000 AD talent talent search. My experience in 2023 was just introductory , whereas exhibiting during 2024 was an unforgettable experience! Networking with fellow artists, creators, passionate fans, and the vibrant, colourful community was truly inspiring. I loved sharing my work, hearing other stories, and seeing how art and design brought us all together.
My first attempt at drawing a few pages for the 2000 AD Talent Search Competition was both challenging and rewarding. Hence I used the 2023 script as jumpstart to push me to step out of my comfort zone and refine my storytelling and sequential art skills. Translating a script into dynamic, engaging panels taught me a lot about pacing, composition, and character design. Although it was a learning experience with plenty of trial and error, it became a valuable stepping stone in preparing for the 2024 convention. The process sped my growth as an artist and motivated me to keep pushing my creative boundaries and horizons.
The pages below is the 2023 script attempt, with 3 pages inked and the fourth being pencils that are partially done.
Below is a few pages of the script provided for the 2024 convention competition that I had illustrated specifically.
I start this process of ideating after the script has been read, to help me create the world, characters and scenes based on the first impressions of my imagination that come to my head naturally. Hence the main character or protagonist is what I focused on first.
Here are the 3 pages that I decided on illustrating, which was done traditionally on paper in pencils.
Below is a preview of one of the pages with inks and the later with inks and halftones.
Below are the final three pages I submitted for the 2000 AD Talent Search Competition, for which I was honored to be shortlisted, though I did not win. However, the experience was far from a loss. It provided an incredible opportunity to meet and engage with key industry figures, including the chief editor of 2000 AD, as well as esteemed artists, writers, and fellow creators. This experience proved to be immensely insightful and rewarding, offering valuable lessons and connections that have greatly contributed to my artistic growth and professional development.
To everyone who stopped by my table and supported my journey—it means the world to me! I’m excited for what’s next and can’t wait to create more for you.