I’ve had the hardest time writing this because I don’t want to write it. I had the good fortune of meeting Vincent Kukua in art school around 2004 in the school’s comic book club and we became fast friends. Our friendship continued after I graduated and he transferred schools. After I got hired at Image, Vincent came on as an intern before earning a full-time position as a Production Artist doing prepress layout and design. He loved being a part of the process. He loved being surrounded by all the amazing art and creativity. He just loved comics.

During his 7+ years at Image, titles he worked on included I HATE FAIRYLAND, RUMBLE, DESCENDER, DEADLY CLASS, BLACK SCIENCE, TOKYO GHOSTS, LOW, SPREAD, THE AUTUMNLANDS, CURSE WORDS, HEAD LOPPER, INVISIBLE REPUBLIC, ELEPHANTMEN, COPPERHEAD, DRIFTER, BLACK CLOUD, SNOWFALL & more!

Funny memory – at the 2008 SDCC, Image United was announced and the Image booth had signings all weekend. Vincent helped work that side of the booth. Because of his appearance and the creators at the table, many fans asked for his autograph thinking he was Whilce Portacio!

Besides doing production, Vincent was also an awesome artist whose personal work was full of energy. He loved sharing artwork, whether it was his own or someone else’s. If you can, please take a moment and check out vkukua. I know he would be humbled by the attention.

He was the kindest, good-natured guy. He was always quick to lend a hand and never said a bad word about anyone. He was just a good dude. I will miss him dearly and I know I’m not alone in that.

Rest in peace, Vincent.