Clover Press has released a whole host of deluxe hardcovers recently focusing on artwork from individual creators, from the late, great Michael Turner to Vinne and beyond. What all of these collections all have in common is one thing: quality. It’s clear that Clover Press puts a great deal of care and craftsmanship into whatever project its staff tackles.
Its latest endeavor is focusing on the talent of artist Tyler Kirkham, known for his gorgeous, detailed rendering of Marvel Comics’ menagerie of characters. Just recently, Clover Press launched a Kickstarter to make The Marvel Art of Tyler Kirkham Deluxe Hardcover a reality! I spoke with Tyler Kirkham recently about selecting pieces for The Marvel Art of Tyler Kirkham, the Kickstarter itself, and how the hardcover can act as both a time capsule and hopefully an inspiration for young artists.
From The Marvel Art of Tyler Kirkham
FreakSugar: Clover Press has made a name for itself for its gorgeous art books. How did this project come about?
Tyler Kirkham: Yes, they really have! I was super happy when they approached me at New York Comic Con a couple years ago. I knew they had some others in the works and I was happy to be on the list of creators they were eyeing! It took me a long time to get them the materials and cover for the book though.
FS: What can we expect from The Marvel Art of Tyler Kirkham?
TK: A fantastic variety of Marvel artwork! From rough layouts to pencils, inks and full colors. As well as interiors and covers. I tried to pick something for everyone! I wanted this to showcase more than covers.
FS: You’ve had such a wide-ranging career. How did you select what pieces to include in the book?
TK: Yeah, I have actually drawn a lot of Marvel characters. Mostly on covers. Some more than others, but I didn’t want the book to be all Venom and Spider-Man. A lot of people don’t even know I’ve done interiors for Marvel. Multiple projects actually. So, I wanted to get some of that in there for sure.
FS: What about rendering Marvel Comics’ characters appeals to you creatively that maybe other artistic endeavors don’t give you?
TK: Well Marvel is Marvel, ya know, and that is exciting! I think now more than ever the world knows these characters. So, it means something to draw them. My first comic book and comic character I ever liked was Wolverine so having the chance to draw him in actual published comics is really cool!
FS: What can we expect from the Kickstarter itself?
TK: Lots of really cool rewards! First and foremost, I created a brand-new cover just for this book! A new Venom piece! Also, the reward options are great! From limited remark sketches, mini print’s, special dust jackets, to a custom puzzle only available on the campaign!
FS: This book could serve as a personal time capsule. Looking back on your work, what are you most proud of? Is it a particular piece or the journey from your beginnings up to the present?
TK: Yes, it really is like that. I’m honored to be a part of the Clover Press art book collection. I think they have something special going here and it’s something people can collect and be proud to own. It feels like I’m part of a special group of people that hopefully will have a lasting effect on comics. I believe this is a book that can inspire and motivate young artists as well! I know when I look at other artists’ books it has that effect on me.
The Kickstarter for The Marvel Art of Tyler Kirkham has already hit its initial goal more than EIGHT TIMES OVER with over three weeks left in the campaign! As we discussed in the interview, Clover Press really does fantastic work with these deluxe hardcover art books. And one focusing on pieces by Tyler Kirkham? What more could you want?