the experts

the experts has MOVED!!!

2011-09-05T19:41:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody~

We've MOVED!

Find all your experts news here at Near Mint Press Books!!

LIKE Near Mint Press!

2011-01-30T12:35:00.001-08:00

LIKE Near Mint Press Books on facebook and keep up-to-date with comics and graphic novels from Kenn Minter, Clarence Pruitt & more!

LIKE!

2010-12-24T14:13:00.001-08:00

new art

2010-12-02T11:15:00.000-08:00

Here's a new unlettered page from Near Mint Press' upcoming series, "Tales of the Emerald Yeti," by Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt.

Near Mint Press Price Reductions

2010-11-23T11:02:00.001-08:00

With new books on the horizon, Near Mint Press has slashed the cover prices of it's popular books, "The Experts" and "I'm not from here."

"The Experts" was $14.99... now it's only $10.99!

Also, "I'm not from here" was $10.99... now it's only $7.99!

The holidays are looming, so rush to get your copies now!

"The Experts."

"I'm not from here."

New Super Pin Ups

2010-11-18T11:25:00.000-08:00

By Clarence Pruitt and Kenn Minter.

For Sale on eBay!

2010-11-12T07:28:00.001-08:00

*1983, Kenner, Star Wars, 9.5-inch Jabba the Hut from "Return of the Jedi." This figure is in pristine condition. This would make the perfect addition to your Star Wars collection. Yer kids would love this!

JABBA THE HUT.

*1978, Kenner, Star Wars, 12-inch Stormtrooper with laser rifle. Great shape! Figure has been used and has minor yellowing due to age. This would be a great addition to any Star Wars aficionado's collection. It would make a perfect Holiday gift!

STORMTROOPER.

And lo, the Experts ...

2010-11-10T11:59:00.001-08:00

I'm sorry to report that Near Mint Press has cancelled their purchase order with Diamond for "The Experts" graphic novel.

"The Experts" is still always available from comixpress.com's online store:

CLICK.

Thank you,

Kenn Minter
Near Mint Press

Order up!

2010-10-01T10:04:00.001-07:00

"The Experts" trade paperback graphic novel is now available in Diamond's Previews October 2010 Catalog on page 293 under "Near Mint Press." Order code: OCT101081, Experts GN Vol. 01. Please have your favorite book/comic book retailer order some copies!

Please!

Thanks,
Kenn

p.s.
If you have a blog or website or would just like to spread the word, please snag either or both of these images and slap it on your site. Near Mint Press is just a two-person operation with limited promotional funds ... and we could use all the help we can get. Thanks again.

Near Mint Press at the Cincinnati Comic Expo!

2010-09-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

Hi! Near Mint Press will be set up at the Cincinnati Comic Expo this weekend! We'll be selling books, drawing sketches and more! Come by our table!

Check out the Cincinnati Comic Expo!

The PullBox reviews "The Experts" ...

2010-09-08T12:27:00.001-07:00

"Harkening back to the days of Mystery Men and The Specials, The Experts are a team of freaks, geeks, underdogs, and has-beens that decide to take a run at being super-heroes. Unfortunately, they spend more time tripping over each other to get much done. Just because you have powers, doesn’t mean you know how to use them." ...

Read more here.

"The Experts" graphic novel is coming ...

2010-09-07T17:01:00.001-07:00

... to your comic shop/bookstore soon. Bug your shop owner to order many copies from the October 2010 Diamond Previews catalog! It's filed under "Near Mint Press." Make sure your shop gets a bunch of copies! :o)

~K

For Sale this Week on ebay!!

2010-09-06T14:58:00.000-07:00

See here.

Catwoman action figure from "The Batman" animated TV series. This figure is an EXCLUSIVE item from Chicago's 2005 Wizard World Comic Convention. This is a UNIQUE and DISTINCTIVE figure of CATWOMAN based on designs from "The Batman" animated TV series. She comes packaged in her own diorama including a fuzzy, flocked, pink, lion sculpture for her to steal (see inset photo). This figure is produced by MATTEL. Bid now! Great deal!

New artwork for the upcoming "Tales of the Emerald Yeti" book ...

2010-08-21T07:45:00.001-07:00

by Kenn and Clarence.

sufferin' sappho ...

