I started drawing because I was miserable. I was a creative person with no creative outlet in my life. When my migraines persisted, I reached out to try more creative things. One of those things was picking up a pad of post-it notes and drawing chickens. It completely changed my life.
Fifteen years ago, I had zero creative output. My story could have ended there. But thanks to cartooning, I’ve had so many adventures instead. I’m now connected to a community of fellow creators, both online and in person, who are wonderful and inspiring to be around. I’ve been a special guest at several comics conventions, where I’ve had the chance to meet so many of my wonderful readers. I’ve visited schools to talk to the next generation of potential cartoonists, and it’s been so great to hear from parents and teachers that my talks have inspired their kids to create their own comics. I’m working on my fifth book, to be published in fall 2021. And somehow I’ve drawn 4000 comics. Sometimes I look around and wonder how all this happened, and then I remember: oh yeah I made stuff and then I kept making more stuff!
If you’re a creative person (and I think we all are, in our own ways), do me a favor: create something. Every week. Every day if you can. You have stories that are uniquely yours. Stories that only you can tell. The world wants to hear them!
And one more thing: thank you! Thanks to everybody who reads my stuff. I will be forever grateful for your support and encouragement!
Congratulations, Doug! 4000 on the 4th seems oddly appropriate! Found your comic on the web 15 years ago when I was looking for information on live chickens. Looking forward to seeing more Savage Chickens in my email for eternity 🙂
Your comics are one of the highlights of my day. So spot-on, I often share them with my unfortunate friends who are still working chickens, and not a retired chicken as I am. Others are spot-on in other areas, and shared accordingly. What a great way to stay in touch with my far-away friends and nearby friends as well. Pushing laughter over the interwebs! Congratulations on hitting a huge milestone (it’s been interesting to see your art style refine over the years). Keep up your great work. Sharing joy is one of the most important jobs on earth. Thank you for being a Master at it!
Congratulations on 4000 comics, may you have many more! I look forward to getting the chickens in my inbox every morning, they always brighten my day 🙂 Love the advice about creating, it’s so true – and your story is the inspiring proof! All the best with your new book.
Congratulations! I really enjoy your comics.
My fav of all time was the Happy Bear on the Island of misfit toys….
I have the same condition.
N6VGP
Natash Six Vladimir Giuseppe Putin
Congratulations Doug. You are a hit with the chicken farmers.
Hal and Karyn
So happy I have been around since nearly this adventure and I hear ya. Finding my creative output is a goal. Gonna make that schedule.