The following is an interview with Clover Press publisher Hank Kanalz regarding the company’s partnership with the world’s largest creation platform, pixiv, to launch a Kickstarter campaign for two new art books: Artists in Taiwan and Artists in Korea. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Kanalz about the genesis behind the partnership, why the art books are perfect for Clover Press’ readers, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: What can you share with us about the genesis behind Clover Press’ partnership with pixiv, as well as the inspiration behind these two stunning projects?
Hank Kanalz: One of the many reasons I joined Clover Press was our shared passion for making higher-end hardcovers – especially art books. We have eclectic tastes here at Clover, and this one happened to really catch my eye. It’s a collection of work from a variety of artists, rather than just one, so I think it has broader appeal to fans of manga, manhwa, and anime art styles. So, when Media Do International introduced us to pixiv, we thought this was a great opportunity to introduce more people to the immense talent showcased on the pixiv platform.
BD: Why do you feel that these projects were a perfect fit for Clover Press, and how do you feel that Clover Press assists in introducing its readers about international creators?
HK: The art is stunning – that’s what makes us fit. The range of styles and the variety of experience each artist has is remarkable to me. And since we are building our reputation as a diverse publisher of high-quality art books, this is a great match. We’ve conducted a few successful Kickstarter campaigns, and with each one, we reach new customers directly who share our passion for books like this. They maybe wouldn’t have a chance to succeed if released straight into bookstores, but this way, they do.
BD: Are there any other upcoming projects that you’re able to share with our readers?
HK: Super excited at two literary projects we’re releasing – The Tragedie of Macbeth, adapted by Stewart Kenneth Moore. This graphic novel will also include the playscript, which will make for a great addition to your bookshelf. And we’re also collecting our adaptation of The Great Gatsby into a hardcover collection. This is our 7-issue comics series, adapted by Ted Adams and Jorge Coelho – absolutely gorgeous art, and the story is accurate and faithful to the original work. I think it’s a great way to make a classic work accessible to a broader readership, and if it’s not one of your favorites, it will be after you read this version.
BD: Lastly, what would you like to tell readers who want to learn more about Clover Press, Artists in Taiwan, and Artists in Korea?
HK: Definitely tune in to the campaign [now that it has launched] on Kickstarter. This is the first of many planned imports this year. To learn more about Clover Press’ catalog, please visit our store at cloverpress.us. Our catalog grows every month, and there is sure to be some books of interest for you there.
