The following is an interview with Arthur N. Ebuen, Dave Law, and Justin Giampaoli regarding their return to Kickstarter for the second issue of ©alifornia, Inc. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with the creative team about their excitement in returning to the series, the reader response from the first issue, the incredible backer rewards available to supporters, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on your recent return to Kickstarter! Where will readers find the events of the story as they picks up Issue #2 of this geopolitical sci-fi thriller?
Arthur N. Ebuen: In terms of timeline, it follows right after issue #1. In issue #2, we’re introduced to the remaining ensemble cast to continue the world build. Looking to show a different point-of-view of the corporate nation.
BD: Given that the creative team has returned for issue #2, do you find that you have developed a creative “shorthand” in working with one another throughout the production of the series, and how does that enhance or impact your development?
Dave Law: Issue two I think was already written by the time I signed on, so Art and Justin didn’t change much as far as the script goes; however, after going back and forth on page after page, you start to see what the other is looking for, or at least what they tend to lean towards. In our case, it luckily seems to be in the same direction I naturally go in, and I think that begins to create a sort of trust in each other’s work. I trust he has given me all the important information and he trusts in my interpretation of that. The “shorthand” is that we go back and forth less which ultimately leads to a faster turnaround and better creativity.
BD: What can you share with us about reader response to the series thus far, and what are you most excited for them to experience in the next issue?
Justin Giampaoli: The reader response has been great from what I observed at the store signings. Once Art pitches the premise, so many people respond with a hearty chuckle and smirk, the open impulse Californians have toward the notion of secession. Dave’s regular cover is so striking and resonated with literally everyone; I heard “oh, that’s a cool cover!” so many times. I also tried hard to get the book into the hands of coworkers at my day job, and it seemed to connect with non-comics readers, as well as women, so it was great to see the broad demographic appeal. And the swag is cool! I’ve still got friends and coworkers rocking the enamel pins on their backpacks. I’m most excited for people to meet more of the diverse ensemble cast, especially Big Sis! I think Art will agree, her character voice was the most fun to write/edit.
DL: People are loving the concept and anxious to see where we take it. It’s the kind of sci-fi that I always loved growing up. It takes something we’re all thinking about and extrapolates outward to see where it could go, and I think that people are interested in experiencing something that strays a little from the typical laser gun battles and alien invasions (although I love that, too). They want to know what California would be like if it decided to leave. We painted a compelling picture of what that might be like, but now they want the meat of the story, and I think that’s what we get into much more in this second issue, and what I can’t wait for people to see.
ANE: This is my first time making art that isn’t for a client; I’m the client in the end, if that makes any sense. There was a certain expectation when making art but once you put work out there, it’s no longer yours to defend or explain. The audience experiences it and has real reactions. Of course, friends and family will say they like it, but when people you don’t know take the time to reach out, just to tell you that they not only like it but can’t wait to find out what’s next, that’s just so artistically gratifying. I want to say, “You’re my people. Thanks for getting me.” Giving the elevator speech is fun, too, for new folks, after explaining that California has succeeded, I usually get a wide-eyed, “Tell me more,” followed by wanting to pick up a copy. The start of the Kickstarter for issue #2 reflects that with how many returned to secure the next issue in the first 24 hours. It’s nice to see the word getting out, too, with those signing up for the catch-up option since they missed the first one.
BD: Are there any particular backer rewards that you would like to highlight for this campaign?
ANE: We are excited to have the two catch-up options. We’re a newly formed creative team on a new story. Word is just getting out and we’re seeing with the first week gone by that we are getting new readers choosing to get either the digital or physical catch-up options. It’s not too late if you missed the first one!
BD: For other creators who may be following your trajectory with the series and with your utilization of Kickstarter, is there any advice that you would like to offer about how best to approach the crowdfunding process?
ANE: If you’re crowdfunding, you’re already a different breed. You have done so much work to make an awesome product you’re proud to share. From conceptualizing, to testing, to making, and now giving everyone the chance to get in on it. Treat the campaign from beginning to end with the same amount of energy and passion as you did getting here. It doesn’t stop when you go live, find those that are genuinely connected to you and your product that can authentically signal boost your campaign. Then when they do, share that out, let everyone know you’re being noticed. Depending on your audience and product, those platforms to signal boost or connect may be different, but the message is the same: We’re advertising our campaign, you have to stay in the conversation throughout the duration of it. McDonald’s has the biggest advertising budget in the world, we all know it exists, but they don’t let us forget. But hopefully, we’re putting something out there that’s better for us and more authentic to McD’s. Give your campaign the attention it deserves and go sell the hell out of it, but don’t get all infomercial smarmy – nobody wants that.
BD: Lastly, what would you like to tell fans who want to learn more about ©alifornia, Inc. #2?
JG: I’d tell them that whatever their expectations of ©alifornia, Inc. are, they’ll probably be surprised. California as an independent country is a great hook and ripe for world-building, but the heart of the story is family dynamics, friendship drama, and people finding their place. Similarly, the slick military action is there, but it’s balanced by some insightful social commentary.
DL: To learn more hit up the Kickstarter, and make sure to follow California Inc., Art, Justin, and me on our various social media accounts, as we’re all super focused on keeping the fire hot.
ANE: This story is a serious piece of satire. It’s as much a vanity project for me as a Californian but also poking fun at us, especially corporations. The heart of it all will reveal itself soon, and I hope you’ll feel it.
