Interview with Dennis Sweatt

Hi Dennis, Let me start by asking you about your last name. Its very interesting. What nationality is it?

Hi Scott, it's a real privilege to be in one of your interviews.
The last name Sweatt, according to on-line heritage websites is Scottish. Of course there are a great deal of black people in the United States also with the last name of Sweatt. So our past may be more colorful than we realize.

For those who are being introduced to you through this interview for the first time, why don't you tell us a bit about your personal life (the bits you don't mind going public that is).

I am a father of three awesome children Justin, Sara and Damien. I make web pages. Twice divorced and thrice engaged. I was a Noble in the Navato Renaisance Faire for ten years. I've always wanted my very own monkey to hang out with and share recipes.

I met you over at Outcast Studios (www.outcaststudios.com) where you have become a very active member and one whom we all agree are a major contributor. What is it you are working towards with your efforts?

That final bit of skill and a tad bit of courage to make that final leap into that far green country of professional comic book creation. We have some working, skilled artist's at the forum. People pay art schools big bucks for advantages like that.

Having been born in the 60's like myself, we have seen some very interesting trends in comics take place in those 4 decades. What events in comics stand out the most to you?

I think what has more emotional impact for me was the black and white run in the 80's. These were independent guys and gals sitting at there kitchen tables doing comics. And doing some of them really well. I related to those guys, we passed by each other at the convention floor worshiping the same artist's in artist row.

Are there specific comic artists who influence you the most?

John Byrne. Above all, of what I call my silent teachers, he is my silent master. I sat with him and Terri Austin at the 83 Wonder con. Damn I'm getting old.
Of course both Buscema's, Kirby, Kieth Pollard, Gene Day (God rest his soul), Howard Chaykin, Miller, Atkin and Garvey, Nolan, Golden, Adam Kubert, and a few from this century too but this list could go on forever.

How about the future for Dennis Sweatt? Are you going to make it big?

I will because I have "hopers." People who are friends, family or both. I found out something I wasn't aware of before I did stand up for the first time. There are a lot of people in my life waiting for me to "make it big." The night I did stand up at an open mic night my "base" was suddenly energized. I got phone calls and emails a plenty. Depending on your perspective, with people like that in my life I have already made it big. But I plan on delivering more. Keep watching this channel.

Now that I have warmed you up with some gentle proddings, I figure it's time to bring out the big guns. I have seen you come a long way over the past 2 years and in my opinion your skills are excellent. You have a very 70's/80's type of styling which is great. Now that your capable of drawing near professional level comics, when are you going to start working on some sequentials?

Good question. I believe whole heartedly that art is my true calling but I gotta pay the bills first. I just took on a 30 page web site build which includes videos.
So I do challenges and battles on the Outcast forum to keep limber. The answer? I'm not sure yet but I do have a story that has 22 pages thumbnailed and treatise. Maybe I will get a lottery ticket tomorrow. (chuckle)

If you had one dream and 20 minutes to live it, what might that dream be?

Saving the world.

I know your a huge Obama supporter... what are your thoughts on the zeitgeist theories that he was manipulated into office in order to quell the damage done by the Bush administration?

I have found through much research and interaction (and having my own 9/11 website) that most conspiracy theories have a modicum of truth and a whole lot of conjecture. People take advantage of whatever is in front of them, politicians, car salesmen, bankers. But one man or group influencing the whole thing, not likely.

Now that I got you all passionate about things you believe in, I think I'll end things here. Any parting words of wisdom?

Be nice to each other. It scares the shit out of mean people.

Dennis, thanks my friend and best wishes

Scott out.