Character Profile - Arco Valentine

Adding another character to my "character profile" folder! It's Arco Valentine! Way back when I was still finishing up TME as a comic, I started the story "ARCO" to go along with it. I don't exactly remember what struck me at the time, and made me want to write about a marine biology internship, but I DO remember thinking I was somewhat of a genius for making a main character that was cousins with Aaron LOL. Looking back, it's... really not that big of a deal. But, still. I can't imagine Arco any other way :)

Some of you might be surprised to see "???" question marks for his sexuality, because it's really not something I've talked about before. But I think Arco absolutely fits the bill of someone who isn't comfortable putting himself in a box with a label on it. The webcomic was never about him struggling with sexuality, but I often think about what an "ARCO" rewrite would look like.... and that certainly would be a theme. (Straight guy who has never once had gay feelings suddenly has gay feelings for a snarky, bratty musician named Brynn. Oh the damage that could do to his self image and confidence.)

Oh, and for the record, I HAVE considered remaking ARCO a few different times! It's a comic that I know is near and dear to a lot of you, and personally, I still think it's a lot of fun (especially in theme). It just never seems to take priority over whatever other new idea I have in my head. :) Maybe some day though...

More fun facts about Arco! - His name was chosen purposefully because it has the same letters as the word "ORCA" which we all know is his favorite animal (and one of mine!). I remember the days when the comic was still ongoing and every once in a while someone would figure it out, and I'd get a comment... "OMG DID YOU DO THAT ON PURPOSE???" xD hehehe. Yes. Yes I did! Another fun fact-- Arco is Rowdy's LEAST favorite character of mine. In fact, Rowdy's got some serious beef with Arco. Thinks he's a real douche bag for some reason! LOL. We joke about it from time to time.

Song I most associate with Arco - Hold back the River - James Bay

(Next up.... Crouton)