P.I.C. NEWS

Neil Gaiman and Todd McFarlane settle...

2012-01-30T22:11:00.001-05:00

Above: The cover to SPAWN #9 which introduced Angela, Cagliostro, and Medieval Spawn.

Several news outlets are reporting that Neil Gaiman and Todd McFarlane have finally settled their dispute over Gaiman’s contributions to SPAWN.

The NY Daily News reports:

Fantasy industry giants Neil Gaiman and Todd McFarlane finally called a truce in their long-running legal feud over who owns which characters in the Spawn universe, according to court documents.

Gaiman and McFarlane have been sparring for a little more than a decade over royalties from a handful of characters from the Spawn comic book series. Their attorneys filed a joint notice Friday in federal court in Madison saying they’ve reached a deal.

Jeffrey Simmons, one of Gaiman’s attorneys, said terms of the agreement were confidential. A jury had already found Gaiman a 50 percent owner of content in two Spawn issues and the first three issues of a Spawn spin-off. Simmons said reiterating that declaration would block any appeal.

"This is intended to put an end to the whole thing. It’s fair to say both parties are pleased to have this resolved," Simmons said.

For all of the hub-bub, check out "Neil Gaiman versus Todd McFarlane feud".

Problems in Riverdale...

2012-01-19T11:00:00.003-05:00

Above: Partial cover artwork to ARCHIE & FRIENDS #138 by (penciler) Fernando Ruiz and (inker) myself.

Bleeding Cool continues to report on the events concerning Archie Comic Publications’ dispute with the co-Chief Executive Officer of Archie Comics, Nancy Silberkleit, accusing her of sexual harassment and bullying.

I was debating whether I should blog about this because of some of the more adult language involved in the story… which is why I’ve waited until now.

I’ve spoken to Nancy Silberkleit only once. She called me a couple of years ago to contribute to a documentary that she was working on at the time (which I decided not be involved). To me, Nancy seemed like a very friendly person.

Still, if the allegations are true, I suppose you shouldn’t point at men while in the work place and say "penis."

Over at The Beat, Archie co-Chief Executive Officer Jon Goldwater once stated:

I can’t speak for things prior to my being here, but things that have gone on previously with how artists were treated has nothing to do with where we are now. We support every artist, every writer, every employee of Archie. They are valued. They are treasured.

I find this all very ironic considering, as Steve Bissette put it recently:

...and arguably no comics publisher with that company's longevity has badly used and ill-treated more creators than Archie...

Above: Artwork from ARCHIE ALL-STARS VOLUME 3: THE CARTOON LIFE OF CHUCK CLAYTON by (penciler) Fernando Ruiz and (inker) myself.

Words from Honest Abe...

2012-01-17T21:38:00.006-05:00

Above photo: President Abraham Lincoln.

We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature.

-March 4, 1861 (President Abraham Lincoln’s first Inaugural Address.)

If God now wills the removal of a great wrong, and wills also that we of the North as well as you of the South, shall pay fairly for our complicity in that wrong, impartial history will find therein new cause to attest and revere the justice and goodness of God.

-April 4, 1864 (A letter from President Abraham Lincoln to Albert Hodges.)

I am naturally anti-slavery. If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong. I can not remember when I did not so think, and feel. And yet I have never understood that the Presidency conferred upon me an unrestricted right to act officially upon this judgment and feeling.

-April 4, 1864 (A letter from President Abraham Lincoln to Albert Hodges.)

In regards to this great Book [the Bible], I have but to say it is the best gift God has given to man. All the good the Savior gave to the world was communicated through this Book. But for it we could not know right from wrong. All things most desirable for man's welfare, here and hereafter, are found portrayed in it.

-September 7, 1864 (President Abraham Lincoln's reply to the Loyal Colored People of Baltimore upon presentation of a Bible.)

I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.

-November 21, 1864 (A letter from President Abraham Lincoln to Mrs. Lydia Bixby, who lost several sons during the Civil War.)

Both [the North and South] read the same Bible, and pray to the same God; and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces; but let us judge not that we be not judged. The prayers of both could not be answered; that of neither has been answered fully.

-March 4, 1865 (President Abraham Lincoln's second Inaugural Address.)

DC Comics' new logo?

2012-01-13T18:31:00.001-05:00

Bleeding Cool is reporting that DC Comics and DC Entertainment will be getting a new logo. The current logo is the DC Swoosh (which I’ve grown to like) and before that was the DC Bullet.

Man, this new logo is ugly. Did DC actually pay someone to design this? And how is this an improvement?

Stupid corporate comics.

ZOOTANAPUSS #1: The Al Nickerson Edition...

2012-01-07T17:14:00.000-05:00

Above: Cover to Dave Sim’s ZOOTANAPUSS #1. TM and © 2012 Dave Sim.

Today, my mailbox gave me a nice surprise, a signed copy of Dave Sim’s ZOOTANAPUSS #1. Dave signed it with "Al Nickerson Edition #1/1." I thought that funny. As it turns out, ZOOTANAPUSS #1 is the incentive variant cover to GLAMOURPUSS #22.

I liked Dave’s mentioning of Will Eisner’s definitions between "graphic narratives" and "graphic novels." I enjoyed the Frank Miller ("For Al Gore and Mother Gaia!")and Todd McFarlane ("Die, Violator Bunny!") parodies. Hee-hee.

Also, as Dave Sim mentioned somewhere else:

We have Glamourpuss 22 coming out and you’ll notice that instead of it being the fourth annual swimsuit issue, it’s not the fourth annual swimsuit issue and that’s because I’ve decided to go off in a completely different direction. I’m doing a Zatanna parody, Zootanapuss.

There’s also a Glamourpuss 22 incentive cover and this is probably very destructive of the comic book field, but we’re all just trying to keep ourselves alive. So, for the Zootanapuss number one cover you gotta buy four of the regular ones to even get the number one cover. Now is that absolutely evil or is that absolutely evil?

Gimmicks and the state of the comics industry…

2012-01-04T14:39:00.002-05:00

Above: THE GOON © and TM 2012 Eric Powell. Click here for a larger view. I think this cover to THE GOON #39 says it all.

If not…

In the early and mid-1990s, gimmicks ruled comics. Instead of having quality artwork and well-written stories to sell comic books, many publishers relied on the increased sale of multiple variant covers, polybagged books, enclosed trading cards, and embossed covers. This caused the creation and burst of the Comic Book Speculation Boom.

In the last couple of years, comic book gimmicks have made a horrible return to the comics industry. Corporate-owned comics are using more gimmicks to sell their books. Characters are increasingly dying and then becoming alive again. Characters are getting new outfits. Titles are renumbered over and over again. And let’s not forget about the reboots and retcons.

How does all of this help long-term sales of comic books? It really doesn’t. But, narrow-minded marketing people (and others) at the big publishers still look to increase short-term sales of their books while the comic book market continues to suffer.

All of this ain’t new news.

So, when will some folks learn?

Steve Rude returns to Nexus!!!

2011-12-26T21:54:00.000-05:00

Above: Steve Rude’s Nexus. NEXUS TM and © 2011 Mike Baron and Steve Rude.

Got this info in an e-mail from Steve Rude Art:

While Steve is waiting to give you the scoop on his tragic turn as America's Most (un)Wanted, we do have a surprising announcement to make:

Baron and Rude are re-uniting for a new Nexus story. The story will be published under the Dark Horse banner in their Dark Horse Presents anthology book. After three 10-page installments in DHP, the story will eventually be published as its own stand-alone 30 pg. book. We're withholding plot specifics at this point, but Baron's story will focus on the "nature of evil".

Baron will script, Rude will draw, ink, and letter! More details as they arise. Merry Christmas to all Nexus fans!

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-23T16:34:00.001-05:00

Luke 2:8-14 (New International Version): 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

Now on sale: THE JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA 100 PROJECT softcover edition!

2011-12-20T21:39:00.003-05:00

Above: Cover to the softcover edition of THE JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA 100 PROJECT.

I knew that the hardcover edition of this baby was on sale. Looks like (the softcover edition of) THE JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA 100 PROJECT SC (2011) is now on sale at finer comic shops, too.

