Dan Duncan DONE with IDW Turtles

[Grimlock]

Well, word is that Dan Duncan is done on art duties on IDW. He took a new job, And now we got this Kuhn fella. Can't say I'm happy about that.

[Jester]

Oh, boy. I hope not. Wasn't a huge fan of the art in the Mikey one-shot.

[Raven]

Thats a bummer, any sources or reasons why?

[Candy Kappa]

unless Ross takes over, chain Duncan to his chair.

[twopinacoladas]

I am wondering where you heard this, do you have a link? Also if we have Andy Kuhn from the Mikey micro tbqh I didn't really like his art at least the way he drew his turtles at the very least. To me it was a bit of a throw away story I don't recall caring much about it.

[oldmanwinters]

For future reference, Grimlock, don't start a thread like this unless you're packing a source.

I have no idea about the Duncan-IDW deal, but no one should expect a single artist to draw one series forever.

It has long been announced that Duncan was going to take a hiatus on the TMNT brand for a few months and that Kuhn would be doing some fill-in work. So... who knows?

Here's some example of Kuhn's more recent Turtles work:

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/04/master-splinter.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/04/casey-jones.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/04/karai.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/05/tmnt-at-ace.html

[DonatelloFan]

It doesn't bother me, because I'm not the biggest fan of Duncan's. But to each his own.

[Cowabunga Carl]

I honestly don't mind a change in artist. I've gotten used to Duncan, so it will take some getting used to but it'll happen. It might be fun to have a new artist every year of in comic time. That way there is more notice in different "years".

[Jephael]

While I'm gonna miss his artwork, I'm anxious to see what a different artist will bring to the table.

[oldmanwinters]

Okay, here's the source:
http://forum.idwpublishing.com/viewtopic.php?p=295978#295978

Bobby Curnow:
Unfortunately, during the production of TMNT #11, Dan let me know he wouldn't be able to continue after #12. So what was going to be a 2-issue hiatus has turned permanent. He got a new gig in the world of TV animation. Dan let me know with ample time, and with LOTS of gratitude, both for the opportunity, and for the fans. He's grown to be iconic with IDW Turtles and will be missed a lot. He knows he's welcome back, and we've discussed some exciting possibilities for the future, though they will be shorter in nature. At least for the foreseeable future.

Andy Kuhn will indeed be continuing for issues #15 and 16. Beyond that, we'll see. He's working on issue #14 now, and turning in some really great stuff. I hope folks enjoy his work as much as I do.

[Grimlock]

For future reference, Grimlock, don't start a thread like this unless you're packing a source.

I have no idea about the Duncan-IDW deal, but no one should expect a single artist to draw one series forever.

It has long been announced that Duncan was going to take a hiatus on the TMNT brand for a few months and that Kuhn would be doing some fill-in work. So... who knows?

Here's some example of Kuhn's more recent Turtles work:

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/04/master-splinter.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/04/casey-jones.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/04/karai.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/05/tmnt-at-ace.html

I think I will start a thread whenever I want. Not only if I '' Have a source''. This came right from Bobby Curnow's mouth. He said Dan's little break has turned permanent and he took another job. And we don't need to see this guys work like it's news because he drew the Mike one shot. I think we know what his freakin' artwork looks like, Einstein.

[Machias Banshee]

Well, that's a shame... I did like his artwork.

New gig in TV Animation..? Wouldn't it be something if he were to do some work with the upcoming TV show?

[Jester]

I'mma miss Duncan. I hope we can get someone other than Kuhn after his stint....not a fan. Kinda reminds me of Simpson's issue of TMNT Adventures.
I think I will start a thread whenever I want. Not only if I '' Have a source''. This came right from Bobby Curnow's mouth. He said Dan's little break has turned permanent and he took another job.
And the rest of us knew that how, exactly? It's just common courtesy when posting "news" to relate a source. I know posting on a forum ain't journalism, but come on now.

[Jephael]

What's wrong with Simpsons style artwork?

[ToTheNines]

Bummer... it'll be weird for a good while with Duncan :/

Let's hope Ross Campbell eventually takes over!

For future reference, Grimlock, don't start a thread like this unless you're packing a source.

As you've already seen, he had a pretty reliable source. No need to jump the guys ish... it's not like Grimlock runs around the forums making crap up.

[Ninjinister]

I think I will start a thread whenever I want. Not only if I '' Have a source''. This came right from Bobby Curnow's mouth. He said Dan's little break has turned permanent and he took another job. And we don't need to see this guys work like it's news because he drew the Mike one shot. I think we know what his freakin' artwork looks like, Einstein.

People like to know where information is coming from and to ensure what's being said isn't utter dog poop. By sharing sources, you eliminate that, and it shouldn't be up to anyone other than yourself to track it down.

[Jester]

What's wrong with Simpsons style artwork?
Donald Simpson...
http://tmntentity.blogspot.com/2008/06/tmnt-adventures-14.html
not The Simpsons.

[Cowabunga Carl]

Maybe they can convince Kevin to draw for a while.

[Newton Gimmick]

Duncan's artwork is HORRIBLE as it pertains to drawing the Turtles themselves, so this is the best news I've heard all day!

[DrSpengler]

Duncan's style wasn't the flashiest, but it was very solid and enjoyable. He established the look and feel of the IDW universe, so it'll be a shame to see him step away.

I don't want to seem unsupportive of Andy Kuhn, as he was good, but he seemed to struggle in some fundamental areas that I hope he irons out during his run on the ongoing. Mikey being 7 feet tall and 4 feet wide, for example.

