Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con Lines Up Headliners for 2011

Press Release:

James Marsters, Julie Benz, Louis Gossett Jr., Ray Park, Adam West, Burt Ward, Billy Dee Williams, Peter Tork Among Headliners At Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, January 29-30 At New Orleans Morial Convention Center

Nicholas Brendon, Clare Kramer, Kelly Donovon Add to “Buffyfest New Orleans”; Ernie Hudson, Robyn Griggs, Claudia Christian, Walter Koenig Among 150+ Celebrity Guests, Leading Comics Artists, Creative Directors

NEW YORK and NEW ORLEANS, December 2010 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con opens the 2011 season for North America’s largest pop-culture tour, January 29-30 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, in grand style, with superstar guests James Marsters, Julie Benz, Louis Gossett Jr., Ray Park, Adam West, Burt Ward, Billy Dee Williams and Peter Tork headlining the stellar list. The event will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop culture, movies, comics, toys, video gaming, television, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

Benz, who has also starred in “Dexter,” “No Ordinary Family,” and “Desperate Housewives,” and Marsters will be part of a “Buffyfest,” which has proven popular at other Wizard World shows and will include other “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer” stars Nicholas Brendon, Clare Kramer, James Leary and Kelly Donovan in New Orleans.

“We are excited to be bringing all these stars and the best comic creators to New Orleans,” said Gareb Shamus, Wizard World CEO. “We feel like fans there have been waiting for an event like New Orleans Comic Con to come to their backyard, and we are ready for a big first year.”

Other popular New Orleans Comic Con celebrity guests include Ernie Hudson (GHOSTBUSTERS), Walter Koenig (“Star Trek”), Robyn Griggs (“Another World,” “One Life to Live”), Claudia Christian (“Look”; “Babylon 5”), Mark Ryan ( TRANSFORMERS 1 and 2) and Cynthia Scott (ALIENS).

Fans can also meet their favorite comic creators and artists, including Kaare Andrews (“Astonishing X-Men”, “Iron Man”), Kody Chamberlain (“Sweets,” “Punks”), John Dell (“JLA,” “Adventure Comics”), Michael Golden (“Wolverine: First Class,” “New Exiles”), Mike Grell (“Green Lantern,” “Green Arrow”), Rob Guillory (“Chew”), Phil Jimenez (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Astonishing X-Men”), John Layman (“Chew,” “Puffed”), Rob Liefeld (“Deadpool,” “Youngblood”), David Mack (“Kabuki,” “Daredevil”), Joe Madureira (“Darksiders,” “Uncanny X-Men”), Kevin Maguire (“Justice League,” “Batman Confidential”), Terry Moore (“Strangers in Paradise,” “Echo”), Yanick Paquette (“Batman,” “Superman”), Steve Scott (“X-Men Forever,” “Wolverine”) Bill Sienkiewicz (“Elektra,” “Assassin”), Cameron Stewart (“Batman & Robin,” “Catwoman”), Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Batman”), Mark Texeira (“Wolverine,” “Spider-Man”), Renee Witterstaetter (“She Hulk,” “Avengers”) and Ethan Van Sciver (“Green Lantern,” “Superman/Batman”).

The New Orleans Comic Con Wrestling section includes the popular Kevin Nash and Booker T.

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests. Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at more than 100 dealer booths.

Special events at New Orleans Comic Con include the “Magic: The Gathering” and Yu-Gi-Oh card game tournaments, professional photo opportunities (Photo Ops), movie screenings with celebrities and others.

The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is located at 900 Convention Center Blvd. in New Orleans. New Orleans Comic Con is the first stop on Wizard’s 2011 North American tour, which to date has 13 events scheduled. Hours are Saturday, Jan. 29, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Jan. 30, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.. Tickets are available in advance or by calling 1-866-882-5860 and online at www.wizardworld.com/neworleans.html at up to a 15% savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are $25 ($30 on site); two-day weekend tickets are $40 ($45 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available.

The freshly renovated New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is an essential component of what makes the city’s major business events so successful. With 1.1 million square feet of contiguous exhibit space, the Convention Center is the sixth largest convention facility in the nation, and it consistently ranks in the country’s top ten of facilities that hold the most conventions and trade shows annually.

About Wizard Entertainment:
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces a North American Comic Con tour. Wizard World Comic Con – The Pop-Culture Capital of the World!

Wizard World Acquires Mid-Ohio-Con

This is kind of old news now, but in case you missed it…

Press Release:

Wizard World Acquires Mid-Ohio-Con

Wizard World Mid-Ohio Comic Con Set for October 22-23, 2011

Headline Guests Adam West, Burt Ward, Rob Liefeld Announced for 2011

NEW YORK and COLUMBUS, Ohio – Gareb Shamus, CEO of Wizard Entertainment, today announced the acquisition of Mid-Ohio-Con. The show will make its inaugural appearance on the Wizard World Tour circuit on the weekend of October 22-23, 2011 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, OH.

“The acquisition of Mid-Ohio-Con gives us an even stronger presence in the key Midwest market,” said Shamus. “We are excited to have the opportunity to build from the great foundation of Mid-Ohio-Con, which has consistently delivered the best in comics, celebrity and pop culture entertainment for 30 years running.”

