Baltimore Comic-Con 2023 Announces Panel Programming

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – August 31, 2023 – The Baltimore Comic-Con returns to the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore’s beautiful Inner Harbor this September 8-10, 2023. Tickets are available now for General Admission, VIP, and Fan Packages. Our Panel schedule is now set, and we’re excited to let you know what programming to look forward to at the show this year!

Friday features Creators from the CROSSROADS featuring Mike Grell, Tom Mandrake, Howard Chaykin, John Workman, and the rest of the creators sharing stories from when they were part of one of the ‘First’ independent comic companies. Plus, we have spotlights with Samantha Alleyne – the first female Stormtrooper; Chris Claremont, and the creators of Elfquest. Plus learn all about the Australian comic market, traveling through Japan, and “hear” COMICS ALOUD! Also, you can learn how to develop horror comics, humor comics, create new worlds, or have your art portfolio evaluated by DC Editor Brittany Holzherr (on either Friday or Saturday).

You won’t want to miss hearing about the latest efforts of writer extraordinaire Geoff Johns, as well as spotlight panels for Steve Rude, Mark Waid, and 60 years of Marvel’s mutants – along with a special chat with Brian Michael Bendis taking place Saturday. Matthew Lewis will also talk about life at Hogwarts and beyond. Plus, there are informative sessions on spies, villains, and giant Japanese monsters. Or, you can learn tips on being a comic book editor, the psyche of super-heroes, or the best way to restore color in reprints.

Sunday offers Writing Tips for Comics and Graphic Novels. Plus a diverse array of panels on the business of comics, making the most of a new idea, or developing socially representative comics. You can also hear Joe Staton on E-Man turning 50; Walter Simonson speak about the Manhunter’s 50th and his start on Thor 40 years ago; not to mention various creators on My Little Pony hitting 40; or 50 years of Star Trek stories. Or test your knowledge of the Infinity Gauntlet with Jim Starlin at Com-Nation Trivia LIVE! Plus, Chris Sarandon a.k.a. Jack Skellington and Ken Page a.k.a. Oogie Boogie talk on all the performances they have made!

Room 337

2:00-2:45 – Frank Cho Talks Fight Girls

Joined by AWA Chief Creative Officer Axel Alonso, creator Frank Cho (Fight Girls, X-Men, Harley Quinn) discusses the making of his action-packed sci-fi series, Fight Girls, and other recent work with AWA. Panel attendees will learn more about the process and inspiration for the project. Moderator: Christina Blanch.

3:00-3:45 – Journey to Japan with Abby Denson and Matthew Loux

Cool Japan Guide author Abby Denson and Prunella author Matthew Loux (whose Junrei Japan comic was recently featured by the Mangasplaining podcast’s MSX newsletter) will share excerpts of their work, and useful tips for Japan travel. If you want to learn more about Japan, are planning a trip, or just fantasizing about it for now, don’t miss this!

4:00-4:45 – The One and Only Artist’s Edition Panel!

Join Scott Dunbier as he presents a slide show featuring recently released and upcoming Artist’s Editions—and maybe spills some tea on a few coming along in the next few years! Plus, bring your suggestions for future editions of these award-winning behemoths!

5:00-5:45 – Key Frames

Not all panels are created equal, from splash pages to character beats. Join host Adam Greenfield and special guests for a lively discussion of comic craft.

Room 338

2:00-2:45 – Horror Comics 101

Dive into the Dark World of Horror Comics and learn what works and what doesn’t when crafting gory stories for the printed page. Join Panelists: Drew Edwards (HalloweenMan), Dan Price (The Ghoul Agency), Lisa Burdige (Background Noise Comic), and John Hazard (Background Noise Comic, Frankenstein Superstar).

4:00-4:45 – Samantha Alleyne Spotlight

The actress and model discusses her career from portraying the first female Stormtrooper to fighting as an Amazon alongside Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman.

5:00-6:45 – Artist Portfolio Review

Come have your art portfolio reviewed by a member of DC Comics’ Editorial staff, Brittany Holzherr, who will provide art portfolio reviews for aspiring artists.

