posted on October 30th, 2007 in Undependence, Web Comics 

Leaping into undependence: Dresden Codak creator Aaron Diaz interviewed by Fleen

First, if you are not yet a loyal reader of Fleen, please grab the RSS feed and get on board.

Second, check this great interview with webcomicker Aaron Diaz:

Fleen: Your Favorite Faux-Muckrakers Since 2005 » Being A Discussion On Life’s Changing Priorities

Fleen: Does leaving the rent job shift any of your plans forward?

Diaz: If sales remain stable I’ll continue to make a little more than I do at my regular day job, so I still plan to move out to Portland next year. Even if it fluctuates a little bit I still have some side commission jobs that should help supplement my finances.

Fleen: Now that you rely on your readers for things like rent and food, is there a particular level of nutrition that you’re hoping to maintain? Are your tastes modest, or will you be looking to purchase the premium cat chow?

Diaz: It helps to be used to a very low standard of living. I don’t usually eat any meat or expensive things; a few canned vegetables can keep me going for weeks. In general, as long I have an internet connection and running water, I’ll manage.

You gotta admire Aaron’s spirit and commitment. He’s literally banking on the appreciation of fans. After all, creators are not so undependent that they do not need the support of fans. They do, in fact, rely upon it.

When creators thrive by connecting directly with their audience, undependence enables them to retain control over what they say, to express themselves as they choose, to take the audience to wonderful places. All of us in the audience should strive to demonstrate the same commitment that these inspiring creators exemplify.

Get to know them. Tell your friends. Help these creators keep delivering great stuff.

Fleen: Finish this sentence: Leaving my day job and making comics my job makes me feel …

Diaz: Like a Highlander after cutting off another Highlander’s head.

Your Dresden Codak links: store; site; Wikipedia entry; RSS feed.