Chiaroscuro (Meanwhile)

    (Meanwhile, 2002)
™ and © Meanwhile Studios

The premise of this title sounds like many other small-press efforts. Would-be artist Steven Patch is a 20-something with a lack of direction and a lot of pent-up frustration. He’s unsure of where his life is going, and the mere act of getting out of bed in the morning is an accomplishment in itself. But, unlike similar efforts, creator Troy Little adds depth and flair to the whinings of the book’s central character.

What makes a story like this work is Little’s use of visuals that establish the right atmosphere at the right moment. The contrast of light shining through a window in the otherwise black sea that is Patch’s apartment, for example, sets and symbolizes the mood before the character’s situation is revealed. But, while repetitious panels and sparse dialogue set the proper tone, they also make for a story that’s quickly read. Fans who like a heavier incident-per-issue ratio might feel cheated. And the title’s quarterly publishing schedule doesn’t make it any easier.

But this is a necessary evil within the confines of a 24-page comic book. Little feels no pressure to make things happen any time soon, taking time to do things right, and succeeds. And a surprising development at the end of the latest issue rewards patient readers. One issue may not be enough to snag readers, but these three together just might do it.

— Jim Johnson
Jump to issue:
  NotesWriterArtist
#1

September, 2001
Cover Price: $2.75
2 copies available from $2.75 		  
#3


Cover Price: $2.75
1 copy available for $4.98 		  
#4


Cover Price: $2.75
1 copy available for $4.98 		  
#5


Cover Price: $2.75
1 copy available for $3.99 		  
#6


Cover Price: $2.75
1 copy available for $4.98 		  
#7

May, 2003
Cover Price: $2.75
2 copies available from $2.75 		  
Book #1 (Hardcover Edition by Troy Little)

October, 2007
Cover Price: $24.99
2 copies available from $16.15 		Troy LittleTroy Little