2010-08-17T14:53:00.001-07:00

those costumes ...

2010-08-01T14:17:00.000-07:00

New cover for "The Experts" graphic novel.

2010-07-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

By Kenn Minter, Clarence Pruitt, and colored by Ross Hughes.

Optical Sloth reviews "Super World" ...

2010-07-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

"I wonder if anybody has ever written a long article detailing all the different divisions in small press comics fans. Maybe The Comics Journal got around to it at some point, but I mostly couldn’t stand that magazine even before they priced themselves out of my range anyway. I’m asking the question because it’s obvious from that cover that this is a superhero parody (and a good one) and was curious if such a thing turns off a segment of the small press comic reading public before they even crack open the book."

More here.

New cover for "The Experts"

2010-07-13T13:48:00.001-07:00

Here is the inked drawing for the new cover of "The Experts" graphic novel.

Emerald Yeti colored sketch

2010-07-09T17:39:00.001-07:00

"The Experts" new cover rough sketches

2010-07-09T13:13:00.001-07:00

Not to give too much away .. but here are rough sketches of a possible new cover to "The Experts" graphic novel... by penciller, Clarence Pruitt.

Near Mint Press Books on facebook

2010-07-09T12:25:00.000-07:00

Near Mint Press Books, the publishing house of graphic novels, comic books, and comic strip collections by Kenn Minter, Clarence Pruitt, and others now has it's own facebook© page!

Come join us and stay up-to-date on all of Near Mint Press Books happenings!

See here!

NInja Witch (IN COLOR)

2010-07-03T08:38:00.001-07:00

A sketch of "Ninja Witch."

2010-07-02T17:31:00.001-07:00

A new review of "The Experts" book ...

2010-06-26T11:27:00.001-07:00

See here.

Captain America and Thor (upcoming film costumes).

2010-06-03T08:42:00.000-07:00

These are the costume designs for the upcoming Thor and Captain America films. Are you excited yet? I'm not. I'm so bored of the modern interpretation of classic superheroes.

"Super-Ego & Little Miss Fantastic" (page 7 of 7)

2010-05-27T07:08:00.001-07:00

Here is the final page of "Super-Ego & Little Miss Fantastic." Please let me know what you thought of this little adventure. ~ K

PAGE 1.

PAGE 2.

PAGE 3.

PAGE 4.

PAGE 5.

PAGE 6.

the Doom Patrol again ...

2010-05-14T18:39:00.001-07:00

Here's a drawing of the Doom Patrol. Clarence penciled and I inked. ~K

Order "The Experts" graphic novel directly from Kenn!

2010-05-07T09:13:00.000-07:00

After a few book signings and a recent convention, I'm left with a box of "The Experts" graphic novels... just sitting there! So, for a limited time, you can order the book directly from me, Kenn! For a mere $17.00 (check or money order, postage and handling included) you can receive your very own, signed copy! E-mail kenn minter at yahoo dot com for details!

"Super-Ego & Little Miss Fantastic" (page 6 of 7)

2010-05-07T08:36:00.000-07:00

PAGE 1.

PAGE 2.

PAGE 3.

PAGE 4.

PAGE 5.

Kenn Goes to SPACE

2010-04-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

I'm off to the SPACE Convention in Columbus, Ohio to peddle my cartoony wares. If you are in the area, please stop by.

-Kenn

SPACE.

"Super-Ego & Little Miss Fantastic" (Page 5 of 7)

2010-04-16T07:07:00.001-07:00

PAGE 1.

PAGE 2.

PAGE 3.

PAGE 4.

"Super-Ego & Little Miss Fantastic" (Page 4 of 7)

2010-04-08T07:56:00.000-07:00

PAGE 1.

PAGE 2.

PAGE 3.

Kenn at a recent book signing ...

2010-03-31T12:38:00.001-07:00

Notice the cowboy in the background. He told us he was dressed like that to impress some Swedish gal. I wonder how that turned out.

Shelfabuse.com reviews "The Experts" graphic novel ...

2010-03-30T08:39:00.001-07:00

The Experts vol. 1 TPB Review
by Carl Doherty

Near Mint Press, 2009.  Story: Kenn Minter.  Art: Clarence Pruitt (Jason Cheeseman-Meyer pencils pgs 37-43).