Mrs. Holzherr is an Editor at DC Comics, working on books such as Wonder Woman, Titans, and Power Girl along with a number of other titles across the DCU. She has been working at DC for over ten years now and is currently putting together Beast World, a major DCU event starring the Titans. Please note this panel is strictly for advice, guidance, and suggestions on what steps aspiring creators can consider doing next. Brittany is always seeking talented individuals who have the drive, desire, and talent to become professionals. She will review your strengths and provide advice on how to reach the next level of storytelling.

Room 339-342

2:00-2:45 – Comics Aloud!

Creators will stage dramatic readings of excerpts of their comic work while it is projected on screen. Hear creators David Petersen (Mouse Guard), Jeremy Bastian (Cursed Pirate Girl), Steve Conley (The Middle Age), and Craig Rousseau & Todd Dezago (Perhapanauts) perform the characters they’ve written and drawn.

3:00-3:45 – Crafting Fictional Worlds

Environment is an important element of storytelling. Comics, TV, and games use it all the time – but it’s easy to let the details of your world distract from your story. Whether it’s a science fiction/fantasy setting or a real-life location, learn how to make your world come to life without losing the reader. Join Trevor Mueller (Albert the Alien, Aw Yeah Comics ), Phillip Kennedy Johnson (The Last God, Superman, 007), Katie Cook (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Adventure Time), and Brian Michael Bendis (Jinxworld, Miles Morales, Avengers, Powers).

4:00-4:45 – ElfQuest 45 and Evergreen

ElfQuest has always been seen – and rightly so – as a pioneer in independent comics publishing. But back in 1978, Wendy and Richard Pini had no desire to be entrepreneurs; they simply wanted to produce the material, send it to a publisher, and enjoy the benefits of seeing their creative endeavor prosper. However, at the time, mainstream comic publishers were not sure about this type of story. But what the Pinis created then has endured for 45 years! Now, hear directly from the creative force behind ElfQuest as they look back on how it all started and what’s next for WaRP Publishing.

5:00-5:45 – Getting into Character(s)

Comic creators will talk about the craft of working on existing characters. How do they approach the task while maintaining the appeal of the character and keeping it fresh? Guests: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Ron Marz, Tom King, David Pepose, Torunn Gronbekk, and Brian Michael Bendis. Hosted by Bob Harrison.

Room 343-344

2:00-2:45 – Fractured Shards, Crowdfunding, and Comics Downunder

Come join actor Dan Feuerriegel (Spartacus, Days of Our Lives) and Shaun Keenan (owner of COMICS2MOVIES) as they discuss their Ringo-nominated series, how they use Kickstarter to fund and publish their series, the world of comics in Australia, and the influence of the US market downunder.

4:00-4:45 – Finding the Funny: Creating Humor and Satire in Comics

Comics artists and cartoonists discuss the best practices for using humor and satire in comic strips and cartoons. Co-host/panelists Lisa Burdige (Background Noise) and John Hazard (Frankenstein Superstar, Background Noise) discuss what makes them laugh and how they find humor in everyday life. Joining them in the chuckles are Paul Storrie (Storm Kids: Stanley’s Ghost, Harley Quinn & the Gotham Girls), Thom Zahler (Love & Capes, Cupid’s Arrows) and Kevin Maguire (Justice League International, Defenders, Blue & Gold).

4:00-4:45 – Chris Claremont Spotlight

His career as a writer of comics – largely for Marvel over the years (and mutant characters in particular) — has made Chris Claremeont one of the mainstays of the industry. His initial unbroken 17-year run on The Uncanny X-Men is the stuff of industry legend. His work is lauded for its anti-prejudice themes, and groundbreaking inclusion of minorities as heroes. He is the creator of such iconic characters as Gambit, Mystique, and Rogue just to mention a few.

In addition, he has scripted stories of other seminal characters such as Batman, Superman, The Fantastic Four, and the list goes on.

Plus, he has penned numerous novels including the science fiction “High Frontier” series First Flight, Grounded!, and Sundowner; the fantasy series Shadow Moon, Shadow Dawn, and Shadow Star (co-authored with George Lucas); and the dark fantasy Dragon Moon. Come hear what projects he has planned next for comics, prose, and film.

