2017 ALA Conference Announces Graphic Novel & Comics Programming

Learn about the art of graphic novels, comics, illustration and how games and gaming inspire creativity and social interaction at the American Library Association’s annual conference on June 23-26, 2017! RSVP on Facebook!

Friday, June 23

5:45pm-6:35pm

DC’s Young Animal

DC’s Young Animal is a new publishing imprint spearheaded by Gerard Way, the acclaimed author of THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY and best-selling musician. This new line of graphic novels is something different, inspired by the visionary work of DC’s experimental past, but shaped and focused by the absurdity of today. Join Way and some of today’s most innovative creators including Cecil Castellucci, Jody Houser, Jon Rivera, and Nick Derington, as they discuss their works DOOM PATROL VOL. 1: BRICK BY BRICK, SHADE, THE CHANGING GIRL VOL. 1: EARTH GIRL MADE EASY, CAVE CARSON HAS A CYBERNETIC EYE VOL. 1: GOING UNDER and MOTHER PANIC VOL. 1: WORK IN PROGRESS. This panel will discuss how the themes, characters and plot devices in these graphic novels from DC’s Young Animal will engage with readers and patrons like few other works in the industry can today.

Saturday, June 24

9:30am-10:20am

The Rise of Graphic Novels for Kids in Europe and the USA

European and American publishers and authors discuss the emergence of the format and its phenomenal rise internationally in the past decade. They will also look at the differences and similarities of working in comics in Europe and the USA.

10:30am-11:20am

Hazardous Tales and Science Fiction with Nathan Hale

Nathan Hale’s New York Times bestselling graphic novel series NATHAN HALE’S HAZARDOUS TALES have exploded in classrooms and libraries around the country. With a seventh book on the way for Fall 2017, the craze that gets kids excited about history shows no signs of slowing. In this presentation, Nathan Hale will give the audience a sneak peek of the next Hazardous Tales book as well as discuss his recent science fiction graphic novel, ONE TRICK PONY.

11:30am-12:20pm

Spotlight on Kindred: A Graphic Novel Adaptation with adapter Damian Duffy and illustrator John Jennings

More than 35 years after its release, Octavia Butler’s celebrated science fiction masterpiece, Kindred, continues to draw in new readers with its deep exploration of the violence and loss of humanity caused by slavery in the United States, and its complex and lasting impact on the present day. Celebrated academics and comics artists Damian Duffy and John Jennings have adapted this iconic work into the graphic novel format, which instantly became a #1 New York Times bestseller. They will discuss the process of working with this mysterious and moving story, which spans racial and gender divides in the antebellum South through the 20th century.
12:30pm-1:20pm

What Does An Idea Look Like? A Conversation About Creativity with Grant Snider, author of The Shape of Ideas

What does an idea look like? And where do they come from? An orthodontist by day and artist by night, Grant Snider, author of ’The Shape of Ideas: An Illustrated Exploration of Creativity’, had had comics featured in the Kansas City Star, the New York Times Book Review, as well as The Best American Comics in 2013. On this panel, he will share the secrets to his own creative process and share tips on how to keep ideas flowing. ’The Shape of Ideas: An Illustrated Exploration of Creativity’, is a collection of one- and two-page comics that provide insight into the joys and frustrations of creativity, inspiration, and process—no matter your age or creative background.

1:30pm-2:20pm

VIZ Media Presents – Manga!!

VIZ Media, the premier publisher of manga in the English speaking world, has released several hit series such as Naruto, Pokemon, and Ouran High School Host Club. Join us as we talk about which manga are currently the most popular on the scene as well as exciting new series coming soon!

2:30pm-3:20pm

Creator Spotlight: Jessica Abel

Writer/artist Jessica Abel has always been known for work outside the graphic novel mainstream. From her breakout work LA PERDIDA to her comics textbooks, Abel has displayed not only the ability to craft compelling stories but also a deep understanding of the technical aspects of the medium. Her latest series, TRISH TRASH: ROLLERGIRL OF MARS is the story of a mixed race teenager on Mars, struggling to escape economic oppression through a futuristic version of roller derby. Super Genius publisher Terry Nantier speaks with Abel about her long career and why TRISH TRASH is the heroine America needs right now.

