TWEAKING THE KIDS OUT: SKOTTIE YOUNG ON NEW X-MEN

[MattBrady]

<a href="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/blogNXM_colorsheet.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/blogNXM_colorsheet_t.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a> by Benjamin Ong Pang Kean

Skottie Young isn’t new to Marvel readers, having drawn Spider-Man: Legend of the Spider-Clan, X-Men/Runaways: FCBD 2006 Edition (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=69610), New Warriors, Human Torch (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=1147), and most recently the Spider-Man Family Featuring Spider-Clan (http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/spiderclan/CB_young.html).

But where can you find him now? Well, he’s currently the cover artist for the Fabian Nicieza-written Cable/Deadpool monthly series and soon, his art will grace the interiors of Craig Kyle and Chris Yost's New X-Men.

Concluding our series of interviews with the New X-Men creative team, we spoke with the Marvel-exclusive Young about his latest gigs.

Newsarama: Before we get to the new stuff, didn't you mention halfway through your and Zeb Wells' New Warriors (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=40405) limited series that the both of you are developing a new project together? What's happened to it?

Skottie Young: Yeah, I'm a little sensitive about that subject. Zeb is very close to my heart and not working with him is bringing me many sleepless nights. Seriously though, things just got crazy for both of us this past year. Zeb and I had a few different ideas that are still on the table and will reunite soon enough. Zeb... I love you, come back to me.

NRAMA: How did these latest gigs come about then? Perhaps your new sketchbook B-Sides got to the right people at the right time, although as mentioned, you're not exactly a new creative face in the Marvel offices…

SY: Well, the beauty of the exclusive (http://www.newsarama.com/WWLA06/Marvel/WWLACUPOJOE.htm) contract is, I'm sure to get work. [laughs] It didn't have anything to do with my new sketchbook, though. I actually don't think anyone at Marvel has seen it yet. I'm pretty sure I haven't even left the house since it was published.

It was really pretty simple. Marvel and I were working together to put a new project together while I was writing and illustrating my Frankenstein short story when [editors] Sean Ryan and Nick Lowe called me up and asked if I wanted to come in and take over on the New X-Men. I was excited to get the chance to try my hand at that book. I love the characters and the mood that the book has.

<center> <a href="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/blogFRANK0001.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/t_blogFRANK0001.jpg" border="0"></a><a href="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/blogFRANK0002.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/t_blogFRANK0002.jpg" hspace="3" border="0"></a><a href="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/blogFRANK0008.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/t_blogFRANK0008.jpg" border="0"></a></center>

As far as the Cable/Deadpool covers go, same thing… just a phone call, a question, and a simple answer of yes.

NRAMA: Over at your blog (http://skottieyoung.blogspot.com/), you're previewing sketches of some of the character who will be appearing in your upcoming NXM run. How familiar were you with these characters prior to getting the gig?

SY: Not extremely. I've seen them, but hadn't read all of the books. I'm a terrible comic fan sometimes and don't get the chance to read as much as I want. But I spent a lot of time on the phone with Chris, drilling him about every character and what they are about. So, I think that I have a pretty good grasp on the idea of them, now if I could just draw them better I'd be getting somewhere. Has anyone ever noticed how many characters are in that book?

<a href="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/blogNXM_design_Hellion.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/t_blogNXM_design_Hellion.jpg" border="0" align="left"></a> NRAMA: Well, according to Chris, there’re still “25 students left, not counting Quentin Quire.” So, what are your plans, creatively- and artistically-speaking, for these characters?

SY: My biggest goal is to make this group of kids, teens, feel like... well, teens. You'll notice on the characters I put their age (given to me by the writers) so I can keep that in mind while approaching these characters. I think if the kids look more [like] their [own] ages than the extreme situations they find themselves in, things will feel heavier. Age can tell you a lot about someone, and youth carries a lot of visual indications for you. Inexperience, temper, immaturity, etc. All of these things can make a hairy situation that much hairier.

Artistically, I want darken up my work. I don't want people to think they're going to get New Warriors art from this book. NW was a light, funny book so I tried to draw it in that tone. This is going to be a little grittier. This first arc alone will be a whole new world for me to draw and actually falls much more in the realm of things I like to draw.

<a href="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/blogNXM_design_Surge.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/t_blogNXM_design_Surge.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a> NRAMA: That said, some of the changes to the character designs are quite significant. So, why change the characters in such a manner?

SY: I wouldn't say I'm changing them, just tweaking them a little. I like the characters, but felt that I could add a little more individuality to each character by adding and subtracting a few little things. Like Surge, for example. She is Japanese, and I wanted to try and make her feel Japanese at first glance. Taking into consideration the texture of Japanese girls’ hair, their height, weight, etc. My hope is that if you pick up the book for the first time, you won't have to be told that she is Japanese. So, again, I'm not changing, just tweaking. I think the designs are all great, and that's part of the reason I wanted to jump on this title. All the tweaks are based on the info Chris has given me on each character and what they’re about.