Like the Mystery Men and Great Lake Avengers before them, the Experts are a sympathetic team of assorted weirdoes and underdogs that spend as much time bickering between one another as they do fighting crime. Yes they have powers, but they’re not always capable of controlling them.

One foot planted firmly in the Silver Age, the squad consists of voodoo dealing Doctor Delta, green-skinned teen Ninja Witch, mechanical monster Emerald Yeti, the self-explanatory Mr. Elaztik, patriotic blonde Free Mary and the seemingly useless Naked Man. Together they fight crime under the guidance of veteran heroes The Scotsman and the Frost Queen, as well as scientist Bentley Winchester, whose camp, buffoonish personality is but an act to conceal his alter ego, the grim defender Nightguard.

READ THE REST HERE.

My girlfriend spoils me ...

2010-03-30T08:17:00.001-07:00

For my birthday party, this past Saturday night ... my girlfriend had these two "The Experts"-related cakes made by a local bakery. I'm too lucky.

-Kenn

"Super Ego & Little Miss Fantastic" Page 3

2010-03-26T07:18:00.001-07:00

PAGE 1.

PAGE 2.

"Super Ego & Little Miss Fantastic" Page 2

2010-03-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

PAGE 1.

"Super-Ego & Little Miss Fantastic" Page 1

2010-03-10T09:08:00.001-08:00

Here is the first page of a 7-page story titled "Super-Ego & Little Miss Fantastic" by myself and Clarence Pruitt. It will eventually be part of a book called "Tales of the Emerald Yeti."

-Kenn

Some new "Experts" sketches ...

2010-03-06T09:05:00.000-08:00

Another "the Experts" scene

2010-02-18T11:00:00.001-08:00

Here's another snippet from "the Experts" graphic novel from Near Mint Press by Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt.

This sexy vignette provides some insight into the past relationship of Naked Man and Ninja Witch as told to the Experts team leader, the Frost Queen.

"the Experts" trade paperback is available here.

"the Experts" $2.99 digital download is available here.

secret project panel art

2010-01-23T11:47:00.001-08:00

Comicrelated.com interviews Kenn Minter

2010-01-20T13:29:00.000-08:00

www.comicrelated.com interviews Kenn Minter about life, comics, "The Experts" and "I'm Not From Here."

Interview starts at 15:45.

Listen here.

Happy Holidays from "The Experts!"

2009-12-20T20:17:00.001-08:00

"The Experts" Trade Paperback Available for Order from Comixpress!

2009-12-19T10:15:00.001-08:00

The Experts TPB
$14.99
"the Experts"
by Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt (Published by Near Mint Press)

Gathered together by the aging super-heroes Frost Queen and the Scotsman, the Experts are a quirky group of adventurers out to toss their hat in the super-hero ring. But the founders of this new team are more interested in publicity, endorsements, and marketing than actual super-heroics.

The new team combines three newcomers: Ninja Witch (a moody, youthful witch-in-training), Free Mary (a spit-fire vixen), and Naked Man (a young, eager buck); with three adventure veterans: Doctor Delta (a mystical apparition), the Emerald Yeti (a gentle-natured, mechanical, furry giant), and Mr. Elaztik (the obligatory, rubber-bodied, shape-changing comic relief). Each member chosen to fulfill certain demographic appeal and more importantly for their willingness to work cheap.

Ninja Witch soon takes center stage as she and Free Mary are put through their paces on a mission preordained to failure -- and not just due to their ineptness. While the mysterious Doctor Delta is haunted by memories of his past and the one fateful decision that has cast its shadow over his entire life. The Experts quickly reach the brink of collapse as the unpredictable Ninja Witch discovers that the team is being exploited in more ways than they ever realized.

The Experts is a quirky, off-kilter superhero series that's chock full of both action and irony.

120 Pages | Full Color Covers |Black & White Pages

Get your copy here!

"The Experts" book signing tonight!

2009-12-11T10:19:00.000-08:00

The Kentucky Kernel Newspaper Interviews Kenn

2009-12-11T06:12:00.001-08:00

By Martha Groppo

Ninja Witch, Free Mary, Frost Queen and Naked Man are the names of a few characters in one UK alum’s new book. Kenn Minter, art director for the university’s Creative Graphics and Web Design department, will be signing copies of his new graphic novel, “The Experts,” on Friday. Minter’s novel is about an unusual team of superheroes caught up in the world of marketing and publicity. “ ‘The Experts’ turns the traditional superhero myths on their ears,” Minter said. Minter was interested in cartooning from an early age. “I started writing and drawing comics when I was a kid,” he said.

