Spotlight on Charles Butler

Monster Maker

Today we shine the spotlight on a UK artist and writer who typically thrives in the dark: Monster Maker, Charles E Butler.

Dynamic Duo Pinup

Butler made a name for himself ten years ago as the author of The Romance of Dracula, a book chronicling 85 years of movies featuring Bram Stoker’s creation.

Since then, Butler has built a massive cult following of Twitter fans who devour his daily, gothic portrayals of classic monsters. His art frequently features Count Dracula, as well as Werewolf, and Monsters of Frankenstein.

Count Dracula features prominently in Butler’s art and writing

At a young age, Butler developed a taste for the fantastic through comic books and movies. He dreamed of being a full-time artist, a dream he achieved two years ago.

But being a full-time is hard work. “I literally work 24 hours a day sometimes,” says Butler.

But the demand is high for Butler’s commissioned work, which he promotes on his Facebook page. His buyers include actors Susan Penhaligon (Count Dracula 1977) and Ron Scribner (Salem’s Lot).

Salem’s Lot’s Kurt Barlow painting in mixed media

When he’s not drawing, Butler is writing books and appearing at conventions. Last year he spoke at the Vampire Film Festival on the film history of Count Dracula.

Butler’s own short films have shown at festivals around the world.

Promotional ad for Butler’s horror novels and film histories

Batman Meets Godzilla

The Batman TV series informed Butler’s view of the character. “The Batman TV series was born the same year I was. It was my first exposure to the Dark Knight, thereby setting my standard. I'd never read a DC comic,” says Butler.

Butler beaming over his comic’s appearance in Yeet Magazine

When asked about building an online following, the artist says, “I'm not sure about an online following? I've been on the internet for 10 years now and been involved in all sorts of creative endeavours. I think my enthusiasm for my projects draws people to my platforms as regards anything else. It is in your promotional aspects that keep you afloat and that is the hardest work. If you nail that, you're onto a winner.”

This Maleficent tribute is one of many Butler posts daily to Facebook and Twitter

You can find more of Butler’s work on his Twitter and Instagram pages.

Couldn’t end the article without giving you one more Dracula

You can also keep up with the latest Batman Meets Godzilla news on Twitter and Facebook.