Chad Thomas
Chad Thomas is a freelance comic artist working from home and living with his wife, Jil, in Texas. Chad started drawing at a very early age and decided to be a comic artist around second grade after reading some Archie Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle comics. He attended the Savannah College of Art and Design from 1999-2003 and interned at Funny Pages Productions in Nashville. After learning from the incredible artists there, Chad struck out freelance on his own and has been lucky enough to work with a number of clients, including Archie Comics, Oni Press, and Lerner Publishing Group.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
The book that I seem to pick up the most often every few years is The Giver by Lois Lowry. I’ve always loved it, and I have done my best to share it with anyone that has yet to pick it up. My ragged old copy is still the one I read in sixth grade when it first came out.
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“Stupid, Stupid Rat Creatures!” No matter how many times I read that in Bone it always gives me a good laugh.
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
It’s hard to give an outright top three. But some favorites that I revisit quite often are Jeff Smith, Bruce Timm, and Mike Weiringo. But the list goes on and on and changes depending what I’m working on and reading at the time.
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
Being a comic book artist and creator was something I immediately wanted to pursue at an early age. There are no limits when telling story through the use of words and pictures, and I love that. It also helps that I get to make my own hours!
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
Keep at it! It’s very standard but the most valuable advice I can give. Finish your drawings or stories even if they’re not working out quite right. Then go back so you can understand why. You only get better by making mistakes and correcting them the next time! And don’t be afraid to share your work with encouraging friends and teachers. Some of my best work has come from people helping me to create a better drawing or story.