More here.

"the Experts" graphic novel ($2.99 Digital Download)!

2009-12-03T08:36:00.001-08:00

Click here.

"the Experts"
by Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt
(Published by Near Mint Press)

Gathered together by the aging super-heroes Frost Queen and the Scotsman, the Experts are a quirky group of adventurers out to toss their hat in the super-hero ring. But the founders of this new team are more interested in publicity, endorsements, and marketing than actual super-heroics.

The new team combines three newcomers: Ninja Witch (a moody, youthful witch-in-training), Free Mary (a spit-fire vixen), and Naked Man (a young, eager buck); with three adventure veterans: Doctor Delta (a mystical apparition), the Emerald Yeti (a gentle-natured, mechanical, furry giant), and Mr. Elaztik (the obligatory, rubber-bodied, shape-changing comic relief). Each member chosen to fulfill certain demographic appeal and more importantly for their willingness to work cheap.

Ninja Witch soon takes center stage as she and Free Mary are put through their paces on a mission preordained to failure -- and not just due to their ineptness. While the mysterious Doctor Delta is haunted by memories of his past and the one fateful decision that has cast its shadow over his entire life. The Experts quickly reach the brink of collapse as the unpredictable Ninja Witch discovers that the team is being exploited in more ways than they ever realized.

The Experts is a quirky, off-kilter superhero series that's chock full of both action and irony.

120 pages

"the Experts" graphic novel is on it's way!

2009-11-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

Here, have a preview!

Working on the back cover of "the Experts" graphic novel ...

2009-10-21T09:06:00.000-07:00

Midnight Fiction reviews "I'm not from here"

2009-10-12T08:09:00.001-07:00

"Kenn Minter's comic strip I'm Not From Here is part autobiography, part commentary, and always amusing. The cover of this collection asserts the comics inside are "slightly embellished" versions of real life. That snarky sentiment is typical of the dry wit and sly humor that await readers inside."

See here for the rest of the review.

"the Experts" (graphic novel cover)

2009-09-30T13:18:00.001-07:00

"Super World" 99¢ digital download!

2009-09-28T07:33:00.001-07:00

SUPER WORLD
From the pages of THE EXPERTS, comes this hilarious, one-shot collection of short, sardonic, and snappy stories of sarcastic and hardly-sane superheroes by Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt! In SUPERWORLD, you'll meet IncredoLad, the Z-Squad, the Love Lantern, and many more!

Download it for a mere 99¢ HERE!

A lettered page from "The Experts" ...

2009-09-10T13:39:00.001-07:00

CLarence Pruitt's New Blogs!

2009-09-04T11:17:00.001-07:00

Clarence Pruitt, the fantastic penciller of "the Experts" and "Super World," and the upcoming "Tales of the Emerald Yeti," has finally created his own blogs! Here he shows off his amazing talent in the way of film and cartoon storyboards, and character design!

Check them out!

See here!!

See here!!

The Experts graphic novel...

2009-08-26T18:51:00.000-07:00

I am so close to finishing this darn thing, I can taste it.

Just two more pages to add gray tones to... then a mess of pages to letter, then color the cover... then layout the type/logo on the cover...

Hmmm... maybe I'm not as close to finishing this as I thought. ;o)

-Kenn (Soon!)

What others are saying about "the Experts" ...

2009-08-17T19:15:00.000-07:00

"The Experts #'s 1-3 from Near Mint Press: This is a good, fun, and unpretentious superhero team book with some bonus stories thrown in most of the issues. Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt have created a team of superheroes who talk like real people, have mixed-up relationships like real people, and screw up like real people. This book makes me want to dust off a similar project I've had on the back burner for years. I just hope I can do it as well as these guys."

- http://pickle-press.livejournal.com/88640.html

more unlettered pages

2009-08-08T07:56:00.001-07:00

More art from the upcoming "The Experts" graphic novel!

2009-06-19T08:24:00.001-07:00

Another New Page of Art for "the Experts" !