1st printing. See them here for the first and only time! All of Hero Initiative's 100-plus covers to DC Comics' Justice League of America #50 are on display in this great book, with art from Mark Bagley, Alan Davis, Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez, George Pérez, Frank Quitely, John Romita, Sr., Alex Ross, and more! See all the covers, along with a special behind-the-scenes section showing developmental art and more! Softcover, 120 pages, PC/PB&W. NOTE: Also featuring art by Gerry Acerno, Sergio Aragones, Franco Aureliana, Art Baltazar, Nick Bradshaw, Ryan Benjamin, Joe Benitez, Jim Calafiore, Yildiray Cinar, Mark Dos Santos, Tony Fleeces, Rich Koslowski, Vassilis Gogtzilas & Sam Kieth, Cully Hamner, Jamal Igle, Scott Koblish, Derek Fridolfs, Mike Kunkel, Joseph Michael Linsner, Jeff Lemerie, Francis Manapul, Al Milgrom, Bill Morrison, Al Nickerson, Don Perlin, Dan Panosian, Francis Portella, Norm Rapmund, Tone Rodriguez, Stuart Sayger, Aaron Sowd, Ardian Syaf, Matt Wagner, Chrissy Zullo, Charlie Adlard, Mike Grell, Dan Brereton, Javier Bergantino (Bit), Dave Bullock, Anthony Castrillo, Chris Ivy, Ramon Fernandez Bachs, Dean Haspiel, Ryan Cody, Joe Jusko, JG Jones, Tim Kelly & Sam Kieth, Scott Kolins, Chris Moreno, Steve Kurth, Rick Leonardi, Aaron Lopresti, Tom Mandrake, Peter Krause, Marat Mychaels, Craig Rousseau, Tony Parker, Pere Perez, Sean Phillips, Joe Prado, Jerry Ordway, Patrick Scherberger, Jim Valentino, Billy Tucci, Andy Smith, Bob Wiacek, Rafael Albuquerque, Ben Bates, Brett Breeding, Jason Bone, Mark Buckingham, Stephanie Buscema, Victor Castro & Mark McKenna, Fernando Dagnino, Leandro Fernandez, Agnes Garbowska, RM Guéra, Gene Ha, Fred Hembeck, Dan Jurgens, Andy Kuhn, Ken Lashley, Doug Mahnke, John McCrea, Justin Norman (Moritat), Rob Osborne, David Nakayama, Gordon Purcell, Mike Perkins, Walt Simonson, Scott Rosema, Alex Saviuk, Goran Suzdka, Cory Walker, Tim Seeley & Mike Norton. Cover price $12.99.

LETHARGIC LAD 2010...

2011-12-16T12:22:00.002-05:00

Above: Cover artwork to Greg Hyland’s LETHARGiC LAD 2010. Lethargic Lad and all other prominent Lethargic Lad characters are TM and © 2011 Greg Hyland.

About a week or two ago, my mailbox gave me LETHARGiC LAD 2010. The book was signed, numbered, and included a Lethargic Lad cover sketch by his creator, Greg Hyland.

LETHARGiC LAD 2010 is nicely printed, and the widescreen format is brilliant. Greg is so smart.

Above: Super-hero buddies, Nihilist-Man and Lethargic Lad, cover sketch by famed cartoonist, Greg Hyland. Nihilist-Man TM and © 2011 by me.

LETHARGiC LAD 2010 has something new. Greg added "joke-ruining annotations" to the strips. Hopefully, this will now be Lethargic Lad tradition. With his commentaries, I am reminded of how much I’ve always enjoyed reading Greg’s comments about the comics industry and pop culture.

My favorite strips in LETHARGiC LAD 2010 include the return of Lethargic Lad (after being frozen in a block of ice), Greg’s true life convention and store-signing stories, and when Evil Cyborg Lethargic Lad kills his past self,… or was that his future self?

Of course, Evil Cyborg Lethargic Lad IS the most popular Lethargic Lad character; everyone knows that. It’s nice to see that Jim Lee’s redesign of Wonder Woman’s outfit is now irrelevant. Who knew that Sentinels say "Skwark" when they croak? (They sorta do. Just check out UNCANNY X-MEN #141 and #142.) And, hey, "Rocky Raccoon" ain’t so bad. It’s better than "Within You Without You."

To order the limited edition LETHARGiC LAD 2010 and to read new weekly LETHARGiC LAD webcomics, stop by the LETHARGiC LAD website.

I give LETHARGiC LAD 2010 four out of five NM’s:

Invincible meets the Tick?

2011-12-16T10:56:00.004-05:00

Above: Les Mcclaine’s cover artwork for THE TICK NEW SERIES #1.

Invincible meets the Tick? Could be…

From theouthousers.com:

THE TICK #100

THE TICK MEETS INVINCIBLE!

We celebrate the 100th issue of The Tick with a 48-page full-color blockbuster co-starring Robert Kirkman's INVINCIBLE! In a full-length 24-page epic, Invincible is transported to The Tick's Universe where the two mighty heroes confront the combined threat of the master criminal Chairface Chippendale and a mysterious and menacing new villain who makes even Chairface look like an ordinary umbrella stand! A story so awesome that it requires two planets (and at least one moon!) to contain it! Added bonus: THE SAGA OF THE TICK, a 20-page full-color history of The Tick's illustrious career, heavily illustrated with covers and selected artwork from all 99 previous issues of THE TICK!

Writer: Benito Cereno Artist: Les McClaine

Above: Sketch by Ryan Ottley of Invincible and two "geeks."

Update:

Writer Benito Cereno confirms THE TICK MEETS INVINCIBLE:

Looks like the word is out on the next chapter in the saga of The Tick—TICK #100! Since the cat’s out of the bag, here’s the lineart for Les McClaine’s never-before-seen cover for the special.

Above: Invincible meets the Tick by Les McClaine.

Update:

Above: Finished cover of THE TICK #100 by Les McClaine.

Now on sale: THE JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA 100 PROJECT hardcover book!

2011-12-04T22:24:00.003-05:00

Above: Cover to THE JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA 100 PROJECT hardcover book.

Order now:

See them here for the FIRST and ONLY time! ALL of Hero Initiative’s 100+ original covers to DC Comics’ Justice League of America #50 are on display in this great book, with art by Mark Bagley, Alan Davis, Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez, George Pérez, Frank Quitely, John Romita Sr., Alex Ross and MORE! See all the covers, along with a special behind-the-scenes section showing developmental art and MORE! This LIMITED EDITION HARDCOVER is limited to only 500 copies worldwide, and is only available via The Hero Initiative at comic conventions and live events or Graham Crackers! Don't blow your chance! NOTE: Through special arrangement with DC Comics, there will be ONLY ONE PRINTING OF THIS BOOK EVER! Get it now so you don’t blow your chance! 120 pages squarebound full-color $30

Date Available: 11/30/2011

Above: My "original cover" contribution to THE JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA 100 PROJECT. Click here for a larger view.

Ken Penders moves forward with his SONIC characters...

2011-12-04T14:35:00.001-05:00

Ken Penders continues to claim ownership of stories and characters that he wrote and penciled during his time on SONIC THE HEDGEHOG. Penders states that he never signed a work-made-for-hire contact with Archie Comics. (See "Who owns Sonic?" and "Ken Penders versus Archie Comics..." for more details.)

And NOW, Ken Penders is planning to produce new stories and graphic novels featuring the characters that he created while working on the SONIC franchise.

From Ken Penders at the Ken Penders Forums:

Ever since I registered my copyrights for all my stories, characters and concepts that had played a part in one of the most popular comic series ever published in the modern age, I've been planning how to answer numerous reader requests regarding how I eventually intended to continue those stories, resolving many if not all of the plot points that were left dangling due to unforeseen circumstances.

While my current legal situation with three well-known companies is still an ongoing matter, I've decided now is the time to finally launch the continuing saga of the Brotherhood of the Guardians and Dark Legion in graphic novel format, starting with the first image of one of the story's major characters, whom I first introduced to the world in the REUNIFICATION storyline several years ago.

And…

I own the copyrights to my work, I'm defending them, and I'm going forward with projects utilizing the intellectual property that is legally mine. If I didn't own the copyrights, I wouldn't have standing in a court of law to prosecute those rights. The Federal Government recognizes the documents I have, therefore I have standing. ACP is not suing me for the copyrights because they have no standing in that regard, which is where a lot of people get confused over this matter.

Let me make this explicitly clear: ACP does not, has never and will never own anything published within the covers and pages of any SONIC or SONIC-related comic except for the actual books themselves. They have no claim to any of the characters, concepts and stories that the fans enjoy. There is no © Archie Comics anywhere on any of those books for precisely that reason.

Famous Moments in P.I.C. History: Miguel meets Luke Skywalker…

2011-11-30T15:24:00.003-05:00

Above photo: Miguel and Mark Hamill meet during the Los Angeles movie premiere of BEAVIS AND BUTTHEAD DO AMERICA in December 1996. To check out Miguel’s artwork and animation, stop by www.atomicshelter.com.

"Steve Rude Arrest Update" Update…

2011-11-26T12:08:00.003-05:00

Above: Nexus meets Madman sketch by Steve Rude. NEXUS TM and © 2011 Mike Baron and Steve Rude. MADMAN TM and © 2011 Mike Allred. Again, To check out, and purchase, Steve Rude’s artwork, visit www.steverudeart.com.

After my previous post, "Steve Rude Arrest Update", I received the following e-mail letter from Steve Rude’s wife, Jaynelle. She wanted to clarify things a bit more:

Al,

Just read your blog. Just to clarify, he tossed rocks at our side wall (we don't have wood fences here in AZ, everything is bricks or rocks). He has noticed in the past that when he opens and closes his studio window (which faces their yard) the dogs will stop barking for a minute or two). The dogs were in the backyard.

Steve loves dogs and I would hate for anyone to think he was throwing rocks at the dogs! Barking dogs is a problem with the owners, not the dogs.

