Clover Publisher Hank Kanalz Interview (The DC Art of Jorge Jiménez)
We catch-up with Clover Publisher Hank Kanalz to discuss their amazing new project – The DC Art of Jorge Jiménez!
Welcome to Impulse Gamer Hank! What inspired Clover Press to collaborate with Jorge Jiménez on this art book, and how did the project come to life?
We have been working with a few artists whose work has been focused at DC for a while, and Jorge was the clear front runner to launch our new line. When we reached out to him, he responded with an enthusiastic YES and we started working right away.
Can you share some insights into the creative process behind curating the content for The DC Art of Jorge Jiménez?
We take our cues from the artist as to how much, or little, they want to work on their book. These are retrospectives and celebrations of the artist’s work, and each one is different, much like the artist themselves. Jorge has a very clear vision of what he wants his book to look like, and has also been generous accepting our input. He’s been fantastic explaining how he wants the book to flow, and the pieces he wants to show. The toughest part is deciding what to leave out.
What makes Jorge Jiménez’s artwork stand out in the world of DC Comics, and how does this book celebrate his unique style?
From my perspective, it’s the energy. Jorge has been at DC for some time, and for much of that time I was there, he always topped the list of talent requested to work on a new project. I think we were the first to use him on a project at WildStorm, on Beyond the Fringe, and we were impressed with his professionalism, timeliness, and like I said, energy. As he got more assignments, he pushed himself to improve over every project before, and brought a lot of energy to the page.
The Kickstarter campaign includes exclusive mini prints. How were these selected, and what do they add to the overall experience for backers?
We’re trying something new with this campaign, adding the mini-prints to the offering. Of course, we have the portfolios with the larger prints, but these are more manageable for folks who may have limited wall space, or want to put their favorite piece on their desk. When we reviewed Jorge’s choices for the portfolios, we found these pieces really standing out. Like I said, it’s hard to decide what not to do. I really wanted to offer the “couples” pieces in a set, and this seemed like a good place to do so.
Jorge Jiménez has worked on iconic characters like Batman and Superman. How does this book capture his journey and evolution as an artist?
We collect it all, and you’ll see his growth and evolution in the work itself. I found myself saying “Oh, I forgot about that” and “Wow, I didn’t know he did that!” while reviewing the work. You can see that he takes a different approach to each of the projects he’s on, and how he takes what’s working, and what he changes up on the next project.
What challenges did you face in compiling and presenting such a comprehensive collection of Jiménez’s work?
Biggest challenge is what not to include. There’s so much. You can’t help but think “This goes in volume 2!” Also second guessing what Jorge would like or not like. But he’s been great and the feedback has been wonderful. He’s not vague, and if there’s something he’d like changed, he articulates it well.
How does this book fit into Clover Press’s vision for high-end, boutique art collections?
I can’t imagine our line without it. I have the benefit of seeing what’s coming down the line and this is a great foundation for what’s to come. I like the balance of range and style and longevity of the artists we have planned – and while I think we already have a lot of fans collecting the line, it’s built in such a way that you can support the artists you love. Folks are super opinionated about each artist, and share those opinions. Our approach is there’s something for everyone in our line, and that’s how we’re building it.
Are there any previously unpublished pieces or behind-the-scenes content in the book that fans will be excited to discover?
I always enjoy seeing character designs and sketches, then the final versions from that work product. You’ll see that, as well as some spectacular pieces, especially our surprise fold out.
What do you hope readers and fans will take away from The DC Art of Jorge Jiménez?
I hope they have a newfound appreciation for the work and contribution to DC that Jorge has made, and that they will be excited for the work that is to come.
With the success of this Kickstarter, are there plans for similar projects featuring other renowned comic book artists?
Yes. Oh, yes….most definitely yes.
Check out the Kickstarter Campaign at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cloverpressart/the-dc-art-of-jorge-jimenez-a-deluxe-hardcover-and-more?ref=245uob
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About the Author
Andrew Bistak When he's not trying to save the world, Andrew enjoys travel (although loathes turbulence), going to the movies, reading and being a dad to his two dogs (and now twins) with his wife.
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