His layouts are great and I like his overall style, it's just the fluctuating height and width of the Turtles was my major concern. Of course, that was only one issue and his first attempt, at that. We'll see how he looks after a few more goes.

[oldmanwinters]

Well, that's a shame... I did like his artwork.

New gig in TV Animation..? Wouldn't it be something if he were to do some work with the upcoming TV show?

I am also very curious to see where Duncan ends up. I really had no idea he even had an interest in the animation business.

[MikeandRaph87]

Did this come out at San Diego. When I saw him in Charlotte there was no indication If we can't have hin stay on then why not Valerio Schiti? It was a look close to Turtle In Time. An animated feel yet a realistic approach. Best art I have seen TMNT in awhile!

[Slade]

While I'm not that big a fan of Dan's turtles, I do think they're better than Kuhn's.

[ToTheNines]

I really really like Schiti, his style reminds of Chris Allan, but I couldn't see him drawing the main title.

[oldmanwinters]

I think Valerio Schiti would be a great monthly artist on the ongoing title.

Dan Schoening's current run on the IDW Ghostbusters proves that you can have serious storylines with cartoony art, and I think Schiti's style could follow in that mold. Granted, however, I don't think anyone can truly compare to the labor of love that Schoening puts into every issue.

[CyberCubed]

I hope the new full-time artist is the guy who did the Donatello or Leonardo micros.

Hell alternate between the two, they're both fantastic.

Bobby any take on this?

[twopinacoladas]

Those other characters look pretty good, and turtles dont look to bad. I'll wait and see before passing judgement could be alright.

[Zulithe]

I never got what DD was trying to do with the teeth on the turtles. Always looked weird to me. His style was growing on me though... slowly.

[Spitfire]

IDW has never impressed me with their art. Not really sure who they could get, short of rehiring the Mirage guys, that would please me. I'd rather see Lawson take over the book then the dude who drew that Mikey Micro. That was easily the worst of the new art styles. No offense to the dude but it didn't work for me. Kinda like the Metal Gear Solid comic. The art is great for a poster or promo art but as a whole comic it's a little too much.

[junkboy]

Well that's bad news for me as well. Duncan's art was not great but i got used to it and was loving it. We all know that he kept on drawing better turtles by each issue ( well at least up to a point )

Kuhn was my least fave. artist in all of the issues so far, so that has been an unpleasant surprise for me. He has a unique style ( or tries to be that way ) that's for sure but it seemed so inconsistent at that Mike issue to me.

Maybe his style will evolve by each issue but as i said that artist change is not a develepment i liked seeing at the IDW comic.

my choices would be :
1) Ross Campbell
2) Mark Torres from the Infestation TMNT books
3) Mateus Santolouco from issue 5

[ToTheNines]

my choices would be :
1) Ross Campbell
2) Mark Torres from the Infestation TMNT books
3) Mateus Santolouco from issue 5

Agreed.

Even though we've never seen how Mateus draws the turtles, his style is pretty close to Dan's.

[Plasticplayhouse]

This news is a bit disappointing. I feel that DD was just starting to really get into his niche with the turtles. His drawings and their consistency have improved a good deal since earlier on.

As far as Kuhn goes...I can't say that I'm thrilled. But this pic here looks better than what was in the mikey issue.
http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/05/tmnt-at-ace.html
I do believe that like Duncan's art improved over a span of time, that Kuhn's will get better also. To be honest, I didn’t care for the coloring of the mikey issue at all. With a different colorist, Kuhn's art COULD be a lot more appealing.

Ultimately, I'd like to see Ross Campbell holding the reins. But since Ross is drawing Glory and a few of his own comics (shadoweyes, wet moon, etc.) I don’t see that happening. CW III might make for a good fit. I kinda liked his style. It was a little gritty, little edgy, and just a fresh take.

[junkboy]

Coloring is indeed very very important.
Look how amazing Darwyn Cooke's drawings can look thanks to spectacular coloring.( i said this cause when i first saw, the human drawings of Kuhn looked just a bit like Darwyn Cooke to me... but just a bit... and some of his Mike drawings at issue, seemed a bit like Mignola style, with the edges and etc )
thanks to coloring choice Cooke is the penciler of a Noir style book which comes from IDW also, you know, the graphic novel adaptation of those Richard Stark's Parker novels.
the art looks stunning there.

I am not saying that cause i think that Cooke's art does not look good without suitable coloring. I am more than a huge fan of Darwyn Cooke. Kinda addicted to his style being a fan of 50s and 60s.

The thing is with better coloring Kuhn's artwork might look better , yeah. But just judging by the only Mike micro we have at hand, i said my thoughts.

I am pretty sure that Kuhn's work will look better by each issue but still Duncan was much better imo.

[chrisguyver]

Duncan's artwork is HORRIBLE as it pertains to drawing the Turtles themselves, so this is the best news I've heard all day!

I agree and from the pics I saw from the new guy taking over I think it's an improvement.

[junkboy]

I looked at his blog and there are some good pieces there.

espacially DC's Deadman and Bat


http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/07/apologies-for-lack-of-posts-recently.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/06/heroes-con-batman.html


I hope we will be seeing better coloring to Kuhn's art at the main series.

