Ben Stenbeck cover illustration for North & South
What have been your personal cartooning/comics highlights of 2012?
I got to spend another year drawing funny books. I had 3 weeks in Europe a few months ago with a bunch of kiwi comic artists. It took flying to the other side of the world for most of us to find out that we all had a lot in common and got on really well. Also I started drawing covers this year which i was nervous about but its been fun.
Who are some of the comics creators that you've discovered and enjoyed for the first time in 2012?
James Harren. Holy crap. His work simultaneously makes me want to give up comics altogether and make more comics. And hes only 25. Massimo Carnivale maybe my favourite painter of all time. Heres his blog with paintings from movies http://sketchesnatched.blogspot.com
What is something non-comics that you have enjoyed in 2012?
'Adventure time' I cant get enough. And the soothing Viking death metal of 'Amon Amarth'. Dont you judge me, its fun music if you dont take it seriously and just enjoy it. And the game Skyrim, but dont tell my Wife or my editor about that one.
Have you implemented any significant changes to your working methods this year?
I set up a new desk just for Inking. spicing things up.
What are you looking forward to in 2013?
I get to draw some stuff later in the year that will be significant for anyone whos been following Baltimore. Ill be doing More covers, Vol 3 Of Baltimore will be released (which might be the best one yet). And another year of drawing funny books! Also hearing all the explanations as to why the world didnt end on December 21st. My money is on no-one considering the possibility that it was all bullshit from the start. It'll be a gas. Merry Christmas.
