Ladies and gentlemen, I have a special announcement to make. You remember that last year over Halloween, I undertook and succeeded at the 24 hour comics challenge. Today, I learned that 24 Hour Comics Day is upon us; it’s set for Saturday, October 1, 2016 this year.
Once again, I will take the 24 hour comics challenge. Like I did last time, I will produce a 24-page comic within no more than 24 hours from noon on Saturday, October 1 to no later than noon on Sunday, October 2.
The challenge is exactly what it says on the tin, but Scott McCloud explains the rules a bit more here:
That means everything: Story, finished art, lettering, color (if applicable), paste-up, everything. Once pen hits paper, the clock starts ticking. 24 hours later, the pen lifts off the paper, never to descend again. Even proofreading has to occur in the 24 hour period. (Computer-generated comics are fine of course, same principles apply).
No sketches, designs, plot summaries or any other kind of direct preparation can precede the 24 hour period. Indirect preparation such as assembling tools, reference materials, food, music etc. is fine.
Your pages can be any size, any material. Carve them in stone, print them with rubber stamps, draw them on your kitchen walls with a magic marker. Whatever you makes you happy.
The 24 hours are continuous. You can take a nap, but the clock keeps ticking. If you get to 24 hours and you’re not done, either end it there (“the Gaiman Variation”) or keep going until you’re done (“the Eastman Variation”). I consider both of these “Noble Failure” Variants and true 24 hour comics in spirit; but you must sincerely intend to do the 24 pages in 24 hours at the outset.
Some of you are wondering why am I doing this again. I already went the distance last time with my success in completing the challenge.
To be honest, I need the practice. Besides drawing practice I planned during my sabbatical, drawing comics is necessary to stay in top form. Plus, working on a story that has to be more improvised than planned will be a superior way to sharpen my skills.
As proof that I’m doing and will (try to) finish the challenge, I’ll be sharing updates on the blog as well as Twitter and Facebook complete with photos as proof.
I do have an idea of what I want to do but will hold off on specific details right now. Stay tuned for more details!
