Bob Schreck and DC Comics

On Thursday of our week in New York we were able to sit down and talk with DC comics editor Bob Schreck. This was one of my favorite experiences of the week and not because I am a fan of comic books, but because of the enthusiasm he showed when talking about his job, the many stops along the way that led to his current position and even when he would just talk about his passions like movies, etc. After our time with Bob I felt a strong desire to just draw and inspired to get down to business and to really improve my craft.

I would say that the two biggest pieces of advice that Bob discussed that I took away from our time with him were: ONE, to make sure that this is something that you really want to do, that your really putting your all into it, and if your really not feeling it that you should get out and find something that you really enjoy doing and TWO, to take risks and not be afraid to fail or fall on your face, because taking those risks are going to make you grow the most either as an artist or in any business that you choose to be a part of.

Following that advice has worked pretty good for Bob. Who left a dream of being a musician, when it wasn't going to pan out, to work marketing and promotions for several comic companies. Then becoming Marketing Director for Dark Horse Comics, leaving them to form Oni Press and finally landing were he is today. That being a group editor at DC Comics, where one of his books, All-Star Superman, is one of DC's most critically acclaimed and respected books being published today.

Another bit of advice mentioned by Bob that I believe will come in handy when we are out there struggling as start up Illustrators is to try and get a job that will help pay the bills and will let you draw as you work, so that you can continue to improve your skills as an artist through out your work day,

The time spent with Bob and hearing him talk about his experiences through his career was very informative and inspirational. As I said earlier I left DC Comics with a new desire to improve myself as Illustrator and I will keep in mind what he said as I go on through my career.

Information on companies Bob has been a part of:
DC Comics
Oni Press
Dark Horse Comics

Overall it was a great week of activities, but alas I think there was one thing that we regret not doing, (especially Durwin and Mike). That of course is not going to see Kit Kittredge An American Girl at the Ziegfeld Theater. Maybe next time.


–Jon Chalberg