3:30pm-4:20pm

Category or Genre: What’s Next for Graphic Novels?

With books aimed at everyone from young children to the most mature adults, there literally is a graphic novel for every reader. But does all this diversity mean we should rethink graphic novel sections in libraries? Should they take their place alongside more traditional books in sections ranging from biography to science fiction. Or does the unique nature of the medium (and its readers) drive a need for graphic novels to always have their own special place on the shelves?

4:30pm-5:00pm

DC Super Hero Girls Original Graphic Novels

Join DC Comics and writer Shea Fontana for a discussion on the DC SUPER HERO GIRLS original graphic novel line! With books such as FINALS CRISIS, HITS AND MYTHS and the new SUMMER OLYMPUS, these graphic novels developed for girls 6-12 have been a smash-hit success across libraries and bookstores alike. Shea will discuss how these new works from DC are relating to young girls everywhere, with themes of empowerment, friendship and teamwork prevalent throughout. Q&A to follow!

Sunday, June 25

9:30am-10:20am

How to write for children

An overview of graphic novels for kids, from classics (like “Tintin”, “Boule & Bill”, etc), right up to the present day. How do you think up a story for a three-year-old, an eight-year-old or a young-adult?

10:30am-11:20am

Comics at the frontier of a new literary movement

Comics are at a new height of popularity and cultural acceptance, but can artists and publishers ensure that this isn’t just a passing trend? Does the popularity of superhero comics help or hinder the consideration of the art form as a whole? Artists like Sam Bosma, Jen Lee & Elise Gravel are at the vanguard of taking comics beyond the public’s popular preconceptions, and they’ll discuss the shape of comics as a genre, a medium, and an art form. Learn how artists can use genre conventions to ease readers into a completely different side of the comics scene, and see what’s possible when artists are able to take you beyond your assumptions. The popularity of genre has given fans an introduction to the art of comics, and these panelists are using that to show the world that the future of the medium goes beyond any one category!

11:30am-12:20pm

Image Comics 25th Anniversary Celebration

Comic creators Ryan Browne, Marjorie Liu, Jim Rugg, Gregg Schigiel, Tim Seeley, and Skottie Young speak about their experience of Image Comics throughout the years & reflect on how the company’s history has impacted their own career trajectory. Discussion will touch on both specifics about Image and also how comics as a whole have evolved. Creators will talk about their inspirations, tell stories about times they were directly or indirectly affected by their industry role models, talk about upcoming titles, and discuss how they are carrying the torch forward! A raffle and short signing will take place at the close of the event.

12:30pm-1:20pm

Comics for Teens: Discovery in the Library

Librarians, authors and publishers discussing and sharing thoughts about aiding teens and YA readers in discovering comics/ YA Graphic novels. A look at what has worked in the past as well as what tools can be used to grow readership in this category.

1:30pm-2:20pm

A Monstress Discussion with Author Marjorie Liu

Marjorie Liu discusses the upcoming new volume in her critically acclaimed series, Monstress. The author will describe her creative process, including inspirations and research methods, and will take questions from the audience. A raffle and short signing will take place at the close of the event.

2:30pm-3:20pm

Check out Dynamite in 2017

A discussion of Dynamite’s exciting current and future releases.

3:30pm-4:20pm

Liberties at work and Creator’s ownership

Artists come together to discuss the different creative methods in France and the USA: liberty of choices, schedules, production, printing, etc. What does it means to be a French Artist?

Authors will also discuss the concept of ownership in France and in the USA : To whom does the work belong? What are the rights of an artist over their work?

Monday, June 26

9:30am-10:20am

Champion of the Graphic Novel: Will Eisner at 100 Years

Will Eisner was, and still is, one of the most influential forces in the comics and graphic novels publishing industry. This year we celebrate what would have been his 100th birthday with a conversation about his contribution and commitment to the idea of graphic novels as a true form of literature. The discussion will also cover the relationship between the library world and the growth of the comics industry and more specifically how librarians helped to define and grow the graphic novel category.

