Press release:
Comici update: The "First" Independent super hero to return? And quick name change for "Mickey the Z"
Justice Direct, first seen on the independent circuit of conventions and books from independents in the early to mid eighties, is getting a revamp. Plus Mickey gets another "Z"
PRLog (Press Release) – Aug 17, 2010 – Before leaving the independents in the mid eighties to work for the majors, and a career in commercial art and marketing, illustrator Vince Argondezzi contributed a great share of his talents to the independents, with artwork, and even the founding and co-founding of several imprints. Contributing to companies from Pacific to a company called Comico and everywhere in-between, Argondezzi was conceiving and drawing, with a successful track record that has given him a client list that stretches from the EPA to Time Warner, to Reed Elsivier.
Before leaving Comico completely due to creative and business differences in 1986 (as an artist doing Next Man with Roger Mc Kenzie; Argondezzi left several years earlier as the co-founder and an ostensible partner) he had given a hand in a variety of projects for the independents...Next Man, Comic Company A (now being rechristened Comici), as well as offerings for Pacific and Reggie Byers' (much missed) Victory Publications, among others. These projects have been near and dear to his heart, along with his latest, Mickey the Z.. At the very start of it all, and happy to say with a proven influence on many youngsters reading comics at the time (Argondezzi was a youngster himself), was the character coined "Justice Direct", from the first issue of the Comico early edition of Primer. Only ten pages long, Justice was done by the only working professional there at Comico at the time, Argondezzi, who was already storyboarding for ad agencies and getting work from DC Comics in their apprentice program. It told the story of Doug Direct, secret agent, who stumbled into a world of even higher high tech gadgetry and intrigue. It was simple for it's time, the first alternative independent super hero visually and continuity wise from the miasma of characters and concepts in that time period...but it got the attention of most readers as the only thing close to professionally produced material in the early Primers, and made a mark in the now famous "Presents" covers and posters, and basically, helped kick started the whole thing.
Fast forward twenty plus years. With several series under his belt, and tempered from years of medical and commercial illustration, Argondezzi is sizing up his first creation, and will be releasing brand new artwork for a possible revival. Argondezzi states: "Several Comico redos have been going on recently online, and while I'm wishing them well, they are nice, it looks like its not quite what I want.. The spirit of the company I came up with all those years ago was fun, spontaneity and excitement, and while I like the super mature stuff, and esoterica, and I can sort of keep up, I won't pretend that I'm a leader in that forte', or that I know everything. Only clowns pretend to know everything. I'm toying with possibly my own Comico redo...maybe that'll finally fill any void."
On a different note, a correction. Recently, several press releases were sent out, with some art and info on the above mentioned project "Mickey". In our haste, we did not do due diligence and check to see Mickey the Z was used properly. While the use of the name Zenith is involved in the story, we won't be using the name "Zenith" with this character. It was an oversight, and we're sorry if we confused anybody.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Sunday, August 22, 2010
PLB Comics at Baltimore Comic-Con
PLB Comics will debut their newest release, The Fall: Vengeance and Justice at this year's Baltimore Comic Con, table A76. A collection of short stories featuring PLB's break out character The Fall, Vengeance and Justice will feature writing and art work by such notable indie comic creators as Russell Walton, Jim McMunn, Nathan Thomas Milliner, Mathew and Josh Shockley and Brad Hudson. A special limited run blood soaked cover variant of the issue book will be available only to attendees of this year's Baltimore Comic Con.
The Fall Vengeance and Justice #1 is the newest title offered by PLB Comics. After the success of Mat Shockley’s Fall storyline from PLB COMICS PRESENTS #1, 2, and 3 PLB Comics felt that the demand for The Fall to have his very own book was too great to ignore.
With an impressive lineup of some of the finest Independent artists around, The Fall: Vengeance and Justice # 1 serves as a perfect jumping on point for new readers, and offers more gritty, hard-hitting Fall action for fans of the Fall story line from the “Presents” title.
PLB Comics Background:
PLB Comics is an independent group of artists and writers located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. PLB offers original concepts and fresh perspectives on the world of Sequential Art, while maintaining an appreciation for mainstream classics.
Founded in 1987, PLB Comics has been producing professional comic books and commissioned works utilizing the talented writers and artists found on Maryland's Eastern Shore. The PLB Comics team combines elements of Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Adventure, Horror, Romance and Drama to create comic books that appeal to the broader audience while always keeping a flair for originality and innovation.
