A Latvian-American artist in Massachusetts has released the second in his series of independent comic books.

Ansis Puriņš received a grant from the Xeric Foundation to self-publish Zombre #2: The Magic Forest, according to a press release.

“The 48-page comic tells the story of the blundering park ranger Martin Elvis, mysterious ranger Jones, and the well-intentioned Zombre, who are all inhabitants of the Magic Forest,” according to the press release. “Interwoven throughout is the story of young Acorn and her father, who are on a camping trip to the Forest. After an interaction with Zombre, father realizes he’s been too overprotective of his daughter.”

Zombre #2 is a follow-up to Zombre #1: Zombre vs. Slappy Megathunder Showdown, a 12-page comic released in 2009.

The Xeric Foundation, started by Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles co-creator Peter A. Laird, supports comic book artists as well as charitable and nonprofit organizations.

Puriņš attended the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, where he focused on illustration and printmaking. He has published a number of comic book titles and has exhibited his work in the Boston area. For his illustration work Puriņš counts such clients as Holgate Toys, Ska Brewing Co., and the Boston Phoenix.

For more information about Puriņš and his work, visit www.ansis.tv.