Comic Book Writers and Artists to Follow

So much goes into the creation of a great comic book. From developing a great storyline, to creating memorable characters, to the meticulous work of penciling and inking each frame, comic book publishers have their hands full producing artwork that they hope will gain a wide readership. As the narrative unfolds frame by frame, publishers become engrossed in carefully crafting the story lines, making sure that fans will have a memorable experience reading their favorite comic books.

But for most people, myself included, it seems that what ultimately draws their attention is the eye-catching artwork displayed on the cover. I know the old saying don’t judge a book by its cover would fit nicely here, but when I used to pick up my comics from the local comic book shop, I had a tendency to look first at the artwork featured on the cover before picking it up off the newsstand.

So in the spirit of comic book hunting, Pencils.com has compiled a short list of comic book artists and writers to follow. Although this is by know means an exhaustive list, nor is it ranked, the overall purpose of this list is to expose our readers to some genuinely talented artists and writers, while encouraging you to seek out more. In fact, we’d love to hear about artists and writers that you’re following. Enjoy!

Comic Book Artists and Writers to Follow

1. Scott Snyder

Writer and comic book mastermind Scott Snyder is best known for his work with DC Comic’s titles Batman and Swamp Thing, as well as the American Vampire series. This Columbia MFA grad has been spinning the best of comic book yarns since 2009. Check out his most recent work on the 10th of this month in Batman #13, “Death of the Family,” a follow up to the groundbreaking “Death in the Family.” Want more? Follow him on Twitter to see what he’s up to.

2. Grant Morrison

Grant Morrison has been writing for over 25 years, and he’s responsible for pushing the comic book genre in new directions with his work on Batman, Animal Man, Doom Patrol, and other notable series. A man of many talents, Grant is a member of a rare breed of artists who seems to be adept at numerous activities. His other areas of expertise include his work as a magician, musician, and playwright.

3. Jeff Lemire

Jeff Lemire is best know for his work on the series Sweet Tooth and the graphic novel Essex County. This talented Canadian cartoonist has won many awards for his groundbreaking work, among these the Schuster Award for Best Cartoonist.

4. Geoff Johns

Geoff Johns has been writing his way into the epicenter of comic book royalty since 1999. Growing up in Detroit Michigan, Geoff attended Michigan State University where he studied Media Arts and Film. He’s the author of NY Times best seller, “Superman: Brainiac.” Geoff has written for comic book classics The Flash and The Green Lantern. Geoff even contributed writing to The Avengers for Marvel.

5. J.H. Williams III

Fellow pencileer J.H. Williams III is known for his ability to excel in illustration, as well as in writing and design. Williams has won awards in all three categories. A few notable works include, Deathwish, Batman, Chase, Son of Superman and the New 52’s version of Batwoman. He has been creating beautiful comics since the early 1990’s. Willams grew up in San Francisco, and now lives in Central California, with, according to the artist’s website, “His adoring wife, a houseful of cats, and an ever expanding comic book collection.”

6. Yanick Paquette

The December 2012 issue of Swamp Thing (#13), features the work of two of the people on this list, namely the combined genius of Scott Snyder and Yanick Paquette. The result is a well written and beautifully illustrated issue that will leave you eager for more. Pick up a copy today, and you won’t be disappointed.

7. Greg Capullo

What I liked best about glancing at Greg’s Twitter account is that he not only offers great advice to his fans, but he shares with them a glimpse into his creative process by sharing his pencil work. Truly a breathtaking collection of sketches on display. You’ll often find Greg collaborating with Scott Snyder among others, creating highly memorable comic books for favorites like Batman, The Creech (Image), and Spawn. Mr. Capullo has also done album artwork for the bands Korn and Disturbed, to name a few.

8. Jim Steranko

Jim Steranko is a legend. Without him, there would be no Nick Fury, and who could imagine The Avengers without him. He’s an absolute treasure to the comic book world. Check out this great collection of his artwork online and see for yourself. You’ll especially enjoy the, “From Comps to Finished” section if you’re an artist yourself.

9. Sam Kieth

I’ve mentioned before my great admiration for Sam’s work, and there’s a good reason. I love artists who challenge the perceived notions of art, and I feel like Sam’s unique stocky characters, with their larger frames, challenge the perspectives on how a superhero should look. Not to mention that he’s taken classic characters like Wolverine and not only reshaped them, but reinvented them. His blog, which you can access by clicking his name in this list, is a testament to his experimental and highly original technique and style. He’ll always remain a favorite for me. Don’t forget to check out The Maxx and Zero Girl.

10. Jim Lee

I’ll leave you with this video of Jim Lee, who has worked on so many comics it would be difficult to list them all here. To name a few, you’ll find his work in X-Men, Batman, Justice League of America, Fantastic Four, Iron Man, and many others. His YouTube channel provides great instruction on technique, and it’s just fun to watch him do his work.

Comic books have expanded to a wider audience in recent years, much of the appeal owes a great debt to the innovative artists in the industry who continue to raise the bar. It also has a lot to do with you the readers, who in your unyielding support of the artform, demand more and more each year. So keep reading, and we’ll have many more years of exciting comic books to enjoy in the future.

Feel free to provide your own favorites in our comments section. Who would you add to the list? Pencils.com looks forward to your responses. Thank you for reading.