Bio:
Many years ago, brothers Josh and Mathew Shockley started creating their own comics. The two decided to focus their passion for comics toward the goal of producing comic books that met their discerning standards. PLB Comics was born, but it was about to grow from just the two brothers to a well-rounded and complementary creative team. After High School the two attended the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), and while there they met Karlton Hargrove, another fervent comic fan and top notch creator. The team now complete, PLB comics was ready to take off, and several issues later it shows no sign of slowing down. With over a 1,000 issues sold, and a fervent cult following, PLB Comics is quickly becoming a creative team to watch on the indie comics scene.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Kimi Ni Todoke Rival
I read Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You, Vol. 5
I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has smart phone apps and they're FREE).
I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has smart phone apps and they're FREE).
Laser Age Comics Presents "Yellow"
As ever, the book is challenging and controversial, and is set through the eyes of the main protagonist, as we follow them on a murderous rampage. Although the story, written by Jamie McMorrow, is dark and dangerous, there are some moments of startling tenderness and emotion. Meanwhile, the art by Garry McLaughlin renders the action in a full-colour style the pair have christened ‘muted pop’.
To promote the comic, McMorrow has crafted a 10-minute soundtrack called Theme from ‘Yellow’ which will be distributed free with the first 100 copies. Both comic and theme will be launched at a night in Glasgow in the first week in October, with a live band playing the soundtrack to a bewildered crowd. McMorrow and McLaughlin are already generating excitement for the launch after their successful event last year which saw DJs and video footage combine in a derelict hairdresser’s to set an uneasy mood, tempered by the excitement of the crowd.
Available now through online download, and from selected comic shops from October 2nd
For more information visit http://www.laseragecomics.com/
Baltimore Comic-Con Panel Schedule
Baltimore Comic-Con 2010 Panel Announcements, Guests, and Portfolio Reviews!
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - August 19, 2010 - You've been clamoring for it, we've been working on it, and now we're ready to announce it -- the 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con Panel Schedule!
Room 307 (Saturday)
11:00-12:00 - Spotlight on Terry Moore - Terry Moore is the award-winning creator of "Strangers in Paradise" and "Echo" and has also written such comics as Marvel's "Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane" and "Runaways." This panel shines the spotlight on Moore and his work and is a must-see for all his fans.
12:00-1:00 - IRREDEEMABLE/INCORRUPTIBLE Panel - Mark Waid's Harvey and Eisner nominated, best-selling, multiple sell-out IRREDEEMABLE has taken comic fans by storm since its debut, becoming one of the top-selling independent comics published today. Join Mark Waid as he takes a look back at IRREDEEMABLE's beginnings, the future of the series, and its sister series -- INCORRUPTIBLE. A not-to-be-missed panel for any fan of these books! (PSSSSST: Mark will also talk a little bit about his new BOOM! book with Stan Lee called THE TRAVELER. Don't miss it!)
1:00-2:00 - Spotlight on Thor - With the THOR feature film from Marvel Studios premiering in May, 2011, and his adventures featured across both the Marvel and Ultimate Universes, Thor is one of Marvel's hottest characters. Chroniclers of the Thunder God's adventures from the past, present, and future - Walter Simonson, John Workman, Bryan J.L. Glass, and Jonathan Hickman - join Marvel's Vice President - Executive Editor Tom Brevoort to discuss all things Thor.
2:00-3:00 - Spotlight on Denis Kitchen - Denis Kitchen is a cartoonist and founder of Kitchen Sink Press where he published work by such creators as Will Eisner, Harvey Kurtzman, and Robert Crumb. A book of his art "The Oddly Compelling Art of Denis Kitchen" was recently published by Dark Horse; a new art book, "Denis Kitchen: Chipboard Sketchbook", is on the way from BOOM!; and a book he co-authored, "Art of Harvey Kurtzman: The Mad Genius of Comic" is nominated for a Harvey Award. Don't miss this opportunity hear about the work of a true comics original.
3:00-4:00 - Spotlight on Michael Allred - Michael Allred is the creator of "Madman" ,"Atomics", "Red Rocket 7," and has worked on such comics as the "Golden Plates," "X-Statix," and "Sandman" and is currently drawing "iZombie" from DC/Vertigo. Allred and "iZombie" scribe, Chris Roberson, take a look at his career in a spotlight you dare not miss!
Room 308 (Saturday)
11:00-12:00 - comiXology and the Future of Digital Comics - comiXology has become the leader in the digital comics revolution while maintaining great services for brick and mortar retailers. This past year has seen an explosion of digital comics, and comiXology has been on the forefront of the movement with a massive comics library, online aids for collectors, podcasts, and apps for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod. On comiXology's one year anniversary, CEO David Steinberger takes a look at the events of this past year and what the future holds for digital comics in this enlightening panel.
