The following is an interview with writer Jordan Clark (Aquaman, Star Wars Adventures) regarding the upcoming release of the comic book series, Ancestral Recall, through AHOY Comics. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Clark about his shared creative process in working with artist Atagun İlhan to bring the story and characters to life on the page, how the story’s themes may connect with today’s audiences, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the upcoming release of Ancestral Recall! What can you share with us about the series’ premise and the genesis behind giving voice to this particular story?
Jordan Clark: Thank you! Ancestral Recall is my debut creator-owned book that follows famed and eccentric painter Melvin Waring’s journey through space and time as he taps into the literal power of Black history and tries to solve the disappearance of a number of people from his neighborhood, including his wife. I was inspired by the resilience of so many incredible Black historical figures and wanted to really explore how the past can inspire the present.
BD: Ancestral Recall’s story deftly weaves vital moments of our history – including those which may not be as well known – within the underpinnings of a thrilling and thoughtful sci-fi tale. How would you describe your shared creative process in working with artist Atagun İlhan to explore the importance of acknowledging our past in order to navigate today’s struggles?
JC: We really wanted to make sure that we paid respect to the real people we are including in the series. Atagun is an incredible artist, able to draw everything from Bill Pickett to a group of cyber dogs chasing a car to Melvin and June on their first date. I couldn’t ask for a better co-creator to tackle this story with. I think the world we’ve created has real depth and will allow readers to feel immersed in both past, present and future.
BD: At Fanbase Press, our #StoriesMatter initiative endeavors to highlight the impact that stories can have on audiences of various mediums – no matter the genre. How do you feel that Melvin’s story may connect with and impact today’s readers?
JC: Sadly, many of the themes have become more and more urgent and pressing. The erasure of Black history, the disappearance of members of the community, and the damage of unchecked capitalism and AI. But we also wanted to make sure that we give readers something to carry with them. The beauty of Black art, love, and an exploration of all the powerful things our culture has to offer.
BD: What makes AHOY Comics the perfect home for this series?
JC: AHOY is a place that really allows creators to follow their inspirations and tell the stories they want to tell. They treat each book with care and really have empowered us to make a series that blends genres and tone and can be something that stands out on the shelves.
BD: As with all of AHOY Comics’ releases, there are sure to be lots of incredible “extras” included with each issue. Can you give us a preview of what readers can anticipate with the first issue?
JC: We certainly want to give you more of a look at the historical figures at the heart of this book. So, be on the lookout for some additional info on them and a few other cool extras.
BD: Are there any other projects – past or current – that you would like to highlight for our readers?
JC: I’m especially proud of the work I did on DC Power: A Celebration and Aquaman with Jackson Hyde. It’s a character I really love and I had a great time working on those projects.
BD: Lastly, what would you like to tell fans who want to learn more about Ancestral Recall and your other work?
JC: If you are a fan of Black history, science fiction, or are just looking for something that speaks to our current moment, I hope this book finds you. We poured our hearts into it and hope it is a story people will carry with them.