NRAMA: Which character or characters had been taking more time to get used to? Why?

SY: Actually, they're all a challenge. I think the shear number of characters [in the book itself is] a challenge. That seems to be my biggest hurdle at the moment.

<a href="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/blogNXM_design_Pixie.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/t_blogNXM_design_Pixie.jpg" border="0" align="left"></a> NRAMA: You're working with Craig and Chris for the first time. How much have you learnt from your experiences with Kaare Andrews, Brian K. Vaughan, C.B. Cebulski, Zeb Wells, and how are you sharpening your skills with your work on NXM?

SY: Any time you work with great, creative writers, you get the chance to grow as an artist and I've been lucky so far. All the writers you mentioned were a blast to work with and most of remained great friends of mine.

NRAMA: Moving on to the Cable/Deadpool covers, what was the mandate, if any, given to you when you got the assignment? Or did you have a free hand in designing the covers?

SY: No real mandate. I do get some notes on what the issue will have in it, but past that I get to play around a lot. I actually love this gig. It's a chance for me to test other styles. After the first few covers, I started playing with texture and a little more loose style of drawing. I'm pretty happy with a few of these covers.

NRAMA: Were you familiar with the two characters? One's an assassin and another's a time-displaced fugitive who's now a member of the X-Men. So, how'd you set to showcase their personalities and charisma when coming up with the covers?

<a href="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/blog_CABDPL038bSM_COV.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newxmen/Skottie/t_blog_CABDPL038bSM_COV.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a> SY: I think each character has been defined well over the years so it makes my job pretty easy when drawing them. I think the tone of the title also allows for some elbow room to do some fun stuff.

NRAMA: What's your dream Marvel project?

SY: Generation X. You can read any interview I've ever done and I'll say the same thing.

NRAMA: Yes, I do remember you mentioning about this book in our interviews…

SY: I loved that book and have always dreamed of drawing those characters and that world. It was so different than your average super-hero book. I figure if I answer with that [same answer often] enough, one day it will happen. [laughs]

NRAMA: Ever thought of writing [i]and drawing your own stuff some day? And what's this To Be A Monster pages that you'd previewed on your website?

SY: The answer is yes, and the second question answers the first. I just wrote and illustrated my first story at Marvel. Monster of Frankenstein that was in Legion of Monsters: Werewolf by Night. I think it hit
shelves last month.

But, yes, I've very interested in taking on some more writing. I love the art side of things, but I think that with writing there are more genres that I can play with. There are some things that I would love to write and not really want to draw. So, I'll be trying my hand at that some over the coming years as well.

Related articles:
CHRIS YOST ON NEW X-MEN & MAGIK’S RETURN (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=104799)

MOVING INTO THE MANSION: NIKO HENRICHON ON NEW X-MEN (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=104967)

[wretchedangel]

pixie looks great i love that character :D

[mheath81]

I loved Young on New Warriors, but I think I'm already getting sick of his style. Love the Cable/Deadpool cover though, would liek to see more like that. also, that Frankenstein artwork looks good, how come we never see that detail in his Marvel stuff?

[DBHughes]

Such a shame. Marvel finally brings back the one, true Magik; and it's going to be ruined by Skottie Young's graffiti.

[michaelman9]

Skottie's stuff is very hit or miss with me. I think he does well on an energetic book. I was really digging Mark Brooks then paco Medina though...I'll give it a shot though.

[Bird Flu Man]

Hellion looks a little too much like Wither and Rictor for my tastes . . . I always pictured him as much more prep than grunge.

And X-23 looks a little too goth . . . almost like another Sister Grimm.

The others looks great though (even Beast Boy . . . I mean, uhm, Anole). The Pixie design is the best!

[Timberoo]

Reminds me a bit of Bret Blevins' work on New Mutants.

[purplerocket]

Designs look good, i'd like to see some preview pages as I think his first issue is out next month. Pretty cool that Young on New X-Men and Medina gonna be doing the new New Warriors book. I'm well up for both.

[Ye Olde Iowa]

I'm a big fan of Skottie's work and a huge New X-Men fan, and I think there is some great chemistry between the two. I like the designs here and the energy that he brings to them. I understand he is an acquired taste, but having him around for a few issues will really shake things up and I like the results. Don't get me wrong, Medina and Brooks have been great, but it's nice to see someone who can better convey the "teen" feel of the characters.

[AdamYJ]

NRAMA: What's your dream Marvel project?

SY: Generation X. You can read any interview I've ever done and I'll say the same thing.

NRAMA: Yes, I do remember you mentioning about this book in our interviews…

SY: I loved that book and have always dreamed of drawing those characters and that world. It was so different than your average super-hero book. I figure if I answer with that [same answer often] enough, one day it will happen. [laughs][/i]

Well . . . he better get that to happen soon or else it probably won't. I mean, what have we got left here. M, Husk, Penance and Emma Frost are still around and pretty much in the same shape as they were before. Mondo's evil. Synch, Skin and Banshee are all dead. Jubilee's depowered. Chamber's depowered and turned into the spawn of Apocalypse. New X-Men may be as close as he's going to get unless he's called on to do a flashback story.