Ballroom 3-4

2:00-3:30 – Creators from the Crossroads

Collecting the creators of the characters that inspired a whole generation of readers and creators AND this year’s Yearbook Art! Mike Grell (Jon Sable, Freelance), Joe Staton (E-Man), Mark Wheatley and Marc Hempel (Mars), Howard Chaykin (American Flagg!), Steve Rude (Nexus), Tom Mandrake (GrimJack), letterer extraordinaire John Workman, and Editor Mike Gold will reunite to talk about the amazing books that they worked on. Hosted by Bob Harrison.

3:00-3:45 – The AAAAWOOOOOO Werewolf Workshop with Chris Flick

Have a howling good time as cartoonist Chris Flick shows you how to draw werewolves of all shapes and sizes.

4:00-4:45 – Growin’ in the Garden: Drawing Rocket Boots with JP Jackson Art

Growin’ In the Garden is a debut comic series by Jordan P. Jackson that explores a set of twins learning and solving problems in the utopia, The Garden District. You will learn about concept design, visual development, and create your own rocket boots.

5:00-5:45 – Show & Toon: Punk Taco with Adam and Makana Wallenta

Adam and Makana, the father and son team behind the award-winning Punk Taco graphic novel series, teach you how to draw the fun characters from their hit series. Adam and Makana will discuss the creative process and the journey from first idea to finished book.

Room 337

11:00-11:45 – BAD IDEA: The Baltimore Panel

BAD IDEA — the last and greatest underground comics publisher — is going live at Baltimore Comic-Con for the first time. That’s right, this is BAD IDEA’s first Baltimore panel. Be here — or miss the rendezvous between BAD IDEA impresarios Dinesh Shamdasani and Atom! Freeman who give you, dear reader, the first look inside the closed channel of the most high-frequency experiment in self-distro comics culture. Join us for all this, special guests, AND a free gift.

12:00-12:45 – The Infiltration (Overtly and Covertly) of Spies into Comics!

Spying is often said to be the second oldest profession, and the world of modern comic books has seen a great assortment of undercover operatives since its beginning a century ago. Mark S. Zaid (national security attorney, Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide Advisor, comic book historian) will first showcase some of the coolest and rarest volumes in his collection and how they mirror the intelligence issues of their time, followed by a tantalizing discussion with Phillip Kennedy Johnson (Eisner award nominee, 007); Shawn Martinbrough (Eisner Award nominee, Thief of Thieves), and John K. Snyder III (Eisner Award nominee, The Secret Agent) about their writing and drawing some of the best current spy comics!

1:00-1:45 – Bringing Comics Masterpieces Back to Life

Color restoration of comic reprints has been a controversial topic for a few years. Despite the advances in technology, many comics are reprinted and recolored with bright colors that do not resemble the original editions. Comics colorist and MICA professor José Villarrubia will show how he applied his theories to two comics masterpieces, Bernie Wrightson’s Swamp Thing and Richard Corben’s DEN, for new deluxe editions. The talk will be followed by a signing in room 337.

3:00-4:45 – From Cave Art To Superheroes: Comic Books and Social Commentary

Mark S. Zaid, Esq. (Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide Advisor; comic book historian) presents an educational and humorous interactive visual arts presentation tracing the historical creation and development of comic books and their characters, and particularly how comics addressed social issues of the day (including such topics as war, civil rights, women’s liberation, politics, and censorship).

5:00-5:45 – Acme Comics vs. Brian Michael Bendis

Join Jermaine “Lord Retail” Exum (Manager of the Award-winning comic shop Acme Comics in Greensboro, NC ) and Brian Michael Bendis (Jinxworld, Miles Morales, Avengers, Powers) for big time discussions on all things comic books while co-hosting an AcmeCast podcast and Jinxworld podcast live! Be part of the fun and a surprise giveaway!

Room 338

11:00-11:45 – The Psyche of Superheroes

How mental illness affects the creative process behind the Superhero’s journey. Bruce Banner has Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Depression have shaped the storylines of Batman and the Punisher for decades. Let’s not forget all of the neuroses of each member of the Doom Patrol. We’re all very aware of the connotations of mental illness when discussing the motives of villains in comics and movies, but what about our heroes? In this panel, Drew Edwards (HalloweenMan) and a talented group of creators discuss their personal stories and how they channel their pain and trauma into their creative process.

