1. Don't read your reviews.
2. Learn when to say yes and when to say no.
3. Let the land lie fallow, but harvest the crops while they're heavy on the vine. This essentially means that if you're dealing with a writing or art block, go outside, get some input for your output. Watch a movie. Beat a video game. Sleep a lot. Eat good food. But when the mood strikes you to make work, milk it for all its worth! Cancel the parties, skip the gym-- do what you have to to let your "I need to make stuff" genii do its thing.
4. Tell the truth. Even if it's fiction, find something true to say.
5. If it's not working, try switching mediums for a while. At the very least, you'll have a finger
painting at the end of the day, rather than nothing.
6. Comics should never be: a. a weapon, b. a burden, c. a crutch
7. Comics should be: a. a communication, b. a celebration, c. a meditation
8. Good art is illustration without good writing. Good writing is still good writing, even with bad art. Focus on your story, develop your art.
9. Find collaborators who you trust and admire. Surround yourself with people who will make you better through advice, input and support.
10. Don't let the baby run the business. As much as you try not to read snarky reviews, or take edits personally, or allow an awkward moment at a comic convention disrupt your love for the medium, let it go and focus on what's important; making comics and getting paid for it. Let the baby vent her frustration over drinks with trusted friends, then get to work.
You can view Lucy Knisley's work at: www.lucyknisley.com
You can view Lucy Knisley's work at: www.lucyknisley.com
