Millar Time EP17 - Travis Charest 

I've been a Travis Charest fan for over 20 years. This is the first time I see him talk😅

This is so fun. I miss talking with Travis casually!! Great interview (not done listening yet) Mark and Travis keep kicking butt!

Wild CATS/ X-Men Golden Age had the absolute best art of my childhood. I've never seen Mr. Charest speak. His art is always worth the wait. Thank you!

Travis is an amazing artist and should definitely do more interviews. Love hearing his insight and thoughts. His hair looks like the hair he used to draw in Wildcats 😂

Wow. Travis is human. Another great interview. Can’t wait to see the new book.

i've loved charest since I was a kid and I'm blown away by his humility. Very inspiring. Mark, I hope you get Stuart immonen on the pod sometime!!

This is so cool. I've been a Travis Charest fan since my friend turned me on to his art in that Flash Annual. I try to collect everything he puts out. Mark is correct, he is his own mountain that people aspire to.

ADDITIONAL TIMESTAMPS BELOW: 55:00 Travis discusses how, like in movies, in comics, directors or writers often create characters that are slight idealized versions of themselves or characters they admire. He talks about how Jim Lee's style, in particular, was an influence on him when he started working for Wild Storm, and it took him years to shake off that influence. However, now his style has congealed and, while he can still see influences from Jim Lee and other artists, he's found his own unique style. He also reflects on the fact that, had he gone to a traditional art school, his style might have been different, and he wishes he had known more about color theory and other basics. 1:00:00 Travis and Mark discuss the collaborations between great artists and writers, with Charest stating that he loves it when a great artist works with a great writer. He also mentions that sometimes the best art comes from being challenged, and that he was initially worried about veering too far away from Millar's vision during a previous project but ultimately they were able to maintain the rhythm of the storytelling. Charest also reflects on working with Jim Robinson and Alan Moore during the peak of their powers, mentioning that he wishes he could have been smarter during his work with Moore. 1:05:00 Travis talks about his regret over not putting in more effort and respect towards Alan Moore's work. He also mentions that he was a 25-year-old "dumbass" who felt guilty about it when he looks back at it now. Despite the not-so-good fill-in pages, his art is still highly appreciated, and other people have his pages on their wall. Charest also reveals that he became a European graphic album guy because he felt like he had worn out his welcome in the American comics scene after being labeled a slow deadline-blower. His new start with Humanoids offered him the opportunity to work with Jodorowsky and on a book that a former artist he was a fan of had previously worked on, but he didn't finish it due to a combination of working really big pages and making every bad mistake that an artist could make. 1:10:00 Travis discusses his experience working on a European album for Humanoids. He reveals that he had to repaint the first two pages due to his lack of knowledge on color theory, which led to a complaint from the editor. Charest also shares that he only completed half of the book during his time in Paris, and finished the rest in the United States. He mentions that he was sent to Vancouver and had to spend six months waiting to re-enter the United States due to issues with his residency paperwork. Despite this, Charest enjoyed his time in Paris, as he grew up in a French Canadian town and had a natural affinity for European comics, including Mobius and Heavy Metal. 1:15:00 Travis discusses his past struggles with finances and how that motivated his decision to come back to the comic book industry. He talks about how people used to believe he drew just for amusement, but it was essential for paying the bills. Charest shows off his workspace, which includes a big window, a table for drawing, a bookshelf with comic books, and his daughter’s play area. Charest also discusses his time in Paris, where he lived for seven years, and how he doesn't miss the weather but enjoyed the city's beauty. 1:20:00 Travis talks about his decision to create the comic book Spacegirl. He explains that he was tired of drawing male characters and wanted to create a simple story that he could draw without having to worry about complex lore or backstory. Charest also reveals that he didn't have any idea what the next panel would be as he was drawing the existing panel. He enjoyed not knowing what would happen next and believed that this made the comic book more exciting for the reader. Furthermore, Charest discussed his love of Star Wars and how the first movie still has a huge impact visually. 