“We are thrilled to join the Wizard World Tour,” said James Henry, Managing Director of Mid-Ohio-Con. “We are excited to work with Gareb and the Wizard World team to produce Mid-Ohio Comic Con and we are confident that this partnership will result in a show that will delight fans, creators and exhibitors alike in 2011 and beyond.”

Wizard World Mid-Ohio Comic Con announced its first slate of guests for 2011, which includes “Batman” stars Adam West and Burt Ward as well as fan-favorite Image Comics creator Rob Liefeld. “I’m in,” said Liefeld. “I’ve never been to Mid-Ohio before….make it a big deal!” Stay tuned for additional headline guest announcements in the coming months.

Mid-Ohio-Con is one of America’s longest-running and most successful comic book and pop-culture conventions, carrying on a fun and family-oriented tradition of bringing fans of all ages together with leading comic book writers and artists, film and television stars and creators, and publishers and retailers from across the nation.

2010 marked Mid-Ohio-Con’s 30th anniversary show which included guests of honor David Finch and Adam Hughes along with featured media guests Michael Berryman and Lou Ferrigno and more than 100 creators from the worlds of comics, film, gaming and television. The show had record attendance and has received acclaim from exhibitors, fans and guests as the best in its long history.

About Wizard Entertainment:
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces the largest North American Comic Con tour. Wizard World Comic Con – The Pop-Culture Capital of the World!

For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become a Wizard World Comic Con Fan on Facebook.

Wizard World Comic Con Tour:
November 12-14, 2010 – Austin Comic Con – Austin Convention Center
December 4-5, 2010 – Atlanta Comic Con – Cobb Galleria Centre
January 29-30, 2011 – New Orleans Comic Con – New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
February 26-27, 2011 – Miami Comic Con – Doubletree Miami Mart Airport Hotel and Exhibition Center
March 18-20, 2011 – Toronto Comic Con – Direct Energy Centre
April 29-May 1, 2011 – Anaheim Comic Con – Anaheim Convention Center
May 21-22, 2011 – Big Apple Comic Con ‘Spring Edition’ – Penn Plaza Pavilion
June 17-19, 2011 – Philadelphia Comic Con – Pennsylvania Convention Center
August 11-14, 2011 – Chicago Comic Con – Stephens Convention Center
September 17-18 – New England Comic Con – Hynes Convention Center
September 24-25 – Big Apple Comic Con – Penn Plaza Pavilion
October 23-24, 2011 – Mid Ohio Comic Con – Greater Columbus Convention Center
October 28-30, 2011 – Central Canada Comic Con – Winnipeg Convention Centre
November 2011 – Austin Comic Con
December 2011 – Atlanta Comic Con
TBA – New Jersey Comic Con
TBA – Cincinnati Comic Con
TBA – Cleveland Comic Con
TBA – Nashville Comic Con

Over 200 Guests for the Wizard World Big Apple Comic Con in October

Press Release:

LEE MAJORS, MARY MCDONNELL, ADAM WEST, “BRADY BUNCH BOYS” AMONG HEADLINERS AT WIZARD WORLD BIG APPLE COMIC CON, OCTOBER 1-2-3 AT MANHATTAN’S PENN PLAZA PAVILION

First Convention Appearance For Majors in 30 years, First for “Bradys” together on East Coast and First for West-Burt Ward in N.Y. in Two Decades; Claudia Christian, Julia Jones And 200+ Celebrity Guests, Leading Comics Artists, Creative Directors To Attend

NEW YORK, Wizard World Big Apple Comic Con, part of North America’s largest pop-culture tour, is set for Friday through Sunday, October 1-3, at the Penn Plaza Pavilion in Manhattan. The event, the largest and longest-running Comic Con in New York, will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and plenty of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop culture: movies, comics, toys, video gaming, television, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

Celebrity guests include:

Lee Majors (Six Million Dollar Man, The Fall Guy)

Mary McDonnell (Battlestar Galactica)

Adam West, Burt Ward (Batman)

Walter Koenig (Star Trek)

Claudia Christian (Babylon 5)

Julia Jones (Twilight: Eclipse)

Jake Lloyd, Ahmed Best, Bonnie Piesse (Star Wars)

Doug Jones (Hellboy)

Erin Gray (Buck Rogers)

Herb Jefferson, Jr (Battlestar Galactica – original series)

Richard Anderson (Six Million Dollar Man)

Barry Williams, Christopher Knight and Mike Lookinland (Brady Bunch)

Dan Folger (Balls of Fury, Fanboys)

Larry Thomas (Seinfeld)

Diora Baird (30 Days of Night)

Scott Porter (Caprica)

Captain Zorikh (Sci-fi Science, Jedi Junkies)

Paris Themmen (Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory)

Ashley C. Williams, Ashlynn Yennie, and Akihiro Kitamura (Human Centipede)

Kevin Nash, Ted DiBiase, Shane Douglas, Joel Gertner, Greg “The Hammer” Valentine, Virgil, Sean “X-Pac” Waltman, Mikey Whipwreck, “Simply the Best” G.A. West, Torrie Wilson, Tammy “Sunny” Sytch (pro wrestlers)

Alison Whitmore (Editor – IFC.com)

Knicks City Dancers

They will be among the stars on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and take professional photographs (Photo Ops) with fans.