10:30am-11:20am

Tabletop Games 101

Playing Tabletop games in libraries is growing. As libraries expand their breadth, more and more library members are enjoying table-top games, played with real people, face-to-face, in libraries. But, what exactly are tabletop games? How do I tell board games from role-playing games, from card games? Which games are suitable for young people, and which will be enjoyed by an older crowd? This panel of gaming veterans including game publishers and distributors will cut the red tape so each library knows which games to bring in. At ALA Annual, Friday Games Night will give everyone an opportunity to play a variety of games and talk to publishers and distributors. Open gaming on the floor, during the day offers more opportunities to learn and have fun doing it.

11:30am-12:20pm

Disney Manga: family friendly fun!

With the explosion in popularity of manga, parents and librarians have rightfully been concerned about child-friendly titles. With TOKYOPOP’s Disney Manga line, we bring the magic of Disney to this popular form of graphic novels, providing families with a way to enjoy their favorite Disney characters and stories in manga style! With titles brought directly from Japan and our own original titles made in collaboration with Disney’s team, we want to break down the misconception that all manga is inappropriate for little ones and encourage young readers with this fun line of graphic novels.

Dark Horse Comics Schedule for C2E2 2017

Press Release:

Visit Dark Horse Comics at C2E2 for free swag, such as comics, pins, postcards, and more! Check out our signings and panels too!

SIGNING SCHEDULE

All creators signing in our booth offer their autographs for FREE. FREE prints, comics, or posters are provided for signings (while supplies last). You may purchase or bring items to be signed. Please note that some of the titles listed below have not been released for sale yet—in those cases, special prints will be available.

Lines may also be closed for some signings due to crowding or time restrictions.

All events are subject to change. Some restrictions apply. Please ask the Dark Horse Comics staff if you have questions.

FRIDAY, APRIL 21

11:00–11:45 a.m. MAE: Gene Ha

12:00–12:45 p.m. CALL OF DUTY: ZOMBIES, EERIE: Justin Jordan

1:00–1:45 p.m. SPACE-MULLET!, ALABASTER, THE GHOST FLEET: Daniel Warren Johnson

2:00–2:45 p.m. DARK HORSE CONVENTION EXCLUSIVE HENCHGIRL HC: Kristen Gudsnuk

3:00–3:45 p.m. HOUSE OF PENANCE, THE MIGHTY, LIGHT BRIGADE: Peter Tomasi

4:00–4:45 p.m. CHIMICHANGA, THE GOON: Eric Powell

5:00–5:45 p.m. LADY KILLER: Joëlle Jones

6:00–6:45 p.m. THE PAYBACKS: Eliot Rahal
SATURDAY, APRIL 22

10:00–10:45 a.m. DARK HORSE CONVENTION EXCLUSIVE HENCHGIRL HC: Kristen Gudsnuk

11:00–11:45 a.m. TARZAN ON THE PLANET OF THE APES, SUNDOWNERS: Tim Seeley

12:00–12:45 p.m. BLACK HAMMER: Jeff Lemire

1:00–1:45 p.m. BUFFY: THE HIGH SCHOOL YEARS, MISFITS OF AVALON: Kel McDonald

2:00–2:45 p.m. LEAVING MEGALOPOLIS: Jim Calafiore

3:00–3:45 p.m. THE SHAOLIN COWBOY, THE BIG GUY AND RUSTY THE BOY ROBOT: Geof Darrow

4:00–4:45 p.m. KABUKI, AMERICAN GODS, FIGHT CLUB 2: David Mack

5:00–5:45 p.m. SPELL ON WHEELS: Kate Leth

6:00–6:45 p.m. DRAGON AGE: MAGEKILLER, VEIL: Greg Rucka

 

SUNDAY, APRIL 23

10:10–11:45 a.m. DARK HORSE CONVENTION EXCLUSIVE HENCHGIRL HC: Kristen Gudsnuk

12:00–12:45 p.m. BATTLEPUG, B.P.R.D. HELL ON EARTH: Mike Norton

2:00–2:45 p.m. APOCALYPTIGIRL, THE TOMORROWS: Andrew MacLean

PANEL SCHEDULE
Please join us at the panels below, brought to you by Dark Horse Comics and friends! Please visit http://www.c2e2.com/Events/Panels-And-Screenings/Panels for more panels featuring Dark Horse creators, as well as guidelines for attending panels.

