In the world of fantasy graphic novels, Tim Probert has carved out a unique and captivating space with his series, Lightfall. Set in the sunless realm of Irpa, Lightfall follows the heroic journey of Bea and her companion Cad, as they strive to bring light back to their world. Probert's artistic vision, steeped in the rich traditions of fantasy storytelling, has captivated readers and earned him a place among the esteemed ranks of illustrators and authors.
The Artist's Journey
Probert's path to becoming an illustrator was not a straightforward one. He initially pursued a degree in painting, but the world of children's book illustration seemed like an unattainable dream. It was during his studies that he discovered the art-of books from Pixar, igniting a passion for storytelling through illustration. He taught himself Photoshop and began his journey, taking on various illustration jobs and even working on a scratch-and-sniff book, New York, Phew York, which gained him recognition and led to opportunities with Macmillan Publishers.
Influences and Inspiration
Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary animator and filmmaker, has had a profound impact on Probert's work. Miyazaki's unique storytelling style and his ability to infuse weight, motion, and detail into every panel of his manga, Nausicaä, have left an indelible mark on Probert's artistic sensibilities. Another significant influence is Kazu Kibuishi's Amulet series, which not only introduced Probert to the diverse world of comics but also showcased the potential for epic fantasy stories within the medium.
Additionally, Jeff Smith's Bone, a groundbreaking comic series from the early 1990s, demonstrated the limitless possibilities of comics, blending epic storytelling with humor and cartoonish moments. These influences have shaped Probert's approach to illustration and storytelling, inspiring him to create immersive and captivating worlds within his own work.
Animation and Illustration: A Dual Career
Probert's career path took an interesting turn when he began working in the animation industry. While illustrating chapter books on the side, he also freelanced and eventually became staff at the animation studio Nathan Love. This dual career allowed him to refine his skills in both animation and illustration, with each world informing and enhancing the other. Probert's experience in animation, particularly in storyboarding, taught him the importance of drawing quickly, clearly, and efficiently, a skill that proved invaluable when creating graphic novels.
Lightfall: A Labor of Love
Lightfall has become the focal point of Probert's career, and he has dedicated himself fully to its creation. With a planned six-book series, Probert has mastered the art of balancing writing, thumbnailing, drawing, and painting within an ideal 18-month timeframe. However, he admits to occasionally running over schedule, with the last book taking around 20-22 months to complete.
What makes Lightfall particularly fascinating is Probert's journey of self-discovery within his artistic style. He initially experimented with different drawing styles, trying to emulate successful artists, but found that it felt unnatural. It was only when he received mentorship and encouragement to embrace his own unique style that he truly found his artistic voice. This shift in perspective has allowed him to lean into his natural drawing instincts, resulting in a more authentic and compelling visual narrative.
The Future Beyond Lightfall
As Probert approaches the conclusion of the Lightfall series, he is already contemplating his next steps. With the fifth book in progress and the sixth and final installment on the horizon, he is starting to explore new ideas and envision his post-Lightfall life. The success of Lightfall has undoubtedly opened doors and provided him with a platform to continue creating and sharing his unique artistic vision with the world.
In conclusion, Tim Probert's journey as an illustrator and author is a testament to the power of embracing one's artistic voice and allowing it to evolve and grow. His work in both animation and illustration has seamlessly merged, resulting in a distinct and captivating style that has captivated readers and fans of fantasy graphic novels. As he looks towards the future, Probert's talent and dedication ensure that his artistic legacy will continue to shine brightly.