2009-06-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

The plan is to have this book complete and ready to show by this coming September!

New "the Experts" art

2009-05-27T20:39:00.001-07:00

new art from "the Experts"

2009-05-01T05:59:00.001-07:00

SPACE CON in Columbus, Ohio this weekend! April 18 and 19.

2009-04-17T08:38:00.000-07:00

Hey comic pals and gals, Come see me and many other self-publishers and creators at the SPACE Con in Columbus, Ohio this weekend! April 18 and 19.

-Kenn

new art from "the Experts!"

2009-04-05T08:40:00.001-07:00

Clarence draws "Hellboy!"

2009-03-21T20:34:00.001-07:00

A panel from "the Experts" graphic novel

2009-03-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

New Superhero pin-ups by Clarence Pruitt

2009-03-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

See more of Clarence's artwork here..

new "Experts" art

2009-02-24T20:44:00.001-08:00

some new art from "The Experts" graphic novel ...

2009-02-13T06:55:00.000-08:00

"the Experts" (graphic novel cover - inks)

2009-02-07T10:50:00.000-08:00

Pencil drawing by Clarence Pruitt... inks by me.

-Kenn

more art from "the Experts"

2009-01-22T12:22:00.001-08:00

comicrelated.com says something nice about me...

2009-01-21T18:15:00.000-08:00

Surfing the Panels: Reviews for the Comic Web
By John Wilson

Kenn Minter's Webpage
www.kennminter.com

The work of Kenn Minter gives one the feeling of the very familiar and the absolutely original all at the same time. In part he seems to be channeling equal amounts of indie legend Chris Ware and Marvel humorist Fred Hembeck with maybe just a little R. Crumb sneaking in. And conversely, he has ideas that wouldn't dare spring from anyone else. He is an illustrator, graphic designer, college educator and comic creator, all of which he approaches from a very unique perspective.

One of Kenn's forays into comics is "I'm Not From Here". A semi autobiographic, semi embellished account of his life looked at through wacky colored glasses. It's just like your life...if your life had a giant bunny (he's not a rabbit) named Oliver, goblins that kill small animals and moments that run from the mundane to the wacky both in and out of Kenn's head. He even allows guest artists to play in this world but it all still has his overwhelming sensibility.

Read more here.

new art from "the Experts" graphic novel

2009-01-10T12:06:00.001-08:00

some new art from "the Experts" graphic novel.

2009-01-08T11:57:00.001-08:00

Clarence Pruitt has long since finished all the pencil work on this book. Now, I'm feverishly trying to finishing all the inking, photoshopping, and lettering by the middle of February. Wish me luck.

-Kenn

Holiday Money Burning a Hole in Your Pocket?

2009-01-02T14:23:00.000-08:00

Near Mint Press books can help extinguish that flame with good stories and fine art.

I'm Not From Here
$10.99
"I'm Not From Here" is the first collection of semi-autobiographical comic strips Kenn Minter has been creating since 2001. The comic strip, as the cover suggests, is slightly embellished. All the stories are yanked from Minter's daily life, friends, and thoughts... and have been twisted and blended for their maximum amusement potential.
"I'm Not From Here" has benefited from an ever-growing cult following since it's first appearance online.
It's weird... but always humorous.
100 Pages | Black & White TPB

Super World
$3.49
From the pages of "The Experts," comes this hilarious, one-shot collection of short, sardonic, and snappy stories of sarcastic and hardly-sane superheroes.
In "SuperWorld," you'll meet IncredoLad, the Z-Squad, the Love Lantern, and many more!

the Experts #1
$3.00
This new team of heroes combines three novices with three adventure veterans: Doctor Delta (a mystical apparition), Free Mary (a spit-fire vixen), Naked Man (a young, eager buck), the Emerald Yeti (a gentle-natured, mechanical, furry giant), Ninja Witch (a moody, youthful witch-in-training), and Mr. Elaztik (the obligatory, rubber-bodied, shape-changing comic relief).
These six individuals have been chosen to fulfill certain demographic appeal. Though, more importantly, they have been selected for their ability and willingness to work cheap.
As a whole, the Experts is a quirky, off-kilter superhero series revolving around characters that are completely unprepared for their atypical roles and responsibilities.
This issue also features two back-up stories: "Incredo-Lad: Out of the Closet," and "Dr. Michael Schlessinger: Psychiatrist to the Superheroes."