Though, now I really want to see his take on Jubilee.

[O.J. Flow]

When did Marvel get the rights to Beast Boy?? :p

[PhilipAMoore]

Reminds me a bit of Bret Blevins' work on New Mutants.

how Bret is a realist Scotty is an impressionist these are very different stiles
if you had siad Leifiled I would agreed

no offence just curious

[CoreyB]

I LOVE those Frankenstein pages!

[jeremysee]

Not since that recent issue of New X-Men w/ Rouleau on guest pencils has the team looked so cool. Young's pencil's are fresh and fun, with a cartoon dynamics few can achieve. His run on Venom was stellar and the Torch series was very cool. I dropped the New X-Men from my pull list, but it looks as though i'm jumpin back on.

and that 2-gun Deadpool cover is bad-ass!!

[protonik]

I loved Young on New Warriors, but I think I'm already getting sick of his style. Love the Cable/Deadpool cover though, would liek to see more like that. also, that Frankenstein artwork looks good, how come we never see that detail in his Marvel stuff?

Define what you mean by detail. I loved the Frankenstein stuff, it shows a versatility to Skottie Young that many didn't think was there but I'd say his usual work was more detailed because the Frankenstein story was more blacks than detail work.

[Hunter Zero]

One of my least favorite atists on one of my favorite books. I hate it when Marvel does this to me. I will have to suck it up and get pass my extreme dislike of Young's art since I do love the writing of New X-men so much. Out of all those images I think Pixie is the only one that looks even half way good. The rest all look like stuff I have seen a hundred other times in different takes on teens. The Surge image especially is horrible.

[Police-dude]

I always want to like Young's artwork, but somehow i just cant. And I really dislike the dicision of him drawing New X-men.
I just hope his artwork doesnt draw me away from the series. Cause it's a great series!

[PhilipAMoore]

Young's pencil's are fresh and fun, with a cartoon dynamics few can achieve. His run on Venom was stellar and the Torch series was very cool.

he did not draw Venom that was Paco Medina the artist he is replacing

[kalorama]

I really disliked Young's work the first time I saw it (while flipping through an issue of Human Torch). But as it's evolved and improved I've done a real turnaround. I loved his work on the NEw Warriors mini (the only reason I bought the book, really) and think he'd be a nice fit on the New X-Men characters.

[protonik]

he did not draw Venom that was Paco Medina the artist he is replacing

He did to draw Venom. He drew a few issues following Herrera

[nobleman]

One of my least favorite atists on one of my favorite books. I hate it when Marvel does this to me. I will have to suck it up and get pass my extreme dislike of Young's art since I do love the writing of New X-men so much. Out of all those images I think Pixie is the only one that looks even half way good. The rest all look like stuff I have seen a hundred other times in different takes on teens. The Surge image especially is horrible.

Pixie's look was done by J Scott Campbell in Danger Girl a looooooooong time ago with the li'l flowery pants...so even she's redudant. So surprised to read how many people enjoy this guy's art. I thought it was Whore-rendous when they showed most of these sketches a while back.

Ah well, stopped buying this book after the Prodigy storyline where it was an alternate world. No since in trying it again anytime soon. Even if the storylines were good I would't be able to get past the art. But glad to know that others will enjoy this.

[Masked Vigilante]

OMG! That is ____ing awesome. I love the team and the art,

[POWRSURG]

I hate being a negative poster, but I just don't feel like Young is the right fit for New X-Men. His style fit the Frankenstein short story phenomenally well, but it just feels weird on New X-Men. I'll still give it a chance and hope I'm proven wrong, but this just seems like an odd pairing to me.

[Legend437]

I'm somewhat interested. I'm a bit thrown off since Hellion looks more like Wither, that and it looks like he hasnt taken a shower. Not so happy about X23 looking like Sister Grimm, but the others look fine. I'll keep reading either way, since I'm too much of a fan of this book. I just hope he draws my fav character, Mercury, pretty well. Here's hoping. :)

[pop monkey]

I really don't understand all you haters coming down on Skottie's work. The man is a fantastic artist and he knows more about dynamism and style than plenty of other modern comic artists. I'd be curious to know what your choice artist for the book would be (and don't say Jim Lee or Michael Turner, or I'll put you on the bottom of the respectability list). Maybe you don't care for his style, which I can understand, but don't dare call him a bad artist -- that's one thing he's not.

[Floodnado]

Really, I think Young's a good artist but on a a less frenetic, more serious book I don't think his style works at all. It basically only lends itself to one type (or very few types) of story and that's something fast-paced enough to match his cartoony, energetic style.

Really, if I wanted a more cartoony art style, I'd rather see Khary Randolph (who did the last issue or two of New Mutants) as he's able to tone it down a little to where it doesn't seem so out of place.

