Q & A With Lonnie Millsap

Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing cartoonist Lonnie Millsap after his book release party for his latest work, I Asked For a Fork.


1. What influences you as an artist?
 
I'm influenced by lots of things. I like to think I can make some people laugh, so at times my ideas may come from daily interactions with people or certain situations that somehow expand into an absurd idea for a cartoon.

 
2. Who are other artists you admire?
 
One of my favorite cartoonists is Jim Benton. His work is really funny and prolific in the volume of cartoons that he draws. I also admire artists/cartoonists like Gary Panter, Keith Knight and Tone Rodriquez. They are also prolific and their work is engaging, thought provoking and funny. They are all at the top of their game.

 
3. What is a typical day for you? 
 
My typical day is pretty boring. I'm kind of a nighttime cartoonist, so I usually do most of my thinking and drawing after 8 or 9pm and go until 3 or 4 in the morning. It's quiet then and I'm a little less distracted. In the morning I do normal morning stuff and play basketball during the afternoon a few times a week. Playing basketball clears my mind and makes ideas happen...plus, I get the satisfaction of being a cartoonist that can play sports.  

 
4. Do you listen to music when you create if so what?
 
I don't listen to music when I draw. If anything I'll keep the TV on, but I don't really pay attention to it.

 
5. Best and worst con experiences
 
My best experience was probably in 2011 when Keith Knight let me share his table to exhibit with him at San Diego Comic-Con. It was my first time to ever attend any kind of convention ever and it was fun and overwhelming. My worst con experience was a guy who was laughing and looking at my cartoons, but started yelling for me to not engage him. It was kind of disturbing, but you get people like that sometimes I guess.

 
6. Do you have a favorite of all the works you have done?
 
One of my favorites is about a couple of birds discussing their beaks. It's only funny to me though...I am the only person who likes that particular cartoon. People will probably laugh at it two hundred years from now...when there are no more birds.

 
7. How do you recharge if you feel tired creatively?
 
Usually a good nap helps...


Check out his website for more at lonniemillsap.com. His latest book I Asked For a Fork is available now!