Thanks for sending me the link to the update. We haven't been following the news (been overwhelmed and overworked). Please let everyone know that Steve would NEVER harm an animal of any kind. He wanted to cry last year when the neighbors had a bee problem and the guy came out and killed instead of relocated all of them.

The incident is bizarre.

Jaynelle

"Steve Rude Arrest Update"

2011-11-25T11:50:00.006-05:00

Above: Steve Rude’s Nexus. NEXUS TM and © 2011 Mike Baron and Steve Rude.

Some weeks ago, on Halloween, NEXUS co-creator and comic book artist, Steve Rude, threw rocks towards a neighbor’s dogs. Rude was then arrested for assaulting his neighbor.

Tom Spurgeon gave added details at the Comics Reporter website:

* the incident in question from Monday night concerns the aforementioned barking dogs, which were out again where Rude could hear them as he handed out Halloween candy in costume. Rude responded to the barking dogs by throwing rocks at the fence behind which the dogs were barking in an attempt to silence them.

* one of the dog-owning neighbors confronted Rude verbally, followed by the other when the first one retreated inside. Rude says this quickly became verbally abusive, and included an invite for Steve to come over to where the second neighbor a male, was standing. This ends with Rude ripping the neighbor's shirt and shoving him backwards, causing the second neighbor to also go indoors. This would be the basis of the assault charge.

* Rude returned to handing out Halloween candy. The cops -- Rude says in four police cars -- found him at his candy-dispensing station and asked after a concealed weapon. When the cop to whom he was speaking asked him to turn around and put his hands behind his back, Rude at first tried to ascertain if he was being arrested and then complied.

* Rude suffered some physical abuse during the arrest and later at the jail, the latter of which will be looked at by a doctor.

After the arrest, a call was put out to purchase Steve Rude artwork to create funds for any of Rude’s legal costs. Some folks in the comics community rallied behind Rude’s defense. Some did not. Some thought that throwing rocks towards/at someone else’s pets was a bad thing to do.

Today, I received the following e-mail from steverudeart.com:

STEVE RUDE ARREST UPDATE

Steve has been requested by his lawyer not to make any public statements at this time. He does want me to pass along his deepest gratitude. He really loves reading any mail that comes his way and words of encouragement to be strong.

Wise council, I believe.

I’ve meet Steve Rude and his wife, Jaynelle, at the New York Comic Con. They were very kind people. I really do love the Dude’s artwork. I am a huge NEXUS fan. And I even enjoy reading Rude’s outspokenness in regards to the comic book community and ethics. But, this whole arrest situation seems so odd to me.

To check out, and purchase, Steve Rude’s artwork, visit www.steverudeart.com.

This week in comics...

2011-11-24T22:41:00.009-05:00

I love drawing comics. I love writing about comics. I love teaching how to create comics. And I love reading comics. Here’s what I picked up this week. But, be warned, there be SPOILERS ahead!

Above: Chris Bachalo’s cover artwork for WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #2. Inks by Tim Townsend.

It doesn’t seem to make sense that a claw-waving berserker like Wolverine would make a good headmaster at any school. Is this because the character is more popular than (the obvious choice of) Cyclops?

Above: In WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #2, Bobby Drake makes smoochies with Kitty Pride… I think.

Chris Bachelo’s storytelling in WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #2 seems confusing at times. Maybe he should stick with THE AVENGERS.

The main problem with WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #2 is that even though this is only issue two, I don’t know who half of these characters are. Marvel editorial needs to do a better job with getting new readers up to date with their books.

I give WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #2 two out of five NM’s:

Above: Cory Walker’s cover to INVINCIBLE #85.

INVINCIBLE co-creator and original artist, Cory Walker, returns (for a little while, anyway) with INVINCIBLE #85.

Above: In INVINCIBLE #85, Omni-Man and the Mrs. arrive at Talescria, the capital of the Coalition of Planets. Will Allen the Alien use the Scourge Virus to eradicate the remaining Viltrumites living on Earth? And if so, how will the virus affect humans?

I give INVINCIBLE #85 three out of five NM’s:

Above: THE ROCKETEER JETPACK TREASURY EDITION by Dave Stevens.

You remember the Rocketeer? "The Rock-a-who?", you may ask. You know, the late Dave Stevens’ Rocketeer.

THE ROCKETEER JETPACK TREASURY EDITION looks absolutely beautiful. This book collects Dave Stevens’ original serialized Rocketeer story. The artwork is a bit racy for younger readers, though.

Above: Dave Stevens’ Rocketeer flies into action.

I give THE ROCKETEER JETPACK TREASURY EDITION four out of five NM’s:

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T10:06:00.003-05:00

In honor of Thanksgiving: The Mayflower Compact...

In November of 1620, the Pilgrims arrived at (modern day) Massachusetts. They made their historical landing at Plymouth Rock in December 1620. The Pilgrims had left England for religious freedom from that of the Church of England. They were Puritans who wished to worship God in the way that they saw fit.

Before leaving the Mayflower, the Pilgrims wrote (and signed) the Mayflower Compact. The Mayflower Compact provided the Pilgrims with a simple constitution. It declared the establishment of law, the idea that everyone was created equal, and the right to gather and vote. The Mayflower Compact is an inspiring piece of work that some see as a precursor to the United States Constitution.

Take a read…

In the name of God, Amen. We whose names are underwritten, the loyal subjects of our dread Sovereign Lord King James, by the Grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, etc.

Having undertaken, for the Glory of God and advancement of the Christian Faith and Honour of our King and Country, a Voyage to plant the First Colony in the Northern Parts of Virginia, do by these presents solemnly and mutually in the presence of God and one of another, Covenant and Combine ourselves together into a Civil Body Politic, for our better ordering and preservation and furtherance of the ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof to enact, constitute and frame such just and equal Laws, Ordinances, Acts, Constitutions and Offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the general good of the Colony, unto which we promise all due submission and obedience. In witness whereof we have hereunder subscribed our names at Cape Cod, the 11th of November, in the year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord King James, of England, France and Ireland the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth. Anno Domini 1620.

VLA at SVA...

2011-11-21T14:45:00.005-05:00

Above photo: Outside the School of Visual Arts.

The School of Visual Arts (located at 209 East 23rd Street, New York, NY) is hosting a guest speaker from Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (VLA).

Press release from the School of Visual of Arts:

Business and Legal Issues for Visual Artists

Tuesday, November 29, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Amphitheater, 209 E. 23 Street, 3rd floor

This presentation will provide an introduction to some of the more pressing legal concerns for artists today, such as copyright and trademarks; contractual agreements; the use of appropriated material; websites and the internet; and employment issues such as work-for-hire.

Guest Speaker, Sergio Munoz Sarmiento, Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts

RSVP by logging into www.collegecentral.com/sva and viewing "Upcoming Events Programs."

I constantly tell my students that professional artists have to be businesspeople as well as artists. We spend a good deal of time discussing the business side of the comics industry. We go over how contracts work, the differences between a copyright and trademark, and other work-for-hire issues. So, the above-mentioned event would be worthwhile for anyone not-in-the-know who would want to work as a professional creative person.

What’s occupying Frank Miller’s mind?

2011-11-12T12:32:00.002-05:00

Above photo: Comics creator Frank Miller (DAREDEVIL, SIN CITY, THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS, and HOLY TERROR).

Frank Miller shares his thoughts on the "Occupy" movement which started (at least here in the United States) in New York City's Zuccotti Park.

From Miller’s blog, Frank Miller Ink:

The "Occupy" movement, whether displaying itself on Wall Street or in the streets of Oakland (which has, with unspeakable cowardice, embraced it) is anything but an exercise of our blessed First Amendment. "Occupy" is nothing but a pack of louts, thieves, and rapists, an unruly mob, fed by Woodstock-era nostalgia and putrid false righteousness. These clowns can do nothing but harm America.

Above artwork: Over the many years, Frank Miller has been very vocal concerning hot topics like Creator’s Rights, Censorship, Hollywood, and terrorism.

Above: Artwork from Frank Miller’s recently-published graphic novel, HOLY TERROR.

It’s refreshing to see an opinion from our industry, the comics industry, that is not so (typically) Liberal. The "Occupy Wall Street" movement is made up of Socialists and Anarchists whose views are not the same as those of America’s Founding Fathers. You can’t just move into a privately-owned park, smoke dope, assault police officers, and commit rape (news that I have not seen reported by the media).

Above: Cover artwork to Frank Miller’s DAREDEVIL #188.

COMIX history...

2011-11-08T20:49:00.001-05:00

Above: The cover to Les Daniels’ COMIX: A HISTORY OF COMIC BOOKS IN AMERICA.

Author and comics historian, Les Daniels, was born in 1943, and has apparently died from a heart attack.

Several years ago, my buddy, Martin, suggested I find a copy of COMIX: A HISTORY OF COMIC BOOKS IN AMERICA. The book was first published in 1971, and became out of print, but I was able to purchase a copy at Amazon.com.

COMIX: A HISTORY OF COMIC BOOKS IN AMERICA is an excellent book concerning comics’ history. It includes comic book stories by Jack Cole, Harvey Kurtzman, Wally Wood, Al Williamson, Jack Kirby, and Steve Ditko among many others.

