Notes on Process: Brad Ford Smith

Many authors research for their books, but K.Co Press author Brad Ford Smith goes the extra mile—literally traipsing around Dallas’ forgotten, under-the-radar and reimagined historical sites. This intentional, thoughtful process translates to a creative style—both drawing and writing— that not only draws readers into the scene, but gives deep context. This translates into books that are as emotionally resonant as they are informative. 

“Where To Find A Ghost” — one of Brad’s three books that we will publish this fall—is the result of a meticulous process including archival research, location scouting and plein air drawing. He finishes each drawing session with a pour of beer, his way of paying respect to the souls who find themselves in his stories, often through documented acts of “calamity and tragedy.”

“Where To Find A Ghost,” a companion publication to Brad’s exhibition at Tin District gallery Ro2 Art, includes special sections detailing this process, historical newspaper articles and more behind-the-scenes ephemera from Brad’s studio. Preorders open in September for October publication.

Brad will also share stories from the book and insights on local Dallas history in a special talk September 29 at Bedford Public Library.