1:25:00 Travis talks about his childhood memories of being exposed to various comic book characters and iconic superheroes, including the Hulk, Thor, Spider-Man, and Batman. He confesses that he never liked the Batman show or Michael Keaton's portrayal of Bruce Wayne, but he thoroughly enjoyed Keaton's rendition of Batman. He shares his opinions on why people find it hard to write content for Superman, stating that it's because the writers struggle with his perfect, overpowering character and his bright, wholesome image. Finally, he touches upon the controversy of the "red underwear" on Superman's costume, citing that it's part of his real outfit and is not meant to be perceived as underwear. 1:30:00 Travis discusses the idea of drawing Superman with Mark Millar. Charest plans to write a Superman story in the next year or so and wants to create a physically strong Superman, focusing on him being a strong farm boy rather than the muscular superhero he's often depicted as. They also talk about the complexity of Superman's character and how his unique secret identity as Clark Kent adds interest. They touch on the Marvel movies and how they may have hit their peak, suggesting that investing in great directors and having a plan is important to keep superhero films relevant. Charest admits to following certain artists rather than characters in comics. 1:35:00 Travis discusses the excitement of seeing new young artists break through and how impressed he is with their work. He mentions two specific individuals, one of which he believes is working on Batman. Charest also talks about the concerns of some artists over the use of AI and technology to create comics and literature, and how some people are worried about job security. However, he doesn't see it as something to fight against, but rather harness it and make it work for artists instead of against them. 1:40:00 Travis and Mark talk about the rapid pace of technological advancements and how it is changing the way we work. As self-driving cars and smart motorways become a reality, jobs like driving will be replaced with AI. This period of change can be both exciting and frightening, but embracing change can make it more exciting. However, the possibility of an AI comic book artist that can produce thousands of pages in a day with the click of a button is a negative outcome that could reduce the value of human craftsmanship in the art form. The conversation also touches on some famous comic book artists, including Bill Sienkiewicz, who is praised for his unique style that has evolved over the years. The artists' personalities are also discussed, and some are deemed too perfect, too strange, or too otherworldly to be relatable. 1:45:00 Travis discusses how his capacity for alcohol has never let him down with a bad hangover; in fact, as he gets older, the hangovers are getting smaller. He also talks about his love for pubs in Scotland and how pubs are an essential part of the Scottish community, whereas in California, where he currently lives, everything seems to close early, and people live much further apart. Additionally, Charest talks about his experience with living on and buying into farms, including his current ownership of a piece of a farm with cows. 1:50:00 Travis discusses his Farmland in Scotland that he rents out and occasionally visits. He talks about how his children like both the rural and city life and how he has introduced them to things that he enjoys, including TV shows. Additionally, Charest expresses pride and admiration for his daughter, who is also an artist and shows his art to her frequently for feedback. Although her style is completely different from Charest, his youngest daughter diligently draws all the time, and he sees exciting progression in her work. 1:55:00 Travis and Mark talk about the possibility of comic book dynasties and passing on talent to future generations. They discuss how certain professions, like football and carpentry, often have a family legacy, and wonder if the same can be true in the world of comic book art. Travis Charest shares how all of his children inherited artistic talent and how his youngest daughter is even interested in farming. The conversation ends with Mark Millar encouraging Charest to be more confident about his own talents and googling himself to see positive feedback.