12:00-1:30 – Artist Portfolio Review

Come have your art portfolio reviewed by a member of DC Comics’ Editorial staff, Brittany Holzherr, who will provide art portfolio reviews for aspiring artists.

Mrs. Holzherr is an Editor at DC Comics, working on books such as Wonder Woman, Titans, and Power Girl along with a number of other titles across the DCU. She has been working at DC for over ten years now and is currently putting together Beast World, a major DCU event starring the Titans. Please note this panel is strictly for advice, guidance, and suggestions on what steps aspiring creators can consider doing next. Brittany is always seeking talented individuals who have the drive, desire, and talent to become professionals. She will review your strengths and provide advice on how to reach the next level of storytelling.

3:00-3:45 – Bring on the Bad Guys

A hero is only as compelling as his foe, right? But how do you keep your baddies from being one note? This helpful Q&A will help you create cutting-edge supervillains that never bore your readers! Join Panelists: Drew Edwards (HalloweenMan), Gene Selassie (The Ghoul Agency), Lisa Burdige (Background Noise Comic), and John Hazard (Background Noise Comic, Frankenstein Superstar).

Moderated by Brad and Lisa Gullickson of Comic Book Couples Counseling.

4:00-4:45 – Howard Chaykin Unfettered and Unfiltered

“Some have Tourettes, I have Fourettes.”

An unfiltered session with Howard Victor Chaykin (Hey Kids, Comics!, American Flagg!, Power & Glory!, and many more). Those of you who don’t show up will be reminded by those who do that they have one more thing to regret. Really!

Room 339-342

11:00-11:45 – Steve Rude Spotlight

His career began in 1981 with his and co-creator Mike Baron’s groundbreaking Nexus comic series. During his first few years in the industry, his efforts led to numerous awards, such as the 1984 Russ Manning Newcomer Award, the Kirby Award for best artist in 1986, and various others. For over two decades, Steve Rude has drawn hundreds of comic’s greatest iconic heroes, and has galvanized the art world as a comic magazine artist and illustrator.

Come hear the plans for the launch of all-new Nexus material as Rude Dude Productions brings “the past into the future” for today’s comics.

12:00-12:45 – Destroy All Dogmas: The Politics of Daikaiju Eiga

Can Godzilla and other giant monsters of the movies save the planet — from humankind? From imperialism to Oppenheimer to the oil industry, humans have proven to be the most destructive monsters of all in our pursuit of power. In this multimedia panel, superfans and scholars will screen and discuss metaphors for human-caused injustice, oppression, and environmental devastation in video clips from Daikaiju Eiga — “large mysterious creature cinema” — from around the world, with a focus on Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. These visions of dystopian destruction can hold a mirror up to humankind’s mistreatment of ourselves, other species, and the Earth. By deciphering and debating what these riveting reflections mean for the real world, we hope to provide ways of seeing plot points in these movies as “teachable moments” for all of us to make the world a better place.

1:00-1:45 – Mark Waid Spotlight

In a career spanning 40+ years, Mark Waid has gone from comics journalist to editor to writer to publisher to innovator. He’s thrilled readers with his own creations and reminded us what makes Marvel’s and DC’s champions icons. Robert Greenberger chats with this master storyteller about his amazing career.

2:00-3:45 – Art Auction – Baltimore Comic-Con 2023 Yearbook

Original art created for the 2023 Baltimore Comic-Con Yearbook will be auctioned at this special event. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of history. Get there FIRST or it may all be gone!

Room 343-344

12:00-12:45 – Oni Press Showcase

For 25 years, Oni Press has been publishing daring, provocative comics that resonate with fans and readers around the world…and they’re just getting started. Join publisher Hunter Gorinson and Sales Manager Michael Torma as they discuss Oni’s upcoming slate of creator-owned comics and graphic novels, including Jay Stephens’ Dwellings, Jordan Thomas and Shaky Kane’s The Man from Maybe, Matt Lesniewski’s Faceless and the Family, Cullen Bunn and Jesus Hervas’ Invasive, and more!

