Uploaded October 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
If you would like to be a guest on the Indie Comic Exchange, please follow this link and fill out the form kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchange
Ian's website iancinco.com
Ian's Instagram instagram.com/ian_cinco
In this episode, Jake and Kurt speak with Ian Cinco, an artist and former filmmaker who transitioned into the indie comics world with his sci-fi series Neon Spring and expansive art book series Eratica. Ian recounts his creative evolution, from childhood influences like Calvin and Hobbes to studying illustration at Pratt, working in film, and rediscovering comics during the pandemic. He discusses the genesis of Neon Spring, a dystopian story involving AI, corporate power, and human experimentation, and explores the craft of making comics—blending traditional and digital techniques. Ian shares lessons about self-belief, persistence, and the importance of building community through conventions, Kickstarters, and direct outreach. He emphasizes the value of publishing physical books, selling original art, and nurturing fan connections. Ultimately, Ian views the future of comics optimistically, seeing it as an expanding landscape for creators to connect directly with audiences.
3 Educational Points from the Podcast
1. Creative Growth Through Transition: Ian’s shift from filmmaking to comics shows how creative skills evolve and intersect across disciplines, enriching storytelling and visual expression.
2. Self-Publishing as Empowerment: Building an audience via conventions, direct messaging, and crowdfunding demonstrates how creators can bypass traditional industry gatekeepers and succeed independently.
3. Value of Original Art: Selling original pages and building relationships with collectors offers an important revenue stream beyond book sales, underscoring the art’s long-term value.
If you would like to be a guest on the Indie Comic Exchange, please follow this link and fill out the form kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchange
Ian's website iancinco.com
Ian's Instagram instagram.com/ian_cinco
In this episode, Jake and Kurt speak with Ian Cinco, an artist and former filmmaker who transitioned into the indie comics world with his sci-fi series Neon Spring and expansive art book series Eratica. Ian recounts his creative evolution, from childhood influences like Calvin and Hobbes to studying illustration at Pratt, working in film, and rediscovering comics during the pandemic. He discusses the genesis of Neon Spring, a dystopian story involving AI, corporate power, and human experimentation, and explores the craft of making comics—blending traditional and digital techniques. Ian shares lessons about self-belief, persistence, and the importance of building community through conventions, Kickstarters, and direct outreach. He emphasizes the value of publishing physical books, selling original art, and nurturing fan connections. Ultimately, Ian views the future of comics optimistically, seeing it as an expanding landscape for creators to connect directly with audiences.
3 Educational Points from the Podcast
1. Creative Growth Through Transition: Ian’s shift from filmmaking to comics shows how creative skills evolve and intersect across disciplines, enriching storytelling and visual expression.
2. Self-Publishing as Empowerment: Building an audience via conventions, direct messaging, and crowdfunding demonstrates how creators can bypass traditional industry gatekeepers and succeed independently.
3. Value of Original Art: Selling original pages and building relationships with collectors offers an important revenue stream beyond book sales, underscoring the art’s long-term value.