I regard COMIX: A HISTORY OF COMIC BOOKS IN AMERICA as highly as I do Jules Feiffer's THE GREAT COMIC BOOK HEROES and Hubert H. Crawford's CRAWFORD'S ENCYCLOPEDIA OF COMIC BOOKS.

The Comics Reporter has a nice article on Les Daniels.

My time at the 2011 New York Comic Con...

2011-10-28T23:00:00.003-04:00

As I had mentioned before, I was anticipating the 2011 New York Comic Con at the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan. I had my professional pass, and met up with Joey B. Despite my criticism of the fannish nature of comic book conventions, the New York Comic Con is still chocked full of fun. I always get the opportunity to visit friends, talk with colleagues, and see my editors.

This year, the New York Comic Con seemed more crowded and more insane than ever. Joey B and I saw things that I should never mention, nor post here at P.I.C. News. Now, Joey B has never before been to the New York Comic Con. So, He was having a grand time at the event. I‘ve gone to the convention each year, and just wanted to see who I wanted to see and then head on out.

I saw those ATOMIC ROBO guys, Brian Clevinger and Scott Wegener. Scott drew this shiny Atomic Robo sketch…

Rick Leonardi drew this sketch…

I had the chance to speak to Mr. and Mrs. Joe Staton (I try and do that every year). Joey B and I talked with Michael Golden, and then with Rich Buckler. I chatted with my one-time Archie Comics colleague, Dan Parent. I had a conversation with Neal Adams about his comics association, the Comics Creators Guild. I was able to pick up the first issue of RAISING RACHEL and meet up (again) with Terry Moore.

And, of course, Joey B and I saw Plastic Man…

Strange visitor from another planet...

2011-10-17T20:52:00.001-04:00

Above: Cover art to DC Comics’ rebooted and renumbered ACTION COMICS #5 by Andy Kubert and Jesse Delperdang.

ACTION COMICS #1 was first published in April 1938 (which had a cover date of June) by National Allied Publications (know known as DC Comics). It has been reported that Superman creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, were paid $130 by National for this first Superman story. My understanding is that the payment covered only publishing rights. It did not include rights to copyright or trademark of the Superman property.

Above: The cover to 1938's ACTION COMICS #1 featuring the origin and first appearance of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster’s Superman.

In March of 2008, a federal court awarded Jerry Siegel’s heirs fifty-percent of the copyright to the Superman material that appeared in ACTION COMICS #1.

Federal District Judge Stephen G. Larson stated:

After seventy years, Jerome Siegel’s heirs regain what he granted so long ago — the copyright in the Superman material that was published in ACTION COMICS Vol. 1. What remains is an apportionment of profits, guided in some measure by the rulings contained in this Order, and a trial on whether to include the profits generated by DC Comics’ corporate sibling’s exploitation of the Superman copyright.

Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster should have retained ownership of Superman. Other than the folks at DC Comics (and DC Entertainment, and Warner Bros. Entertainment, and Time Warner), I don’t think many, nowadays, would disagree with this. It only makes sense to me since Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster drew the Superman origin story that appeared in ACTION COMICS #1 before ever being hired by National Allied Publications.

Recently, DC Comics has relaunched ACTION COMICS. It looks like with (the new) ACTION COMICS #5, the story of the infant Superman’s escape from a doomed Krypton will (again) be retold. This sounds to me like the same origin story that first appeared beginning in (the original) ACTION COMICS #1.

ACTION COMICS #5 solicitation from DC Comics:

As the assault from an alien threat takes a turn for the worse for Metropolis, keys facts about Superman’s past are brought to light for the first time! And how can certain elements from The Man of Steel’s future help to prevent the theft of the millennium? Don’t miss this awesome issue from series writer Grant Morrison and the guest art team of Andy Kubert and Jesse Delperdang!

If DC Comics retells Superman’s origin in ACTION COMICS #5, will the Siegel family be compensated? Does the Siegel family have any say or control over the content in ACTION COMICS #5? Do they have reprint rights to the original ACTION COMICS #1? If they own half of the copyright, can the Siegels be ignored? Are they even making a stink about this?

Now, I’m not interested in DC Comics’ new rebooted and renumbered universe. But, I do care about how creators are treated.

For more on this topic, check out "Siegel and Superboy" and "SUPERMAN: SECRET ORIGINS?"

Getting ready for the 2011 New York Comic Con...

2011-10-10T12:56:00.004-04:00

Well, I’m getting ready for the 2011 New York Comic Con at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. For those of you not-in-the-know, the Con is a big to-do in the comics industry. The Con is huge. The Con gets crowded. And the Con has its share of creepy fan-boys and fan-girls…

And people like this charming lad…

I've gone to the New York Comic Con every year since it’s beginning in 2006. The plan each year is to get my professional pass, visit friends, talk with colleagues, and smooze with my editors, which is always a whole lot of fun. Then, I jet on out of there as soon as I am able. I like to leave the convention before they open the doors to the public. I do enjoy the Con, but I would enjoy it more without bumping into folks like this…

However, this year will be a bit different. I’m not leaving early. I’m meeting up with Joey B. (Hopefully, Scan can make it, as well.) Joey B wants to go to a panel or two. This is his first visit to the New York Comic Con. Of course, I had to warn him about these guys…

And folks like this fellow…

Hey, I remember these gals. Maybe the Con won’t be so bad after all…

And puppies like to go to the New York Comic Con, too…

But, be warned…

Comics versus Terrorism: Frank Miller’s HOLY TERROR...

2011-10-08T16:55:00.006-04:00

Above: The cover to Frank Miller’s HOLY TERROR. HOLY TERROR is Copyright © 2011 Frank Miller, Inc.

Comics have the potential to be a powerful medium. This is a form of literature and entertainment that should say some things. Frank Miller addresses a certain something, Islamic terrorism, in his graphic novel, HOLY TERROR.

I could have done without the harsh language, though. Naughty words make me squeamish.

Frank Miller posted on his website:

My new comic book (or "graphic novel", I suppose it should be called, because it’s square bound) is naked propaganda.

And…

3000 of my neighbors were murdered. My country was, utterly unprovoked, savagely attacked. I wish all those responsible for the Atrocity of 9/11 to burn in hell. I’m too old to serve my country in any other way. Otherwise, I’d gladly be pulling the trigger myself.

In 2006, at the WonderCon convention in San Francisco, Miller shared a bit about how politics have played a role in comics:

It is, not to put too fine a point on it, a piece of propaganda... Superman punched out Hitler. So did Captain America. That's one of the things they're there for.

In an interview with NPR, Miller stated:

I schooled myself in the writings of Madison and Franklin and Adams and Jefferson. I came to love those noble, indestructible ideas. They were ideas, to my young mind, of rebellion and independence, not of idolatry.

And…

Then came that sunny September morning when airplanes crashed into towers a very few miles from my home and thousands of my neighbors were ruthlessly incinerated — reduced to ash.

And…

For the first time in my life, I know how it feels to face an existential menace. They want us to die. All of a sudden I realize what my parents were talking about all those years. Patriotism, I now believe, isn't some sentimental, old conceit. It's self-preservation. I believe patriotism is central to a nation's survival. Ben Franklin said it: "If we don't all hang together, we all hang separately." Just like you have to fight to protect your friends and family, and you count on them to watch your own back.

Lincoln’s National Fast Day...

2011-10-04T17:50:00.000-04:00

Above photo: President Abraham Lincoln.

Excerpts from President Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation appointing a National Fast Day (Washington, D.C., March 30, 1863):

Whereas, the Senate of the United States, devoutly recognizing the Supreme Authority and just Government of Almighty God, in all the affairs of men and of nations, has, by a resolution, requested the President to designate and set apart a day for National prayer and humiliation.

And…

We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of Heaven. We have been preserved, these many years, in peace and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth and power, as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God.

And…

It behooves us then, to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness.

-Psalm 33:12 (King James Version):

Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.

An art museum for Jack Kirby? Maybe…

2011-10-03T10:55:00.001-04:00

Above photo: I just love this photo of comics’ legend, Jack Kirby. And I love the idea of a Kirby museum just as much.

Randy Hoppe of the Jack Kirby Museum & Research Center states in "So, where is the Jack Kirby Museum?":

Our intention is to set up a temporary, or "pop-up," brick-and-mortar location for the Jack Kirby Museum during this November, December and January. The ideal size for this purpose is between 800-1,200-square-feet, and would feature original artwork, artifacts from Jack’s life, prominent guest speakers, educational programs and installation pieces inspired by and celebrating the unique work and life of Jack Kirby.

A space like this dedicated entirely to the life and work of Jack Kirby would be equally appealing to seasoned art patrons, pop-art connoisseurs, casual fans, tourists, and families. Successful implementation of this pop-up museum will allow us to pursue the ultimate goal of a PERMANENT space for the Museum in the near future.

Again, nothing like this has ever been attempted. And, in order to make this happen, we need funding.

Washington’s first inaugural address...