1:00-1:45 – The Art of the Steal

“Never draw anything you can copy, never copy anything you can trace, never trace anything you can cut out and paste up.” The legendary Wallace Wood said it — and in this special presentation, we take a fun look at some of the most blatant swipes and homages by some of the greats (and others) of the business. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll never again wonder why Woody and others lived by that dictum. Join Greg Goldstein (IDW Publishing, Topps) and Wood Studio veteran and industry legend Howard Chaykin (American Flagg!, Hey Kids, Comics!) for a wild look at some sneaky (and not so sneaky) artistic shortcuts. Hat tip to the popular Facebook Group Comic Book Swipes — hey if we didn’t swipe the idea, what kind of panel would this be?

2:00-2:45 – Merry Marchin’ Mutant Makers

Marvel’s merry mutants have risen and fallen, been hunted and celebrated, and captivated audiences for over 60 years. Join Brian Michael Bendis, Mark Waid, Walter Simonson, Louise Simonson, Bob McLeod, Philip Tan, and Bob Wiacek in discussion with moderator Robert Greenberger.

3:00-3:45 – The Jack Kirby Original Art Celebration

After a five-year convention absence, the greatest Kirby slide show on Earth returns, featuring more than 1000 pieces of Kirby original art — blink and you’ll miss one! It’s a rapid fire, Kracklin’ event, hosted by Greg Goldstein (IDW Publishing, Topps), Scott Dunbier (IDW Publishing), and Rand Hoppe of the Kirby Museum— featuring special guest, legendary creator Walt Simonson who will discuss his love for all things Kirby!

4:00-4:45 – It Ain’t Hard to Tell: Live!

Since the pandemic, Mike Hawthorne (Batman) and Jamar Nicholas (LEON The Extraordinary) have collaborated on a podcast series where they answer questions from their Patreon supporters. You can be part of the show as the two friends talk about any and everything!

5:00-5:45 – Juggling Chainsaws

Join some of the greats in the field of comic book editing to hear them talk about the rewards and challenges of one of the most unsung roles in creating comics. Hosted by Bob Harrison with participating editors: Mike Gold (Green Arrow, American Flagg!), Louise Simonson (New Mutants, Star Wars), Howard Mackie (New Universe), Brittany Holzherr (Wonder Woman, Titans), and more.

Ballroom 3-4

12:00-12:45 – Geoff Johns Spotlight

Since the beginning of his creative career, Geoff Johns’ hallmark has been writing heroic and inclusive characters, including teenage hero Courtney Whitmore – a.k.a. Stargirl – inspired by his real-life late sister, the Shazam Family, which he re-imagined into a diverse modern family of today, and the first Arab-American Green Lantern, Simon Baz. He has worked on numerous other titles including The Flash, Aquaman, and Justice Society of America.

In addition, he has worked in television – the critically-acclaimed Stargirl TV series, which he created and ran, as well as various films including Wonder Woman (as executive producer), Wonder Woman 1984 (also co-writer), Aquaman (also story), and Shazam! (executive producer), which was based on his graphic novel.

Come hear about all the titles to which he has contributed, including his recently launched creator-owned series Geiger for Image Comics centering around a mysterious radioactive family man named Tariq Geiger, and his own company, Mad Ghost.

1:30-2:15 – Matthew Lewis Spotlight

Join this Hogwarts Alum – and star of numerous other films, television shows, and theatrical productions – as he talks about creating magic as an actor.

3:00-3:30 – Cosplay Showcase

3:30-5:30 – Adult Cosplay Contest

Kids Love Comics Programming

11:00-11:45 – My Comic Story with Kata Kane

Every good story has a beginning, a middle, and an end. Kata Kane, artist of Alter Girl, GFFs: Ghost Friends Forever, and Ana and the Cosmic Race, will do a live drawing of the audience’s best suggestions for a 4-panel mini comic story, sharing drawing tips and helpful comic-creator advice along the way. This is an interactive workshop where young artists will also get to create and draw their very own ideas on a 4-panel mini comic page.