[Eiko]

And i was just getting use to Dan's artwork. oh well :ohwell:

[Lordmylar06]

Valerio Schiti was mentioned several posts ago. I would dig seeing his TMNT art monthly in a book, and oddly enough he was compared to Chris Allan.
Wouldn't it be fantastic if IDW got one of our old school favorites to come in a do a few issues every once in a while?
I'd be down for seeing a Chris Allan drawn story arc, or a Dan Berger arc, Talbot, etc.
Maybe it's just a fanboy dream but it doesn't seem too far fetched to call these guys and ask em if they want to do a few issues for old time's sake(not to mention the current standard pay).
It also couldn't hurt in getting a few of the old school readers on board that haven't joined in on the newer comics yet.
Just an off the wall idea for those "in between regular artists" issues.

[junkboy]

Giving the job to old school Mirage guys is indeed a fanboy dream.
Talbot doing just 1 issue would mean much more to me than an entire perfect story arc drawn by current IDW guys probably.
I really missed Berger's badass Casey... damn...

[Master Splinter]

It saddens my heart to see Duncan gone but I have much appreciation for Andy's art. So while one door closes, another is opened.

-ms

[Jester]

Chris Allen for IDW's TMNT Artist 2013!

[Lampy]

i'm not really digging khun's turtles... the mikey micro was a very disappointing issue (artwise). so while i hate the nemo-headed turtles that Duncan drew... Khun's turtles look way more unappealing to me. At least DD had a sense of consistency in the way he drew his turtles... as opposed to Khun's oversized mikey. i hope he's just a temporary artist... because quite frankly... the art can be a bit distracting from the story.

by the way... weren't we informed before when Duncan's hiatus was announced that they'd found someone whose art resembles Duncan's a little bit?

[corvus]

I liked the Mikey one shot...and Kuhns artwork. Guess I'm alone here.

[TomWaltz]

My two cents.

I love Dan and I'm gonna miss him. Couldn't have been prouder to work with such a talented and hard-working artist (and I got a cool new friend out of the deal, too). Dan churned out 12 monthly comics on time, every time -- almost unheard of in the modern comics industry. And he did it with STYLE! He's a superstar and he's gonna continue to do great things.

As for Andy Kuhn. All I'm gonna say is issues #13 and #14 are looking kick-ass, folks. We've got a few BIG surprises coming in those issues, and Andy is nailing every single one of them.

Get ready for more crazy TMNT fun!

And, as always, thanks so much for your continued support of our comic books.

Talk soon...

Tom W.

[Matches Malone]

I liked the Mikey one shot...and Kuhns artwork. Guess I'm alone here.

Nah, you're not alone. That was one of my favorites of the IDW Micros, actually. I like the style a lot; my only complaint was, as others have noted, Mikey's shifting size. However, that's something that may definitely improve over time. Doesn't sound like he's taking over permenantly since Bobby said he doesn't know what's going to happen after #16. My vote goes to Mateus! A lot of love for Valerio here, but definitely too cartoony (akin to Tex Avery) for my taste. I like the similar Chris Allan, but at least his style wasn't so exaggerated when it came to expressions.


by the way... weren't we informed before when Duncan's hiatus was announced that they'd found someone whose art resembles Duncan's a little bit?

That would be Andy Kuhn. I don't think he said it resembled so much as "goes well" with Dan's style.

[Lampy]

I liked the Mikey one shot...and Kuhns artwork. Guess I'm alone here.

sorry man... but i have to be honest about this. i understand that if given enough time, one may get used to it just as we have with Lawson's art. but i'm not at all impressed with Khun's art.

That would be Andy Kuhn. I don't think he said it resembled so much as "goes well" with Dan's style.

ahhh... thanks. i just remembered that part. regardless of the art... i'd still pick up the issues.

[Donnie]

People like to know where information is coming from and to ensure what's being said isn't utter dog poop. By sharing sources, you eliminate that, and it shouldn't be up to anyone other than yourself to track it down.

Indeed. A source is absolutely essential, be it a thread on a message board or a newspaper piece.

Anyway, I am of the crowd that was never really happy with Dan Duncan's art, although I was just starting to get used to it as I think he was improving. That being said, I would most definitely prefer him to Kuhn, unfortunately. After that panel featuring gigantic Michelangelo in his Micro issue, I don't exactly trust his style.

Ross Campbell, for me, is the only choice. Sadly, I believe Ross is too busy at the moment to consider it, even if he was given the chance to. There's always the future, though.

[Matches Malone]

In hopes of mustering up support for Mateus, here are some rough pieces he's done of what looks like the turtles fighting Rocksteady! :D

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_02.jpg?w=655&h=995

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_01.jpg?w=655&h=995

[Lampy]

In hopes of mustering up support for Mateus, here are some rough pieces he's done of what looks like the turtles fighting Rocksteady! :D

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_02.jpg?w=655&h=995

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_01.jpg?w=655&h=995

count me in! Those look really amazing!!!

[Matches Malone]

count me in! Those look really amazing!!!

I also really like the idea of basically turning Rocksteady into Juggernaut from X-men or, somewhat ironically, Rhino from Spider-man.

[FoxZerro]

In hopes of mustering up support for Mateus, here are some rough pieces he's done of what looks like the turtles fighting Rocksteady! :D

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_02.jpg?w=655&h=995

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_01.jpg?w=655&h=995

I want more... The design on "Rocksteady" is amazing

[Matches Malone]

Sorry, not to derail this thread, but I just stumbled upon this piece which is unbelievably cool. Love the trash can hat!