Flipping through his issue of Ambassadors while listening to him talk about it and how long of a process it was, gives you a new appreciation for it. Absolutely stunning book. Great interview

Travis Charest's work is incredible.

Years ago, another comic book industry professional also told me that Travis Carest had married rich and was living near Napa Valley and drawing commissions for top dollar whenever he felt like it. The rumor was that he chose not to have his work on shelves on a regular basis.

It’s so great to get to listen to Travis speak about his art and career! I first got into comics in early 90’s and watching charest work on WildCATS he quickly became my favorite artiest(yes better than Jim Lee…there I said it😅) but after that he seemed to disappear which was a shame because in influenced an entire generation of artist! So please Travis we need more art please!! Maybe a 4 issue run on something? Even if it takes you 4-5 years to create it I’ll be waiting patiently. Your the best

If only Travis could see his art the way we see it. Thank you so much for this interview.

His work always looked very illustrated like the European or Spainish Vampirella 70s magazine guys. Always liked his figures.

This series of interviews is amazing! I’ve watched the whole lot in a few days but the drawback is my internal thoughts are now in Mark’s voice 😂. Please make more soon! Love them all!

Wow, can't believe you've got this channel, Mark! This feels like a public service, so thanks for doing this. This is the first time I've laid eyes on Travis after first hearing about him back in the 90s!! I was hoping to break into comics back in the 90s, like everyone else. The first time I heard of Travis, was at the Toronto ComicCon, from an Image editor! He showed me some pages, and the figure and car work was great but, lol, there was this airplane he drew in profile, and the wing was pointing down awkwardly. The Image editor declared to me and my friend that Travis was the best artist in comics. From then I watched for any work that came out. It was obvious he had skills and I looked for anything that came out. But of course there wasn't much. Then he disappeared. A few years ago, I found his Metabaron work and I was blown away! I was thinking, where the hell had he been?? This finally answers that question. FWIW, I saw Jae Lee at this con too. I think he was just signed to Image. And despite his obvious Kelley Jones influence, I remember thinking he's gonna be something once he locked down his anatomy better. Glad he did.

First time I've heard the dude's voice. Lol. I thought he was French and was expecting that accent. Dope how he addressed his deadline issues as most artists will not touch that.

Travis developed to being one of the best and greatest Comic artists ever❤

..this is one of the best interview ive looking forward in many years. wow. thank you travis charest, youre one of the reason why i draw comics and illustration. the inspiration you give mostly to all of us is beyond incomparable. thank you Mark for making it happened.

Another banger interview! I don’t recall ever seeing a picture of Travis or hearing his voice; I expected a pretentious, eccentric dude, but I was way off! Seems pretty down to earth and quite humble. Incredible talent!

My introduction to Travis’ art was WildC.A.TS. / X-Men The Golden Age. That issue alone made me a fan of his artistry, and to this day he draws my favorite version of Wolverine ever. His art continually blows me away.

My hero- I had heard rumors that he was too successful too soon. Glad to see him well and working for the first time ever!

Hearing travis about the process and his experiences was really entertaining, He is one of the best talents ever produced by the industry and influenced a bunch of artists until now. I do hope they make an Artist edition of his works, His artistry and craftsmanship is just off the charts.

Yes to Charest doing a Superman story ❤

Great interview. Would have loved to hear more about his time and experiences at Wildstorm, but it was very illuminating to hear more about Travis as a person, not just an illustrator, and Mark brings that out fantastically in these interviews. Can’t wait to check out the new issue.

Travis is my Mount Everest for sure, I still can’t figure out how he makes the decisions in his art that he does

Wow... It's great to see Travis on video talking about his work, it's an amazing time now that we can see a living legend "live". Just a fantastic vídeo, Thanks

Man, ive been missing out! These are great podcasts!! I am going to go check out Capullo and Sean Murphy after this!

Hearing Travis Charest just talking about his experiences is just inspiring

As always a great interview! Very interesting!😎🎯👍

This man needs to draw more millarworld books or covers

I remember either reading this or hearing this during an interview. Adam Hughes called Travis Charest either the best or his favorite illustrator.

If I remember right at least Marvel did ask Travis Charest to draw a WW2 book and that was in the last 10 years but nothing came out of it other than some sketches with Wolverine and Captain America.

This video makes me VERY happy. Thank you Travis for agreeing to do it, and thank you Mark for putting together these amazing interviews with your friends. I've been a huge fan since Homage-- and I've had a Travis sketch on my wall for over 20 years! I can't wait to for tomorrow's issue of The Ambassadors!

Travis, keep taking your time and gift us with your wonderful art treasures. What a great interview!

Awesome! Loved it!

I think this is my fave chat you've had so far. loved how candid and open he was about his journey as an artist and the ups and downs. thanks mark, thanks travis!

Ahaha the kid yelling "You're going down Marvel and DC." They're doing that to themselves.

I have been an Artist (and musician) my entire life. I have been producing my own XXX adult comics now for 24 years with great success.. and I am completely boggled by Travis Charest.. Oh I know how to draw, that part doesn't bother me.. it's the excessive accuracy and mad level of DETAIL and BACKGROUNDS.. especially tech scenes, sci-fi, machinery, ship interiors, all that.. not just perfect expressive life-like human forms, it's ALL amazing and perfect.. I know why it takes him forever, I just don't know how to have THAT level of focus and sharp vision, to do that level of line work.. ok I'll shut up now. Yes Travis, you have this comics artist BABBLING.