2011-10-01T16:12:00.000-04:00

Above photo: Federal Hall National Memorial, located at 26 Wall Street in New York City, was built in 1842. This was also the original site of the old Federal Hall where, on April 30, 1789, George Washington took the oath as the first president of the United States of America.

On that day, before a large crowd, George Washington stood on the balcony of Federal Hall with his hand on an open Bible (as depicted above). After his oath of office was completed, Washington delivered his inaugural address to a joint session of Congress. Afterwards, President Washington and Congress traveled down Broadway to St. Paul’s Church for prayer, fellowship, and worship.

Excerpts from George Washington’s first inaugural address:

It would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official act my fervent supplications to that Almighty Being who rules over the universe, who presides in the councils of nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human defect, that His benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the people of the United States a government instituted by themselves for these essential purposes, and may enable every instrument employed in its administration to execute with success the functions allotted to His charge.

And…

We ought to be no less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right which Heaven itself has ordained; and since the preservation of the sacred fire of liberty and the destiny of the republican model of government are justly considered, perhaps, as deeply, as finally, staked on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people.

And…

Having thus imparted to you my sentiments as they have been awakened by the occasion which brings us together, I shall take my present leave; but not without resorting once more to the benign Parent of the Human Race in humble supplication that, since He has been pleased to favor the American people with opportunities for deliberating in perfect tranquillity, and dispositions for deciding with unparalleled unanimity on a form of government for the security of their union and the advancement of their happiness, so His divine blessing may be equally conspicuous in the enlarged views, the temperate consultations, and the wise measures on which the success of this Government must depend.

God's country?

2011-09-30T22:59:00.003-04:00

-First Inaugural Address of President George Washington (April 30, 1789, New York, NY):

We ought to be no less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right which Heaven itself has ordained.

And…

-2 Chronicles 7:14 (King James Version):

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

In recent times, I’ve been contemplating whether the United States of America is still God’s country. We have strayed. Our nation was founded on Judeo-Christian principles. Don’t believe me? Then, check out "The Independence of a Judeo-Christian nation..."

Badge of Con...

2011-09-22T22:41:00.004-04:00

Today, my mailbox gave me my 2011 New York Comic Con Professional badge.

Update: The Beat is reporting that tickets and passes to the New York Comic Con are selling quite quickly:

According to the show’s official Twitter feed, Saturday tickets are now sold out, although some may be available via retailers. And professional 4-day passes — which cost $10 as a registration fee this year — are almost gone as well.

Good thing I already got my pass.

Remembering…

2011-09-11T00:05:00.000-04:00

Do we still need Diamond Comic Distributors?

2011-09-09T11:32:00.004-04:00

Above: A couple of panels from Scott Kurtz’s PvP.

I’ve never had any problems with Diamond Comic Distributors. But, I know some small press guys and gals who have had problems with Diamond Comic Distributors.

The Direct Market was a big help to comics back in the late 1970s and 1980s. But, now, having only one comic book distributor shipping to comic book stores and with the advent of profitable downloadable digital comics, do we still need Diamond Comic Distributors?

PvP creator Scott Kurtz doesn’t think so:

You know, I sold PvP in comic book shops for seven years and I love all the retailers I met. But it makes no sense for me as an independent creator to sell my books to readers through a publisher/distributor/retailer chain when I can just sell directly to them. Diamond is a huge pain in the ass and they take 60% of my cover price. Because my business model skewed to the online side of things, and I decided to do what’s best for my business and my livelihood, now I’m an enemy of brick and mortar stores.

And seeing Diamond Comic Distributors trying to get a piece of digital comics' sales really makes me laugh. They’re seeing the writing on the wall (so to speak). For years, the larger comic book publishers didn’t care about webcomics. But, now that there’s a way to make money from downloadable digital comics, they’re all over that.

"The startling secret origin of Her!"

2011-08-29T09:45:00.003-04:00

Above: Webcomic cover to Steve Remen’s HIM 2.1 featuring "the startling secret origin of Her!"

Once or twice in various titanic comics tales, Nihilist-Man has met or teamed-up with Steve Remen’s heroic champion… Him. These were some nice moments in Nihilist-Man’s history. Lately, Steve Remen has been posting Him’s adventures online. This includes the classic origin of Him’s crime-fighting partner and ladylove… Her.

Steve told me:

Regarding HER and the story as it stands: yes, it is my intention to continue the story to its conclusion well beyond the Unfinished Lethargic Lad #14. I've had this story, more or less, mapped out almost since HIM started, and after being halted twice (Once in the mini-LCW and once in the Lethargic Lad book), I can finally finish it. It may take a while, but it will get done. For me, this story has always been "THE" HIM story and I've always wanted to do it and finishing it was a big reason I started the website: I'm committed, now.

Above: A most-excellent Him drawing by his creator.

DESTROY and DESTROY again…

2011-08-23T09:59:00.003-04:00

Above: Cover to Scott McCloud’s DESTROY!! which was published in 1986.

From Scott McCloud:

I got the idea when I first heard people complaining about a Marvel comic called SuperBoxers and claiming that it was "nothing but senseless violence from beginning to end." I thought this sounded cool, but was disappointed, upon acquiring a copy, to discover that SuperBoxers included a plot, characterization, and other distractions. It wasn't PURE. Destroy!! was my attempt to get it right.

Above: Cover to Marvel Comics’ forthcoming DESTROY by Carlo Pagulayan.

Scott’s DESTROY was a very funny parody. And Marvel’s more serious use of the title name makes me wonder if the publisher can’t come up with some new ideas.

Who wrote what...?

2011-08-22T14:24:00.001-04:00

Above: Cover to Mark Evanier’s most-excellent KIRBY: KING OF COMICS.

I’ve been rereading Mark Evanier’s KIRBY: KING OF COMICS to get Mark’s insights on the issue of who wrote what in the Stan Lee/Jack Kirby collaborations.

Mark, also, addressed this in "Who did what on the Lee-Kirby collaborations?"

Mark Evanier states:

I do think Stan has been unfairly maligned by those who've said that all he did was retype and polish Jack's notations. I also think Jack was wronged to some extent by credits that gave him no credit for anything other than drawing because he certainly did more than that.

That seems believable and reasonable to me.

Above photo: Two inside pages from KIRBY: KING OF COMICS.

D.J. and Al talk Kirby (and Jack Kirby talks, too)…

2011-08-15T22:17:00.007-04:00

Above photo: The King of Comics at his drawing table.

Here’s a recent e-mail exchange between D.J. (Drawer O’ Stuff) Coffman and myself concerning Jack Kirby:

Al, you know what might be cool? If someone emailed this MP3 of Jack Kirby's own voice stating that HE and HE ALONE created the comics and how the process worked.

http://djcoffman.com/Kirby.mp3

I think that kinda using his own voice, it's testimony from beyond the grave that counteracts the horsecrap Stan Lee said.

Good day!

DJC

Hi DJ,

Thanks for the mp3. I love these old Jack Kirby audio interviews.

I’ve heard and read similar comments by Jack Kirby about he being the sole writer of the comics that he drew. Kirby made such claims to Will Eisner in SHOP TALK and Gary Groth in THE COMICS JOURNAL.

The problem I have with that is (and I’m sure you’re going to disagree with me) that it contradicts the opinions of others like Stan Lee (who I know you dislike), Joe Simon, Roger Stern (who found the Stan Lee plot for FF #1), and even Steve Ditko.

I love Jack Kirby’s work. I believe that he was lied to and screwed by Marvel. I very much doubt that Marvel would exist without the contributions of Jack Kirby. And I think that Marvel/Disney should honor such contributions. But, I have such difficulty believing that Jack Kirby was the only writer of all the comics that he worked on when others say otherwise, especially when at the time of those interviews, Kirby’s memory was quite poor. Am I wrong here?

I hope you don’t think this is a slam against a man that you and I both greatly respect. I just have my doubts.

Does Mark talk specifically about this topic in KING OF COMICS? I don’t recall. I’ll "Cc" this e-mail to him.

Glory to God.

best,
Professor Al Nickerson

Hey AL, no worries there. I just thought in light of how the judge tossed out expert testimony, and basically said well, Stan was there so his testimony was superior... that maybe they'd want to hear Jack in his own words. Because, ultimately he was there too. :)

Nothing against those other guys, they're all great! But they weren't "there" to witness the actual creations either.

I never take anything personal Al! I love you man! :) Thanks for keeping this issue out there and people talking about it!

DJC

Kirby estate files appeal...

2011-08-15T19:51:00.001-04:00

Above: Still the comics legend, Jack Kirby.

Deadline.com reports "Jack Kirby Estate Appeals Loss To Marvel:"

The notice of appeal to the Second Circuit Court of Appeal was filed today. Specifically, the estate of comic book superhero legend Kirby -- co-creator of Captain America, The Fantastic Four, The X-Men, The Avengers, Iron Man, Hulk, The Silver Surfer and Thor -- sent notices terminating copyright to publishers Marvel and Disney, as well as film studios that have made movies and TV shows based on characters he created or co-created, including Sony, Universal, 20th Century Fox and Paramount Pictures.