This is Lee Majors’ first convention appearance in 30 years and the first time the ‘Brady Boys’ have been together on the East Coast,

It is also the first time in nearly 20 years that West and his “Batman” co-star Burt Ward will have appeared together in New York.

Other popular Big Apple Comic Con celebrity guests include Claudia Christian (“Look,” “Babylon 5″), Julia Jones (THE TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE, JONAH HEX), Jake Lloyd (STAR WARS: EPISODE I, “The Pretender”), Doug Jones (FANTASTIC FOUR, HELLBOY), Walter Koenig (“Star Trek,” “Babylon 5″) and other well-known personalities.

Fans can also meet their favorite comic artists, writers, and editors, including Carmine Infantino (Co-Creator of The Flash; Deadman; Batgirl; Human Target; Black Canary and the top Batman artist of the 60s!), Mike Grell (Green Arrow), Herb Trimpe (Hulk; Iron Man), Jerry Robinson (Batman, creator of Robin and Joker), Mark Millar (“Kick-Ass, Wanted), Dick Ayers (Sgt. Fury, The Incredible Hulk), Rich Buckler (Fantastic Four, All-Star Squadron), Irwin Hasen (Green Lantern, Dondi), Paul Levitz (Legion of Super Heroes, former DC president), Bob Wiacek (X-Men, The Brave and the Bold), Joe Madureira (Darksiders, Uncanny X-Men, Battle Chasers), Ethan Van Sciver (Green Lantern, Superman/Batman), Greg Horn (Blackest Night, Elektra, Ms. Marvel), Alex Maleev (Batman, Daredevil), Michael Golden (Wolverine: First Class, New Exiles), Mark Texeira (Moon Knight, Ghost Rider), Trevor Von Eeden (Black Lightning, Batman), J.G. Jones (Final Crisis, Wonder Woman: The Hiketeia), Leinil Yu (Wolverine; X-Men; Ultimate Comics: Avengers 2; Uncanny X-Men), Billy Tucci (Shi, Sgt. Rock), Mark Texeira (Moon Knight, Ghost Rider), Arthur Suydam (Marvel Zombies, Batman), Steve Manion (Fearless Dawn), Louis Small, Jr (Vampirella), Rob Liefeld (Deadpool, Youngblood), Jim Shooter (former editor-in-chief, Marvel, Valiant), Bill Jemas (former Marvel Comics publisher), J. David Spurlock (Author, artist, and editor), and many other national and local creators.

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests. Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at more than 200 dealer booths.

Special events at Big Apple Comic Con include the “Magic: The Gathering” card game tournament, professional photo opportunities (Photo Ops) with celebrities and others to be announced.

The Penn Plaza Pavilion is located at 401 Seventh Avenue at 33rd St., in the historic Hotel Pennsylvania. Big Apple Comic Con is the fifth stop on Wizard’s eight-city 2010 North American tour. Hours are Friday, Oct. 1, 5-9 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 2, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (all times Eastern). Tickets are available in advance or by calling 1-866-882-5860 and online at www.wizardworld.com/bigapple.html at up to a 15% savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are $25; three-day weekend tickets are $45, and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available.

For the most recent event information please visit http://www.bigapplecon.com become a Big Apple Comic Con Fan on Facebook.

Heroes Con Welcomes New Guests & Old Friends

Press Release: Heroes Convention is preparing for one of the LARGEST Guest Lists in it’s 28 year history this June 4-6!  Pack your bags and gas up the car, because this will be one of our greatest shows of all time!  Making their First Appearance at Heroes Con this year are J. Scott Campbell, Brian Bolland, Humberto Ramos, Jimmy Cheung, and Rob Liefeld!  They’ll be joining the Heroes Con Family of regular All-Stars like Adam Hughes, Tony Harris, Frank Cho, Brandon Peterson, Mark Brooks, Tommy Lee Edwards, Phil Noto, Cully Hamner, and tons more!!

Long-time favorites like Ron Garney, Rick Leonardi, and Michael Golden are returning, as well as West Coast heavy-hitters like Mike Mignola, Tim Sale, Dustin Nguyen, Eric Canete, and Sean “Cheeks” Galloway.  It’s insane!!  Now we just have to figure out where to put everybody!  One thing is for sure, this all points to a stellar Art Auction on Saturday night!!

Wizard World Anaheim 2010!

On April 16-18, 2010, while C2E2 was going on in Chicago, Gareb Shamus brought his Wizard World show to Anaheim. While I was a bit skeptical at the number of people who would attend this event due to the overwhelming talent going to C2E2, I was genuinely surprised at how well run the show was. There was something for everyone at this show, from shopping, to seeing the myriad of celebrities attending the event, to Artist Alley, where art collectors were able to snag some great art at very affordable prices. Everyone was very approachable, and even the celebrities had a good time, most taking in and enjoying their first comic convention. With the success of this show, I can only hope that Wizard World Anaheim can come by next year to hopefully bring more talent to this great show! Here’s a look at some of the highlights from this show:

Attendee line for the event.

Crowds anxiously lining up on Saturday to see the stars!

