Acclaimed writer–artist David Lapham joins Word Balloon for an in-depth conversation about his decades in comics and the craft of visual storytelling. Lapham reflects on his early days at Valiant Comics, where he learned the fundamentals of pacing, clarity, and narrative economy under Jim Shooter’s mentorship — lessons that would shape his distinctive storytelling voice.

He then traces the creation and evolution of his award-winning crime saga Stray Bullets, from its underground indie roots to its enduring influence on modern noir comics. Lapham discusses how he and his wife Maria Lapham have built a true creative partnership, collaborating on everything from story development to production, keeping the series uncompromisingly personal and authentic.

The conversation also explores his time writing and illustrating for the Big Two, including his gritty takes on Batman and Wolverine, where he brought his signature tension and character-driven realism to mainstream heroes.

Finally, Lapham gives a preview of his latest and upcoming work at Dark Horse Comics, Bad Idea, and Oni Press, sharing insight into how