[pop monkey]

Pixie's look was done by J Scott Campbell in Danger Girl a looooooooong time ago with the li'l flowery pants...so even she's redudant. So surprised to read how many people enjoy this guy's art. I thought it was Whore-rendous when they showed most of these sketches a while back.


Yes, J. Scott Campbell invented the "li'l flowery pants" look. Get real. I'm surprised at your surprise over how many people like Skottie's art -- you're either not picky enough when it comes to artistic taste, or too picky, I can't tell which. Given your uncalled for "whore-rendous" line, I'm assuming you just have poor taste all around.

[Ragnarokker]

Best choice possible for NXM. Simply because he draws them as real teenagers. Not hulking body builders. I love the energy in his work and the variety of his facial expressions. Also he's a super nice guy.

[maxx]

to those complaining about his style being graffiti influenced...man these designs arent even close to his early stuff...his early stuff was more graffiti influenced than these designs.

[ZacWilliam1]

I love skottie's art. It's just so dynamic and FUN. I've NEVER bought new X-men, but I think I will when he comes on board. Hope he stays with it a long time.

[Grimm22]

NOOOOOOOOO! Marvel turned Hellion into an emo!

[dleif]

I FREAKING LOVE YOUNGS ART:D

[Floodnado]

NOOOOOOOOO! Marvel turned Hellion into an emo!

Yeah, that's a problem I have. Hellion is, essentially, a rich, preppy jerk (albeit a nice guy beneath it all) and that's what his look conveyed. Now, he looks like some generic "Grr! I'm angry at the world! *posts a long-winded LiveJournal rant*" kid.

[PoisonElf]

Awesome. I'll be sure to pick this up.
I wish he could have been on X-Men instead of Ramos but whatyagonnado.

[Kid Doozer]

Deadpool is looking a little SCUDish there, which is pretty cool.

[johnchrist]

I wonder if the writer switch will be a good jumping on point... I've been trying to find an interesting X-Title to read, was disappointed with both Uncanny and Astonishing (found them too slow, want more action, less daytime soap), have follen in love with Ultimate since the Cable storyline, but I'd like a 616 to get into, especially before the summer X-travaganza deal they've been promoting.
Here Marvel, just take my money, no seriously, I don't need it.

[cookepuss]

how Bret is a realist Scotty is an impressionist these are very different stiles
Ever read actually see Blevins' New Mutants work? Not as stylized as Scottie's work, but a far far cry from realistic.

http://www.comicsresearch.com/NewMutants/images/NewMutants_px300_61.jpg
http://www.comicsresearch.com/NewMutants/images/NewMutants_px300_65.jpg
http://www.comicsresearch.com/NewMutants/images/NewMutants_px300_57.jpg
http://www.mutanthigh.com/coppermine/albums/newmutants/71.jpg

Liefeld is much more into small detail and lots of hatching that Skottie.
Reminds me a bit of Bret Blevins' work on New Mutants.
A bit. I thought of that too.

I always loved Blevins New Mutants run. To me, it was the best, followed by Arthur Adams & Bob McLeod. Blevins had this cool Bruce Timm sort of vibe to his work, before Timm was even the "it" artist to mimic. He's always had this neat way of drawing very slim, fluid, and perky looking female character. Almost doe eyed in a way.

I hate it when Marvel does this to me.
Quick! Call a lawyer. Marvel's decided to single out and tormentHunter Zero . Oh, the humanity. ;) It's called an editorial decision. Nothing personal.

Even if the storylines were good I would't be able to get past the art.
That's kinda shallow of you. A comic is more than just art or script. It's a synthesis of the two. Good art can carry an average story to greatness and vice versa. Scottie's a versatile artist. There's no sense in moaning until we've seen interior art and absolutely no reason to cry foul until we've seen a whole issue. Every panel has a context.

Every design has a reason. I have no doubt that Marvel editorial chose Young because they though he was the right person for the job.

I'm the first person to cop to loving Medina's run on NX. It's cool, clean, and nice to look at. I just don't see it as particularly unique. In the whole wide world of X-Men comics, Skottie's works stands out as being something different. Young's work conveys a lot of stylized energy. Plus he can do cartoon with resorting to the typical American anime-lite cliches that Ramos or Bachalo seem unable to avoid.

I just don't feel like Young is the right fit for New X-Men.
Well, we're heading into new territory for these character now that Magik & Belasco are popping up. Given Young's affinity for monsters, I suspect that at least the first arc will be right up his creative alley.

Some Skottie haters will abandon the book, but I think that this combo of writers, artist, & direction could actually drive in more old school New Mutants fans to the book.

Not so happy about X23 looking like Sister Grimm
Well, if you remember her NYX appearances, she managed to work the goth tramp look pretty well. I did like Medina's idea that X-23 was pretty much always dressed for battle, but I hardly see it as appropriate if she's trying to assimilate. I don't quite see X-23 shopping at the Gap anytime soon, but goth seems to be the most appropriate version of civies for her character.

