A revelation I had the other day - to block light/shadow into the thumbs because it helps so much with composition and getting the reader’s eye to follow the action within each panel and to flow to the next panel. (Messy sketches, bitchy dialogue and tea ceremonies between strategists from warring eras 1400 years and many miles apart are optional)

For wiser words on sequential art here are some great articles wratty linked to on Alex Toth - an interview, a very detailed and precise critique, an article comparing his work before and after he ‘literally tore up his work and re-drew it based on the critique / feedback received’. Jesse Hamm (author of previous article) also wrote a great summary of why Toth drew better comics than any of us do. I particularly like what (Toth) wrote at the end of his critique:

“I hate giving critiques (…) They anger me! And those I critique! Like you! If you’re angry - don’t waste it on me! Be angry with you! You are in your own hands, like clay waiting to be formed - you must always be your own best teacher! (…) Forget all the fandom bullshit and kudos and hype and (…) adulation - and be true to yourself and your long road ahead to the top, or to wherever you want to go - and don’t let ego stop you from learning to do better, best!”