People already shopping around as soon as I got on the show floor on Friday afternoon.

Feed your inner geek!

A look at the show floor from a broader perspective. Nice and spacious.

Artist Alley. A lot of art collectors had a great time this weekend!

Todd Nauck putting the finishing touches on one of his first commissions at the show.

One of the more creative booths in Artist Alley.

Phil Jimenez debating if his sign was good enough (it was).

Phil working on a beautiful Zatanna sketch!

Simon Bisley working on a Lobo commission.

Glenn Fabry, looking through an attendee's sketchbook.

Fan favorite Rob Liefeld churning out sketches for his fans, including this sweet Lady Deadpool.

Stan "The Man" Lee signed autographs for lucky raffle winners.

Mike Mayhew sells a sketchbook at his booth in Artist Alley.

Artist Joel Gomez working on a Harley Quinn.

R2-D2 and crew hanging out. Very popular with the kids.

Adam West and Burt Ward signing for the fans. An extremely crowded line throughout the show for the original Batman and Robin!

The Batmobile!

Not to be outdown, the Mist Mobile was also parked nearby!

Brent Spiner pointing to a blanket while Levar Burton looks on. Also another crowd pleaser was the Star Trek crew, including William Shatner!

Ted Raimi signing autographs!

Up star Ed Asner walks through Artist Alley to sign at his table.

Kevin Sorbo chatting up with Jewel Staite at the show. Kinda cool watching celebrities interacting with one another.

Eureka's Neil Grayston and the lovely DeAnna Pappas pose for a picture.

And of course, what show would not be complete without booth babes and cosplay characters? Here are some of the best ones I saw:

Hula hoops rock!

Sweet Venom girls offering free drinks for attendees.

Magic!

Do you feel lucky?

Go ahead... make my day!

Where's Adam West?

Holly Marie Combs and Shannen Doherty charmed me into coming back next year!

And so did DeAnna Pappas. Hope to see you guys next year!

Image Comics Announces Its Lineup for Emerald City ComiCon 2010

Via Image Comics:

EVERYTHING COMES UP EMERALDS FOR IMAGE IN SEATTLE
Image Comics announces its lineup for Emerald City ComiCon 2010

You can join Image Comics at Emerald City ComiCon, March 13-14, 2010! We’ll have creators galore, convention exclusives and more at booth #306!

In addition to the abundance of artists and writers appearing at booth #306, Image is offering a convention exclusive version of the currently sold out CHOKER #1 by superstar Ben Templesmith and writer Ben McCool. On Saturday, Image will be making some big announcements during our ever-popular panel, THE IMAGE COMICS SHOW.

Choker #1 ECCC Variant

The following talented folks will be appearing at the Image Booth throughout the weekend: Nathan Edmondson (Olympus, The Light), Rob Liefeld (Image United, Youngblood), Jay Faerber (Dynamo 5), Kieron Gillen (Phonogram), Brandon Graham (King City), John Layman (Chew), Ben McCool (Choker), Jamie McKelvie (Phonogram), B. Clay Moore (Hawaiian Dick), Ryan Ottley (Invincible), Nick Spencer (Forgetless,Shuddertown), Brett Weldele (The Light).

Other Image creators exhibiting at ECCC include: Mike & Laura Allred (Madman, Red Rocket 7), Eric Basaldua (The Darkness, Witchblade), Michael Broussard (The Darkness), Joe Casey (Godland), Joe Kelly (I Kill Giants), Scott Kurtz (PVP), Moritat (Elephantmen), Ron Marz (Angelus, Magdalena, Witchblade), Mike Oeming (Mice Templar, God Complex), Whilce Portacio (Image United, Spawn), Duncan Rouleau (Great Unknown), Jim Rugg (One Model Nation), Steven T. Seagle (Soul Kiss), Tim Seeley (Loaded Bible), Richard Starkings (Elephantmen), Jim Valentino (ShadowHawk).

Saturday, at 2:00 PM in the Arcane Comics Panel Room (4C3-4):

THE IMAGE COMICS SHOW: The world’s greatest creator-owned comics publisher returns to Seattle with a flurry of announcements and a discussion on creating creator owned comics with panelists Ben Templesmith (Choker, Fell), John Layman (Chew), Jim Valentino (Shadowhawk) and Brandon Graham (King City). PLUS: You cannot miss the huge announcement coming from Loaded Bible’s Tim Seeley! Will this be your chance to win some free exclusive comics? Oh, yes; it will!

Don’t miss Image Comics at Emerald City ComiCon, booth #306!

Houston Comic Con (December 2009)

Event Details:

• Category: Comic Book Convention
• Location: Texas
• Date: Saturday, December 12th 2009 - Sunday, December 13th 2009
• City: Comic Book Convention in Stafford
• Event: Houston Comic Con
• Address: The Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Road
• Country: US
• Add to Google Calendar | Download iCal

Image Comics Returns to Baltimore Comic-Con with Massive Lineup

IMAGE COMICS RETURNS TO BALTIMORE COMIC CON WITH THEIR MOST MASSIVE LINEUP YET!

Image Comics makes it way back to Baltimore with its largest lineup of creators ever!