the Experts #2
$3.00
The Experts members, Ninja Witch and Free Mary, go on their first mission as a duo to thwart international art theif, the Silver Muse. If anything can go wrong... well, it does.
Also in this issue, the Z-Squad, the most angst-ridden super-powered teenagers ever, are featured in a 4-page back-up story.

the Experts #3
$3.49
The Experts saga rolls forth. What's the story with the new costumes and attitudes? See Ninja Witch spar with Samurai made from ingerbread! Look who Naked Mans sleeping with now! Also, featured in this issue, the mysterious origin of Doctor Delta!
Meet the Love Lantern in an exciting back-up story!
Be sure to check out the Experts #1 and #2 as well!

the Experts (Part 2, Page 26)

2008-12-10T11:06:00.000-08:00

Okay, this is the end of the first two chapters of "the Experts" graphic novel. The book will contain 3 more issues worth of continuing storyline above and beyond what you've seen on this blog. The book should be available by this Spring or Summer.

Stay tuned to this blog for more details and artwork updates.

-Kenn

the Experts (Part 2, Page 25)

2008-12-02T09:22:00.001-08:00

the Experts (Part 2, Page 24)

2008-11-25T11:14:00.000-08:00

Signing copies of "I'm Not From Here."

2008-11-25T08:48:00.001-08:00

Kenn in Ace Weekly

2008-11-19T11:39:00.001-08:00

ACE Magazine, Lexington, Kentucky's local, weekly rag does a piece on me this week in anticipation of my book signing at the Morris book shop on Saturday, November 22, 7pm to 9pm (see flier):

""Cute but Deadly:
Artist Kenn Minter is... Not From Here!

Joe Conkwright is Oliver “a very large, sometimes pink bunny rabbit” in Kenn Minter’s comic strip. He writes, in the introduction to Minter’s new book, I’m Not From Here, “most of Kenn’s neon-coated life has been spent… in a Kentucky town of around 300,000 good and evil citizens…He got sucked back into the vanilla creamy vortex that is his hometown, and covered in the steamy, stinky juice of familiarity. It was only after his return to this familiar setting that he began to really devolve his special art style.” He concludes the Introduction by saying, “Because where you are from is different where Kenn is from, or coming from. I wouldn’t want to live there, but it is a nice place to visit.”

Arturo Sandoval describes Kenn Minter (who'll be signing his new book at Morris Book Store, this Saturday) as "one of the most active UK Department of Art alumni. He is constantly involved in producing his comic art, his radio music hour," adding, "he has a strong community presence."

Those are powerful words to art students who worry they may be working at Applebee's post-grad.

Minter is currently an Art Director at UK; works as a freelance illustrator; and his work has appeared in magazines and newspapers all over the country (including Ace and the Kentucky Kernel). With co-creator, Clarence Pruitt, he produces the off-beat, adventure, graphic novel series The Experts. He has taught at the Living Arts and Science Center and Spencerian College as an art instructor. He started his own publishing company a few years ago called Near Mint Press.

Asked to elaborate on his biography in a more Lex-centric fashion for the Ace readers, the title of one of his blogs says it all NotFromHereComic.blogspot.com, along with the title of his book, I’m Not From Here: Slightly Embellished Autobiographical Comic Strips.

His Facebook status, at this very moment, says “have the cakes delivered to my office.”

When pressed, he’ll offer a few more details. “My family moved to Lexington in 1981 when I was 11. I went to Morton Junior High... hated it. Then I went to Lexington Junior High.. loved it. I went to Henry Clay High School ... where I was introduced to beer, drugs and lost my virginity.”

His friend Cheryl Mohr reflects on their childhood days together (this would be pre-Henry Clay), “I have not seen Kenn in 26 years, sixth grade to be exact! But last year when I was having a conversation with my middle school aged daughter and we were comparing different kinds of boys, I thought of this mature, deeply, artistically talented boy named Kenn Minter. He used to draw comics for me as a vixen type character in all sorts of adventures! That was something for a twelve year old girl! He was complex even then and always left everyone wanting more. Well, as I told her about him, I thought to myself, ‘I should Google him and see if he continued with his enormous talent.’ Lo and behold, there he was and to know that he entertains the masses, as he did all of his classmates 26 years ago, makes me smile. And now we are friends again!”