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/tmnt_santolouco.jpg?w=655

But to get it BACK on track, I do want to say that Dan Duncan is super talented and I wish him the best! Aside from his artwork, his commitment to turning his work on time every single month says more about his personality and work ethic, and that has not gone unnoticed. I sincerely look forward to when he can return, albeit, for shorter term TMNT stories. When given enough time to work, I actually would rank him among the top TMNT artists ever.

[The Purple Dragon]

Indeed. A source is absolutely essential, be it a thread on a message board or a newspaper piece.

Anyway, I am of the crowd that was never really happy with Dan Duncan's art, although I was just starting to get used to it as I think he was improving. That being said, I would most definitely prefer him to Kuhn, unfortunately. After that panel featuring gigantic Michelangelo in his Micro issue, I don't exactly trust his style.

Ross Campbell, for me, is the only choice. Sadly, I believe Ross is too busy at the moment to consider it, even if he was given the chance to. There's always the future, though.

same with me you just write it better.the best had been eastman and laird but i guess that will never happend in this life time. so i will say ross campbell is the one i love the most of the new and i just love the leo micro and woued love if he coued do tmnt fulltime and i think his tmnt work the best of all in the idw serie,but as you i think he is too busy at the time but hopefully some at idw will see this and get him to do it whene he get time to do it. i want ROSS CAMPELL DO YOU HEAR ME IDW PLEASE MAKE IT HAPPEND:tgrin:

[Jephael]

Aw man, you know what just crossed my mind? We won't get to see Dan Duncan's interpretation of Bebop and Rocksteady! :tsad:

[Matches Malone]

I'll say this. Dan Duncan's rendition of Splinter is probably my favorite ever. He looked awesome in every issue and I'm definitely going to miss that.

[Kendamu]

For future reference, Grimlock, don't start a thread like this unless you're packing a source.

I have no idea about the Duncan-IDW deal, but no one should expect a single artist to draw one series forever.

It has long been announced that Duncan was going to take a hiatus on the TMNT brand for a few months and that Kuhn would be doing some fill-in work. So... who knows?

Here's some example of Kuhn's more recent Turtles work:

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/04/master-splinter.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/04/casey-jones.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/04/karai.html

http://kuhnart.blogspot.com/2012/05/tmnt-at-ace.html

I can get behind a Turtles book with that style of art. I'm excited to see what Kuhn can do with our Turtles. :tgrin:

It's sad to see Duncan go, but glad to hear that he's moving on under great circumstances and I wish him the best.

Lastly, while I mean no offense toward Kuhn, when are they finally gonna reel Ross Campbell in with a longterm TMNT gig? I want him back!

[Abnormal Freak]

I really liked Kuhn's artwork in the Mikey micro. To me, it was the least boring; the Donny micro had really bland art and is easily the worst-looking IDW book I've picked up so far.

Kuhn's style is dynamic. It was a bit sloppy, but tweak things a little and I'd be really pleased with him doing the ongoing series.

[CyberCubed]

I really liked Kuhn's artwork in the Mikey micro. To me, it was the least boring; the Donny micro had really bland art and is easily the worst-looking IDW book I've picked up so far.

Kuhn's style is dynamic. It was a bit sloppy, but tweak things a little and I'd be really pleased with him doing the ongoing series.

Don's micro had really fun cartoony expressions and action sequences. I don't know what you were looking at.

[Abnormal Freak]

I hate the way the humans look in that issue. They look like a bad mixture of late '90s Disney and garbage like Titan A.E.

[CyberCubed]

I hate the way the humans look in that issue. They look like a bad mixture of late '90s Disney and garbage like Titan A.E.

First I've ever heard of this, they looked like fairly good human drawings to me.

Have you seen that alternate cover by the same artist where the a turtles are eating pizza? Guy is awesome.

[twopinacoladas]

In hopes of mustering up support for Mateus, here are some rough pieces he's done of what looks like the turtles fighting Rocksteady! :D

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_02.jpg?w=655&h=995

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_01.jpg?w=655&h=995

Looks pretty cool actually.

[Cowabunga Carl]

Dude I hope we see that in an issue. If that is Rocksteady I'm on board 210%. That looks amazing. The fact they made him huge is great. From those two pages I'm on board now.

[Plasticplayhouse]

In hopes of mustering up support for Mateus, here are some rough pieces he's done of what looks like the turtles fighting Rocksteady! :D

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_02.jpg?w=655&h=995

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_01.jpg?w=655&h=995

wow, that is gnarly! while i love his rocksteady, i love his rendition of turtle equally. i would second this guy in a heartbeat! his style has a great feel to it that's perfect for tmnt.

[Grimlock]

I could get down to Ross Campbell being the ongoing artist. He's just about the only recent turtle artist I actually like.

[Cowabunga Carl]

As I said before I love this picture. I'd love to see his Bebop. Man if this is in an IDW book I'm really super excited.

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_02.jpg?w=655&h=995

[nickn]

that Rocksteady looks amazing.. I was just getting used to Dan's work though so I'm kind of bummed. I know most series switch up artists but only having one person, on a book that's done really good is kind of weird. He only stuck around for one year??? I'm a bit worried on if who takes over doing it will cause people to not dig it so much and hurt sales, etc.

It's to bad Kevin can't do it. After looking at the vol 1 hardcover with his work that DD just redrew and added his own style into it, wish Kevin could just do the art himself.

[Cowabunga Carl]

I think we got spoiled by having the same artist for a year. Most comics change far more often then that. But I do wish him well with his future ventures.

[LeoNerdo]

This is kind of a bummer. I'm anxious to see who's going to be the new regular. I respect Duncan's art even if I didn't totally love it because he made it his own.

