Artist Statement

Comics helped me learn most of the important skills I needed to learn as a child and have helped shape me into the adult I am now. Without comics, I shudder to think of the kind of person I may have become (maybe a secretary, or the person who puts the plastic ends on shoelaces).
I’ve always been a fan of the more shocking comics that make you think hard on how the characters choices lead them to the situation they’re now in. With this in mind, I strive to create stories with similar outcomes: where the characters are pushed beyond their comfort zones to grow as individuals, and learn more about their relationships with everyone else in their universe.
After years of studying many different styles of writing and sequential artwork, my work now is unique to me. It’s easy to look at my work and see the manga and cartoon influences on the pages I make, often times people have a hard time categorizing my work. When asked how I categorize my art styling, I like to say, “It’s fusion: Not quite one thing, but not quite another. I’m unique.”
Every one of the stories I want to tell entwine with one another, so people who follow all of my works may catch the Easter eggs hidden in the pages of my stories, as the effects of one individual affects everyone across my work.

Bibliography

‘Crush” by Svetlana Chmakova; Published by JY for Kids in October 2018 (Coloring Assistant)
“Brave” by Svetlana Chmakova; Published by Yen Press in May 2017 (Coloring Assistant)
"Epic Chaos!" Reboot published online January 2017
“Awkward” by Svetlana Chmakova; Published by Yen Press in July 2015 (Coloring Assistant)
“Comics Vs Manga Volume 1” by Jason Dube; Published by Scattered Comics in August 2016 (Contributing Artist)
“Epic Chaos! Chapter 4: Two of a Kind” Self Published in print in 2015
“Epic Chaos! Chapter 3: The Mysterious Mark” Self Published in print in 2014
“Epic Chaos! Chapter 2: A Lot of Questions and No Answers” Self Published in print in 2013
“Epic Chaos! Chapter 1: The Commissions” Self Published in print in 2012
“Caffeine Poisoned Series 2 Issue #1” written by Jason Dube; published by Scattered Comics in 2012 (Artist for the book)
“Carnation” Self Published in 2011
“Artist Alley First Timer? What You Need To Know!” Online article for MangaApps 2011
“Guardian” Independent story that won 2nd place in the SacAnime Winter 2011 Manga Contest

News & Interviews

“Stars align at Vacaville’s first pop culture convention” The Reporter March 2019
“Vaca-Con brings home local anime artists” The Daily Republic March 2019
”Geekish Podcast GC123 Art By Melissa M" Geekish Podcast December 2016
"SacAnime Winter 2015 Review" Neko's Shiritori (Review of "The Wonders of Markers" Panel) January 2015
"Exhibiting in the Artist Alley" Interview with AnimeConsTV July 2014
"Artist-Writer Melissa McCommon at Creative Women Mini-Con 2013" Empires Comic Vault August 2013
"Anime Festival Draws Large Crowds In Fresno" Fox26News KMPH August 2013
"Vacaville artist showcases her work at anime conventions" The Daily Republic News Paper May 2013

Panels & Presentations

"The Wonders Of Markers"

This panel gives an in depth look into the amazingly versatile alcohol based markers with a focus on Copic Markers. Participants learn the pros and cons of different brands of markers, inks, other complementary mediums, their effects with different papers, as well as proper cleaning and care so they can get the most out of their art supplies.

Conventions this panel has been presented at
Hydr Comic Con 2017 • SacAnime Winter 2015 • KrakenCon Spring 2015 • SacAnime Summer 2015 • KrakenCon Spring 2016

"Let Me Tell You About Webcomics"

Webcomics are an amazing and confusing medium that anyone can participate in regardless of artistic skills. Participants of this panel learn everything from writing and formatting comics for the web and print, how to keep a consistent schedule, tips for creators and fans, and how to use social media platforms to promote and engage with fans.

Conventions this panel has been presented at
Hydr Comic Con 2017 • SacAnime Summer 2014 • KrakenCon Fall 2016 • KrakenCon Spring 2016

"Developing Awesome Characters"

Character development is an essential part of creating stories regardless of genre or format, however it's a process that can be overwhelming to some. In this panel participants learn the basics of character design, different traits and characteristics to create unique characters, basic world building and how it influences character development, as well as a look into Melissa's own characters evolutions throughout the years.

Conventions this panel has been presented at
KrakenCon Spring 2016  •  SacAnime Summer 2016  •  KrakenCon Fall 2016

"How To Be A Con Artist"

Exhibiting at conventions is a great way to interact with fans and promote projects in person, however it's a lot more work than most people are prepared for. Participants on this panel will learn how to apply for conventions, what paperwork is often needed, different types of displays and accessories that enhance your space, and where to get merchandise made.

Conventions this panel has been presented at
Hydr Comic Con 2017 • KrakenCon Fall 2016 • KrakenCon Spring 2016