The following is an interview with Rubyn Warren regarding the recent release of his comic book series, Swag Patrol. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Warren about the inspiration behind the series, the team’s shared creative process, what he hopes that readers will take away from the series, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the recent release of your comic book series, Swag Patrol! For those who may be unfamiliar, how would you describe the series’ premise, and what inspired you to tell this story?
Rubyn Warren: The premise is 3 teens (2 siblings and their cousin) who become superheroes with the help of their science teacher. It’s like a mix between Fantastic Four, Spider-Man, and Static. I was inspired with this idea back in high school when I realized I didn’t see too many superheroes that looked like me, so I decided to make my own. Plus, I always thought superheroes were fascinating and the coolest type of fictional character.
BD: What can you share with us about your creative process in working with illustrators Raymond Sanders and Al Stewart, and what have been some of your creative influences?
RW: It was definitely a fun but long learning process! I met Raymond at a con a few years ago and told him my idea and he liked it so much he wanted to help make it a reality. Then, I met Al at another con and really loved his art so he I had him do the colors for our issue #0. Since then, I’ve teamed up with Mark and Marvin Marvida for issues 1 & 2 and they are a great addition to the team!
BD: What do you hope that readers will take away from your work?
RW: I really hope they finish reading each issue wanting more adventure and excitement from these characters. I also hope that they feel the effort me and my team put in to give them the best story possible. Most importantly, I hope my work makes them a fan!
BD: How many issues of the series do you have planned?
RW: Right now, we currently have 6 issues planned out with our 3rd one in early production now. But my team and I have mapped out several stories to tell with these characters. Hopefully, we’ll be able to tell them all!
BD: If given the opportunity to expand your series into other entertainment mediums, in what format do you hope to see it adapted?
RW: I’ve always envisioned Swag Patrol as an animated series, and I’ve had talks with some companies about it so that would be a dream come true when that opportunity aligns itself. Definitely want to see toys, as well, and one of my biggest goals for Swag Patrol is to create a classic, side-scrolling video game for mobile devices which I think fits perfectly for today’s world.
BD: Are there any upcoming projects on which you are currently working that you would like to share with our readers?
RW: In October, we’ll be launching our Kickstarter for Swag Patrol Vol.1 which encompasses the first 3 issues of the story, so please follow us and be on the lookout for that!
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for our readers to find more information about Swag Patrol?
RW: The best way to follow us is our Facebook page! That’s where we post everything as far as what cons we’ll be at, book releases, etc.