12:00-1:00 - Spotlight on Todd McFarlane - From SPAWN to HAUNT, Image Comics founder and partner Todd McFarlane has been the driving force behind the biggest creator-owned titles in the industry. Join McFarlane for exclusive sneak peeks of his upcoming projects and a Q&A session that shouldn't be missed!
1:00-2:00 - Top Cow: We Create... Universes - Join Top Cow Publisher Filip Sablik, Top Cow Universe architect and writer Ron Marz, and Artifacts artist Michael Broussard for a frank and lively discussion of upcoming events in the Top Cow Universe spinning out of the world-shattering event series - Artifacts! Questions will be answered, early sneak peeks shown, and perhaps even a hilarious anecdote will be told. Plus every attendee will receive a free gift just for attending.
2:00-3:00 - DC NATION - The DC NATION returns to Baltimore! We're always looking for new recruits, so be sure to come on by as DC Comics' Senior Story Editor, Ian Sattler, and some of the industry's top talent lead the way to give you the inside scoop to all current and future NATION members!
3:00-4:00 - Mondo Marvel - From the Marvel U to the Ultimate U and everything in between, Vice President - Executive Editor Tom Brevoort, and superstar writers Jonathan Hickman (S.H.I.E.L.D., Fantastic Four) and Jeff Parker (Hulk, Thunderbolts) are on hand to talk about all of your favorite heroes and villains as well as make a few surprise announcements!
4:00-5:00 - IDW ON THE MOVE! - Join IDW Senior editor Bob Schreck, Steve Niles, Bernie Wrightson, Chris Moreno, and Stuart Sayger in this lively look at the company's current and upcoming releases to be followed by a Q&A session.
Room 301-303 (Saturday)
4:00-5:00 - Artist's Workshop Art Dissection - Klaus Janson and Howard Chaykin open their Artist's Workshop to all convention guests at this time. A few lucky students from their professional seminar will have their work honestly dissected by these two masters. This is a panel no artist should miss!
Room 307 (Sunday)
11:00-12:00 -Creating Comic Art Digitally - Daniel Govar, creator/artist of AZURE along with Matt Zolman, co-creator and artist of Epic, show you the benefit and shortfalls of creating comic art with the use of computer software. From best practices, to resolutions and file formats, they will demonstrate how they create stunning comics using popular software, and answer questions you may have about making comics digitally.
12:00-1:00 - Spotlight on Sergio Aragones - Sergio Aragones has been called the "fastest cartoonist in the world," has drawn thousands of cartoons for "Mad Magazine," created Bat Lash and Groo the Wanderer, and kept us laughing for years. Join the award-winning cartoonist for a look at his work that will leave you smiling!
1:00-2:00 - Comics Rewind: The 1980s - The 1980s were a time of growth for comics with the direct market and new publishers offering creators the opportunity to present their creations as never before. And the results were spectacular. Join Louise Simonson ("Power Pack," "X-Factor"), Walter Simonson ("Thor," "X-Factor"), Timothy Truman ("GrimJack," "Scout"), Matt Wagner ("Mage," "Grendel"), Marv Wolfman ("New Teen Titans," "Crisis on Infinite Earths"), John Workman ("Heavy Metal", "Thor"), and moderator Mark Waid as they take a look back at the comics of the 1980s.
2:00-3:00 - Spotlight on Cuba: My Revolution - Artist Dean Haspiel and colorist Jose Villarrubia discuss their new Vertigo graphic novel collaboration. Dean Haspiel is a native New Yorker who created BILLY DOGMA and STREET CODE and has collaborated on great superhero and semi-autobiographical comic books, helped pioneer personal webcomics with the invention of ACT-I-VATE, and draws for HBO's "Bored To Death." Jose Villarrubia is a renowned artist/colorist/photographer who has worked on such books as Alan Moore's "Voice of the Fire" and "Promethea" among many, many others. He is also the chair of the Illustration Department at MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art).
3:00-4:00 - PAUL POPE VS BOB SCHRECK - A CAGED EVENT - Don't miss this satisfaction-guaranteed, fists-a-flying blood match by joining award-winning multi-talented storyteller, Paul Pope, in an examination of his creative process and how he suffers under the heel of his terrifying editor.
Room 308 (Sunday)
11:00-12:00 - Marvel Your Universe - Join Vice President - Executive Editor Tom Brevoort, as he leaves his Marvel ID at the door and enters as a fan! Want to know how things work at the House of Ideas? Got some things to get off your chest about a Marvel character or story? Well here's your chance True Believer! It's the panel for fans BY fans with no spin, no marketing, and just a friendly chat amongst fans!