(Not the Karate Kid) Ralph Macchio exits Marvel editorial…

2011-08-13T12:20:00.003-04:00

Above photo (left to right): John Byrne, George Perez, and Ralph Macchio in 1978.

Digital Spy is reporting that Marvel editor, Ralph Macchio, is leaving his editorial position at Marvel:

The publisher's editor-in-chief Axel Alonso told CBR that Macchio is stepping down, but informed fans that they can expect to see him return to writing in the future.

"After 35 years of distinctive service, senior editor Ralph Macchio is retiring," he said. "Ralph's a living legend who's edited some of the most important titles we've ever published - from Frank Miller's DAREDEVIL to Walter Simonson's THOR to the early 'Ultimate' line to the Stephen King series.

"He's also one of the world's true gentlemen - and I mean that from the bottom of my heart - and a master impersonator whose 'Tom Brevoort' has to be seen to be believed. While Ralph's closing the door on his editing work, he's opening the door to another - expect to see him back behind the writer's desk, soon."

Above: A 1980s editorial clipping from MARVEL AGE.

I never got to work with Ralph Macchio, but I always wanted to. Ralph was (and is) one of the nice guys at Marvel. He made Marvel comics feel like Marvel Comics.

Creators continue to speak out about Kirby vs. Marvel decision…

2011-08-05T11:51:00.002-04:00

Above: Steve Bissette’s Tyrant.

Steve Bissette discusses further the Kirby versus Marvel/Disney verdict in "Honoring A Fallen King, Part 2". In addition, Mr. Bissette writes about Copyright, work-for-hire, Stan Lee, John Byrne, and contracts:

However, some of the worst abuses of creators I have seen in this and other fields are linked to work-for-hire language and contracts (specifically, the worst I have ever seen came out of Archie Comics, Disney, and various gaming companies, none of whom I have personally worked for under such contracts, though I have copies of those contracts in my files).

Above: Dave Sim’s Cerebus.

Also, thanks to Steve Bissette, as he posted a link to Dave Sim’s recent fax concerning Dave’s thoughts on Jack Kirby, Marvel, and work-for-hire.

For more insights to Steve and Dave’s views on comic book Creator's Rights, visit Ya Can't Erase Ink...

And Colleen Doran continues with "MUST READ: Copyhype on the Kirby Case":

Creators, the lesson was hard won by our forefathers. Don’t sign away your precious creations without the full understanding of what you are doing. I’ve signed many work for hire agreements, and have never had cause to regret it, because the work for hire contracts I sign with DC Comics are substantially better than anything creators got 50 years ago.

Creators speak out about Kirby vs. Marvel decision…

2011-08-01T11:30:00.005-04:00

Above photo: The comics legend, Jack Kirby.

Several comic book creators have spoken out about the recent court ruling between the Jack Kirby family and Marvel/Disney.

Stephen Bissette calls for a boycott of Marvel:

I don’t question the legal logic Marvel’s attorneys made, and the court decision reflects. However, nothing is being said about the conditions under which Kirby signed, and was pressured to sign, the contracts presented. I don’t think "extortion" is too unfair a word to use, particularly in the very public case of the Marvel artwork "return" contracts.

and…

I suggest, for starters, simply pulling the plug on all individual support for any and all Kirby-derived Marvel ANYTHING (comics, movies, videogames, merchandizing).

Now.

Today.

D.J. Coffman writes:

And the Kirby Estate loses to Marvel. So much for Marvel doing the right thing.

Colleen Doran takes a close look at the court papers:

The expert opinions of Mark Evanier and John Morrow on behalf of Kirby were roundly dismissed as hearsay.

And John Byrne says:

Difference being Siegel and Shuster were able to show EXACTLY that, that Superman had been created independently and SOLD to National Periodicals, and was not a "work made for hire".

Everything Kirby did for Marvel falls squarely within the latter category.

Work-for-hire was a sucky system, but it was the only game in town, for most people. It was also not a secret, and, perhaps most significantly, it was how Kirby ran his own company, in the 1950s.

Kirby vs. Marvel decided...

2011-07-28T20:48:00.009-04:00

Above: This Jack Kirby piece was used in "The Art of Mickey Mouse."

Both Bleeding Cool and The Beat are reporting that the court has decided that Jack Kirby’s work for Marvel was work-made-for-hire. Thus, the Kirby estate is entitled to zero money and zero ownership to any characters that Jack Kirby had co-created while at Marvel.

This is no surprise to me. I didn’t think the Kirby estate had any chance of winning this one.

There’s nothing wrong with being compensated for your services. I don’t even have a real problem with work-made-for-hire IF A) you know what you’re getting yourself into, B) you don’t create any characters for someone else, and C) if you're treated fairly.

Hopefully, the Siegel family will clean Warner Bros. clock over Superman.

For more information about comic book Creator's Rights, visit Ya Can't Erase Ink... Here, we feature conversations and interviews with Scott McCloud, Dave Sim, Steve Bissette, Rick Veitch, and others about The Creator’s Bill of Rights and other Creator’s Rights issues.

What's going on in comics?

2011-07-27T19:22:00.009-04:00

I haven’t blogged in a bunch of days. I’ve been busy drawing comics and preparing for teaching this Fall.

Anyway… I like drawing comics and I like reading them. Well, some of them, anyway. And I like to keep up with the latest news in comics. So, what is going on in comics? (Mind you, there are some spoilers.)

Well, the San Diego Comic-Con International came and went. I didn’t go. But, all the news I’ve read and heard from the Con just seemed like a bunch of uninteresting hype. How can such an enormous amount of non-news be new news? (Although, I was waiting to hear about what was going on with the revised First Comics and E-Man, but I heard no news about that.)

Is it really news when a publisher is renumbering or rebooting their titles? Is it really news when a publisher is going to tell the same sort of stories over and over again? Count me out.

Above: Artwork from Frank Miller’s HOLY TERROR.

Now, Frank Miller’s HOLY TERROR looks interesting. It’s nice to see creators address important issues like (as in this case) terrorism.

Above: No one escapes Steve Bissette’s the Fury.

The great Steve Bissette is bringing back THE FURY! I can’t wait for this one.

From srbissette.com:

It’s official: I’ve now signed contracts with a publisher for a return to color comics of… The Fury!

As far as reading comics, I picked up X-MEN: SCHISM #2. I really do enjoy Frank Cho’s artwork, but this issue was very dull, even the art. (I miss LIBERTY MEADOWS.)

Oh no! The Sentinels have been reactivated (again), and are about to stomp all over those poor mutants (again). Oh no! Cyclops and Wolverine are gonna argue (again). Can anyone in the X-offices come up with some new story ideas?

But, (and I liked this part) Kitty Pride tells Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad where to go…

Above: Artwork from X-MEN: SCHISM #2 by Frank Cho. Colors by Jason Keith.

The best line from X-MEN: SCHISM #2 was: "Liberals are nothing if not predictable." I thought that that was funny. One doesn’t customarily see Liberalism mocked in the comics industry.

I give X-MEN: SCHISM #2 two out of five NM’s:

Above: Partial artwork from the cover to INVINCIBLE #81 by Ryan Ottley.

I don’t often say this sort of thing, but INVINCIBLE #81 was kinda dull, too. FCO Plascencia has got to come back to coloring INVINCIBLE. The previous issue was quite awesome, though.

In this issue’s letter column (Penvincipals), I found it interesting reading the letters concerning abortion. (See INVINCIBLE #79 about why.)

I give INVINCIBLE #81 three out of five NM’s:

Above: Chris Bachalo’s artwork from AVENGERS #15. (Don't know who inked this, though.)

AVENGERS #15 is excellent! For the last several years, I haven’t been much of a Marvel Comics reader, but I really dig Chris Bachalo’s AVENGERS. Brian Michael Bendis’ writing reminds me of why I loved the Avengers as a kid. In AVENGERS #15, some of the Avengers fight the hammer-wielding Asgardian Hulk. Plus, Hawkeye and Spider-Woman make smoochies.

I give AVENGERS #15 four and a half out of five NM’s:

Congratulations Stephen Gerard and SO MANY OPTIONS!

2011-07-21T09:58:00.001-04:00

Above: Movie poster for SO MANY OPTIONS featuring thespian Stephen Gerard.

I received some good news from Stephen Gerard concerning Spinshot Films’ SO MANY OPTIONS and the Seattle 48 Hour Film Project…

From Stephen Gerard:

When all was said and done we won Audience choice, Best direction, Best cinematography and Best editing. We got a lot of positive response at both the awards screening and the after party. Here's a link to the short on youtube.

ARCHIE WORLD TOUR...

2011-07-12T20:02:00.002-04:00

The ARCHIE WORLD TOUR trade paperback is now on sale. I was one of the inkers of these comics when they first saw print in ARCHIE & FRIENDS.

Above: Artwork from ARCHIE & FRIENDS #119. Pencils by Rex Lindsey and inks by me.

Although, I don’t expect to see any royalties from the sales of this book. Now-a-days, royalties paid to creators is fairly standard in comics. Marvel pays royalties. DC pays royalties. Why are some other comic book publishers so horrible when it comes to royalties and the return of original artwork?

