Eleanor & the Egret #2

Eleanor & the Egret #2 was published in May 2017 by Black Mask Studios as part of a five-issue limited series created by writer John Layman and artist Sam Kieth. The series emerged from the independent comics scene, blending a surreal, caper-driven narrative about an art-thief orphan and her giant talking bird with the distinct, textured aesthetic of Kieth, known for his work on The Maxx. The story was conceived to offer a visually sprawling, whimsical mystery that stood apart from the more grounded or superhero-centric titles dominating the mainstream market at the time.

The design of the second issue reflects the collaborative effort between Layman’s narrative pacing and Kieth’s signature distorted, expressive linework. Critics often pointed to this series as a showcase for Kieth’s unique ability to render dreamlike, gothic landscapes that provide a dark undercurrent to the protagonists' hijinks. Upon its release, the series received modest critical acclaim for its artistic ambition, even as the unconventional storytelling style garnered a dedicated niche following that appreciated the departure from standard comic book conventions.