Looks like the Latino community has a new hero!
Anthony James Harmer is a young thriving Latino artist that finds calm in the comic book sphere. Originating in Pasadena, CA, Anthony found his way in San Francsico with his longtime friend Alex Sodari to seek an education at the California College of the Arts in Illustration in hopes of creating what he loves most – COMICS.
Anthony is the cofounder of Mission Arts and Comic Expo alongside Mr. Sodari, where other Latino and LGBT artist can come together and collaborate. Since 2019, both illustrators have conjured up at least three big events for some whimsical and unique individuals from all over. Anthony mentioned a lot about Zinesters and for those of you who are unaware of the term, a Zine (short for magazine) is a publication that ranges from independent comics, to culture, to an art scene, to “Anything you want it to be”. His focus is on comic book creations, which totally fits the vibe.
Harmer went on to tell me about his inspiration for his art style, as he describes as pop surrealism; Geof Darrow, Geof Darrow is a maximalist artist who designed creatures from the Matrix and engulfs himself in futuristic themes. Mike Mignola, who also went to California College of the Arts and later in life created Hellboy. Hellboy was one of the most popular comic book characters in the early to mid-90s and still holds a special place in the hearts of millennials. Mike Mignola played a huge role in Anthony’s decision for his school of choice.
The last artist he mentioned was Dave McKean. McKean is an English multimedia artist that specializes in graphic novels, one of which is called Violent Cases. The first time he showcased his work to editors was in 1986 that quickly led to his first publication the following year.
His career is soon to take off as a non-profit art event organizer where he will receive funding opportunities from corporations like The Boys and Girls Club of America, where before he was funding all of his events out-of-pocket and receiving donations from the public.
His vision didn’t start off as an organizer, initially. Anthony walked through many open doors to get to the position that he’s in. He is what I like to call spontaneous combustion, bursting out into success wherever he sets foot. The amount of zeal it takes to put yourself out there to achieve your dreams is what many young artist strive for.
Anthony currently works at Cinepacks Studios located in Hollywood, CA where he has the liberty to be a part of the film community as well and I am dying to check out the studio for myself!
His biggest challenge is communication pertaining to the way he prices his work. A common struggle that many artists face. We have to all consider the amount of time that is put into these pieces, the size of them, the amount of supplies used, the distance in which you have to deliver the product depending on if it’s a mural. Artists provide a service just as important to the world as any service worker. Art brings tranquility to a chaotic mind, no matter the form.
Anthony’s advice when it comes to aspiring creators is not to be afraid of the unknown and to get out of your bubble to grow. Free your mind of the constraints of doubt and hold space for prosperity. Beef up those skills, young padawans. You deserve to strive! Getting to know this particular artist has been an inspiring experience, he harbors good intentions to bring out the best in others. Here’s to a new friendship, yo!
If you would like to listen to the interview clip with Anthony James Harmer, feel free to listen right below. I’m grateful to have had such amazing interviewees thus far and hopefully level up in conversation abilities with new people.
I highly suggest checking out his portfolio page while I have your attention: https://www.anthonyjamesharmer.com/
Happy Holidays!
Peanuts & Bologna Studios 
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