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Mad Props Welcomes Andy Smith: A Deep Dive into Comics, Art, and Industry Insights

Writer's picture: Schnabel StudiosSchnabel Studios

Mad Props ep. 89 - Andy Smith

In the latest episode of Mad Props, host Chris Schnabel sits down with veteran comic book artist Andy Smith to explore his 30-year journey in the comic book industry, from working with Marvel and DC to navigating the ever-changing world of comic storytelling, superhero movies, and the rise of streaming adaptations.


Breaking Into the Comic Industry: Lessons from a Veteran

Andy Smith shares his early struggles breaking into comics and the role that networking and mentorship played in his success. From his formative years at The Joe Kubert School to securing work at Marvel, Andy highlights the importance of versatility in skills—being able to pencil, ink, and design can open more doors in the competitive comic industry.


The Art vs. Story Debate: What Makes a Great Comic?

As a seasoned artist, Andy emphasizes that comic books are a visual medium—art is just as critical as the story itself. While some readers focus purely on plot, he critiques artwork with a technical eye, always looking at composition, linework, and panel flow. The discussion dives into how pricing, storytelling techniques, and audience expectations have evolved over the years.


Superhero Movies and the Future of Comic Book Adaptations

With the rise of comic book movies and streaming adaptations, Andy and Chris examine how character recognition and star power have shaped Hollywood’s approach to the genre. The post-Endgame era of Marvel has brought both excitement and skepticism, with Andy reflecting on whether the industry is relying too much on nostalgia rather than fresh storytelling.


Marvel vs. DC: Navigating the Industry’s Giants

Having worked for both Marvel and DC, Andy discusses the challenges of transitioning between the two comic book titans. While each publisher has its own creative processes, staying adaptable is key to long-term success in the industry. Balancing multiple projects can be tough, but Andy’s advice? "You just have to prioritize"—there’s no room to sit back and wait.


Final Thoughts and the Future of Comics

As the conversation wraps up, Andy shares his perspective on where the comic industry is headed, from new storytelling methods to the potential for industry resets. With streaming services changing the way audiences engage with superheroes, what does the future hold for comic book artists and adaptations?

For comic book enthusiasts, aspiring artists, and fans of superhero movies, this episode of Mad Props is a must-listen.


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