As for his early art career, Minter says, “I went to UK for five years. I wrote and drew comics for the Kentucky Kernel and majored in graphic design and illustration. I also ocassionally worked for Ace. I worked a hundred different part-time jobs... I spent many years working as a delivery boy for Wheeler Pharmacy on Romany Road. I also worked for a short time at PEP TAB... the head shop downtown. Two different sorts of drug stores.”

He did make a break for it post-grad. “In 1996, I moved to San Diego and worked for a t-shirt and greeting card company called ‘STICKWORLD.’ When the paychecks started to bounce... I moved back to Lexington.”

Ron Penn, longtime musicology professor at UK, says "I had the pleasure of Kenn's company in a World Music class several light years ago. At the time I associated him with some wonderfully refreshing and deliciously odd cartoons that appeared in the Kernel... Since then, I have been pleased, amazed, delighted, charmed, and enlightened by Kenn's saucy, hilarious, surreal take on the world. Truth expressed in humor is a rare tonic for our times....And Kenn dispenses this tonic liberally and with grand effect."

Lucy Points describes him like this, "Kenn is that guy at the party peering out from the corner, behind a plate of salty snacks truly absorbing every detail of his environment. The party ends and a couple of days later—sometimes a month later—there, in the in-box, appears a meticulously and masterfully crafted comic depicting an otherwise mundane conversation or incident. Far superior to digital photos or thank you cards."

Kenn Minter signs his new book at Morris Book Shop on Southland Drive, Saturday, November 22.""

the Experts (pencil pin ups)

2008-11-11T08:32:00.000-08:00

by Clarence Pruitt!

the Experts (Part 2, Page 23)

2008-11-06T09:04:00.001-08:00

the Experts (Part 2, Page 22)

2008-10-29T07:35:00.000-07:00

I am a lazy artist (the Experts, etc.)

2008-10-27T13:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true. I can be pretty lazy sometimes with my art. Plus, I just enjoy scribbling... it's very relaxing. I kick myself for not doing it more often.

Anyway, Clarence Pruitt and I are on our way to finishing the first "the Experts" graphic novel. Usually, when I have a visual idea for something that Clarence will create for the final illustration... I'll scribble my idea down... and then Clarence will crank the pencils out... for real.

Here are the scribbles I recently sent to Clarence for the cover of "the Experts" graphic novel. They're not good... but they don't have to be. Clarence is an excellent draftsman... and requires very little direction.

He'll appreciate that I said that. ;o)

Thanks,
Kenn

Super Hero Pin Ups

2008-10-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

Here are some more super hero pin ups by myself and Clarence Pruitt. These are Doctor Doom, Spiderman, and Pricess Leia.

Say, if you'd be interested in purchasing one of these original, pen & ink pin ups for a nominal fee... drop me a line at:

kennminter at yahoo.com

Thanks,
Kenn

the Experts (Part 2, Page 21)

2008-10-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

the Experts (part 2, page 20)

2008-10-16T08:48:00.001-07:00

New "the Experts #1" Review

2008-10-14T12:09:00.000-07:00

By Bill Gladman of comicrelated.com.

"The Experts #1 by Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt. Kenn is actually a member of the Comic Related extended family and was set up at the second Comic Related booth over in the Creator Commons. Kenn is a very hard worker…that much is obvious…as he writes, inks, and letters this book….and a couple other books as well. I’ve been checking out pages of story art that Kenn regularly post on the site for months now and knew this book was on a short list of books I was walking out of the con with.

The Experts (the book) is actually a book with three different stories in which the Experts (the team of super-heroes) is the first. A team that features Doctor Delta, Free Mary, Ninja Witch (love that name and the character…my favorite of the group), Mr. Elaztik (another cool name and character), Emerald Yeti (my second favorite of the group), and Naked Man (don’t know why he’s called Naked Man….because he’s never naked in the story…but hey…I’m not complaining.)

In this first issue we learn that this team of Experts were not the first team to go by that moniker. And past members Frost Queen…and another member …that talks like Sean Connery from Highlander seem to have more than a small interest in this new line up. A conversation between the two also seems to include a few well placed clues about the past of Emerald Yeti, Mr.Elaztik, and Doctor Delta.