[Samhain]

I've actually known about this for a while now, and I have to say since hearing this news it really has made me a tad distant from the book. Duncan WAS Idw Tmnt. Sad to see him go.

[thelouisguy]

I know he is busy with Ghostbusters, but my vote is for Tristan Jones.

[frank_one]

I'll miss Duncan's art and.. what! A spider-man's Rhino-like Rocksteady?! I'm buying it!

[Cowabunga Carl]

It would be great to see Tristan come back full time. Though his Ghostbuster stuff is a lot of fun.

[King Kahn]

too bad to see him go I liked his art. In fact I just bought a few of the original pages to a couple issues.

Did this come out at San Diego. When I saw him in Charlotte there was no indication If we can't have hin stay on then why not Valerio Schiti? It was a look close to Turtle In Time. An animated feel yet a realistic approach. Best art I have seen TMNT in awhile!

I was at heroescon as well. That is where I bought the pages. He was a good guy. I thought I remember him saying something about being done with issue #12. I saw a bunch of pages for that issue in his book but he couldn't sell them until the issue came out sadly.

[Mewzard]

that Rocksteady looks amazing.. I was just getting used to Dan's work though so I'm kind of bummed. I know most series switch up artists but only having one person, on a book that's done really good is kind of weird. He only stuck around for one year??? I'm a bit worried on if who takes over doing it will cause people to not dig it so much and hurt sales, etc.

It's to bad Kevin can't do it. After looking at the vol 1 hardcover with his work that DD just redrew and added his own style into it, wish Kevin could just do the art himself.

I would actually love that, but given his leave of layouts to focus on the annual, I figure his issue isn't a lack of love for drawing, but rather that he just can't keep a monthly schedule (artists like Eastman are worth the wait though). I do love his art, and would love to see more one-shots/minis with him on the art down the road.

I am curious as to who they will pick as the regular artist for the later issues...

[AquaParade]

MATEUS!!!

Sorry, but the above images posted are seriously ****ing great! I love his own idea's on the turtle's apparel as well. He did great in issue #5 and even stole the show. Get this guy on the book, Bobby!

Mr. Duncan, you had a solid run. I was strangely of the opposite opinion to most here, and felt that your earlier issues were much stronger. Some fatigue kick in perhaps? Either way, your covers for the first three issues are some of my favorite tmnt covers. Rock on!

[Andrew NDB]

The artist from the Michelangelo special is taking over full-time on the flagship book? I respect his style... but I'd be lying if I didn't say that, to me, he seems like literally the worst possible candidate from all the IDW TMNT artists we've seen so far.

[oldmanwinters]

The artist from the Michelangelo special is taking over full-time on the flagship book? I respect his style... but I'd be lying if I didn't say that, to me, he seems like literally the worst possible candidate from all the IDW TMNT artists we've seen so far.

I've probably missed something in the last 24 hours, but I don't think Kuhn has been announced as a full-time replacement. He had already been scheduled for a couple of issues in the main series, but Duncan recently announced his departure, so IDW is still looking for a replacement.

[Cowabunga Carl]

yeah I don't think anything is official on who the replacement is yet. More it is fans thinking ahead. Kuhn just seems to be kind enough to step in and continue doing the book for now so it can make deadlines.

[CyberCubed]

yeah I don't think anything is official on who the replacement is yet. More it is fans thinking ahead. Kuhn just seems to be kind enough to step in and continue doing the book for now so it can make deadlines.

What do you mean by, "kind enough?"

Its a job. He's getting a paycheck for doing the art for the next few issues. This is a business first and foremost.

So far he's doing the next 4 issues and no word who will come in after him.

[Andrew NDB]

yeah I don't think anything is official on who the replacement is yet. More it is fans thinking ahead. Kuhn just seems to be kind enough to step in and continue doing the book for now so it can make deadlines.

Well that's cool, fill-in and all. I don't mean to be a wet blanket about this.

[Cowabunga Carl]

If it was based off of the Mikey one shot I was not a fan. Whoever did the Rocksteady pages, those I dig.

[Kendamu]

Well that's cool, fill-in and all. I don't mean to be a wet blanket about this.
Did you see the pics of his more recent work on the first page? It might change your opinion a little.

[Donnie]

wow, that is gnarly! while i love his rocksteady, i love his rendition of turtle equally. i would second this guy in a heartbeat! his style has a great feel to it that's perfect for tmnt.

I agree. After Ross Campbell, I'd put Mateus as my next choice.

The artist from the Michelangelo special is taking over full-time on the flagship book? I respect his style... but I'd be lying if I didn't say that, to me, he seems like literally the worst possible candidate from all the IDW TMNT artists we've seen so far.

I don't think you're being a wet blanket for stating this. I am of the same mind. I don't dislike Kuhn's art, but I feel like any of the other Micro artists would have been a better choice, if Kuhn is indeed picked to continue the book for the long term.

Has anybody mentioned Charles Paul Wilson III, the artist of the Splinter Micro? I could totally get behind that.

I've probably missed something in the last 24 hours, but I don't think Kuhn has been announced as a full-time replacement. He had already been scheduled for a couple of issues in the main series, but Duncan recently announced his departure, so IDW is still looking for a replacement.

It's not official, like you said he's been signed on for a few issues. However, I have a feeling he might take over after that. These first couple of issues Kuhn is doing seem preliminary...just a feeling, I guess.