Best choice possible for NXM. Simply because he draws them as real teenagers. Not hulking body builders.
And especially none of those 36DD chests that most other X-artists deal in. Worst trend in comics if you ask me.

was disappointed with both Uncanny and Astonishing (found them too slow, want more action, less daytime soap)
Then you're in for a treat. New X-Men is very action packed, much to the chagrin of pre-Kyle/Yost fans. BTW, it's only the artist that's changing. Not the writers.

[Mike_Norton]

This is going to be FANTASTIC. That is all.

[Odjn Ouen]

He's no Greg Land.

[cookepuss]

One last thing...

Am I the ONLY person hoping to one day see Skottie have a crack at the New Mutants' Warlock? His style would fit perfectly with the character. When we last saw Warlock , in his Louise Simonson / Pascual Ferry series, he had just defeated his father the Magus alongside Wolfsbane and simply headed to the beach for some fun in the sun. Rhane's back, but poor Locke never returned from the beach. ;)

Wonder if Yost & Kyle will ever drag him out of obscurity, or even his "rebooted" evil dad. Would be cool. Skottie would rock that sh** out.

(Just thinking that Pascual Ferry or Corey Walker might've been perfect for this book too.)

[Floodnado]

Heh, the mentioning of Walker reminded me that I'd LOVE to see Ryan Ottley on the book. It'll never happen but I can dream.

[Maurice M]

I always preferred Laura's gothy look from NYX, so I like the change here. The only one I don't seem to think works at all is Hellion. Like was said earlier in this thread, he always seemed more preppy than the weird grunge look he has here. The rest are perfect! Sadly, I only just stopped reading the book after the Nimrod arc but I'd love to see his take on Magik. I can always flip through the pages I guess.

[Elixir]

I think just about everyone on forums and his blog has complained about Hellions look...he took Chris' throw away comparison of Julian to Sawyer from Lost a little too literally...

And now we know why the blog hasn't been updated in 2 weeks, the sheer amount of characters in the issues are proving a bit of a task!

"Now if I could just draw them better"...doesnt sound especially promising

[AdamYJ]

"Now if I could just draw them better"...doesnt sound especially promising

He's an artist. Artists are generally born perfectionists. They're never satisfied with their work. They keep on striving to make their work better. So, don't take it too seriously.

[DocSpin]

That's a definite ICK on the "new look", IMO. Too bad, I really love this title. :(

[Fletcher]

Man, I really like this art. Its not cookie cutter like so much of the other stuff that is being churned out now adays. Unfortunatly it's all in books that I could care less about and won't waste my money on. Does he have a website?

[Legend437]

I made my comments earlier, but I'm welcome to the change. Who knows, this might actually surprise me and I could find myself loving the art. I'm giving it time. :)

[Fletcher]

okay so I found his website. Awesome stuff. Looking at the pics on his site the art reminded me of the animation from the movie Cool World.
If anyone is so inclined check out his site,enjoy the art, and then follow the links to the other artists posted.

and to the poster that said Young is no Greg Land, I don't think he is trying to be or probably wants to be. They both have their own styles that work for them.

[meblob]

i am not a big fan of this guy, i think he is a step backwards for the new x men, i hope he brings the book to a darker place,with the way the stories are headed but im not too sure he can do it, and why cant he draw feet?

[FIG]

Skottie rocks, they need to bring back the New Warriors with him. The concept and art were golden. What a shame its destroyed to make way for lame things like Captain Punisher.

[protonik]

to those complaining about his style being graffiti influenced...man these designs arent even close to his early stuff...his early stuff was more graffiti influenced than these designs.

QFT. I remember being wowed by Spider-man: Legend of the Spider-clan but not so much Human Torch. This stuff and the New Warriors though are so fresh and exciting. I really dig his stuff and Francisco Herrera as well following the Venom stuff Herrera got really good. His Teen Titans Go and French work have been excellent.

[finnegan]

I think Skottie's art is a perfect fit for this book! I love Paco's work and I'll miss it, but Skottie will bring a fun, fresh look to these characters.

[fragility]

Ive always liked his style. And then add to that he's a Gen X fan & wants to do something with those characters! Please listen to him Marvel!

[Eddie Young]

New X-men is swimming in potential.

Hellion/X-23 is an awesome story with a lot of cool in it.
It is the closest we are going to get to a Jean Grey/Wolverine couple in the X-books.
(something that I've always wanted...damn you Summers!)

And Young's art is killer.
At least he is doing something new in terms of style.
And none of his drawings rip off hollywood.

[steelscott]

Skottie's SPIDER-CLAN is classic.

www.TNAOBB.blogspot.com

Catch it!

[PrepaidLunch]

I think everyone looks good except for Anole. He looks like an 8-year-old/a scaley Leech.

[beta-ray]

Pixie's look was done by J Scott Campbell in Danger Girl a looooooooong time ago with the li'l flowery pants...so even she's redudant. So surprised to read how many people enjoy this guy's art.

