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(Paperback)
How to Draw Noir Comics: The Art and Technique of Visual Storytelling is an instructional book based on the cinematic, high contrast noir style of acclaimed comic book and graphic novel illustrator, Shawn Martinbrough.
Martinbrough’s work has been published by DC Comics, Vertigo and Marvel Comics, illustrating stories ranging from Batman to the X-Men. This is his first book, released through Watson-Guptill Publications and The Nielsen Company.
In How to Draw Noir Comics, Martinbrough shows how the expert use of the color black is critical for drawing noir comics. He demonstrates how to set a mood, design characters and locations, stage action and enhance drama, and discusses important topics like page layout, panel design, and cover design.
How to Draw Noir Comics includes The Truce, an original graphic novel written and illustrated by Martinbrough which incorporates the many lessons addressed throughout the book, and has an introduction by critically-acclaimed novelist Greg Rucka, author of the graphic novel Whiteout, currently in production as a major motion picture.
Shawn Martinbrough illustrates many DC and Marvel comics, including
Superman, Detective Comics, Batman, and X-Men. Other clients include LucasArts, Playboy, and many others. In 2004, he was named one of "Washington, D.C.'s Best" by The
Washingtonian. He lives in Washington, D.C.
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February 16, 2009: This book is a great inspiration for sequential artists who wish to work in the noir comics genre. The artist/author demonstrates the process of effective line weight and black placement design considerations. This speaks to lighting, mood, and dramatics. I recommend any artist wishing to push into this area of comics have this book on their shelf. Martinbrough gives insightful talk about his process. More so in the images rather than the text, but over all very useful reference.
I Also Recommend: The Dore Bible Illustrations Dore, Marvel Visionaries, Batman, Frank Miller's Sin City, The Five C's of Cinematography.
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May 19, 2008: How to Draw Noir Comics is an excellent instructional book. Great for all levels of experience, and a nice read even if you're not interested in learning how to draw using the noir style. As a non-artist who cannot draw a straight line w/a ruler, I found Mr. Martinbrough's comments to be extremely insightful and helpful.