Francis Manapul talks 'The Flash'

Artist Francis Manapul has spoken about DC's forthcoming Flash ongoing series, which he will illustrate alongside writer Geoff Johns.

Manapul is currently working with Johns on the newly-relaunched Adventure Comics. Both will depart that series to work on The Flash once Johns has completed his Flash: Rebirth miniseries.

"I think The Flash will have to be a different beast," Manapul told Comic Book Resources. "I feel that Adventure Comics was a perfect match for my inks and watercolors since it adds to the quaint rustic feel of Smallville.

"I think I needed Adventure to help push me in the right direction artistically. I wont lie to you - The Flash represents new challenges, all of which I'm very excited to tackle.

"Working with the medium that I do will allow me to experiment with how I portray his speed visually, more so than if I were to just pencil it. I've discussed with both Geoff and [colourist] Brian [Buccellato] the type of things we can do to show his speed, and my fingers are itching to start."

The series will focus on the newly-returned second Flash Barry Allen, with a second Scott Kolins illustrated feature starring his successor Wally West.

"For me, the trickiest part is making sure my Barry Allen looks different from my Wally West," said Manapul. "Having grown up with Wally, my natural portrayal of The Flash tends to look like him. As I get more familiar with Barry, I know I'll get my footing and get it right."

The Flash will debut in April 2010.