Baltimore, Maryland – October 6, 2009 – This upcoming weekend, the world’s greatest creator-owned and operated publisher, Image Comics, makes a big return to the Baltimore Comic-Con including their biggest guest list yet and a very special IMAGE UNITED preview book variant available only at the show!

Image United Baltimore Comic-Con Variant

“It’s good to be back in Baltimore,” Image Comics Chief Operating Officer and IMAGE UNITED writer Robert Kirkman said. “It’s one of the biggest conventions out there with a sole focus on comic books. Everybody here at Image Comics is proud to partner up with Baltimore for our biggest convention presence outside of San Diego Comic Con.”

Kirkman will take part in two panels at the show including The Image Comics Show on Saturday at 1 PM in the Avengers Mansion room. He will be joined by LIBERTY MEADOWS & 50-GIRLS-50′s Frank Cho, GOD COMPLEX & MICE TEMPLAR’s Michael Avon Oeming, ELEPHANTMEN’s Richard Starkings, UNDERGROUND’s Jeff Parker and COWBOY NINJA VIKING’s AJ Lieberman. In addition to everyone giving the first look at upcoming comics, Cho will be announcing the finalists to his 50-GIRLS-50 Talent Search.

Sunday brings a very special look at IMAGE UNITED at 1 PM in the Avengers Mansion room with the crossover artists’ Erik Larsen, Rob Liefeld, Whilce Portacio, Marc Silvestri, Jim Valentino and writer Robert Kirkman. The panel will make the final exclusive look at the series before its release this November!

Both days will feature IMAGE UNITED signing events from 3-4 PM at the Image Comics booth with all creators in attendance signing copies of the Baltimore Comic-Con’s IMAGE UNITED PREVIEW variant edition, available at Baltimore Comic-Con’s Exclusives booth, #1201.

In addition, the Baltimore Image Island will feature a massive guest list, including Mike and Laura Allred (MADMAN ATOMIC COMICS), Ryan Bodeheim (RED MASS FOR MARS), Frank Cho (LIBERTY MEADOWS, 50-GIRLS-50), Jay Faerber (DYNAMO 5), Bryan J.L. Glass (THE MICE TEMPLAR), Greg Horn (THE ART GREG HORN), Ryan Ottley (INVINCIBLE), Cory Walker (INVINCIBLE), Jason Howard (THE ASTOUNDING WOLF-MAN), Scott Kurtz (PvP), Luna Brothers (THE SWORD), Richard Starkings (ELEPHANTMEN), Tom Scioli (GØDLAND), Ben McCool (CHOKER) and the teams behind the POPGUN anthology and Shadowline.

Image Comics can be found at booth #1501 during The Baltimore Comic-Con, Saturday, October 10th and Sunday, October 11th, at the Baltimore Convention Center. For more information, please see http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/.

My SDCC 2009 Recap!

It started off with a tour of Wildstorm and lunch at Karl Strauss with Jim Lee himself, along with artists from Wildstorm.

Richard Friend, Livio Ramondelli, Oliver Nome, and twitter contest winners look on.

MAYHEM!

After the wonderful lunch paid for by Jim himself, I trudged on over to Comic Con to pick up my pass. After the show floor opened, I wandered about the floor, and came across the man himself, Tyrese Gibson. He was promoting his comic Mayhem all weekend long. Never have I met a man so determined to get the word out and sell his books. I saw him and his entourage at the tables, walking around selling the books, and basically popping his head around all over the place to make his name known.

Me and Tyrese, creator of Mayhem!

After meeting Tyrese, and getting a feel for the show floor, I went back to my room to figure out my game plan for the following day.

Day 2 of the con made me excited, and I got to the show at 6 AM. However, what was before me boggled my mind, and I actually had to walk around and make sure that what I was seeing was true. There was a line of thousands all for Hall H at 6 AM! I had never seen anything like it.

The start of the line of Hall H. This went way back and looped back around and started another line.

Start of the 2nd line.

The 2nd line continued...

It just keeps going and going and going...

Camera crews covering the madness known as Comic Con.

Head of Comic Con himself, David Glanzer.

My day started off getting on some commission lists for Terry Dodson, David Finch, and Steve Epting. Most of my time for Day 2 was also spent at the Naked Fat Rave booth.

Naked Fat Rave booth aka The Rat Pack.

Jim Lee sketching for the first 8 fans in line.

King of Artist Alley, J. Scott Campbell, aka Frank Sinatra.

His line went around the tables of Matt Wagner...

... by David Finch's table...

... and by Jim Lee's table.

After the show, The Chuck Jones gallery at the Gas Lamp District put on a special gallery for Jim Lee.

Chuck Jones Gallery for Jim Lee.

Jim Lee signing for people buying art from the gallery.

Day 3′s major goal was to check out Image United’s signing, and to explore more of the show floor.

Todd McFarlane and Marc Silvestri at the Image United signing.

Robert Kirkman and Robert Liefeld goofing around at the Image booth.

Jim Valentino, Erik Larsen, and Whilce Portacio rounding out the Image United table.

The Image 7.

Buzz Lightyear from the land of Legos.

Ugly Dolls coming at you!

Catwoman posing with 3 of her favorite artists: J. Scott Campbell, Adam Hughes, and Bruce Timm.