Oh yeah... Campbell invented the look of pixie types... and those pants...

I thought it was Whore-rendous when they showed most of these sketches a while back.

What is that word supposed to mean?

I don't hate Young's work. Not my favorite artist, but he's okay to me. However, I would like to see a few pages before I really critique it. Hard to go by character sketches.

[ALIEN_freak_jimbo]

Scottie seems to have diff't styles (more or less) and I'm curious what the final look will be in the book. I really enjoyed his Frankenstein work, but doubt that look will be put out on a monthly basis. Really sad to see Paco Medina go.... looking forward to picking up the first issue of this new run.

[Roy Batty]

Too bad about Paco Medina leaving the book. He has had quite a solid and consistent run, and yet I feel he's much underappreciated and has to get yet the appraise he deserves. Although his style is not that much similar, his attention to scene setup and body language somehow reminded me of the best Claremont/Byrne times.

However, these past few issues looked a bit off to me, as though his heart was not on it anymore, or maybe he was just in a rush to catch up with those dreaded deadlines.

I really hope his next assignment gives him a broader, much deserved exposure.

As for Skottie coming aboard, I think he's quite talented too, but I can't see him as the right fit for the book.

And as a side note, Marvel guys, when are you gonna give us a lush, beautiful oversized hardcover compilation of this book from the very beginning? I'll be nice and mention no names, but there are one or two other books of less merit already enjoying that distinction...

[Mason Dixon]

One last thing...

Am I the ONLY person hoping to one day see Skottie have a crack at the New Mutants' Warlock?

Nope. Mr Young's style would be a perfect fit. Bring on Warlock!

I always preferred Laura's gothy look from NYX, so I like the change here.

Got to agree. This isn't making her more like Nico from Runaways. It's taking her back to her roots. Her comic roots anyway.

MD

[RedRonin]

NOOOOOOOOO! Marvel turned Hellion into an emo! Oh noes! One sketch where a character looks slightly moody he must be emo! Never mind the fact that you have no idea where the storyline going. Or how the character will be written.

[RedRonin]

That's a definite ICK on the "new look", IMO. Too bad, I really love this title. :( Funny, this title has been off my radar until Skottie was announced as the artist.

[NedPepper]

Again, more positivity. I like Scottie Young. His characters actually look like teenagers. There's also a flair to it that I like. Reminds me a bit of Adam Pollina's work on X-Force years ago.

Whatever happened to Adam? That Vanisher arc with Dani Moonstar and crew was one of the few brightspots on that book in the late 90's.

And as for comparing Young to Liefeld? Please. Scottie actually drew a teenage girl without huge monster breasts. I applaud him. It'd be nice if other artists would pay attention.

[Chris]

I hated his take on the New Warriors, but this looks much better.... Except for Hellion. C'mon... let's please get rid of that grundge look.

I'm really curious about some of the other characters like Rockslide or Mercury...

It's also ineteresting to note that the females aren't overly endowed.. Now that I think about it, Mercury is really the only one who has consistantly had anything close to a big chest, and we haven't seen her yet.

*ahem* I hope this also means that Pixie and Anole get some more spotlight. AND NOT DEATH! :D Pixie's way too cute to die now..


Chris

[Chris]

Again, more positivity. I like Scottie Young. His characters actually look like teenagers. There's also a flair to it that I like. Reminds me a bit of Adam Pollina's work on X-Force years ago.

Whatever happened to Adam? That Vanisher arc with Dani Moonstar and crew was one of the few brightspots on that book in the late 90's.

And as for comparing Young to Liefeld? Please. Scottie actually drew a teenage girl without huge monster breasts. I applaud him. It'd be nice if other artists would pay attention.


In this day and age, many teenage girls DO have "huge monster breasts". I know my wife did... :D In any case, hopefully Mercury is the only one that has anything close to a slightly big bust.



Chris

[NedPepper]

In this day and age, many teenage girls DO have "huge monster breasts". I know my wife did... :D In any case, hopefully Mercury is the only one that has anything close to a slightly big bust.



Chris


I know what you're saying. :) But at the same time, it is still refreshing not to have every character have that fake boob/super model look. Again, I applaud him for it.


Maybe Frank Cho can see this and learn something. :p

[Bullet_Train]

NRAMA: Well, according to Chris, there’re still “25 students left, not counting Quentin Quire.” So, what are your plans, creatively- and artistically-speaking, for these characters?


Ok wait...whats up with Quentin? Isnt he dead and a member of the Phoenix corps*? Is he alive (again) and depowered? I'm confused....



*or was it that he evolved to another wavelength and then died later-since Here Comes Tomorrow took place in the future? Or then again. Jean made Scott fall harder for Emma in the present so...I'm really confused...

[STL]

I don't dig Scott's work personally. That's a large reason I steered clear of the previous NWs attempt (on top of the poor writing that is). I'd much rather have a new cover artist for Cable & Deadpool. One of my favourite books for the last 3 years deserves a better artist.