And speaking of the past….it seems that Naked Man and Ninja Witch have a past as well…one that Ninja Witch wants to forget….but Naked Man keeps digging up. Hilarious last panel of the story.

The book…as a whole…had an element to it that I really like but I’m sure nobody can share. Kenn’s writing and Kenn and Clarence’s art has a heavy “Larry Blake” feel to it, which I love. Larry is an artist and friend and has produced books like Dark Star, Reeealy (not a typo) Comics, and World Without Heroes out of his Rock Bottom art studios for years…hopefully I’ll see Larry again at this coming S.P.A.C.E. Con 2009.

Like the Dracula Inc. book the lead story that featured the Experts ended right when I was getting into it….but at least this story was four pages longer. And I found it interesting enough that I want to continue to read it…especially with the appearance of a character next issue that calls herself the Silver Muse…influenced in visual concept by a certain Scarlet Witch.

Unlike Dracula Inc…the stories that followed the lead were just as good or even better… (the Incredolad story was very funny and at the same time a testimony of what appears to be a trait of Kenn’s…dark satire)…and the Dr. Michael Schlessinger, PSC story…the last one in the book…was my favorite of the three.

Also liked the Incredolad promotion page….there’s that dark satire again….good stuff."

Book Signing!

2008-10-14T09:04:00.001-07:00

I know this is early notice, but, what the hey...

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Kenn Minter • Book Signing

November 22nd, 2008, 7pm to 9pm

the Morris book shop • 408 Southland Drive • Lexington, Ky.

Come join Lexington comic book creator, Kenn Minter, as he signs copies of his new comic strip collection, “I’m Not From Here.”

“I’m Not From Here” collects the first few years of Minter’s semi-autobiographical, online comic strip.

November 22nd,2008
7pm to 9pm

the Morris book shop
408 Southland Dr. Lexington, Ky.
859-276-0494

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

On sale on eBay!!

2008-10-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

For sale on eBay, I am currently offering these two, original, pen and ink drawings of Marvel Comics' Iron Man and Captain America. These have been penciled by Clarence Pruitt and inked by me. They are drawn on sturdy vellum card stock paper and suitable for framing.

These are one-of-a-kind items.

Let the bids begin!

Thanks,
Kenn Minter

Iron Man

Captain America

Kenn VS Doc Ock!!

2008-10-06T06:45:00.001-07:00

"I'm Not From Here" book Available Online!

2008-10-03T13:17:00.001-07:00

"I'm Not From Here," a 100 page collection of smart, bizarre, thoughtful, and hilarious semi-autobiographical comic strips is finally... available for purchase online!

Grab a copy here.

Thanks,
Kenn Minter

the experts (Part 2, page 19)

2008-10-03T13:08:00.001-07:00

Near Mint Press at the Mid-Ohio-Con

2008-10-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

Hi folks. Please join me this weekend at the Mid-Ohio-Con in Columbus, Ohio. October 4th and 5th, 2008. I'll be selling and signing copies of "the Experts," "Super World," and the brand new collection of my semi-autobigraphical comic strips, "I'm Not From Here." I'll also be drawing and selling pin ups of any of your favorite comic book and cartoon characters.

Please stop by!

-Kenn Minter

The Experts

I'm Not From Here

Mid-Ohio-Con

New "Experts" art

2008-09-25T10:50:00.001-07:00

More Super Hero Pin Ups

2008-09-24T17:21:00.001-07:00

Here are more super hero pin ups by me and Clarence Pruitt. Here's DC Comics' "Power-Girl" and "Orion."

-Kenn

the experts (Part 2, page 18)

2008-09-24T13:53:00.001-07:00

More Super Hero Pin Ups

2008-09-21T15:52:00.001-07:00

Here are some more super hero pin ups by Clarence Pruitt and myself. Here's "Storm" from the "X-Men" and "the Lone Ranger."

the Experts (Part 2, page 17)

2008-09-19T13:27:00.001-07:00

More Super Hero Pin Ups

2008-09-17T13:53:00.001-07:00

Here are some more super hero pin ups by myself and penciller, Clarence Pruitt. Here we have Jonah Hex, Rorschach, and Red Sonja.

-Kenn