Meet Edward Kraatz II | Comic Book Artist & Illustrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Edward Kraatz II and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Edward, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I think talking about “Risk Taking” is also touching on several other topics as well. Just starting your own company is taking a risk in itself. So I think risk taking is a part of stepping out and into what you want to do in your life and career. I am in a highly competitive field and I believe there eventually has to be a moment where the rubber meets the road so to speak of. As in you just have to try and move forward and see what happens. As you go along you learn how to gauge when and where to take those risks. Personally speaking I have also had to learn to let go and trust in God to lead me or steer me to where he wants me to be. Asking him for his advice or direction in my business has really changed my approach. This has lead to less risks taken in a sense that it’s not a risk when your listening to him. The results have been such a blessing.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think what sets me or my art apart from others is the energy that I bring to every piece of work or event. As an artist you have to understand that people are interested in you as much as they are in your work. They are interested in your process and your thoughts while you were creating the artwork. So getting comfortable being in front of your fans or clients is as important at times as the art itself. I took public speaking courses and theater in school. I believe this helped me prepare for the challenges that come with public appearances or getting in front of fans to represent your work. This also helps you for when the opportunity arises where you find yourself in front of clients or publishers that are wanting to book you for their projects like what happened when I was asked to work on The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comic book. And when it’s all said and done, I want it to be remembered that I loved what I did, the lives that I touched, and the passion that I felt for it all.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Lol, well, if my friend were visiting we probably would end up sitting around the house or some diner or coffee shop talking about the latest comic books or current pieces of art we are working on. We would probably go to the local comic shop, take in an Astros game, swing a golf club, and then end up back at the diner or coffee shop making plans for our next “big” thing lol.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shoutout-I’d like to give a shoutout to my family that has stood by myside, supported me and joined me in this crazy journey. They are simply amazing, each and everyone of them. I’d like to recognize my wife. She has borne the brunt of my artist mood swings and fears and insecurities. All the while she has stood strong, supported me, lifted me up, introduced me to God, and provided me with a balance to my life. And to God who has blessed me.

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