MAD: Jaime, it’s good to talk to you again! We had some correspondence a couple of years ago in regards to a zine I was working on, and I’ve always dug your style and subject matter (primarily comic books and horror art). It has been very cool to see your repertoire grow and your merch expand. First off, a very basic question - when/how did you first get involved with creating art and who were some of your initial influences?
JAIME: Hello again and thanks for giving this interview to share some of my story. I've drawn ever since I was very young. I'm a self taught artist and really didn't get into doing more art and selling till I was in my 20s. Alot of my influences were from 80s toons and Manga movies. Shows like DragonBall, Thundercats, and Ninja Scroll. Alot of retro animation.
MAD: Your work also includes digital renderings. What are the primary methods and tools you use to create your pieces, and what is the typical size of your sketch cards and prints?
JAIME: I use a Google chromebook and use programs called ibispaint and medibang. Most of my digital prints are 11x14 and my sketch cards are drawn in 2.5x3.5 size.
MAD: You’re very consistent in your output, as it seems you’ve added something new every week for the past few years. Do you keep track of how many pieces you’ve created so far in terms of the total number?
JAIME: I've never really kept track of what I've sold but have a few pics with buyers to remember those pieces which have been purchased.
MAD: As stated, a good portion of your art involves characters from horror movies. What are a few of your all-time favorite horror films, and have you seen any newer horror films lately, which have impressed you?
JAIME: I'm a 80s horror fan fanatic so I love practical effects and the original slasher like Myers or Jason. I do like modern horror also. One of my new favorites is the Terrifier franchise
MAD: What type of music are you in to? Do you ever listen to music for creative inspiration?
JAIME: I like alternative and metal music while drawing. Bands like Avatar and Infected Rain are some of my favorites.
MAD: What are your honest thoughts on the booming emergence of AI generated art? Do you, as an artist yourself, consider AI art to be a legitimate format? And beyond that, what are your thoughts on AI in general, for use in making music and writing?
JAIME: I think AI can help us learn and become better as artists and writers while inspiring us also.
MAD: I see you have been hitting some conventions lately with your merch booth. Are there any upcoming events that you’d like to mention today? Also, what’s some of the new stuff that you’re currently working on?
JAIME: I haven't had time to do any conventions at the moment but I do have some new sketch card sets I'm working on for Dynamite Entertainment.
MAD: Do you have any advice for any fellow artists out there who might be feeling unmotivated or in need of some creative inspiration?
JAIME: I always like to try and explore different types of mediums in art. If you get bored or uninspired I just take a break and try something different.
MAD: Favorite comic book characters?
JAIME: Marvel - Daredevil and Xmen. DC - The Flash
MAD: Once again, thanks for taking some time to talk with HORROR TO CULTURE today, and I wish you continued creative energy moving forward! In close, is there anything you’d like to leave readers with today, or a favorite quote?
JAIME: Thanks again for the interview and let's keep drawing and inspiring others.
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Michael A. Dyer is the host of the HORROR TO CULTURE podcast and website.
Jaime Lopez is a self taught artist specializing in horror and comic books. His work is available for purchase HERE .