12:00-1:00 - DC SUNDAY CONVERSATION - All are welcome to join Senior Story Editor Ian Sattler for a relaxed Sunday afternoon discussion. Share your thoughts, or be enthralled, as the group share their stories and love for this medium.
1:00 - Costume Contest - The wildly popular costume contest returns for a second year! The $1,000 grand prize will be awarded to the best over-all costume at the event, including pro and amateur costumes. Other award categories will win DVD prize packages, comic book packages, Orioles baseball tickets, gift certificates to Cards, Comics and Collectibles of Reisterstown, Maryland, and special last minute prizes from top comic book companies. Everyone who enters the contest will win passes to the advance screening of Summit Entertainment's newest film, RED, starring Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, and Helen Mirren (based on the Wildstorm graphic novel by Warren Ellis and Cully Hamner) which opens nationwide on Friday, October 15th.
Rooms 301-303 (Sunday)
3:00 - Art Auction - Art fans, don't miss this opportunity to see and bid on art from your favorite comic artists! You're sure to find something here you like!
Janson & Chaykin Offer Art Seminar
With over seventy five years of cumulative experience in the comic book industry, Klaus Janson and Howard Chaykin are all-too-well-versed in the ins and outs of making a career in our inkstained - and now, with all that digital stuff, carpal tunneled - business. For the past few years, Klaus and Howard have been conducting an Artist's Workshop for Marvel, offering invaluable insights, gleaned from those decades of experience, on narrative, storytelling, page design, and career management.
They've developed a fluid and comprehensive take on the inside game played by successful cartoonists - and a series of direct and vital techniques intended to drag newer talents out of a hobby and into a profession - without ever losing the joy all of us experience when we ply our craft.
Klaus and Howard have taken their seminar on the road to the renowned Savannah College of Art & Design, to great acclaim from students and faculty alike, and now they're bringing a customized version of the workshop to the 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con. On Saturday, August 28th, from 1pm to 4pm, Messrs. Janson and Chaykin will entertain and enlighten with a lively, spirited, and very likely prickly and opinionated dissertation, followed, from 4 PM to 5 PM, by an hour of honest dissection of the work of several lucky attendees. All class registrants will be eligible for the dissection lottery, so bring some of your work if you want to hear from these two very honest men!
To register for this very special class, please call our host store, Cards, Comics, & Collectibles @ 410-526-7410. The cost for this professional seminar is $75. Major credit cards will be accepted for payment. The hour of honest dissection from 4pm-5pm will be exciting programming available to all ticketed attendees of the Baltimore Comic-Con. Register now while space is still available!
Portfolio Reviews
Mark Chiarello, Art Director at DC Comics, will be doing portfolio reviews from 11am to 1pm at the Mark's booth on both Saturday and Sunday. Think you've got the chops to make it as a pro at DC Comics? Come and find out first-hand!
Todd McFarlane Signing
Attending the show on Saturday only this year, Todd McFarlane will be featured in a Spotlight panel session (room 308) from 12pm-1pm. Following his panel, he will be signing in booth 2403 from 1:30pm-3:30pm.
Added Guests:
We are pleased to announce the addition of the following guests to the 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con: Danna Bremer (Zuda Comics Crew), Buzz (JSA), Kevin Colden (I Rule The Night), Ian Edginton (Victorian Undead), Steve Ellis (High Moon), John Gallagher (Buzzboy), David Gallaher (High Moon), Dan Govar (Azure), Randy Green (New X-Men), Brad Guigar (Evil Inc.), Matthew Petz (War of the Woods), Chris Staros (Publisher, Top Shelf), and Bobby and Peter Timony (The Night Owls).
Regretfully, Cully Hamner is unable to attend the show this year.
Publishers exhibiting in 2010 include Archaia Comics, Adhouse Books, Boom! Studios, IDW, Image Comics, Top Cow Productions, and Top Shelf Comix.
In coming weeks, look for more announcements from the Baltimore Comic-Con. We are looking forward to highlighting our guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming. The latest developments can always be found at our website (http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/), Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/baltimorecomics), Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/baltimorecomiccon), MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/baltimorecomics), and ComicSpace (http://www.comicspace.com/baltimorecomicon) pages.
This year's Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 28-29, 2010. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. The ceremony and banquet for the Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, August 28th.
