Tim Probert, the author and illustrator of the fantasy graphic novel series Lightfall, has finally found his artistic voice. In an interview, Probert reflects on his journey, from his early struggles to finding his unique style. He shares insights into his influences, the interplay between his animation and illustration careers, and the creative process behind Lightfall. Probert's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-discovery in the creative process.
Probert's journey began with a BFA in painting from Boston University, where he explored various artistic disciplines. He initially struggled to find his niche, attempting to emulate different styles and artists. However, a mentorship program with Cory Godby helped Probert realize the importance of embracing his natural artistic style. This realization led him to focus on his strengths and develop a distinct aesthetic.
One of Probert's significant influences is Hayao Miyazaki, renowned for his beautiful films and unique storytelling. Miyazaki's ability to convey weight, motion, and detail in his drawings has left a lasting impact on Probert. Additionally, Probert's work on the Amulet series by Kazu Kibuishi exposed him to a diverse range of stories and styles in comics, further enriching his artistic vision.
Probert's background in animation, particularly his role as an art director at Nathan Love, has significantly influenced his illustration work. He learned valuable skills in storyboarding, character design, and environment creation, which proved invaluable when illustrating graphic novels. The ability to draw quickly, efficiently, and not be afraid to revise his work is a direct result of his animation experience.
Lightfall, a six-book series, has become a central focus in Probert's career. He initially pitched the series while still working at Nathan Love, and the success of the first two books led to a two-book deal. Probert's creative process involves a blend of planning and spontaneity, with a general idea of the series' end goal but flexibility in the execution. The ideal timeline for writing and illustrating a Lightfall book is 18 months, involving six months of writing and thumbnailing, six months of drawing, and six months of painting.
Probert's artistic growth is evident in his evolving style. He has moved away from emulating other artists and embraced his unique drawing style. This shift has allowed him to create a more authentic and personal body of work. Probert's journey highlights the importance of self-discovery and the power of perseverance in the creative process.
Looking ahead, Probert is excited to explore new ideas and projects after completing the Lightfall series. He is currently working on the fifth book and plans to continue the series for six books in total. The post-Lightfall phase will be a time of experimentation and creativity, as Probert seeks to push his artistic boundaries further.