[Archon_Turtle]

Throw money at Ross until he says yes. *nod*

[CyberCubed]

I think this might actually cost IDW some sales.

When a big art shift happens in an ongoing monthly comic, sales usually decline. I can't imagine people uninformed about this change going from #12 to #13 and wondering why everything looks so different.

They should find someone who is going to be around for a year or more like Duncan was to do a bunch of issues in a row. Different artists for micros and mini-series are fine, but when it comes to the main series, the art changing every couple of issues isn't a good idea.

[Lampy]

Khun's art on people looks great though... I'll give him that. And his splinter too. But I'll really miss Duncan's Turtles.

[AquaParade]

For the record, I actually enjoy Khuns art....more than Duncans! Surprise.

Still, Mateus, would propel this to being one of my favorite books, I assume. I love each taste I get of his turtle art.

[Plasticplayhouse]

I think this might actually cost IDW some sales.

When a big art shift happens in an ongoing monthly comic, sales usually decline. I can't imagine people uninformed about this change going from #12 to #13 and wondering why everything looks so different.

They should find someone who is going to be around for a year or more like Duncan was to do a bunch of issues in a row. Different artists for micros and mini-series are fine, but when it comes to the main series, the art changing every couple of issues isn't a good idea.

lol. i totally second this method. i know he's currently working on glory, but you offer him a nice contract to lure him in and let khun fill in for six months so Campbell can give Image a respectable amount of notice to find a new artist...badabing badaboom we'll have ourselves a fan fav artist at the helm.

[Redeemer]

As I said before I love this picture. I'd love to see his Bebop. Man if this is in an IDW book I'm really super excited.

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_02.jpg?w=655&h=995

I really like the Rocksteady in these pics, but I dont like the way the turtles look.....

[Dirty Blond]

Maybe we'll get to see some decent plastrons from now on.

[Donnie]

Maybe we'll get to see some decent plastrons from now on.

I really hope so. That was my biggest gripe with Duncan.

[Andrew NDB]

Maybe we'll get to see some decent plastrons from now on.

I really hope so. That was my biggest gripe with Duncan.

Myself as well. Though it did improve over time, it was like Dan was drawing the plastrons as though they were soft and squishy and foam-like, like the ones from the movies. Why someone would want to intentionally set out making the plastrons look like Halloween costumes, I have no idea.

[Candy Kappa]

Myself as well. Though it did improve over time, it was like Dan was drawing the plastrons as though they were soft and squishy and foam-like, like the ones from the movies. Why someone would want to intentionally set out making the plastrons look like Halloween costumes, I have no idea.

I guess in a way to explain how the turtles can move by making the Plastron (and perhaps the Carapace) softer and flexible.

But I wasn't a fan of Duncan's Plastrons either, everything else was fine.

[Andrew NDB]

I guess in a way to explain how the turtles can move by making the Plastron (and perhaps the Carapace) softer and flexible.

As long as the "lines" between the segments of plastron bend where they're supposed to there really isn't a problem. There's no need for the actual segments themselves to be bendable/flexible.

[Coro]

While I'm not that big a fan of Dan's turtles, I do think they're better than Kuhn's.

Agreed. I would like to see Campbell take over.

[Killer Moth]

In hopes of mustering up support for Mateus, here are some rough pieces he's done of what looks like the turtles fighting Rocksteady! :D

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_02.jpg?w=655&h=995

http://santolouco.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tmnt_sample_santolouco_01.jpg?w=655&h=995

I'm definitely sold. I also hope he gets to say, "I'm a God-damn rhino," like he did in the Raph one-shot. Why that hasn't been a meme, like the electric death one from the 87 series, that's so wrong.

As for Kuhn, again, I defer to Laird's "didn't make me puke" line. Same with Duncan, as, to me, his art was a nice clean one for the most part. (Save for the plastrons, etc.) Best wishes for Duncan, as he moves on for -- pardon the pun -- greener pastures.

[CyberCubed]

At least Dan Duncan goes out with #12 which wraps up a year for IDW and ends the main story arc.

Couldn't have picked a better issue to go out on.

[Andrew NDB]

Did you see the pics of his more recent work on the first page? It might change your opinion a little.

I'm willing to give the guy a second chance if he brings his A game. It is just two issues. I'm just worried that it might create an unwanted "jumping off" point for other readers.

And if he knocks it out of the park? Great. I'd be the first one to sing his praises.

[ToTheNines]

I'm willing to give the guy a second chance if he brings his A game. It is just two issues.

Nope, he's doing four issues. 13-16.

[FoxZerro]

If they keep the stories contained then I think this will work out ok. Duncan gave us the first year, which is kind of one big story.

It has been said that 13 and 14 are a self contained arc which will benefit from having the same artist. If the same is done with 15 and 16, which based upon the trade lengths would probably be the case, then you have two arcs with the same artist at the helm. Plus consistency of art in the trade.

Where this will start to become hard to deal with, for me anyway, is if you have a story arc start with one artist and finish with another. Art changes always distract me.

[Lampy]

If they keep the stories contained then I think this will work out ok. Duncan gave us the first year, which is kind of one big story.

It has been said that 13 and 14 are a self contained arc which will benefit from having the same artist. If the same is done with 15 and 16, which based upon the trade lengths would probably be the case, then you have two arcs with the same artist at the helm. Plus consistency of art in the trade.

Where this will start to become hard to deal with, for me anyway, is if you have a story arc start with one artist and finish with another. Art changes always distract me.

you have a point there FoxZerro... consistency is very important in a series... especially one that is ongoing.