Contact Information
Please use the following e-mail addresses to contact the Baltimore Comic-Con:
press@baltimorecomiccon.com - for any general press inquiries or to be added to our PR distribution
promoter@baltimorecomiccon.com - for requesting exhibitor, publisher, and Artist Alley applications
registrar@baltimorecomiccon.com - for inquiries about submitted registrations
harveys@baltimorecomiccon.com - for communications regarding the Harvey Awards ceremony and banquet
general@baltimorecomiccon.com - for general Baltimore Comic-Con inquiries
About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 11th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 28-29, 2010. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.
About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 5 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - August 19, 2010 - You've been clamoring for it, we've been working on it, and now we're ready to announce it -- the 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con Panel Schedule!
Room 307 (Saturday)
11:00-12:00 - Spotlight on Terry Moore - Terry Moore is the award-winning creator of "Strangers in Paradise" and "Echo" and has also written such comics as Marvel's "Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane" and "Runaways." This panel shines the spotlight on Moore and his work and is a must-see for all his fans.
12:00-1:00 - IRREDEEMABLE/INCORRUPTIBLE Panel - Mark Waid's Harvey and Eisner nominated, best-selling, multiple sell-out IRREDEEMABLE has taken comic fans by storm since its debut, becoming one of the top-selling independent comics published today. Join Mark Waid as he takes a look back at IRREDEEMABLE's beginnings, the future of the series, and its sister series -- INCORRUPTIBLE. A not-to-be-missed panel for any fan of these books! (PSSSSST: Mark will also talk a little bit about his new BOOM! book with Stan Lee called THE TRAVELER. Don't miss it!)
1:00-2:00 - Spotlight on Thor - With the THOR feature film from Marvel Studios premiering in May, 2011, and his adventures featured across both the Marvel and Ultimate Universes, Thor is one of Marvel's hottest characters. Chroniclers of the Thunder God's adventures from the past, present, and future - Walter Simonson, John Workman, Bryan J.L. Glass, and Jonathan Hickman - join Marvel's Vice President - Executive Editor Tom Brevoort to discuss all things Thor.
2:00-3:00 - Spotlight on Denis Kitchen - Denis Kitchen is a cartoonist and founder of Kitchen Sink Press where he published work by such creators as Will Eisner, Harvey Kurtzman, and Robert Crumb. A book of his art "The Oddly Compelling Art of Denis Kitchen" was recently published by Dark Horse; a new art book, "Denis Kitchen: Chipboard Sketchbook", is on the way from BOOM!; and a book he co-authored, "Art of Harvey Kurtzman: The Mad Genius of Comic" is nominated for a Harvey Award. Don't miss this opportunity hear about the work of a true comics original.
3:00-4:00 - Spotlight on Michael Allred - Michael Allred is the creator of "Madman" ,"Atomics", "Red Rocket 7," and has worked on such comics as the "Golden Plates," "X-Statix," and "Sandman" and is currently drawing "iZombie" from DC/Vertigo. Allred and "iZombie" scribe, Chris Roberson, take a look at his career in a spotlight you dare not miss!
Room 308 (Saturday)
11:00-12:00 - comiXology and the Future of Digital Comics - comiXology has become the leader in the digital comics revolution while maintaining great services for brick and mortar retailers. This past year has seen an explosion of digital comics, and comiXology has been on the forefront of the movement with a massive comics library, online aids for collectors, podcasts, and apps for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod. On comiXology's one year anniversary, CEO David Steinberger takes a look at the events of this past year and what the future holds for digital comics in this enlightening panel.
12:00-1:00 - Spotlight on Todd McFarlane - From SPAWN to HAUNT, Image Comics founder and partner Todd McFarlane has been the driving force behind the biggest creator-owned titles in the industry. Join McFarlane for exclusive sneak peeks of his upcoming projects and a Q&A session that shouldn't be missed!
1:00-2:00 - Top Cow: We Create... Universes - Join Top Cow Publisher Filip Sablik, Top Cow Universe architect and writer Ron Marz, and Artifacts artist Michael Broussard for a frank and lively discussion of upcoming events in the Top Cow Universe spinning out of the world-shattering event series - Artifacts! Questions will be answered, early sneak peeks shown, and perhaps even a hilarious anecdote will be told. Plus every attendee will receive a free gift just for attending.
2:00-3:00 - DC NATION - The DC NATION returns to Baltimore! We're always looking for new recruits, so be sure to come on by as DC Comics' Senior Story Editor, Ian Sattler, and some of the industry's top talent lead the way to give you the inside scoop to all current and future NATION members!