Day 4 rolled around and after a day of more commissions and sketches, I was looking forward to Tyrese’s party at Stingaree, and I was not disappointed.

Cage match! Tyrese vs. the crowd.

Put your hands up!

Don't make me come out there! Raise your hands up!

Who likes me most?

Dancers dancing in the cage. In the words of Paris Hilton, "That's hot."

Love lifts me up where I belong!

Tyrese and Todd share a laugh with Jim.

Tyrese posing with sexy women in body paint.

Me doing my best Tyrese impersonation.

The last day of the con was a bit hellish, but I trucked on forward. I still had to get some great pics of what was considered the best booth presentation of the show, the Marvel booth.

Mark 1.

Mark 2.

Mark 3.

Mark 4. New armor debuting in Iron Man 2!

Best booth presentation for SDCC 2009.

Jim Lee's Google image straight from the web and into the hands of art dealer extraordinaire, Albert Moy.

My last commission of the con, by the beautiful and talented Amanda Conner!

My con was fun filled, and definitely one of the best times of my entire SDCC experience. I can’t believe it’s already over! If anyone has any other cool stories or experiences they’d like to share, please post below!

From me and Hayden to you, Excelsior!

Image is United for Comic-Con International

IMAGE COMICS TOTALLY BRINGS IT TO SAN DIEGO COMIC CON 2009!
The world’s greatest creator owned comic book publisher announces their full lineup for San Diego Comic Con International 2009!

Image Comics, the world’s greatest creator owned comic book publisher, returns to San Diego with a bigger guest list than ever before and exclusives galore, all available at booth #2729!

In addition to a slate of panels including an unprecedented Image Comics workshop on creating creator owned comics, spotlights on Mike Allred & Robert Kirkman and their annual Image Comics Show featuring the company’s most massive announcements of the year, Image will also feature a very special Image United signing event on Saturday at 10 AM, the only signing featuring all seven members of the crossover’s creative team including Robert Kirkman (Walking Dead, Invincible), Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), Rob Liefeld (Youngblood), Todd McFarlane (Haunt), Marc Silvestri (Top Cow Pilot Season 2009), Whilce Portacio (Fortress) and Jim Valentino (ShadowHawk).

Throughout the weekend the Image Island will include booths showcasing Image Central, Todd McFarlane Productions and Shadowline with a pantheon of creators including Mike Allred (Madman Atomic Comics), Glen Brunswick (Jersey Gods), Camilla d’Errico (Sky Pirates of Neo Terra), Greg Epinoza (Pug), Tyrese Gibson (Mayhem!), Kieron Gillen (Phonogram), Rob Guillory (Chew), Phil Hester (Firebreather, Darkness), Greg Horn (The Art of Greg Horn), Jason Howard (The Astounding Wolf-Man), Andy Kuhn (Firebreather), Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), John Layman (Chew), Mike Le (Mayhem!), Rob Liefeld (Youngblood), David Mack (Kabuki), Derek McCulloch (Pug, Stagger Lee), Jamie McKelvie (Phonogram, Suburban Glamour), Ryan Ottley (Invincible), the crew behind Image’s Harvey award-winning anthology PopGun, Cliff Rathburn (Invincible, Walking Dead), Jimmie Robinson (Bomb Queen), Tone Rodriguez (Mayhem!), Jon Sommariva (Gemini), Kris Simon (Bruce The Little Blue Spurce), Andy Suriano (Charlatan Ball), Josh Wagner (Sky Pirates of Neo Terra) Will Wilson (Mayhem!) and Jim Valentino (ShadowHawk). In addition, there will also be an exclusive first look at Todd McFarlane and Robert Kirkman’s long-awaited collaboration, Haunt, available from Todd McFarlane Productions!

There will also be special signing appearances by Frank Cho (Liberty Meadows), Marco Cinello (Soul Kiss), Alex Grecian (Proof), Sonny Liew (Liquid City), Ted McKeever(Transmet, Eddy Current, Metropol), Whilce Portacio (Fortress), Nick Spencer (Existence 2.0), Christian Ward (Olympus), Christopher Yost (Killer of Demons) and Man of Action Studios members Joe Casey (Gødland), Duncan Rouleau (The Great Unknown), Joe Kelly (I Kill Giants) & Steven T. Seagle (Soul Kiss) with many, many more!
Image will also once again be teaming up with the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund for their annual San Diego Comic Con Welcome Party, 7:30 – 11:00 PM at the Westgate Hotel on 1055 Second Avenue. For even more fun stop by Top Cow Productions, Booth #2629, featuring a full lineup presented by the Image Comics’ partner studio run by Marc Silvestri!

Image Comics will be at booth #2729 during Comic Con International at the San Diego Convention Center, July 22nd-26th, 2009.

IMAGE COMICS

SAN DIEGO 2009 SCHEDULE

IMAGE UNITED

SPECIAL SIGNING EVENT

SATURDAY, JULY 25th

10:00 – 11:30 AM

Featuring the entire creative team of the upcoming blockbuster crossover in their only signing together!

Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Rob Liefeld, Todd McFarlane, Whilce Portacio, Marc Silvestri, Jim Valentino

Image United Cover #2

PANELS

Thursday, July 23

4:30-5:30 PM Workshop – Creating Creator Owned Comics The Image Comics Way: Want to bring your own vision to comics? Learn how from the people who do it best! Join Image Founder Jim Valentino (Shadowhawk) with Image luminaries Joe Kelly (I Kill Giants), John Layman (Chew), Jimmie Robinson (Bomb Queen) Steven T. Seagle (Soul Kiss), and Richard Starkings (Elephantmen) for a very special, unprecedented workshop with an insider look at the creative process and tips on perfecting your pitch. This will also include a question and answer session giving you the chance to directly talk to many pros who have made their dreams their reality! Room 7AB

Friday, July 24

10:00-11:00 AM Spotlight on Mike Allred: Comic Con Special Guest Mike Allred (Madman) makes an extremely rare San Diego Comic Con appearance to discuss his entire body of work from Dead Air to Madman, Red Rocket 7 to X-Statix and his recent Image Comics series, Madman Atomic Comics. The discussion will give fans a rare look into Allred’s creative process, including never-before-seen art and a unique chance to pick the brain of one of comics’ most creative minds! Moderated by Stardust the Super Wizard collaborator Joe Keatinge (PopGun) and featuring a number of surprise guests! Room 8

11:30AM – 12:30 PM The Image Comics Show: The world’s greatest creator-owned comics publisher returns to San Diego with a flurry of announcements including an exclusive look including the biggest crossover event of the year, Image United by creators Robert Kirkman (Walking Dead), Todd McFarlane (Spawn), and Rob Liefeld (Youngblood). In addition, Image superstars Frank Cho (Liberty Meadows), Tyrese Gibson (Mayhem) and Ben Templesmith (Fell) will give the first word on many of their upcoming projects. The Image Comics Show will be the first place to get your first sneak peek at Whilce Portacio’s superhero series emerging from Image United, Fortress! Room 5AB

4:00 – 5:00 PM KIRKAMANIA! The Robert Kirkman Panel: Join Robert Kirkman (Walking Dead, Invincible) for a lively discussion on his many projects and a look forward into the future with more than a few exclusive announcements! All this plus a surprise special guest appearance by Todd McFarlane (Haunt) as super secret free comics will be given away during a very special question and answer session! Room 7AB

SIGNING SCHEDULE

IMAGE UNITED

SPECIAL SIGNING EVENT

SATURDAY, JULY 25th

10:00 – 11:30 AM

Featuring the entire creative team of the upcoming blockbuster crossover in their only signing together!

Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Rob Liefeld, Todd McFarlane, Whilce Portacio, Marc Silvestri, Jim Valentino

Wednesday, July 22nd

6:00 – 9:00 PM: Jim Valentino & Kris Simon (Bruce The Little Blue Spruce) – Shadowline

Thursday, July 23rd

10:00 – 11:00 AM: Jim Valentino & Kris Simon (Bruce the Little Blue Spruce) – Shadowline

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Dave Elliot (Fallout Toy Works, Sharkman) & Steve Pugh (Sharkman) – Table 1

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Steven Grant & Victor Riches (The Safest Place) – Table 2

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Jimmie Robinson (Bomb Queen, Evil & Malice, T. Runt!) – Shadowline

12:00 – 1:00 PM: Frank Cho (Liberty Meadows) – Table 1

12:00 – 1:00 PM: Kat Cahill (I Hate Gallant Girl, All Girl Comics) – Shadowline

1:00 – 2:00 PM: Sean Lapacek, Ian Keiser & Joseph Weisman (Lillim) – Table 1

1:00 – 2:00 PM: Nat Jones (Frank Frazetta’s Death Dealer) – Table 2

1:00 – 2:00 PM: Joshua Williamson & Vinny Navarrete (Dear Dracula, Overlook, Johnny Monster) – Shadowline

2:00 – 3:00 PM: Joe Casey & Andy Suriano (Charlatan Ball) — Table 1

2:00 – 3:00 PM: Robert Kirkman (Walking Dead, Invincible) – Table 2

3:00 – 4:30 PM: Sonny Liew (Liquid City) – Table 1

3:00 – 4:00 PM: Alex Grecian (Proof) – Table 2

3:00 – 4:00 PM: Jeff Mariotte (Zombie Cop, Graveslinger) – Shadowline

4:00 – 5:00 PM: Nick Spencer & Kris Simon (Existence 2.0) – Shadowline

4:30 – 5:30 PM: Viktor Kalvachev & Philo Northrup (Pherone) – Table 1

5:00 – 6:00 PM: Joshua Williamson & Vinny Navarrete (Dear Dracula, Overlook, Johnny Monster) – Shadowline

5:30 – 6:30 PM: Kelly Yates (Amber Atoms) – Table 1

6:00 – 7:00 PM – Lisa Chase & S. Struble (Lil Depressed Boy, Existence 2.0) – Shadowline

Friday, July 24th

10:00 – 11:00 AM: Dave Elliot & Steve Pugh (Sharkman) – Table 1

10:00 – 11:00 AM: Alex Grecian (Proof) – Table 2

10:00 – 11:00 AM: Jimmie Robinson (Bomb Queen, Evil & Malice, T. Runt!) – Shadowline

