Blind South Carolina Artist Wows Comic Fans With His Visionary Work
TAYLORS, S.C. — At first glance, Lance Footer seems like any other artist at a comic convention, surrounded by sketches of superheroes and fantasy characters. But what many fans don’t realize until later is that the man behind the work is legally blind.
Creating Art Without Sight
Footer, who was born with optic atrophy, relies on a small magnifying glass to complete his detailed artwork. His creations range from independent comic book covers to collectible trading cards for Marvel, including a signed Black Panther design.
“I’ll always draw. Every time I stop, something pulls me back,” he said.
Working from his kitchen table under the name Low Vision Studio, Footer produces original art that often leaves fans stunned when they learn about his condition.
A Difficult Journey
Footer’s disability worsened after an accident as a child when he ingested brass polish, leaving him without the ability to taste or smell. Despite his lifelong passion for drawing, he faced depression and alcoholism before turning his life around more than a decade ago.
Through training as a para-athlete, he shed 160 pounds and went on to become a three-time national champion in tandem cycling. The experience helped him leave behind his darkest days and return to his art with renewed determination.
Inspiring Fans at Conventions
At conventions, fans are often shocked to learn the man behind the table is legally blind. “It’s even more like, ‘I’ve got to have it now. Let me look through this book again!’” Footer laughed.
He has upcoming appearances at the Collector’s Vault Statesville Toy and Collectibles Con on Oct. 25 and at SC Comicon in Greenville in April. His dream is to create cover art for Marvel or DC Comics.
Perseverance as a Superpower
Footer prefers to see his blindness not as a limitation but as an obstacle he’s learned to overcome.
“It’s not a disability, it’s an inconvenience,” he said.
With the support of his loyal service dog, Pluto, and his growing fan base, Footer continues to prove that vision isn’t just about sight — it’s about perseverance, passion, and imagination.
Do you think schools and local programs should do more to support artists with disabilities in South Carolina? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