12:00-12:45 – Paper Bag Puppets Creative Contest with Chris Mariano

We supply paper bags and art supplies. You supply the imagination and voice when you create your own paper bag puppet! What will YOU create? We can’t wait to see! The artist with the most creative paper bag puppet wins prizes and the paper Art Championship belt!

1:00-1:45 – How to Draw Cartoon Characters with Emilio Velez Jr.

Draw along with Dodgeball Teens creator Emilio Velez Jr. as he teaches artists of all ages how to draw their favorite cartoon characters from movies and television.

2:00-2:45 – Post-It-Palooza Poster Project with Mark Mariano

It’s simple, fun, and for a good cause. Make art on a Post-It note. We will add it to a mosaic poster of Post-It notes, creating a masterpiece. At the end of the show, we will auction off the posters for charity.

3:00-3:45 – Sketchbook Dares with Laura Lee Gulledge

Calling all sketchbook lovers! In this interactive presentation, Laura Lee Gulledge will demonstrate DRAWING LIVE a couple of her favorite drawing activities that are featured in her book, Sketchbook Dares: 24 Ways to Draw Out Your Inner Artist.

Room 337

11:00-12:45 – The Business of Comics

You’ve followed your dreams and made a comic, but how do creators continue to fund new works, make a living, and make a mark in the world of comics and graphic novel publishing?Join an all-star lineup of creators as they discuss the ways they kept bread on the table and ideas on the stands, hosted by Adam Greenfield.

12:00-12:45 – Com-Nation Trivia (with Jim Starlin)

COMICS TRIVIA! It’s fun, it’s free and it’s for all fan levels – Com-Nation Trivia

Test your knowledge and learn more about Infinity Gauntlet – the book that inspired much of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Featuring the Com-Nation Trivia hosts Ruth Morrison and Todd Scott along with Guest Host and Infinity Gauntlet writer Jim Starlin! Com-Nation is bringing their virtual weekly competition to you LIVE and in person! Com-Nation recommends using a smartphone, a smart tablet, and a smart friend so that you can fully participate in the Com-Nation Trivia experience!

1:00-1:45 – Comicsnomics 101

Creative content has never been more valuable, but we know from experience that comics creators can be their own worst enemy when it comes to earning a good living from that creativity.

Join legendary creator Howard Chaykin (American Flagg!, Hey Kids, Comics!, Star Wars) and publishing veteran Greg Goldstein (IDW Publishing, Activision, Topps) as they discuss strategies from “both sides of the aisle” for commercial success in these fluid times. Featuring invaluable economic insights, practical tips, and optimism for turning (at least some) lemons into lemonade.

2:00-3:00 – An Hour with Garth Ennis

Garth Ennis (The Boys, The Ribbon Queen, Battle Action, Sara, Out of the Blue, A Walk Through Hell, Punisher) has an hour to share insight into recent stories and how he’s stayed busy writing. Come talk comics with one of the best in the business. Hosted by Joseph Rybandt (Editorial Director at Dynamite Entertainment).

3:00-3:45 – How to Take Your Idea from Concept to Creation

For aspiring creators. “How do I start? For how long? And how do I take my idea from concept to creation (without selling my soul)!? “

Stranger Comics President Sebastian Jones will share writer tips plus offer insight on how he created his Niobe comic franchise, then made a deal at HBO, before forming a media company with Prentice Penny. If you want to know a publisher and writer’s trade secrets, he will share tips and tools through first-hand experience in this not-to-be-missed “How to” panel. Plus everyone will have a chance to win free books!

Room 338

11:00-11:45 – Surviving the World of Small Press

Want to publish your own comics but have no idea where to start? Learn from Texas’ Titan of the Small Press, Drew Edwards, a creator with over two decades of comics under his belt. This helpful Q&A style panel will put you on the path to living out your four color dreams!

12:00-12:45 – Walt’s Works: Manhunter at 50, Thor at 40, and More

Walter Simonson and John Workman discuss Manhunter celebrating a 50th anniversary and the iconic run on Thor beginning 40 years ago, plus whatever other great stories they share with Robert Greenberger as a host.