SATURDAY, APRIL 22
3:00–4:00 p.m. Panel Room S403 The Millennial’s Guide to Keeping Comics Alive

The integration of social media into society has completely changed how people communicate with each other, and the comics industry is not invulnerable to this change. Join Dark Horse creators Kristen Gudsnuk (Henchgirl) and Kel McDonald (Buffy: The High School Years, Misfits of Avalon) to discuss the implications of social media on the industry and how creators use social media to engage with fans.

SUNDAY, APRIL 23
1:15–2:15 p.m. Panel Room S403 The Un-CONventional Superheroes

For decades, popular culture has been dominated by stories from superhero comic books. Most people can’t think of either superheroes or comics without thinking of the other. In recent years, Dark Horse creators have sought to pay homage to superheroes while also putting a modern spin on the idea of heroics. Join Jim Calafiore (Leaving Megalopolis), Kristen Gudsnuk (Henchgirl), and Jeff Lemire (Black Hammer) for a lively conversation about superheroes and antiheroes in the modern era and how their characters seek to challenge society’s perceptions of the superhero.
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Hero Initiative Blows Into C2E2 2017

Press Release:

Hero Initiative, the non-profit organization that aids comic book creators in medical and financial need, breezes into Chicago for the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo, also known as C2E2, located at McCormick Place April 21-23.

And we have an amazing crew anchoring our booth, #1459! Writer/artist Bill Willingham, the man behind Fables and a NEW First Comics series to be announced at C2E2, will be EXCLUSIVELY at the Hero booth all weekend! He’ll be joined by Punisher and Batman artist Bill Reinhold, and Incredible Hulk writer Sean McKeever. Check them all out at booth #1459!

While at the booth, make sure you get in on our raffle for an amazing helicopter trip for two over downtown Chicago from Chicago Helicopter Experience, a $456 value! Raffle tickets will be on sale at the Hero booth all weekend, just $2 each!

And you can now DRINK your comics! Hero is hosting the WORLD PREMIERE of Ten Pin Creep, a Revival mystery story told across six beer labels! The party is Friday, April 21 from 7-10 pm at the Motor Row Gallery and Lofts 2345 S. Michigan Ave. (mere STEPS from the convention center!). Price is $4 per beer or $20 for the whole 6-pack! Non-alcoholic drinks will also be served, and creators Mike Norton and Tim Seeley WILL be in attendance autographing bottles! Many of your other fave creators such as Franco Aureliani, Amy Chu, Jenny Frison, Jody Houser, Ken Lashley, Sean McKeever, Dustin Nguyen, Steve Orlando, Mike Perkins, Greg Rucka, Liam Sharp, and James Tynion IV will also be there, so don’t miss out on the party!

And as always Hero Initiative’s creative ambassadors are on the floor collecting for Hero at their own tables. Please swing by and say “hi” to Jason Aaron, Chris Burnham, Stephan Franck, Eric Gapstur, Patrick Gleason, Jonathan Hickman, Phil Hester, Jody Houser, Ken Lashley, Mike Norton, Steve Orlando, Ande Parks, Tim Seeley, Liam Sharp, Ryan Stegman, Jill Thompson, James Tynion IV, and Chip Zdarsky.

About The Hero Initiative:
The Hero Initiative is the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strictly to helping comic book artists and craftsmen in need. Hero Initiative creates a financial safety net for yesterday’s creators who may need emergency medical aid, financial support for essentials of life, and an avenue back into paying work. It’s a chance for all of us to give back something to the people who have given us so much enjoyment.

Since its inception, The Hero Initiative has had the good fortune to grant over $950,000 to the comics veterans who have paved the way for those in the industry today. For more information, visit www.heroinitiative.org or call 626-676-6354.

C2E2 Reveals 2017 Poster with Art by Declan Shalvey

Press Release:

The exclusive official C2E2 poster has been unveiled featuring the ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY leaping into action against a view of Chicago’s Michigan Avenue at night. The image, created for C2E2 by Declan Shalvey, will be given away at C2E2 events leading up to the Show and local comic book stores in the Midwest area. A signed poster will be included in the VIP packages this year.

The Guardians’ time grounded on Earth has ended, and it’s time for them to head back to the stars! Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket Raccoon, and Groot have reunited to keep the galaxy safe from all kinds of extraterrestrial threats. Follow their adventures in ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #1 by all-stars Gerry Duggan, Aaron Kuder and Ive Svorcina, available in May!

