Welcome back to the PKD Media Spotlight, shining the light on creators and artists you may not be familiar with, but should.

I had the opportunity to meet Adam at Heroes Con in 2009. Adam has been involved in making and self-publishing comics since the age of 16 and he shows no signs of stopping anytime soon.

Adam stopped by the “Spotlight” to answer a few of my questions. Have a read:

1) What was the first comic that you remember reading?

—The absolute first comic book I read was an issue of DC STAR TREK by Peter David. I actually re-bought a copy of it and had him sign it. I think I had a few X-men after that cause I wanted to be cool. But when I really started reading faithfully was around the Death of Superman and the Image comics starting. I was a total zombie back then. Now, it’s a little different.

2) When was the moment that you decided that becoming an artist was going to be the career choice for you?

—When I was wee, I think. Ever since I was very little, I had this knack and interest in drawing from watching THE SECRET CITY on PBS. I could draw in 3-D and the teachers kept saying how advanced I was at that age. I decided then that I must follow art as a path. Cause I suck at math and science, you know, the high paying jobs!

3) Who are your influences?

—I think in some way I am influenced by anything and everyone I meet, especially artists in the independent movement. Their zeal and passion are something I really try to cultivate in my work. They don’t really strive for big name excellence; they just do their own thing. I dig on that. But as far as mainstream artists people have heard of, I really look up to the artwork of people like Mike Wieringo, Amanda Conner, Jim Mahfood, Ryan Ottley, Steve Dillon, Darick Robertson, Jim Lee, Rob Schrab and so many more.

4) Can you talk about some of the projects that you’ve worked on and what you’re currently working on now?

—I’ve been self-publishing comics since I was sixteen. I did a few short stories in various anthologies and I did a few side projects with other writers such as “Adventures of Earthgirl,” “The Expendables” and “Wise Intelligence.” The book I am most known for is a college/nerd culture drama/comedy called “Pleasant Life.” That was four trade-books and that series was wrapped up last year. This year I am publishing my first mini series called “Anna Pocalypse” which is a strong female lead fighting in a post-apocalyptic world. I also have done pinups for “Gold Digger” for Antarctic Press and other small side gigs and pinup work.

5) What’s the one project that you want to do more than anything else?

—My dream project would be STAR TREK. Either writing it, drawing it, pinup, or doing a novel. Hear that IDW? I will write or draw STAR TREK for FREE!!!! LOL. I’m that passionate about Trek. I think also if given a chance, I could write for some of the bigger DC characters. I got a few ideas I would do if ever given the chance.

6) What are some of the pros/cons of being a freelance artist?

—The benefit is that you have free reign and opportunity to get work however and whatever you choose to pursue. And sometimes total freedom in what you choose to express through your own work. You don’t have to worry about doing “X or Y” to your character, cause it might affect the cartoon deal or sell a few less lunchboxes. The Cons of it is that you have to be good at generating work for yourself. Especially in these trying economic times, there are a million artists out there ready to beat you to the punch on a potential commission or gig. You have to be active and ready. Also, if you aren’t good at having a web presence, social interaction or taking criticism, you will fail at your goals. You have to cultivate a professional portfolio of work and attitude in order to succeed. A lot of people have a problem with that.

7) Where can people see your art on the web, and will you be on the con circuit this year?

—My hub website is http://www.idiothead.com – From there I have videos, deviantart, blog that updates a few times weekly, twitter, and an audio podcast bonus with commentary for my comics! As for conventions, I will be at Motor City Comic Con in May, Heroes Con in June and I am looking at Dallas in August or October. Also, I’ll be at Wonderworld Comics in Taylor, Michigan for Free Comic Book Day with a lot of my comic makin’ pals. That’s where my new 2010 Sketchbook and Anna Pocalypse #1 will premiere to the world. Looking forward very much to getting back out on the road and taking my work to the people!!