2:00-2:45 – E-Man’s 50th

Charlton Comics was an afterthought, its best days behind it, when an atomic detonation arrived in the form of E-Man from Nicola Cuti and Joe Staton. Robert Greenberger hosts a fond look back at the electric man’s career with Joe Staton and editor Mike Gold.

Room 339-342

11:00-11:45 – Inspiration and Inclusion in Cosplay

Join experienced cosplay participants as they discuss the importance of creating your costumed persona. Crafting your identity and expressing individuality is a major part of the cosplay experience which makes it so much more than just putting on bright colors. Panel guests include Harry Crosland. Moderated by Bob Harrison.

12:00-12:45 – Writing Tips for Comics and Graphic Novels

Comics are written very differently from other media. Learn the ins and outs of this unique storytelling medium and how to make your stories come to life!

Trevor Mueller hosts a Q&A session with comic writers – including Brian Michael Bendis, Phillip Kennedy Johnson, and Amy Chu among others – to talk about their process for writing comics, finding creator partners/collaborators, pacing, writing for long vs. short form stories, etc.

1:00-1:45 – Star Trek – Boldly Going for More than 50 Years

The crew of the starship Enterprise has been boldly going where no one has gone before since 1966 and it has attracted some of comics’ best-known creators. Andy Price, Steve Conley, Brandon Peterson. Al Milgrom, and Louise Simonson join host Robert Greenberger, who also reunites with his Debt of Honor team of Chris Claremont and Adam Hughes, to discuss how Star Trek thrives in print.

Room 343-344

12:00-12:45 – My Little Friends: Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of My Little Pony with the Comic Pros

Join comic creators as they talk about their experiences with the My Little Pony property and how it continues to pull in new fans (and creators). Guests will include Katie Cook, Andy Price, Tony Fleecs, Thom Zahler, and Trish Forstner. Hosted by Bob Harrison.

1:00-1:45 – Creating Socially Representative Comics in 2023

Join an amazing group of creators as they talk about what goes into making all readers feel included in comics. Guests will include Tana Ford, Jamal Igle, John Hazard, Lisa Burdige, Leanne Krecic, and Mirka Andolfo. Hosted by Bob Harrison.

3:00-3:45 – Spotlight on José Luis García-López

Considered the artists’ artist, José Luis García-López rose to be synonymous with the look of DC Comics. For 50 years, he has illustrated every hero in every genre from the company. Come hear the man speak in conversation with moderator Robert Greenberger as they look back at his extensive career.

Ballroom 3-4

11:00-11:45 – Chris Sarandon Spotlight

Join Prince Humperdinck from The Princess Bride, the voice of Jack Skellington, and one of the most charming vampires in cinematic history from Fright Night as well as the star of numerous other films, television shows, and theatrical productions as he talks about the actor’s life.

12:00-12:45 – Ken Page Spotlight

He voiced Oogie Boogie in Nightmare Before Christmas, appeared in the original Broadway production of Cats, and numerous other films and stage productions. Learn what he’s up to now and why his voice sells tickets.

3:00-3:30 – Children’s Cosplay Showcase

3:30-4:30 – Children’s Cosplay Contest

Kids Love Comics Programming

12:00-12:45 – Abstract Art Creative Contest with Chris Mariano

No talent or art skills are required for this contest. Just come and create. All Abstract Art Contest entries can be anything and made by anyone. The artist with the most creative piece wins fantastic prizes and the paper Art Championship belt!

1:00-1:45 – Sci-Tech Heroes with Alex Simmons

This amazing hands-on workshop demonstrates how to explore and create superheroes and villains using the boundless regions of science and the imaginative realm of comics. Kids will discuss the powers and abilities of popular comic book characters, and then create their own.

2:00-2:45 – Make Comics the Dan & Jason Way! With Dan Abdo

Author Dan Abdo shares the five step process he and Jason Patterson use when they create the Barb The Last Berzerker graphic novel series. This behind-the-scenes look also includes a tutorial on how to draw the lead heroes, Barb and Porkchop!

Baltimore Comic-Con is committed to being accessible to Deaf and Hard of Hearing attendees. Pre-selected interpreted panels are designated with the interpreter symbol. On-site requests will be covered on a first come first served basis.