An interesting case is that of Chris Allison, the full-time, weekday animator for Toonhole, who is responsible for coming up with some of the wackiest comic strips. Most of his attention is collected through the hilarity perceived by the public and the element of surprise every time he releases a comics of his own. These are also old-school because he draws every line in a comic by hand.
While he’s not traversing through the world of animation or taking care of his newborn, Chris finds the time to dabble in creative risks in comics. Chris recently sat down with us to give us an insight into his artistic process, life, and upcoming projects.
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Chris says comics are his passion project. By day he works in animation, with recent credits including Despicable Me 4 and co-directing the short film Benny’s Birthday. But after a long day in front of a screen, Chris finds excitement and freshness in switching to analog materials.
“There are no flat colors digitally, it’s just a click, but it makes a nice challenge in analog. Truly, the limitations push me to think differently and develop new skills, enhancing my digital work. Plus, there is something very satisfying about holding a finished comic in my hand.”
He recently opened an online storefront, Toonhole Chris Store, in which fans can buy original comics that he’s hand-painted. Click here and here to access his earlier posts.
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Chris shows that he values his audience’s feedback: he posts rough ideas from his sketchbook, and when he does the final work, he uses this.
“There are always surprises,” stated Chris. “Sometimes I think a comic is hilarious, but it flops, or something I consider basic goes viral. Feedback helps me judge what resonates with people.”
He does underline the need to sieve the feedback. “Too many opinions can ruin the work. I put more weight on the feedback of a trusted colleague. But ultimately, I make what I think is funny and what I’d send to my friends.”
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In practice, the crossover between the two—his work in animation and comics—is considerable. As a highly collaborative form, animation lends to him the same inclusive sensibility when moving toward his comics.
“I’m constantly sharing works-in-progress with other Toonhole guys and comic artists I admire, like BeetleMoses and ExtraFabulous Comics,” Chris explains. “Getting feedback from trusted eyes ensures that my work communicates what I intend.
Nevertheless, there are still critical contrasts. Some ideas do not fit well in comic panels, and they are more suitable for animation. Comic pages, however, serve as a medium for Chris to be the executioner of subjects—a complete contrast to the collaboration of animation.
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Looking ahead, Chris says he’s excited about several projects he has in the works, though he’s not quite ready to announce anything quite yet. With the recent addition of a newborn baby to his family, some projects might have to be put on hold for a little while.
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“But I’m always eager to work on them: comics, animation, and other wild ideas,” Chris says. “I can’t wait to finish more projects and share them. Hopefully, we’ll have another article to discuss them soon!
Chris Allison’s career as “Toonhole Chris” continues to develop into new mediums, integrating his animation skills with more traditional comic creation. He is very interactive with his audience, able to juggle some new creative ventures at one time, keeping everything fresh and innovative at all times. Keep an eye out for what Chris has in store next!
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