Interviewed by Richard Vasseur/Jazma VP www.jazmaonline.com





































RV: How did you discover you like to draw?

DD: Well, when I was born with a pencil in my hand, I pretty much knew what I was supposed to do. But, seriously
I have been drawing literally every day of my life. It’s one of the few things that actually let me escape to another
world. I’m not comfy unless I’m somewhere I can create.

RV: How did you and Keith Holmes start working together?

DD: I met Keith through Todd Rayner, whom I have worked with since high school. For us, Keith was the final
piece of the puzzle. His writing is VERY detail oriented, making it really easy to bring the visuals to life. With the
way Keith writes, I have the look of the book in my head before I even touch pencil to paper.

RV: Why did you want to work on "Templar"?

DD: To be honest, I really didn’t know much about the Knights Templar, or anything like that, so when I read the
script I must say I was intrigued. And there is a wealth of knowledge in just one script so I was instantly hooked. I
really took to the characters. The characters are really engaging if you spend a little time in their universe.

RV: What characteristics will you be showing in your art for Isaiah?

DD: Well, Isaiah is the “hero” of the book, so I take special care in his appearance. He is tall, built like a fortress
and he’s handsome. You know, the familiar characteristics, but in his own way, you know?

RV: Do you get to draw monsters here and what kind?

DD: Ohhhh yesssss! Monsters galore, man. Already, I have werewolves and vamps after Isaiah, and with Keith
writing the stuff, you can bet he’ll have me coming up with things you never thought of before. That’s who Keith
is, he thinks in a way that’s totally original and that keeps things fresh. That is why I am right at home here in
Templar because growing up, all I would draw was creatures and things like that. I live for the horror, and this
book has a deep horror element to it.

RV: Does your artwork have a manga style to it?

DD: No not really, even though I do admire the style. It is beautiful. But my style has always been rooted in
reality, with touches of flair to it. I like the familiarity of real-life elements in a fantastical world.

RV: Which other comics have you worked on?

DD: I have worked on books with Todd for years, but nothing has ever been published so Templar is the first real
project I have had anything to do with. The earlier years were meant to happen the way they did because I
needed to further perfect my skills as an artist.

RV: Which comic would you most like to work on that you have not?

DD: Other than Templar I would love to work on an Alien or Predator book. Those two creations are just
untouchable in terms of originality, and just plain coolness.

RV: What is the best advice you could give to a new penciler just starting out?

DD:You have to want it, seriously. Also don’t stop drawing, you may not notice it soon, but one day you will
realize how good you really are. But most importantly, believe in yourself no matter what anyone says good or
bad, and try your hardest not to suck!

RV: Which artists do you admire?

DD: There is not really a long list of inspiration, but with influences such as Michael Turner, Jim Lee, Dale Keown
and Eric Basuldua, I need to look no further. That’s not to say I DON’T like anyone else’s work, but for me, those
four are the top artists that fuel my fire.

RV: What future projects do you have?

DD: For right now I have my head buried in Templar, and probably will for a while. After that, it’s anyone’s guess
but with hard work and dedication, who knows where this could take me. All I know is that I’m on board for the wild
ride!

RV: What do you do with any spare time you have?

DD: With the time I have away from the drawing table, I spend time with my girlfriend and daughter, I also play a
lot of guitar, maybe too much at times but when your inspired, why fight it right? I’m also a video game freak!
Gotta have my games.

RV: How can someone contact you?

DD: The best way to contact me is through Enterlight Studios, via email at dave.dabila@enterlightstudios.com

RV: What advice do you have to offer for comic fans?

DD: Keep on reading them books! Also check out Templar for a really good read and solid artwork.