[Wellness]

I like Young's work. Not exactly a fan of his designs for Hellion or X-23, but if Young's past works hold true, the panels they appear in will be BEAUTIFUL!

[NedPepper]

Reminds me a bit of Adam Pollina's work on X-Force years ago.

Whatever happened to Adam? That Vanisher arc with Dani Moonstar and crew was one of the few brightspots on that book in the late 90's.



I'll respond to myself. (Just in case anyone else was wondering what happened to Polina.) He makes videogames, of course! In fact, after a quick Google search, he's one of the artistic designers on Street Ball, and apparently he also directed a video in which reality and art collide for Sevendust.

Ah, the power of the internet.

And a shame another great artist has been sucked into the gaming industry.

[Scarlet Mage]

Ugh. If it were any book but New X-Men and any storyline besides a possible return of Classic Magik I would drop this book for as long as Young is drawing it. Not my cup of tea and the art with the interview only fills me with a sense of dread. Look at that Surge! I don't see it and think 'oh, an ethnically Japanese character'. No, I just wonder when she started shooting power out of her crotch 'cause that's the only reason I can think of for standing in that awkward position!

[Don Mega]

Oh my gosh. X-23´s never been so ugly.

What´s Mark Brooks doing now?

[Kolimar]

Artistically, I want darken up my work. I don't want people to think they're going to get New Warriors art from this book.

Unfortunately, it still looks New Warriors-like crappy. Disappointing.

[The Mirrorball Man]

Skottie Young is da man. I will buy everything he ever draws, even "New X-Men".

[Evilomar]

I'll respond to myself. (Just in case anyone else was wondering what happened to Polina.) He makes videogames, of course! In fact, after a quick Google search, he's one of the artistic designers on Street Ball, and apparently he also directed a video in which reality and art collide for Sevendust.

Ah, the power of the internet.

And a shame another great artist has been sucked into the gaming industry.

Man, I thought I was the only one that missed Pollina. I loved that guy's take on Warpath and Boom Boom, Meltdown, errr Boomer. I also miss Steve Skroce, who I think is only doing storyboards now. Maduerira also left to go do games, but he eventually came back to draw Ultimates 3 (back in August of 2005)....maybe that's not a good example.

As far as Skottie Young coming on board, as someone mentioned before, his style reminds me of Brett Blevins, but I think throw in some Sienkiewicz and it reminds me of his work on that Frankenstein book. I do think that the characters look more like kids now, which is a good thing since they are supposed to be teenagers.

[A-Newton]

[post deleted]

[Timberoo]

how Bret is a realist Scotty is an impressionist these are very different stiles
if you had siad Leifiled I would agreed

no offence just curious

I see a similarity of style from Blevin's work at that time.

http://uncannyxmen.net/covers/newmutants/newmutants57.jpg

http://uncannyxmen.net/covers/newmutants/newmutants61.jpg

[BC 1]

Not that everything has to be big chests, big arms, big everything, but why does the alternative have to be heroine chic? Can't we simply have a nice average appearance? Where's the middle ground?

I'm not a fan of Young's art, but then no disputing taste.

[PaxHouse]

Too bad about Paco Medina leaving the book. He has had quite a solid and consistent run, and yet I feel he's much underappreciated and has to get yet the appraise he deserves. Although his style is not that much similar, his attention to scene setup and body language somehow reminded me of the best Claremont/Byrne times.

However, these past few issues looked a bit off to me, as though his heart was not on it anymore, or maybe he was just in a rush to catch up with those dreaded deadlines.

I really hope his next assignment gives him a broader, much deserved exposure.



In case you haven't heard already {and it's funny considering this talking about one of Young's previous works for Marvel}; Paco's next assignment can be summed up in two words......

NEW WARRIORS....[in JUNE]..!! :cool: :D

[ahaman85]

Though I have been critical of his artwork in the past, I have completely reversed my position on Young's artwork. He's great. If marvel ever had a Bruce Tim/Paul Dini style television series, I think it would look great in Young's style.

Keep up the excellent work!

[jedifish]

Skottie rocks, they need to bring back the New Warriors with him. The concept and art were golden. What a shame its destroyed to make way for lame things like Captain Punisher.

:rolleyes:

Oh yeah, he really excelled on New Warriors. Really loved those 5,000 a month sales on that title. Please keep him away from that title forever. Too bad NW fans are getting stuck with Paco Medina on the title. That should help kill sales too,

[Hunter Zero]

That a very good point. I think every book he has worked on has sold like crap, and he has to be at least a little responsible for that. I mean they gave the New Warriors mini a major push when it came out, and it was one of the worst selling minis Marvel has had in years.
I would just hate to see his art tank sales of a books that is alreadly not a monster seller and get in canncelled. To bring him on now with all the hype about the Magik stroyline seems like an even worse idea.

