J.R. Guffey has been drawing cartoons and comics for about 10 years.

"I started with stick figures at age 5 and worked my way up the hill," Guffey said. "I am self-taught and always loved reading comic books."

Guffey, a 16-year-old junior at Richland High School, will teach youngsters the art of comic book drawing from 2 to 4 p.m. Sept. 24 at the Richland Public Library. There is no cost.

Though preregistration is encouraged, it's not required, said Gavin Lightfoot, who heads the teen area at the library.

"Drop-ins are allowed, but preregistration is encouraged because it gives us an estimate of how many supplies we will need," Lightfoot said.

Guffey, the son of Larry Guffey Jr. and Heather Guffey of Richland, believes there are lots of kids with untapped talent out there who might find the workshop helpful as well as inspiring.

"I have a personal belief that many kids would love to learn how to be an cartoon or comic book artist because it was a personal dream of mine too," Guffey said.

"I don't think you can teach a young person how to draw," he said. "Just show (kids) how and allow them to be influenced, then they'll come up with their own style."

He specializes in manga comic book art, which is a Japanese style first published in 1951.

"J.R. will teach features of manga art style that are used for Japanese comic books and graphic novels," Lightfoot said.

"J.R. has already done two of these classes, and they were quite successful. He is talented, works well with the students and has a great sense of humor."

For more information about the workshop or to register, call the library at 942-7680.

*Dori O'Neal: 582-1514; doneal@tricityherald.com