Above: Panel from ARCHIE & FRIENDS #118. Pencils by Rex Lindsey and inks by me.

SO MANY OPTIONS...

2011-07-11T15:19:00.000-04:00

Above: Movie poster for SO MANY OPTIONS.

Stephen Gerard stars in Spinshot Films’ short film, SO MANY OPTIONS. Scary-looking movie poster, huh? Thus far, SO MANY OPTIONS is an "Audience Award Winner."

Here’s more info on The Seattle 48 Hour Film Project.

LETHARGiC LAD 2010 news...

2011-07-06T17:08:00.005-04:00

Above: Artwork to Greg Hyland’s LETHARGiC LAD 2010. "Lethargic Lad" and all other prominent characters are TM and © 2011 Greg Hyland.

Greg Hyland reports "LETHARGiC LAD 2010 coming soon...!"

Independence and Gettysburg...

2011-07-01T15:31:00.003-04:00

This is a very amazing holiday weekend. We celebrate the independence of our nation.

Above photo: Independence Hall is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The United States Declaration of Independence and United States Constitution were both signed at Independence Hall.

P.I.C. even once paid a visit to Independence Hall.

Above photo: President Abraham Lincoln leaves the stage after giving his Gettysburg Address.

Also, 148 years ago, our nation saw the Battle of Gettysburg. In 1863, from July 1st to the 3rd, 160,000 American soldiers fought one another at the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Between 46,000 and 51,000 Union and Confederate soldiers died in that battle.

Ken Penders versus Archie Comics...

2011-06-29T17:55:00.006-04:00

Above: SONIC THE HEDGEHOG writer and penciler, Ken Penders.

Ken Penders continues to claim ownership of stories and characters that he wrote and penciled during his time on SONIC THE HEDGEHOG. Penders states that he never signed a work-made-for-hire contact with Archie Comics.

Bleeding Cool reports that "The Ken Penders/Archie Comics Lawsuit Continues."

From Bleeding Cool:

But despite this Ken [Penders] is stating that he never signed any such contract and is asking for the original documents. He also cites Scott Shaw and Elliot Maggin as previous Archie freelancers that weren't given a contract to sign, despite multiple requests in Shaw's case.

In a declaration, Archie Comics president Mike Pellerito states that Maggin has "no relation whatsoever to ACP" despite the fact that he has credits for the company. Mike does question why Ken has only got statements from so few creators rather then the vast majority.

Well, that’s because the Archie Comics' work-made-for-hire contract that we signed (however unfortunate) states that creators can not discuss Archie Comics business outside of Archie Comics. Of course comic book creators will be hesitant to speak out against a publisher if they think that their statements might become actionable. It’s not because such creators support that particular publisher or that they feel some sort of loyalty to that particular publisher. It’s just that these creators don’t want to be sued. And comic book creators are sued more often than you think.

As Colleen Doran once stated:

I’d be even happier if Archie Comics actually did value and treasure its creators. They have one of the worst work for hire agreements I have ever seen. I refused to sign. Because I have too much respect for myself, not to mention Dan DeCarlo.

I first blogged about Ken Penders’ problems with Archie Comics with "Who owns Sonic?".

Gene Colan: 1926-2011

2011-06-24T11:13:00.002-04:00

Above photo: Comic book artist and former SVA teacher, Gene Colan.

From Genecolan.com:

I regret to tell you that Gene passed away on 6/23/2011, around 11pm. Gene had ongoing health issues with his liver, heart and cancer.

Gene Colan was once an instructor at the School of Visual Arts. Many P.I.C. members had taken Gene’s class while attending SVA.

Gene died while in hospice from complications of liver disease and a broken hip. He was 84 years old.

Please keep the Colan family in your prayers.

Above photo: Taken in a classroom at the School of Visual Arts. (Left to right) Mitch and (comic book legend and SVA instructor) Gene Colan. School year 1986-1987.

Words from Will Eisner...

2011-06-21T19:59:00.003-04:00

Above: Comics legend and teacher, Will Eisner.

Will Eisner was always a wealth of information. Many members of P.I.C. were once students in Will’s ‘Sequential Art’ class at the School of Visual Arts.

And, years later, I continue to learn from Will Eisner. Recently, I was reading the "Cartoonists as Prisoners" editorial in Kitchen Sink’s THE SPIRIT #25 (November 1986). Here, Will stated:

You have to believe in what you’re producing. You must produce it without embarrassment, in an unabashed way. You can’t deny the emotion within you.

Most of the really successful comic book and comics writers had to be honest and believe in what they were doing in order to produce good work. The similarity between Milton Caniff and Jack Kirby is they have a basic honesty and belief in what they are doing. It shows up in their work, and it’s a reason they’re successful.

That is powerful and encouraging.

I am, also, re-re-reading Dark Horse Books’ EISNER/MILLER that was published in 2005. This book is a vast tome of wonderful knowledge from Frank Miller and Will Eisner. I found this statement from Will very interesting:

[National Periodical Publications/DC Comics’ Harry Donenfeld] told the artists, as he told me, "Look, I can replace you." As a matter of fact, the artists working in the field in the late thirties and early forties would not talk to each other about their work for fear that they might be replaced.

I don’t think that the comics industry has changed much in that regard. A colleague once told me that the publisher that we were working for at the time frowned upon its freelancers talking to one another. I’ve written about this before in "When Creators speak out...". Don’t let anyone stifle your Free Speech. Speak freely.

Walt Simonson sketch...

2011-06-20T20:46:00.000-04:00

Above is a Beta Ray Bill sketch by the amazing Walt Simonson. I think Walter drew this back in 1999 or 2000.

"How do you come back from that?"

2011-06-15T15:41:00.005-04:00

Above: Cover to INVINCIBLE #80.

INVINCIBLE #80 came out today. "The best super-hero comic book in the Universe" is just that. Anyway,… enough of my hype.

INVINCIBLE #80 touched upon a couple of things that have been happening in comics.

Mark Grayson picked up some books at Night Flight Comics where he then shared his thoughts about comic book series renumbering back to "#1".

I totally agree with Mark, by the way.

And,… a surprising catastrophic event occured in INVINCIBLE #80, as well.

Above: Invincible meets Gravitator in INVINCIBLE #80.

Lately, Joey B and I have had several conversations in which we discuss how comic book stories are becoming more extreme, more vulgar, and more outrageous. Daredevil becomes the leader of an evil Ninja clan. The Capital Building is blown up by a hammer-wielding gal and her nazi soldiers. Crazy Amazons attack the male population of England. Superman renounces Truth, Justice, and the American way. Crazy stuff like that.

During these conversations, Joey B would state something like: "How do you come back from that?"

And my answer is usually: "You don’t."

I don’t know why many of the large comic book publishes think they have to rely on earth-shattering events to grab a reader’s attention. But, if so, then move foreword with it. If you’re going to take a character down the road of great change (like revealing his secret identity to the world), or if you blow up a landmark, or if you’re going to kill off a character, then move forward with that. Don’t reboot or don’t retcon, just create great stories with great artwork.

Anyway, back to INVINCIBLE #80, which was quite good. I give this issue three and a half out of five NM’s:

Bunch of Archie stuff now on sale!

2011-06-09T12:58:00.001-04:00

The (really) second story in WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #7, "Sale Tale," is inked by myself and penciled by Fernando Ruiz.

The second story in ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #4, "The Dilton Doiley Story," is inked by myself and penciled by the great Fernando Ruiz. Now on sale, by the way.

Some weeks back, I received my comp copy of ARCHIE: 50 TIMES AN AMERICAN ICON (which includes my Hero Initiative ARCHIE #600 "original cover"). The book is being offered in both hardcover and softcover. You can find ordering info here at the Hero Initiative blog .

Sequential Art: Comics Illustration @ OCCC...

2011-06-06T13:28:00.000-04:00

Above: A panel of artwork from my flyer promoting this Fall’s Sequential Art: Comics Illustration class at Orange County Community College.

This Fall, I will, again, be teaching my my Sequential Art: Comics Illustration course at Orange County Community College (New York, not California). I was just running around campus posting flyers about the course.

The Sequential Art: Comics Illustration is described thusly:

Sequential Art offers instruction in the creation of comic books and comic strips as well as topical discussion on the operation of the comic book industry. Students learn about the pitfalls of working in comics, their rights as creators, and how to approach publishers. Course material includes the design of comic book characters, comics illustration and storytelling, self-publishing, submitting work to editors, comic book Creator’s Rights, webcomics, and strong emphasis on comic book inking. Prerequisite: ART 103 or Permission of Instructor 3 credits (2 lecture, 2 lab).

If you attend OCCC, if you live in the New York area, or, if you want to learn about drawing comics, then sign up for Sequential Art: Comics Illustration today!

Comics buzz…

2011-06-02T12:28:00.003-04:00

Above: Jim Lee’s pencils to the cover of JUSTICE LEAGUE #1.

Yeah, I like to draw comics, but I like to read them, too.