Don’t miss Declan Shalvey at C2E2 2017 on April 21-23! He’ll be hanging out in Artist Alley all weekend long. Other guests include: Alex Maleev, Ale Garza, Amy Chu, Ande Parks, Andy Price, Art Baltazar, Ben Templesmith, Bill Willingham, Bo Hampton, Brian Churilla, Brian Stelfreeze, Brittney Williams, Chip Zdarsky, Chris Sprouse, Dan Jurgens, David Petersen, Dustin Nguyen, Eric Canete, Eric Powell, Erica Henderson, Franco, Frank Miller, Greg Rucka, Ivan Brandon, James Tynion IV, Jamie McKelvie, Jason Aaron, Jason Latour, Jeff Lemire, Jen Bartel, Jenny Frison, Jill Thompson, Jim Cheung, Jody Houser, Joe Eisma, Jordie Bellaire, Joelle Jones, Julie Benson, Katie Cook, Kel McDonald, Kieron Gillen, Larry Stroman, Liam Sharp, Luke Ross, Marcio Takara, Matt Wagner, Mike Perkins, Mirka Andolfo, Neal Adams, Ramon Perez, Rob Liefeld, Ryan Stegman, Scott Hepburn, Scott McDaniel, Shawna Benson, Skottie Young, Steve Orlando, Terry Moore, Tim Seeley, Yanick Paquette, Bill Sienkiewicz, Rick Remender, and more.

For further information go to the website: www.c2e2.com

IL – Revival Wake

Press Release:

REVIVAL is coming to the end of its 5-year journey, and we want to send it off in style. Join Revival creators Tim Seeley, Mike Norton, and Jenny Frison on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at 5:00 PM as we all come together to celebrate 47 issues of one of the best creator-owned series Chicago has ever seen. And yes, that means there will be beer. Revival beer. So bring a hankey and prepare to shed a tear as we lay this comic to rest. Funeral dress optional.

RSVP on Facebook!

Challengers Comics
1845 N. Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 278-0155

IL – Nightwing Rebirth Signing

Writer Tim Seeley (Suicide Squad, Grayson) appears at Chicago Comics on Saturday, January 28, 2017 from 2:00 – 5:00 PM for a signing of the NIGHTWING REBIRTH trade.

RSVP on Facebook!

Chicago Comics
3244 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 528-1983

IL – Batman Day 2016 Signing

Nightwing writer Tim Seeley and artists Alex Rosado, BD Mead, and Luke Smarto appear at Challengers Comics on Saturday, September 17, 2016 for their Batman Day 2016 celebration!

RSVP on Facebook!

Challengers Comics
1845 N. Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 278-0155

Sketch Fighter Returns to Boston Comic Con 2016

Press Release:

The quick-draw game that pairs professional artists with stand-up comedians returns to the BOSTON COMIC CON and the 2016 bracket has been released.

Semi final 1 will feature: artist SARA RICHARD and comedian KEVIN HARRINGTON vs. artist CHRISTOPHER UMINGA and comedian KEN REID.

Semi Final 2 pits artist FRED HEMBECK and comedian DAN BOULGER vs. artist TIM SEELEY and comedian PHOEBE ANGLE.

Semi finals will be followed by bronze and gold medal matches!  The action starts at 3:00 PM in the Seaport Center’s Amphitheater Saturday August 13th!  Last year over a hundred people had to be turned away so get there early!  Hosted by TOM FRANCK and JOHN PAUL RIVERA.

RSVP on Facebook!

CA – Cabana-Con 2016

Comic creators Tim Seeley, Hebru Brantley, and Andy Kuhn appear at Marriott Marquis Tequila Bar on Saturday July 23, 2016 from 3:00 – 6:00 PM to meet fans and sell some original art!

Marriott Marquis Tequila Bar & Grille Poolside
333 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

IL – Nightwing #1 Signing

Writer Tim Seeley (Suicide Squad, Grayson) appears at Aw Yeah Comics on Saturday, July 30, 2016 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM to sign DC Comics’ NIGHTWING #1!

RSVP on Facebook!

Aw Yeah Comics
4933 Oakton Street, Skokie, IL 60077
847-423-2916

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