Erik M. Gist

Senior Instructor

E. M. Gist began his study of art with Jeff Watts in 1996. Three years later, Erik’s training developed into teaching where he is now one of the lead instructors at Watts Atelier of the Arts. Gist began his career as a professional artist in 1998, eventually transitioning into genre illustration, and he painted his first comic cover in 2007. Erik’s clients include Dark Horse Comics, Marvel Comics, DC Comics, BOOM! Studios, Disney Entertainment, TOR Publishing, Wizards of the Coast, Upperdeck, and Palladium Books. Erik has been a finalist for 2024 Eisner Awards, Chesley Award, Rondo Award, and Pulp Ark Award.