[subhuman]

I haven't been a fan of young's work in the past, but this looks better than what I've seen before. It kind of reminds me of Bachalo and Ramos mixed with Sidekick's Chris Moreno. To be honest, I haven't really liked most of the art on this series, even back in the Tsunami line, it has always been the characters - and the new writing team that have sold me on this book. I almost think that young is an improvement over the last few artists...

[speedbaldwin]

I had dropped this book, but I have really grown fond of Scottie's art... I just might have to pick this up again. Plus... ANOLE!!! Good to see him getting some more attention. Pixie as well. I'm liking her design.

[PhilipAMoore]

Ever read actually see Blevins' New Mutants work? Not as stylized as Scottie's work, but a far far cry from realistic.

http://www.comicsresearch.com/NewMutants/images/NewMutants_px300_61.jpg
http://www.comicsresearch.com/NewMutants/images/NewMutants_px300_65.jpg
http://www.comicsresearch.com/NewMutants/images/NewMutants_px300_57.jpg
http://www.mutanthigh.com/coppermine/albums/newmutants/71.jpg

I always loved Blevins New Mutants run. To me, it was the best, followed by Arthur Adams & Bob McLeod. Blevins had this cool Bruce Timm sort of vibe to his work, before Timm was even the "it" artist to mimic. He's always had this neat way of drawing very slim, fluid, and perky looking female character. Almost doe eyed in a way.

yes he did New Mutances : fall of the mutance and Inferno as well as an Inhumans graphic novel
his looked alot of Mark Silvesrtie this was back when New mutance was done with realistic his art is crisp and realistic

Scotty is good but it is always jarring to see a comic book go from really nice realisom to abstract impretionisom this series has gone through to many kind of artist it get exausting after a while I remember staying away from Human Torch because the Charter just looked weird I will be first to say he is alot better

[Livewire2nd]

ICK. I might End up dropping New X-men now. Shame too it's one of my Favs.

[NedPepper]

Man, I thought I was the only one that missed Pollina. I loved that guy's take on Warpath and Boom Boom, Meltdown, errr Boomer. I also miss Steve Skroce, who I think is only doing storyboards now. Maduerira also left to go do games, but he eventually came back to draw Ultimates 3 (back in August of 2005)....maybe that's not a good example.

As far as Skottie Young coming on board, as someone mentioned before, his style reminds me of Brett Blevins, but I think throw in some Sienkiewicz and it reminds me of his work on that Frankenstein book. I do think that the characters look more like kids now, which is a good thing since they are supposed to be teenagers.


Losing Skroce was a huge loss to the comic book world. He had his own unique style AND he could tell a story. He shined on Wolverine and I even dug his X-Man (Nate Grey) work. Maybe he'll get the itch again one day. We can hope. :)

[NedPepper]

Not that everything has to be big chests, big arms, big everything, but why does the alternative have to be heroine chic? Can't we simply have a nice average appearance? Where's the middle ground?



It died some time before the Image boom. :D

[Nike Skylark]

man, i wasn't heard new x-men news like this in a long time. i was always very disappointed in paco medina's art. i'm not saying he's a terrible artists, there are plenty at marvel worse than him but it kinda made the comic less enjoyable to read.

i'm loving those character designs skottie young's released, i don't think i've ever seen the new x-men look so good. if the art stays like that in the comic, i'll be very very pleased. i think it fits the mood much better than paco medina's art did.

[Jeremy Williams]

The picks about Magik and all the demonic stuff were one of the best things i've seen in a while in comics. This guy is very versatile.

[Abstrakt]

:rolleyes:

Oh yeah, he really excelled on New Warriors. Really loved those 5,000 a month sales on that title. Please keep him away from that title forever. Too bad NW fans are getting stuck with Paco Medina on the title. That should help kill sales too,

yea sucks that skill and talent isnt rewarded and instead people who cant do a book for more then a month, people who cant do the basic of comic book artists skills like tell a story and people who really just shouldnt be called artists are the ones selling books...

[Odjn Ouen]

Losing Skroce was a huge loss to the comic book world. He had his own unique style AND he could tell a story. He shined on Wolverine and I even dug his X-Man (Nate Grey) work. Maybe he'll get the itch again one day. We can hope. :)


Steve Skroce is currently doing Doc Frankenstein with the Wachowski brothers.

[skinnyboy23]

Some more of Skottie's sweet art for New X-Men:

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y150/skinnyboy2387/newx.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y150/skinnyboy2387/newx2.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y150/skinnyboy2387/newx3.jpg

[igno]

When did Marvel get the rights to Beast Boy?? :p


superboy prime punched another hole, cracked the barriers between DCU and Marvel U:)

[innocentboy]

cool read.
respect to Skottie Young.

[santino]

I really hate these character designs. :( Not a commentary on his talent, just that I dislike the style he has chosen to go wtih. Between this and the fact that I dislike much of what they've done lately with the team, (and cannot stand the former hellions), I think it may be time I yanked this from my pull list.

[cookepuss]

I was just gonna post those uncolored pencils. Very impressive use of negative space. It adds a whole lot of atmosphere. I far cry from his New Warriors stuff.