It's a bit hard to think about how a comic could take 3-4 years to draw lol. Especially since a comic takes fairly quick to read. Looking forward to issue 3. I have a friend who is an illustration major, but doesn't read The Ambassadors, I'm interested to hear their thoughts on the comic if I show it to them.

If everyone could see the crazy references artists have scattered around their studios, they might question our sanity. My wife gave up asking, "what is that sitting on your desk?" "I have to draw it." LOL

It makes me laugh having them talking about Bryan Hitch as a fast artist. I remember around the Ultimates, it took so much time to come out cause he was such a perfectionist. I wonder if he has changed since.

Great interview as always. Just super fun to hear you and your guests talk shop. Spacegirl was so good! I loved that it was just a train of thought, space adventure!

This series has been great. I really hope you are going to continue with this channel and upload more!

Love this! These two guys were fascinating. Wish they would do more like this.

I heard a lot of good things about the Ambassadors from Nerdrotic. I had no idea Travis would draw one book. The guy is brilliant. I remember seeing his stuff on DC's the Dark Stars which reminded me of Jim Lee's style. He became one of the favorite new artists right there. Then he went to Wild Cats and he blew me away, his stuff had made leaps and bounds. He was so great but he could not keep a monthly schedule. Then he reappeared in the Wildcats-X-Men crossover for a few issues and it was again fantastic. Then we seem to have lost him to those damn Europeans but his work will always be in my memory.

