Tim Probert, author and illustrator of the fantasy graphic novel series Lightfall, discusses his artistic journey from painting to animation, and how he finally embraced his unique drawing style.

Probert’s background includes a BFA in painting from Boston University and ten years as an art director at Nathan Love animation studio. His work spans D&D books and Pokémon projects before he found his true calling in fantasy illustration with Lightfall.

The series, set in the world of Irpa without sunlight, follows protagonist Bea on her quest to save her realm from eternal darkness. Hayao Miyazaki’s influence is palpable, as Probert admires both his storytelling and drawing techniques.

Probert reveals that Lightfall was initially a two-book deal, but it expanded to six books over the course of 18 months each, with Probert writing, thumbnailing, drawing, and painting—often while holding down another job at Nathan Love studio.

Reflecting on his creative process, Probert concludes that he has finally learned to embrace his own distinctive artistic approach. His advice for aspiring artists: embrace your unique style, even if it feels impenetrable at first.