Dismal is more than an indie comic publication by a recluse eagerly collecting new ways to procrastinate. It's an ethos, a way of life that provides a simple alternative to the cacophony of modern-day distractions. Beneath our absurd, cartoonish manuscripts lies a profound philosophy. This wisdom is more directly encapsulated in our motto:
And our sub-motto:
While deceptively cheeky and self-deprecating, these sayings illuminate concepts necessary for a healthy outlook on creativity. Do it yourself (DIY) is the lifeblood of this attitude. Unfortunately, our fast-paced, competitive world compromises this ideal. The pressure to make more and make it now is toxic to the artistic process. One cannot force authentic work. By understanding this, an artist may detach from external expectations and best distinguish which ideas are ready versus which need refinement.
Sometimes, this means antagonizing over a project for years. Mr. Hotdog, for example, was shelved for almost a decade before going public. Still, upon release, the execution was far from flawless. The first Dismal comic debuted with much apprehension because the art was unpolished. Despite years of practice and clear improvement, a sense of inadequacy lingered.
The destination overshadowed the journey so much that the detours seemed endless. It was clear the journey needed to be the focal point for anything to get finished. After all, the most significant quality of art is the human element, and nothing is more human than a sense of progression. This revelation is the central essence of Dismal. Instead of releasing the most perfect product possible, the goal is to create something pure yet willfully crude. Over time, as the art improves, readers will be able to see that invaluable journey. Hopefully, this will inspire more to DIY despite their current limitations.