TIMESTAMPS BELOW: In this episode of Millar Time, Mark Millar talks with comic book artist Travis Charest about his upbringing, how he got into the industry, and his artistic process. Charest discusses the theory that the dominant comic book artists of the 80s and 90s were all born around the same time due to the inspiring content they grew up with, and how this influenced his love for comic books. He also talks about the importance of self-analysis, the struggle to find a hobby in comics in his small town, and the necessity of learning to survive on his grandparents' farm. The conversation also covers his studio, marketing strategies, and the benefits of digital art. Charest also speaks candidly about his dislike for lightboxes, his love of creating unique characters, his process of finding inspiration, and the pressure to produce pages quickly for deadlines. Travis Charest also discusses various topics with Mark Millar, including his collaborations with great writers, his struggles with finances, his love of European comics and Paris, his creation of the comic book "Spacegirl," his childhood memories of iconic superheroes, and his plans to write a physically strong Superman story. They also touch on the rapid pace of technological advancements, the possibility of AI replacing human craftsmanship in the comic book industry, and the idea of passing on artistic talent to future generations. The conversation ends with Millar encouraging Charest to be more confident in his talents and to google himself to see positive feedback. 0:00 Travis chats with Mark on their 20-year-old professional relationship, the evolution of the comic book industry, and the emergence of new artists who have caught his attention. He also discusses the importance of self-analysis and self-correction and praises Brian Hitch for his excellent mix of self-confidence and respect for those who worked before him. 5:00 Travis and Mark discuss the theory that the group of comic book artists and writers who dominated the industry in the 80s and 90s were all born around the same time because they all grew up surrounded by the same inspiring content, including blockbuster movies like Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Charest particularly notes how his own love for comics was fueled by great stories and artwork, and how this is quite different from his experience with music, where his interest is limited to the music he grew up with as a teenager. The conversation then shifts to Charest's memories of visiting Brian Hitch's house and marveling at the man's incredible talent for playing a range of musical instruments. 10:00 Travis talks about his upbringing in a small town in Northern Alberta, Canada, where he spent most of his summers on a farm with his grandparents. Charest found it challenging to build a hobby around comics, even just buying them was considered a luxury as they would have to travel into the city. As his family were not wealthy, anything he had was second hand. Charest also talks about the necessity of learning to butcher animals and perform other tasks to survive on the farm. Despite not growing up around comics, Charest is now considered one of the most iconic artists for comic book fans and artists alike. 15:00 Travis talks about his studio, which he shares with his daughter, and how he likes to do his manual labor on his painting and pencil drawing. He loves looking around other people's studios, seeing the tools they use and being inspired by them. Despite not growing up with access to comic books, Charest knew he could always draw a little bit and he and another artist who were in similar circumstances would look for illustrations anywhere they could find them, like on cereal boxes or in phone book ads for plumbers or handymen. They would copy panels from comics and even learned from poorly drawn ads that used artwork from comic books, like an ad for blinds that used a panel from Dave Gibbons' Watchmen. 20:00 Travis talks about the marketing strategies that companies use to attract children. He mentions ice cream trucks and how they have cartoon characters painted on their sides to lure kids in. He also talks about how Tarzan and Superman, which were once the biggest things in the world, are now forgotten by younger generations. Charest then tells the story of how he got into the comic book industry by mailing samples to Marvel and DC, which led to him getting his first job with The Flash. He also talks about how some artists quickly find their footing and become successful, and recalls the Jim Lee vibe that was present in his early work on The Flash. 25:00 Travis details how he got into comics and how he discovered the work of Jim Lee. He recounts how he was working at a plumbing wholesaler when a friend of his showed him Jim's Uncanny X-Men comics during lunch break, and he was immediately impressed. Travis then went home to draw sample pages and submitted them to comic book publishers, but he did not receive any response. He spent the next year practicing and drawing every day and was eventually hired in the early '90s. He worked on a lot of titles, mostly works that he wasn't thrilled about as it took time to get used to characters' costumes and requirements. He also explains how the comics industry was a production line back then, where publishers were releasing 200 books per month. 30:00 Travis talks about his early struggles as an artist, particularly in regards to rendering technique. He mentions that if he had taken a couple of classes from someone who knew what they were doing, it could have helped his career. Charest admits he has never been a fast artist and has been pegged as a "not a deadline guy." He also reveals that Mark Millar was the first person to offer him a book in ten years. Charest and Millar discuss the different work methods of the artists in their book, noting that some are slow but produce incredible results. 35:00 Travis talks about the benefits of digital art compared to working pencil on board. He explains that it's so much easier to find mistakes before the point of no return and can resize and flip things around easily, unlike traditional pencil on board. He also shares that he likes to draw figures directly and hates doing backgrounds, but with digital art, he can use reference photos to find inspiration and use them as a base layer before drawing the characters and other elements on top. This allows him to have more creative freedom while still having a helpful guide to work off of. 40:00 Travis discusses his dislike for using lightboxes and his preference for focusing on characters and details rather than environmental backgrounds. However, for his latest project, "Ambassador," he wanted to create a setting that felt specific to Paris and spent a lot of time researching and finding angles on Google Earth to use as a reference. Charest also ran every page and line of dialogue by French friends to ensure accuracy. "Ambassador" is one of the new franchises that Charest created for Netflix and has the potential to spin off into its own TV show. Each character was carefully crafted to stand on its own, and the French mother-son duo has a depth that could make them the focus of their own show. However, Charest acknowledges that the writer's work is only a small fraction compared to the amount of time and effort that the artist puts in. 45:00 Travis discusses his experiences working with different writers and the importance of enthusiasm in scripts. He mentions that he has worked with some writers whose scripts were dry and lacked excitement, but notes that Miller's scripts were always filled with enthusiasm. Charest also talks about the time it takes to create great art and how it varies depending on the artist. He mentions that he tries to work a regular schedule, starting around 9 am, and doesn't work too much at night. He emphasizes the importance of taking time to think and plan out each panel, even if it looks like nothing is happening while he's sitting there. 50:00 Travis discusses his process and how he can't just sit down and start drawing, often needing to nibble away at the edges before he can get into the meat of a piece. He also shares an example of an artist he met who set a time limit for himself to draw one page a day and would stop working on it once the clock struck five. Charest has experimented with time limits himself, but often finds himself wanting to improve upon his initial work. Charest also touches upon the notion of perfectionism and not always trusting one's instincts when it comes to art. Lastly, the conversation shifts to his work on WildCats and the pressure to produce pages quickly for a deadline.

Travis and Mark. Two of my favorite creators!!! Great interview!!!

I remember loving some of the Knightfall covers he did, for some reason despite being a very generic 90s art style there was something about them that made them cooler, and I was extremely disappointed when I googled him and found out he improved so much over the years he looked like a completely different artist lmao

such a fan that i snagged the euro edition of WC/X-Men: golden age just to see it in it’s oversized glory. Also loved his WS connecting variant covers. going to have to revisit those for my next studies.