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Viktor Kalvachev & Philo Northrup (Pherone) – Table 1

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Kelly Yates (Amber Atoms) – Table 2

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Mike Dolce & Marcus Perry (Descendant) – Shadowline

12:00 – 1:00 PM: Nat Jones (Frank Frazetta’s Death Dealer) – Table 1

12:00 – 1:00 PM: Steven Grant & Victor Riches (The Safest Place) – Table 2

12:30 – 2:00 PM: Nick Spencer (Existence 2.0) – Shadowline

1:00 – 2:00 PM: Todd McFarlane (Spawn) – Table 1

2:00 – 3:00 PM: Joe Kelly (I Kill Giants, Bad Dog) – Table 1

2:00 – 3:00 PM: Ted McKeever (Transit, Metropol, Eddy Current) – Shadowline

2:30 – 4:30 PM: Sonny Liew (Liquid City) – Table 2

3:00 – 4:00 PM: Frank Cho (Liberty Meadows) – Table 1

3:00 – 4:00 PM: Pander Brothers (Tasty Bullet, Accelerate) – Shadowline

4:00 – 5:00 PM: Sean Lapacek, Ian Keiser & Joseph Weisman (Lillim) – Table 1

4:00 – 5:00 PM: Jimmie Robinson & Derek McCulloch (T. Runt!) – Shadowline

5:00 – 6:00 PM: Christian Ward (Olympus) – Table 1

5:00 – 6:00 PM: Gabriel Hardman & Corrina Bechko (Heathentown) – Shadowline

6:00 – 7:00 PM: KIRKAMANIA!: Robert Kirkman (Walking Dead, Invincible), Ryan Ottley (Invincible), Jason Howard (Astounding Wolf-Man), Cliff Rathburn (The Walking Dead), Cory Walker (Invincible) – Table 1

6:00 – 7:00 PM: Joshua Williamson & Vinny Navarrete (Dear Dracula) – Shadowline

Saturday, July 25th

10:00 – 11:30 AM: Image United Special Event: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Rob Liefeld, Todd McFarlane, Whilce Portacio, Marc Silvestri & Jim Valentino

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Kat Cahill (I Hate Gallant Girl)

12:00 – 1:00 PM: Nat Jones (Frank Frazetta’s Death Dealer) – Table 1

12:00 – 1:00 PM: Kelly Yates (Amber Atoms) – Table 2

12:00 – 1:00 PM: Jimmie Robinson (Bomb Queen, Evil & Malice, T. Runt!) – Shadowline

1:00 – 2:00 PM: Chris Yost (Killer of Demons) – Table 1

1:00 – 2:00 PM: Christian Ward (Olympus) – Table 2

1:00 – 2:00 PM: Nick Spencer (Existence 2.0), Mike Dolce & Marcus Perry (Descendant) – Shadowline

2:00 – 3:00 PM: Steven T. Seagle & Marco Cinello (Soul Kiss) – Table 1

2:00 – 3:00 PM: Josh Williamson & Vinny Navarrete (Dear Dracula) – Shadowline

2:30 – 4:30 PM: Sonny Liew (Liquid City) – Table 2

3:00 – 4:00 PM: Justin & Bethany Shady (The Roberts, Missing the Boat, Lava is a Floor, I Beg Your Pardon) – Shadowline

3:30 – 5:00 PM: Todd McFarlane, Ryan Ottley, Robert Kirkman (Haunt) – Table 1

4:00 – 5:00 PM: Gabriel Hardman & Corinna Bechko (Heathentown) – Shadowline

5:00 – 6:00 PM: Alex Grecian (Proof) – Table 1

5:00 – 6:00 PM: Steven Grant & Victor Riches (The Safest Place) – Table 2

6:00 – 7:00 PM: Viktor Kalvachev & Philo Northrup (Pherone) – Table 1

6:00 – 7:00 PM: Jim Valentino & Kris Simon (Bruce the Little Blue Spruce) – Shadowline

Sunday, July 26th

10:00 – 11:00 AM: Jeff Mariotte (Zombie Cop, Graveslinger) – Shadowline

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Kelly Yates (Amber Atoms) – Table 1

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Justin Shady (The Roberts, Missing the Boat, Lava is a Floor, I Beg Your Pardon) – Shadowline

12:00 – 1:00 PM: Mike Dolce & Marcus Perry (Descendant) – Shadowline

1:00 – 2:00 PM: Steven Grant & Victor Riches (The Safest Place) – Table 1

1:00 – 2:00 PM: Josh Williamson & Vinny Navarrete (Dear Dracula) – Shadowline

2:00 – 3:00 PM: Duncan Rouleau (The Great Unknown) – Table 1

2:00 – 3:00 PM: Nick Spencer (Existence 2.0) – Shadowline

2:30 – 4:30 PM: Sonny Liew (Liquid City) – Table 2

3:00 – 4:00 PM: Christian Ward (Olympus) – Table 1

3:00 – 4:00 PM: Derek McCulloch & Jimmie Robinson (T. Runt!) – Shadowline

4:00 – 5:00 PM: Jim Valentino & Kris Simon (Bruce the Little Blue Spruce) – Shadowline

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