3:00-4:00 - Mondo Marvel - From the Marvel U to the Ultimate U and everything in between, Vice President - Executive Editor Tom Brevoort, and superstar writers Jonathan Hickman (S.H.I.E.L.D., Fantastic Four) and Jeff Parker (Hulk, Thunderbolts) are on hand to talk about all of your favorite heroes and villains as well as make a few surprise announcements!
4:00-5:00 - IDW ON THE MOVE! - Join IDW Senior editor Bob Schreck, Steve Niles, Bernie Wrightson, Chris Moreno, and Stuart Sayger in this lively look at the company's current and upcoming releases to be followed by a Q&A session.
Room 301-303 (Saturday)
4:00-5:00 - Artist's Workshop Art Dissection - Klaus Janson and Howard Chaykin open their Artist's Workshop to all convention guests at this time. A few lucky students from their professional seminar will have their work honestly dissected by these two masters. This is a panel no artist should miss!
Room 307 (Sunday)
11:00-12:00 -Creating Comic Art Digitally - Daniel Govar, creator/artist of AZURE along with Matt Zolman, co-creator and artist of Epic, show you the benefit and shortfalls of creating comic art with the use of computer software. From best practices, to resolutions and file formats, they will demonstrate how they create stunning comics using popular software, and answer questions you may have about making comics digitally.
12:00-1:00 - Spotlight on Sergio Aragones - Sergio Aragones has been called the "fastest cartoonist in the world," has drawn thousands of cartoons for "Mad Magazine," created Bat Lash and Groo the Wanderer, and kept us laughing for years. Join the award-winning cartoonist for a look at his work that will leave you smiling!
1:00-2:00 - Comics Rewind: The 1980s - The 1980s were a time of growth for comics with the direct market and new publishers offering creators the opportunity to present their creations as never before. And the results were spectacular. Join Louise Simonson ("Power Pack," "X-Factor"), Walter Simonson ("Thor," "X-Factor"), Timothy Truman ("GrimJack," "Scout"), Matt Wagner ("Mage," "Grendel"), Marv Wolfman ("New Teen Titans," "Crisis on Infinite Earths"), John Workman ("Heavy Metal", "Thor"), and moderator Mark Waid as they take a look back at the comics of the 1980s.
2:00-3:00 - Spotlight on Cuba: My Revolution - Artist Dean Haspiel and colorist Jose Villarrubia discuss their new Vertigo graphic novel collaboration. Dean Haspiel is a native New Yorker who created BILLY DOGMA and STREET CODE and has collaborated on great superhero and semi-autobiographical comic books, helped pioneer personal webcomics with the invention of ACT-I-VATE, and draws for HBO's "Bored To Death." Jose Villarrubia is a renowned artist/colorist/photographer who has worked on such books as Alan Moore's "Voice of the Fire" and "Promethea" among many, many others. He is also the chair of the Illustration Department at MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art).
3:00-4:00 - PAUL POPE VS BOB SCHRECK - A CAGED EVENT - Don't miss this satisfaction-guaranteed, fists-a-flying blood match by joining award-winning multi-talented storyteller, Paul Pope, in an examination of his creative process and how he suffers under the heel of his terrifying editor.
Room 308 (Sunday)
11:00-12:00 - Marvel Your Universe - Join Vice President - Executive Editor Tom Brevoort, as he leaves his Marvel ID at the door and enters as a fan! Want to know how things work at the House of Ideas? Got some things to get off your chest about a Marvel character or story? Well here's your chance True Believer! It's the panel for fans BY fans with no spin, no marketing, and just a friendly chat amongst fans!
12:00-1:00 - DC SUNDAY CONVERSATION - All are welcome to join Senior Story Editor Ian Sattler for a relaxed Sunday afternoon discussion. Share your thoughts, or be enthralled, as the group share their stories and love for this medium.
1:00 - Costume Contest - The wildly popular costume contest returns for a second year! The $1,000 grand prize will be awarded to the best over-all costume at the event, including pro and amateur costumes. Other award categories will win DVD prize packages, comic book packages, Orioles baseball tickets, gift certificates to Cards, Comics and Collectibles of Reisterstown, Maryland, and special last minute prizes from top comic book companies. Everyone who enters the contest will win passes to the advance screening of Summit Entertainment's newest film, RED, starring Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, and Helen Mirren (based on the Wildstorm graphic novel by Warren Ellis and Cully Hamner) which opens nationwide on Friday, October 15th.
Rooms 301-303 (Sunday)
3:00 - Art Auction - Art fans, don't miss this opportunity to see and bid on art from your favorite comic artists! You're sure to find something here you like!
