Re: Batwoman

A lot of you have heard by now that I will no longer be drawing Batwoman, starting with issue 9. 

The info was announced by DC a couple nights ago, very soon after it became final.  It's strange (though sort of cool) having you all on real-time with me here--I'm still in a little shock and my future is up in the air.  My two-year contract with DC is up at the end of this month.

(THANK YOU for all the kind words...they mean a lot to me especially because this just happened.  I am always surprised by the amount of support you give me, when you've heard bad news, or good news, or see new art.  And especially at conventions...I hate using the word "fans" but mine have always been so respectful and enthusiastic and I always come home feeling pretty great, reassured that the demand is out there by people who really get it.  Or even with art sales...other artists have horror stories but I have only ever had great interactions.  So the real-time news--despite the fact it's bad news, I am glad to have a moment where we are all at the same place, at the same time.)

I'm sure there's a lot of curiosity about what exactly happened, which is understandable.  But I can't get too far into it--in addition to trying to be a professional and not burn bridges, it's complicated enough that I find it difficult (and frustrating) to explain even to friends.

The jist of it, though, was that it was a bad situation, and kept getting worse and more intense until it became impossible.  I am a long-term project kinda girl and I was so excited about being on Batwoman...I didn't want to let go of it and fought until it was over.

It was bad enough that now I'd rather just be happy and move forward: I'm honestly very excited by the possibilities.  All this has strengthened my resolve to do my own thing again--write, draw, color, letter.  My work is, by nature, better as a full experience, and the process makes me so incredibly happy that I can't stop drawing.  Which also means more comics for you.  Anyway, not saying it's my guaranteed next step, but if there is a way for me to do that and pay the bills, I will. 

And this brings me to the most important part of this post: If this all happens for me, I'll be honest...I'll need you more than ever.  To stay up to date, to spread the word, to...you know...read my comics!  If you like what you see, share it, to comics readers and newbies alike.  And not just for me--show support for any artists or writers you love.  This industry needs a shake up and I think it's coming.  We all have a chance to shape that by caring.

I should probably mention that despite the fact Batwoman was a struggle, I am very proud of what I did on the book and put a lot of love into it.  Issue 7 comes out this Wednesday and it's even better than 6; I have Rob Hunter and Guy Major to thank for that!  Issue 8 is almost done and it's looking to be a repeat of awesomeness.  I had done part of issue 9 but they aren't going to use the pages.  It's too bad; I was particularly excited about that issue.  I'll probably post a page or two of the work once the issue comes out.

I'll also say that so far DC seems to want to make things right and find me work.  Again, it's all very complex, so all I ask is for your continued enthusiasm and I will get busy finding the right project.

Thank you, really,

Amy