[Matches Malone]

If they keep the stories contained then I think this will work out ok. Duncan gave us the first year, which is kind of one big story.

It has been said that 13 and 14 are a self contained arc which will benefit from having the same artist. If the same is done with 15 and 16, which based upon the trade lengths would probably be the case, then you have two arcs with the same artist at the helm. Plus consistency of art in the trade.

Where this will start to become hard to deal with, for me anyway, is if you have a story arc start with one artist and finish with another. Art changes always distract me.

A very good point, to which I think IDW is thankfully aware. Initially Kuhn was to only do 2 issues, but then signed on for the whole next arc (2 issues) when Duncan resigned, and I'm sure that was intentional.

[Sophie Campbell]

thank you so much for the support, you guys!!! :D

i'm surprised by so many people not digging Andy Kuhn's stuff, though. his chops and style are undeniable in my opinion, and i've read TMNT #13 and his work in it is awesome. he also draws a mean Shredder. i'm particularly excited for him to be drawing #15-16, i can't say anything about it but you'll see why when the storyline is revealed!! ;) PUMPEDDDDDD

[ToTheNines]

i'm particularly excited for him to be drawing #15-16, i can't say anything about it but you'll see why when the storyline is revealed!! ;) PUMPEDDDDDD

This must mean he draws a mean Slash, as well :)

[shuriken]

I'm gonna miss Duncan, although to be fair I like the way his turtles looked in the earlier issues as opposed to the later ones. I feel like their heads got too long and their plastrons got too flexible. Although I loved his Casey, Traag and Krang. I get behind whoever did Splinter's Micro, which was my favorite Micro thus far. Campbell would be good too, although I do find his turtles to be a bit too cute. But it works.
I like Kuhn's art, although I think the coloring didn't lend itself well to his style. And Mikey being huge kinda sucked.

[nickn]

This must mean he draws a mean Slash, as well :)

I thought it looked like Slash on the B cover for April. Maybe that's just me, it could be Rat King, Slash, who knows! I instantly thought it was Slash though. If the Micros stay in between some of the issues on the main series, I guess this could happen??

[FlawedCoil82]

Wow, I definitely can not see this as good news. Of all the artists that have been involved with IDW's TMNT titles so far, Andy Kuhn was (by far) my least favorite. I hope his style vastly improves or else that he will only be on the title a short while. Just like when IDW's "Godzilla: Kingdom Of Monsters" got Victor Santos to draw the interior art, that comic went to pure crap. But thank God they redeemed themselves (so far) with the new ongoing title with Simon Gane doing the artwork. I hope the same will happen with TMNT. I will give Andy another chance to see if he wins me over (afterall Duncan has had some misses as well) but I am quite nervous on this one.

[Genesis]

Jeez, all the hate for Kuhn. I dug Michelangelo's one-shot. Very 2k3-ish story. I dig his stylized, er, style. His Mike was cute, I thought.

[Bobby Curnow]

Wow, I definitely can not see this as good news. Of all the artists that have been involved with IDW's TMNT titles so far, Andy Kuhn was (by far) my least favorite. I hope his style vastly improves or else that he will only be on the title a short while. Just like when IDW's "Godzilla: Kingdom Of Monsters" got Victor Santos to draw the interior art, that comic went to pure crap. But thank God they redeemed themselves (so far) with the new ongoing title with Simon Gane doing the artwork. I hope the same will happen with TMNT. I will give Andy another chance to see if he wins me over (afterall Duncan has had some misses as well) but I am quite nervous on this one.

I think this is really interesting, as I edit both Godzilla (post KOM) and TMNT. Simon Gane did the Godzilla Legends #2 (much as Andy did the 2nd micro), and people didn't dig that issue and were preemptively unhappy with the choice for him as the ongoing artist. Now everyone seems to dig him on the ongoing.

I'm not saying that will be the same with Andy, necessarily. He's got a unique style, and maybe it's not for everyone. I will say, judge him on the merits of his ongoing issue work, not the Mike Micro (which I love, but again, maybe not for everyone). Much as Simon Gane brought a different game to the Godzilla ongoing, Andy's refining and doing different things in the ongoing.

I'm not saying you have to like it or anything, but do give it a chance!

[Zulithe]

I agree, Andy deserves his shot at the core title!

This always happens when a book changes artists. I was around when Greg Capullo took over McFarlane on Spawn in the 90s... wow, the outrage. But I always LOVED his art and he quickly grew into one of the hottest artists in the business. Today he's illustrating Batman at DC, easily one of the hottest books right now.

Those underappreciated artists of today can shoot to stardom and acclaim in a very short period. All they need is their chance to do their best work.

[Shellsweet]

Super bummed, but happy for Duncan!
If he happens to read this, I just can't express how much I appreciate his hard work, I'm a huge fan.

I loved his art for the IDW TMNT comics, I really do!
And now, I only wish the best for him in the future! He's great, and I'll dance a jig if he comes back for an issue every once in awhile, or even just for a cover.

And I don't know, I must live on a different planet, I really like Kuhn's style.
It's probably not everyone's cup of tea, which is fine.
But I don't mind seeing his stuff in the next following issues!
I really like his inking contrast, It reminds me of Hellboy.

Though, preferably, I would LOVE to see Schiti (Who did the Micro Series for Donatello) pick up the rest of the TMNT series!
His expressions are FANTASTIC, and I enjoyed his art so much in that micro series issue! I think he'd pick up on the pace of the story pretty well!