Janson & Chaykin Offer Art Seminar
With over seventy five years of cumulative experience in the comic book industry, Klaus Janson and Howard Chaykin are all-too-well-versed in the ins and outs of making a career in our inkstained - and now, with all that digital stuff, carpal tunneled - business. For the past few years, Klaus and Howard have been conducting an Artist's Workshop for Marvel, offering invaluable insights, gleaned from those decades of experience, on narrative, storytelling, page design, and career management.
They've developed a fluid and comprehensive take on the inside game played by successful cartoonists - and a series of direct and vital techniques intended to drag newer talents out of a hobby and into a profession - without ever losing the joy all of us experience when we ply our craft.
Klaus and Howard have taken their seminar on the road to the renowned Savannah College of Art & Design, to great acclaim from students and faculty alike, and now they're bringing a customized version of the workshop to the 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con. On Saturday, August 28th, from 1pm to 4pm, Messrs. Janson and Chaykin will entertain and enlighten with a lively, spirited, and very likely prickly and opinionated dissertation, followed, from 4 PM to 5 PM, by an hour of honest dissection of the work of several lucky attendees. All class registrants will be eligible for the dissection lottery, so bring some of your work if you want to hear from these two very honest men!
To register for this very special class, please call our host store, Cards, Comics, & Collectibles @ 410-526-7410. The cost for this professional seminar is $75. Major credit cards will be accepted for payment. The hour of honest dissection from 4pm-5pm will be exciting programming available to all ticketed attendees of the Baltimore Comic-Con. Register now while space is still available!
Portfolio Reviews
Mark Chiarello, Art Director at DC Comics, will be doing portfolio reviews from 11am to 1pm at the Mark's booth on both Saturday and Sunday. Think you've got the chops to make it as a pro at DC Comics? Come and find out first-hand!
Todd McFarlane Signing
Attending the show on Saturday only this year, Todd McFarlane will be featured in a Spotlight panel session (room 308) from 12pm-1pm. Following his panel, he will be signing in booth 2403 from 1:30pm-3:30pm.
Added Guests:
We are pleased to announce the addition of the following guests to the 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con: Danna Bremer (Zuda Comics Crew), Buzz (JSA), Kevin Colden (I Rule The Night), Ian Edginton (Victorian Undead), Steve Ellis (High Moon), John Gallagher (Buzzboy), David Gallaher (High Moon), Dan Govar (Azure), Randy Green (New X-Men), Brad Guigar (Evil Inc.), Matthew Petz (War of the Woods), Chris Staros (Publisher, Top Shelf), and Bobby and Peter Timony (The Night Owls).
Regretfully, Cully Hamner is unable to attend the show this year.
Publishers exhibiting in 2010 include Archaia Comics, Adhouse Books, Boom! Studios, IDW, Image Comics, Top Cow Productions, and Top Shelf Comix.
In coming weeks, look for more announcements from the Baltimore Comic-Con. We are looking forward to highlighting our guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming. The latest developments can always be found at our website (http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/), Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/baltimorecomics), Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/baltimorecomiccon), MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/baltimorecomics), and ComicSpace (http://www.comicspace.com/baltimorecomicon) pages.
This year's Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 28-29, 2010. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. The ceremony and banquet for the Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, August 28th.
Contact Information
Please use the following e-mail addresses to contact the Baltimore Comic-Con:
press@baltimorecomiccon.com - for any general press inquiries or to be added to our PR distribution
promoter@baltimorecomiccon.com - for requesting exhibitor, publisher, and Artist Alley applications
registrar@baltimorecomiccon.com - for inquiries about submitted registrations
harveys@baltimorecomiccon.com - for communications regarding the Harvey Awards ceremony and banquet
general@baltimorecomiccon.com - for general Baltimore Comic-Con inquiries
About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 11th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 28-29, 2010. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.
About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 5 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.
Chris Yura and "Two Italian Guys" at Baltimore Comic-Con
Two Italian Guys Comic Book Exclusive at Baltimore Comic-Con
Free signed, numbered mini-print with book purchase
Baltimore, Maryland - August 20, 2010 – From the migration, to the mob, to marinara, it’s the Italian-American experience like you’ve never seen it before! Recently released in May, indie comic Two Italian Guys is already generating a buzz with an Italian market-themed booth that is not to be missed.
Lucky fans will be able to get a free signed, limited convention exclusive mini-print as well as a Two Italian Guys novelty stress ball with a book purchase at the August 28-29, 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con. Creator and cartoonist Chris Yura will sign, number, and personalize each print, which is limited to only 100 copies.