Travis has kind of a self-effacing Clark Kent vibe that belies an underlying intensity that his eyes can't conceal, as if laser heat vision could suddenly erupt cutting straight to the heart in a flash, while Mark has an almost maternal soothing affable everyman best friend feel as if it'd be a pleasure to shelter you under his wing. Together they could become a creative powerhouse that might move the world. Good show guys, thanks for sharing.

Still cannot believe he is a normal human being - this is fucking CHAREST people! Very enjoyable episode!

So much great information I can never shut these off when I start them!

excellent conversation

One of the best artist in the world, his work inspires me until today.

LOVE THIS INTERVIEW!! Please you have to work again soon!!!

Great interview. I can't wait until you talk with Stuart Immonen.

So excited for this! Thx for the great work Travis!

Very glad the original promo commentators are back

my all time favorite artist. this is epic!

jus read the new nemesis....fuck ya . wanted and nemesis. sooooooooo stoked

Loved this interview. PIcked up a copy of Ambassadors 3 yesterday. I wish Travis had spoken about some of the projects that got side lined especially the World War 2 stuff. I seen pages involving Captain America and Wolverine. Also whats coming next? There was a int of a Superman project .

That's a nice drawing space.

I believe the book of art studios is Studio Space from Image. I have it, and it's great. I love looking at artists' studios.

Just went and pre=ordered Ambassadors number 3 in a shot! Wow!

Speaking about AI, imagine an AI who could model Travis Charest' art style who could produce work on a regular basis where you could essentially put a book together with it and it would come out monthly. That would be Travis' nightmare. 😆

I'd LOVE to see Travis on Batman. What a treat. Maybe him and Jimenez art chores

Some over sized hardcovers or an omnibus if Millarworld titles please.

awesome interview man!

Thanks ❤

Travis has an incredible head of hair

please superman by Millar and Charest, I need this , I need

Blade on the side of an ice-cream truck, brilliant.

Keith Giffen, Simon Bisley, Liam sharp, sam kieth, Tex! Interviews please

amazing artist!!

@millartime5717 Just saw the preview for The Ambassadors, beautiful book! Can't wait to get my hands on those issues. BTW, the link to the HWR goes to a 404 not found page. Might need to update it!

Holy shit!

52:19 every panel of space girl is ONLY 2 hours? what the hell man, and people say Travis Charest is slow?

Reprint SpaceGirl!!!

Travis Charest is one of my favorite artist of all time. But... I have been pronouncing his name as "Cha-REY." I even met him twice in person at SD Comic-Con and referred to him as Mr. Cha-REY and he never corrected me. But, from what I hear other artists call him Cha-REST. I wonder if Mr. Charest has a preference.

Blade Ices 😂😂😂 I love it!

Mark, the Night Club and Ambassadors links are broken

YESSSSSSSSSS

I heard the wine story from a Wildstorm alum too

What's amazing about this video is that we STILL don't know how to properly pronounce Travis's last name.

I wish you would have asked, why doesent Travis do a crowd fund book? He can’t take all of the time he wants on something like that. Even if he relaunched the space girl books which are what $200 on eBay lately?

Nice stuff

Nice haircut mark and wow beautiful wife good for you my friend your definition the goal !

What's the name of the artist they've talked at the minute 13:50?The one the wife colour his work.

I'm surprised that he's an Alberta boy like me.

No Way!!

hot damn!

Flash annual 5 and Wildcats

I have hair envy.

64 pages of Superman. See you in some years but please.

I'm really not shocked that DC were gonna sell Superman in 74 and that he's a character that was out of touch. Cause as a kid growing up in the 70s and 80s, to me he was corny. Mainly because the comics themselves were silly whereas you would read the Marvel Comics and they were dynamic and more dramatic. I think it took me Neil Adams doing Batman and then later on that Wolfman/Perez New Teen Titans run to get interested back in DC. And then the Superman movie showed us all how Superman could be cool again. And then John Byrne.

Lol, showing your age and tech literacy with the comments about new music there. 😂 I find new music all the time in my upper 30s thanks to streaming platforms.

… the greatest artist in the world right now… if not the greatest of all time -> are you kidding me?

i envy charest's hair :(

Mark - would be happy to go on a date with your actress/model friend, message me.