For many aspiring artists, achieving recognition by working on a beloved, iconic project is the pinnacle of success. For DuBoistown native Howie Noel, this dream became a reality as he embarked on a three-week stint as the guest artist for the legendary “Dick Tracy” comic strip. This monumental achievement marks a full-circle moment for Noel, who has been passionate about drawing since childhood and has long idolized the hard-boiled detective character synonymous with American comic history.

A Childhood Dream Born in a Small Town

Howie Noel’s journey as an artist began in DuBoistown, Pennsylvania, where he was surrounded by encouragement and inspiration. His mother, Jean, was an artist, and creativity was always fostered in their household. Noel grew up drawing characters like Snoopy and Garfield, but his heart was captivated by “Dick Tracy”. The comic’s noir aesthetic and serious tone, which stood out amid the usual lighthearted strips of the era, left an indelible mark on him.

Noel’s fascination with Dick Tracy was also deeply personal, tied to his relationship with his father, Howard. The elder Noel worked as a salesman in New York City and would come home on weekends, always dressed in a suit, trench coat, and fedora—resembling Dick Tracy himself. The resemblance turned the detective into a father figure for Howie, who often redrew the comic with his dad in the role of Dick Tracy. “My dad was always reading the newspaper, so I would get the comic page, and I always loved that format,” Noel recalled. This early exposure to comics became the foundation for his artistic ambitionS.

A Personal Project in the Face of Loss

When Noel’s father fell ill in 2019, his art took on new meaning. Determined to honor his father, Noel began an art project focused on “Dick Tracy”, which he shared with his dad during the pandemic through text messages. Their shared love of the character strengthened their bond during this difficult period. In late 2020, his father passed away, followed by his mother a year later. These profound losses deeply affected Noel, but he channeled his grief into his art, keeping the memory of his parents alive through the medium that had always connected them.

Joining “Dick Tracy” as Guest Artist

Noel’s path to becoming an official Dick Tracy artist began in August 2023 when he learned that the Tribune Content Agency, the syndicate behind the strip, allowed guest artists to contribute. He reached out, expressing his interest, and in May 2024, he received confirmation that he had been selected. Noel’s run would coincide with Dick Tracy’s debut month in October 1931, making his participation even more significant.

Working with Shelley Pledger, the first woman to draw the strip, Noel found a mentor who helped him bring his vision to life while adhering to the classic style established by “Dick Tracy” creator Chester Gould. “She’s wonderful to work with. I learned a lot,” Noel shared, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the strip’s traditional aesthetic. Noel wanted to honor not only the creators who came before him but also the fans who cherish the character’s enduring legacy.

A Tribute to the Legends of the Strip

Noel’s rendition of “Dick Tracy*” pays homage to the style of Gould and other notable artists like Dick Locher and Rick Fletcher. While drawing inspiration from these legendary figures, Noel’s work still reflects his own artistic voice, blending elements from various eras of the strip’s history. “This is a culmination. I throw in little things from everybody that has worked on the strip,” he explained.

The storyline for Noel’s three-week stint was penned by Matthew Manning, a writer known for his work on Batman comics and encyclopedias. Noel and Manning’s professional relationship dates back to their time working together at Barnes and Noble, making their collaboration on “Dick Tracy” both serendipitous and fulfilling. “Matthew has written a beautiful story. He was great to work with, and I hope we get to work together many more times,” Noel remarked.

A Storied Career Outside of Comics

Though his contribution to Dick Tracy marks a milestone in his career, Howie Noel has already built an impressive portfolio. He debuted as a graphic novelist in 2008 with “Mr. Scootles” and published his memoir Float in 2016. His work spans various mediums, from concert posters for artists like Noel Gallagher and the Pixies to coloring the Stan Lee obituary tribute illustrated by Brian Michael Bendis for “The New York Times” in 2018. Additionally, Noel helmed the official comic for “TAPS Paramagazine”, a publication associated with the popular paranormal investigation show “Ghost Hunters”.

The Significance of the “Dick Tracy” Legacy

For Noel, contributing to the Dick Tracy strip is not only a professional triumph but also a deeply personal accomplishment. The character’s legacy, rooted in its 1930s origins, has maintained a dedicated following over the decades. While Dick Tracy has undergone various transformations and adaptations, the core elements of the detective—his moral integrity, his distinctive look, and his unyielding pursuit of justice—remain constant.

Noel’s interpretation of “Dick Tracy” emphasizes these timeless qualities, ensuring that the character stays true to his roots while appealing to contemporary audiences. “It’s a legacy character, he’s still around, and I got the chance to do it,” Noel marveled. His involvement is a testament to the enduring power of “Dick Tracy” and the ability of new generations of artists to keep classic characters alive and relevant.

Impression

As Noel’s three-week run on “Dick Tracy” unfolds, fans of the strip and newcomers alike will have the opportunity to experience his vision of the classic detective. The achievement is a testament to Noel’s dedication to his craft and his ability to balance reverence for the past with his unique style.

With this milestone under his belt, Noel’s future in the world of comics looks bright. Whether he returns to work on more “Dick Tracy” strips or explores new projects, Noel’s artistic journey continues to inspire those who dare to pursue their dreams, no matter how long the road may be.

For more about Howie Noel and his original work, visit his [website](https://www.hcnoel.com) or follow him on Instagram at @howienoel