"I still have a flyer from the first big comic show I went to over 15 years ago, and that inspired me to create something special to share with the Baltimore fans," said Yura. "We look forward to the Baltimore Comic-Con all year, and this souvenir print captures some of the excitement to enjoy long after this great weekend ends."
Combining a long running graphic novel with a short story format, the main tale of Two Italian Guys follows two first generation brothers who think they deserve more than dead end jobs and, if they ignore their father’s advice, may have found the answer. Short stories starring cantankerous TV chef Lou Peppino and his crew of talking veggies will have readers cooking Italian in no time…if Lou doesn’t get kicked off the air first! Wittily strung together with a hearty helping of mob hits and pop culture references, Two Italian Guys has a little something for everyone. Two Italian Guys (38 full-color pages, premium hardcover, retail price $12.95) is available for purchase direct from the publisher at http://www.mangiaindustry.com/ and at Amazon.com.
The eleventh annual Baltimore Comic-Con will be held Saturday and Sunday, August 28-29, 2010 at the Baltimore Convention Center. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM.
For additional information, write to info@mangiaindustry.com.
Free signed, numbered mini-print with book purchase
Baltimore, Maryland - August 20, 2010 – From the migration, to the mob, to marinara, it’s the Italian-American experience like you’ve never seen it before! Recently released in May, indie comic Two Italian Guys is already generating a buzz with an Italian market-themed booth that is not to be missed.
Lucky fans will be able to get a free signed, limited convention exclusive mini-print as well as a Two Italian Guys novelty stress ball with a book purchase at the August 28-29, 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con. Creator and cartoonist Chris Yura will sign, number, and personalize each print, which is limited to only 100 copies.
"I still have a flyer from the first big comic show I went to over 15 years ago, and that inspired me to create something special to share with the Baltimore fans," said Yura. "We look forward to the Baltimore Comic-Con all year, and this souvenir print captures some of the excitement to enjoy long after this great weekend ends."
Combining a long running graphic novel with a short story format, the main tale of Two Italian Guys follows two first generation brothers who think they deserve more than dead end jobs and, if they ignore their father’s advice, may have found the answer. Short stories starring cantankerous TV chef Lou Peppino and his crew of talking veggies will have readers cooking Italian in no time…if Lou doesn’t get kicked off the air first! Wittily strung together with a hearty helping of mob hits and pop culture references, Two Italian Guys has a little something for everyone. Two Italian Guys (38 full-color pages, premium hardcover, retail price $12.95) is available for purchase direct from the publisher at http://www.mangiaindustry.com/ and at Amazon.com.
The eleventh annual Baltimore Comic-Con will be held Saturday and Sunday, August 28-29, 2010 at the Baltimore Convention Center. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM.
For additional information, write to info@mangiaindustry.com.
Friday, August 20, 2010
I Reads You Review: Shrapnel: Hubris #1
RADICAL PUBLISHING
WRITERS: Nick Sagan and Clinnette Minnis
ARTISTS: Concept Art House
LETTERS: Sean Konot
COVER: Stephan Martiniere
64pp, Color, $4.99
Shrapnel: Aristeia Rising was a science fiction comic book created by Mark Long and Nick Sagan and published by Radical Comics. The series depicted an insurrection that began on Venus against an oppressive government known as the Solar Alliance. In the sequel, Shrapnel: Hubris, the planetary revolution moves across the solar system.
As Shrapnel: Hubris #1 opens, Venus is the last free colony in the Solar System, but while it has yet to fall, it is unknown how much longer it can withstand the Alliance’s planetary siege and blockade against it. Under constant barrage from orbit and kept from replenishing much-needed supplies, the colonists of Venus find themselves in desperate circumstances. Now, notorious ex-marine turned surprise hero, Vijaya “Sam” Narayan leads a “black box mission” to deprive the enemy of its own critical resources. But haunted by the ghosts of her past and with squabbling among the men she leads, can Sam even reach her target, let alone cripple the Alliance supply line?
Shrapnel: Hubris is good military science fiction. It isn’t great, but it is quite intriguing – enough so that I want to read more. The painted art by Concept Art House captures the individuality of the characters and creates a murky, tech-heavy setting that reminds me of the sets from the film, Aliens. While the script by Sagan and co-writer Clinnette Minnis is good, Concept Art House’s graphical storytelling is matter-of-fact and flat. It doesn’t often capture the tension that the script suggests.
Still, fans of military science fiction may find this to be a comic book to their liking.
B
[This comic book includes a preview of the original hardcover graphic novel, Legends: The Enchanted by Nick Percival.]
Read more reviews here.
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