I have a lot of faith in the IDW team though!

[Powder]

I actually heard this from the artists themselves at Heroes Con last month, but I was sworn to secrecy, haha. Had I been told before then about the switch over to Kuhn I'd of been bothered by it, admittedly I pratically hated his art in the Mikey micro. But when I met the guy, saw his books of new art, I was sold. His style of the turtles has evolved GREATLY since then, we're in for a real treat. They look really really cool. I'm bummed as hell we're losing Duncan as he became a top favorite of mine in no time flat, but Andy Kuhn is a great artist and just as much of an awesome person, so I'm exicted for that. Plus, I got to see covers up to issue 15 or 16 in person (SPOILERS!!! MWAHAHA) and they too were fantastic.

[FlawedCoil82]

I think this is really interesting, as I edit both Godzilla (post KOM) and TMNT. Simon Gane did the Godzilla Legends #2 (much as Andy did the 2nd micro), and people didn't dig that issue and were preemptively unhappy with the choice for him as the ongoing artist. Now everyone seems to dig him on the ongoing.

I'm not saying that will be the same with Andy, necessarily. He's got a unique style, and maybe it's not for everyone. I will say, judge him on the merits of his ongoing issue work, not the Mike Micro (which I love, but again, maybe not for everyone). Much as Simon Gane brought a different game to the Godzilla ongoing, Andy's refining and doing different things in the ongoing.

I'm not saying you have to like it or anything, but do give it a chance!

Well I was one of the defenders of Gane's original work in the Rodan special. I loved his style and was very excited when I heard he was taking over for "Godzilla" (I could not stand Victor Santos's cartoony style honestly). In Godzilla's case, Simon Gane was one of my three top choices I could have picked to do the ongoing series (E.J. Su from the Hedorah issue was my top favorite, followed closely by Matt Frank of the Anguirus special, with Simon Gane a very close third). And so far his work in the new title has impressed me quite a bit, especially since he is sticking with my favorite interpretation of Godzilla (Heisei). It's not perfect, but still a huge improvement over what we had before.

But getting back on topic, I will certainly give Andy's work another chance to see if he can win me over. His work was not terrible and certainly better than anything I could draw. It's just based on all the artists involved with the TMNT title so far, he definitely impressed me the least (followed by Mark Torres who did the "Infestation 2" issues). I did like one single panel he did for the Michelangelo issue on page 12 at the bottom where he had Mikey charging at the guys, so he may still be able to capture action better in this new ongoing series. Only time will tell.

[Coro]

thank you so much for the support, you guys!!! :D

i'm surprised by so many people not digging Andy Kuhn's stuff, though. his chops and style are undeniable in my opinion, and i've read TMNT #13 and his work in it is awesome. he also draws a mean Shredder. i'm particularly excited for him to be drawing #15-16, i can't say anything about it but you'll see why when the storyline is revealed!! ;) PUMPEDDDDDD

More Ross is all I can say!

[Redeemer]

I actually heard this from the artists themselves at Heroes Con last month, but I was sworn to secrecy, haha. Had I been told before then about the switch over to Kuhn I'd of been bothered by it, admittedly I pratically hated his art in the Mikey micro. But when I met the guy, saw his books of new art, I was sold. His style of the turtles has evolved GREATLY since then, we're in for a real treat. They look really really cool. I'm bummed as hell we're losing Duncan as he became a top favorite of mine in no time flat, but Andy Kuhn is a great artist and just as much of an awesome person, so I'm exicted for that. Plus, I got to see covers up to issue 15 or 16 in person (SPOILERS!!! MWAHAHA) and they too were fantastic.

I hope so....I really didn't like the Mikey Micro art, just seemed flat

[Powder]

I hope so....I really didn't like the Mikey Micro art, just seemed flat

For obvious reasons I couldn't photograph the as of yet unprinted art he brought with him, but I can show you guys this, at least. It's a print of his that I bought, featuring recent turtle art. I quite like it. Sorry it's not the best quality photo I'm providing, but it'll do.

http://i50.tinypic.com/23shg0x.jpg

[oldmanwinters]

I think this is really interesting, as I edit both Godzilla (post KOM) and TMNT. Simon Gane did the Godzilla Legends #2 (much as Andy did the 2nd micro), and people didn't dig that issue and were preemptively unhappy with the choice for him as the ongoing artist. Now everyone seems to dig him on the ongoing.

I'm not saying that will be the same with Andy, necessarily. He's got a unique style, and maybe it's not for everyone. I will say, judge him on the merits of his ongoing issue work, not the Mike Micro (which I love, but again, maybe not for everyone). Much as Simon Gane brought a different game to the Godzilla ongoing, Andy's refining and doing different things in the ongoing.

I'm not saying you have to like it or anything, but do give it a chance!

Good words to take to heart. The Rodan G:Legends comic was my least favorite (art and story) of that series. But artists can always make great strides in their work when given the chance. I think Duncan's art improved immensely as he continued to work on the book. And I think Kuhn's recent TMNT art samples on his blog really show how he's getting a better grasp on the characters. I am looking forward to the future of the TMNT book.

[Redeemer]

For obvious reasons I couldn't photograph the as of yet unprinted art he brought with him, but I can show you guys this, at least. It's a print of his that I bought, featuring recent turtle art. I quite like it. Sorry it's not the best quality photo I'm providing, but it'll do.

http://i50.tinypic.com/23shg0x.jpg


Pretty Awesome pick! I think I will read the Mikey Micro again to compare....hmm...