Bill Nichols’ Prescription:
Comics 10ccs of the Process with
Adam Gorham

Sometimes when I’m scrolling through my Twitter feed, I’ll see some art that catches my eye. That’s how it was with Adam Gorham who is currently drawing The Blue Flame for Vault Comics.

-Bill

What inspires you to create and keeps you going?

I love telling stories and I’m always trying to grow as a storyteller, either by improving my art skills or by writing. That’s primarily what drives me.

Do you have a set routine? What kind of output do you try to achieve?

I typically work between 9-5. I drop off my kid at school, exercise, then get to it until about dinner. I will put in some time before bed as well. I still do the occasional late night, but I have gotten better at giving myself time to rest.

What inspires you WHEN you create? Music? Noise? Silence?

I do appreciate some background noise while I work and will listen to music or podcast, if not a tv show or a movie. For inspiration, I read comics, look at art, or read books.

Who was the first comic book creator that influenced you to pursue this?

One of my earliest influences was Bernie Wrightson, but it was Ty Templeton who actually helped me realize I could make a career as a comic artist. I was already working as an indie creator when I met Ty, but he convinced me to take one of his courses and it changed my life. 

What do you find to be a challenge in creating?

The biggest challenge I face is time. There aren’t enough hours in a day, not enough days in a week, and so on. I’ve learned a lot about time management and even on my best days I find I am racing against the clock. Beyond that, I don’t think there’s any part of this job I consider easy. I take it all very seriously and there’s always some step in the process that will stump me unexpectedly. I’m always troubleshooting.

What else do you have to learn?

I never stop learning, and even if I’ve learned something, I am always working to improve my skills. Lately I have started writing comic scripts, so I am putting more effort into becoming a better writer.

What keeps you motivated to get better?

I need to stay competitive with the best artists in the world to get hired and earn a living. If I can’t cut it, then I can’t support my loved ones. It’s as simple as that.

Can you turn your brain (creativity) off (and on)?

Yeah. It’s like a muscle that you need to ease up. You can’t keep your muscles tense and engaged at all times. Ironically, it’s usually when I’ve “switched off” that my real creative thoughts begin to flow.

What advice do you have for aspiring creators?

There’s a lot of stuff I could say, but it all boils down to be prepared to work hard. Don’t expect anything to come easy. And make as many friends as you can. 

Do you ever worry about running out of ideas?

I used to. Now I worry about turning my ideas into something before someone else does. I’ve had several ideas that I did nothing with that I’ve seen other people develop. Ideas happen to everybody, and it’s a race to make them happen. If I don’t, then that’s on me. Now I’m at a point in my career where I’ve done so much work for hire, it feels like it’s time to tell my won stories with my own ideas.

How do you handle the slow times? 

I haven’t had a slow time in a while. I am very fortunate. 

Do you have a website or link to promote your work?

I’m on Twitter and Instagram, @AdamTGorham 

DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed by the above creator are theirs. This interview may not be reprinted or reposted without permission.