DC Comics is all the buzz lately. In September, DC will be relaunching their super-hero line of comics with new number one issues. Renumbering titles back to "#1" isn’t new news in comics. Marvel Comics likes to do this, as well. But, what folks are wondering is… will DC reboot the continuity of their super-hero books? Remember CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS? Does anyone really care? Is this just a bunch of hype to sell comics? What really sells comics are good stories and good artwork. Hyping a product that is nothing but hype creates jaded readers. For me, I really don’t care. I’ve given up on DC several years ago.

Above: Alan Davis' cover to AVENGERS #13.

Speaking of Marvel, I did pick up AVENGERS #13. I don’t really read much of Marvel's books now-a-days. (The Spider-Man retcon and the $3.99 cover prices were a huge factor in that decision.) Still, AVENGERS #13 was a fun comic. Alan Davis’ cover and Chris Bachalo’s excellent artwork really caught my attention. Brian Michael Bendis did a wonderful job with the characters. His Avengers remind me of the Avengers that I enjoyed as a young reader. There were no fights in AVENGERS #13. No world-saving. But, the Red Hulk did eat raw eggs.

Above: Steve Rude’s Nexus.

Steve Rude has been thinking about coming back to comics. Quote from an e-mail by The Dude:

One month ago, I began my contact with DC through an editor that I knew. Having no success, I tried a second editor. Then finally, one of the higher-up "exec" types.

So far, one editor has responded--with a polite turn down. The two others I never heard back from.

Interesting world, isn't it?

Personally, I think Mr. Rude should forget about DC Comics and bring back NEXUS!

Above: Sketch by Ryan Ottley of Invincible and two "geeks."

And there was some shocking news in INVINCIBLE #79. I don’t know how I feel about this news, though. Still, if you like reading super-hero comics, but are tired of retcons, reboots, and renumbering, then you won’t be disappointed with INVINCIBLE, "the best super-hero comic book in the universe."

Happy Memorial Day…

2011-05-28T14:18:00.002-04:00

-George Washington addressing his officers in a church building (March 15, 1783, Newburgh, NY):

Gentlemen, you will permit me to put on my spectacles, for I have not only grown gray but almost blind in the service of my country.

The Jack Kirby interview…

2011-05-24T12:40:00.003-04:00

Above: Jack Kirby’s Thor and Captain America.

THE COMICS JOURNAL has posted Gary Groth’s interview with Jack Kirby. The interview first appeared in print in THE COMICS JOURNAL #134 (February 1990). I have a good chunk of the recorded audio interview on two c.d.’s. The second c.d. ends when Kirby says: "Stan Lee was a pest."

From tcj.com:

GROTH: Stan [Lee] pretty much takes credit in an introduction to one of his books for creating all the characters in The Fantastic Four. He also said he created the name.

KIRBY: No, he didn’t.

Some of Jack Kirby’s comments contradict things that Stan Lee and Steve Ditko have stated concerning the creation of some of Marvel’s characters. (This isn’t new news, of course.) Still, this remains a very interesting interview.

Jack Kirby’s statements about the creation of Marvel’s Spider-man even contradicts some of things that I’ve researched in "Who Really Created Spider-Man?". Lisa Kirby (Jack Kirby’s daughter) once told me: "I'm afraid I have no information for you regarding the creation of Spiderman. I am aware of the controversy surrounding his origin. Neither one of my parents ever mentioned that my father created him, in fact I have heard my mother correcting people if they alluded to that fact."

Also, here’s a little story as told by John Byrne concerning the creation of the Fantastic Four (I can’t seem to find the direct link at the John Byrne Forum):

When Roger Stern started working as an editor at Marvel he was, of course, given a desk. He soon discovered it was Stan’s old desk, which had been recycled into general use. From this desk Roger got two things, left behind by Stan. One was what Roger calls "Stan Lee's Magic Thesaurus". The other was an ancient copy of Stan’s written plot for FANTASTIC FOUR 1. Roy Thomas even referenced this item in at least one of his ALTER EGO pieces.

Above: Jack Kirby’s MISTER MIRACLE.

I am a huge fan of the works by both Jack Kirby and Stan Lee. Without these two fellas, comics would not be what they are today. Comic books might not even still be in existence if not for the efforts of Stan and Jack.

Being a comic book artist, I’ve come to be heavily influenced by Jack Kirby’s powerful artwork and storytelling. I don’t have to tell you how important Jack Kirby is to the comic book industry. I don’t have to tell you that Marvel Comics would not be the powerhouse it is today, or may not even be in existence, if not for the contributions of Kirby.

It’s clear that great tragedies were done to Jack Kirby. Hopefully, one day, the comic book industry will learn its lesson.

I like to draw comics…

2011-05-23T15:49:00.000-04:00

Late July or in August will see the publication of my spanking brand new graphic novel. I haven’t mentioned very much about the project, yet, but I wanted to post something from the book, anyway. The above panel is, actually, a fix. I didn’t like how the original panel came out. So, I redrew it, and changed the camera angle. Oddly enough, I really didn’t pencil much of this. Most of the artwork was drawn at the inking stage with a brush and nib.

Ink Plots reception…

2011-05-20T11:33:00.004-04:00

Way back on October 14th, the School of Visual Arts held its reception for the Ink Plots exhibit. SVA instructors and alumni gathered for a few hours to meet, greet, and drink wine.

The exhibit had been held at the Visual Arts Gallery located at 601 West 26 Street, 15th floor, New York City. Ink Plots continued until November 6, 2010.

The following photos of the Ink Plots reception were supplied by Miguel (thanks, Miguel):

Above photo: Original artwork from Will Eisner’s A CONTRACT WITH GOD.

Above photo: P.I.C. buddies Stephen Scanlon (creator of PIPE DREAMS) and Miguel Martinez Joffre (creator of TICKLE ME SILLY).

Above photo: Original artwork from NIHILIST-MAN AND HIS AMAZING FRIENDS #1 by (penciler) Fernando Ruiz and (writer/inker) myself.

For more information concerning the School of Visual Arts’ Ink Plots exhibit, go here.

Above: Artwork from NIHILIST-MAN AND HIS AMAZING FRIENDS #1 by (penciler) Fernando Ruiz and (writer/inker) myself. The Ink Plots exhibit also featured ten pieces from NIHILIST-MAN AND HIS AMAZING FRIENDS #1 with artwork by Joe Staton, Fernando Ruiz, and myself.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #5 now on sale!

2011-05-19T22:31:00.000-04:00

The last story in ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #5, "Mixed-up Media," is inked by myself and penciled by the great Fernando Ruiz.

First ever DC Comics and Hero Initiative collaboration: JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #50...

2011-05-19T22:24:00.004-04:00

Above: Alex Ross’ JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #50 original cover.

A collection of 100 Covers from Top artists around the world!

LOS ANGELES, CA (February 1, 2011) – The Hero Initiative, a charity dedicated to helping comic creators in medical or financial need, most proudly announces their new partnership in the Justice League Of America #50 project with DC Comics. This is the first collaboration with DC comics ever and Hero is chomping at the bit to pull the collection together. The call has gone out and dozens of artists are putting pen to paper. DC has generously donated 100 blank-covered cardstock copies of Justice League Of America #50 to Hero, and work is being created by well-known stars such as Jim Lee, Alex Ross, George Perez, Jason Bone, Jim Valentino, and many many more.

Above: My JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #50 "original cover." Click here for a larger view.

Work-Made-For-Hire, Digital Comics, and Royalties...

2011-05-19T21:57:00.001-04:00

The Creator’s Bill of Rights includes the following: "The right to prompt payment of a fair and equitable share of profits derived from all of our creative work."

Royalties for creators is fairly standard in comics today. Now with downloadable comics, will comic book creators be seeing royalties from the sale of digital comics? I don’t know how some publishers are handling this, but in regards to Archie Comics and my work, the answer is "no."

Comixology.com is selling a downloadable version of ARCHIE ALL-STARS VOLUME 3: THE CARTOON LIFE OF CHUCK CLAYTON,…, which I had inked. I contacted Archie Comics to see if I’ll be receiving any royalties from these sales. I was told: "No, we do not pay any royalties."

Mr. Steve Bissette has already discussed Archie Comics going digital: "There’s still plenty of working creators laboring under work-for-hire, under terms with precious few perks or benefits; make no mistake, the plantations are alive and working."

Over at The Beat, Archie Comics Co-CEO Jon Goldwater once stated: "I can’t speak for things prior to my being here, but things that have gone on previously with how artists were treated has nothing to do with where we are now. We support every artist, every writer, every employee of Archie. They are valued. They are treasured."

Well, I don’t feel "valued" or "treasured."

There are some comic book publishers that have made some advances in the area of comic book Creator’s Rights. Some publishers offer royalties and the return of artwork to all of its freelancers. Sadly, some still do not.

Above: Artwork from ARCHIE ALL-STARS VOLUME 3: THE CARTOON LIFE OF CHUCK CLAYTON by (penciler) Fernando Ruiz and (inker) myself.

TALES FROM RIVERDALE #39 on sale...

2010-08-03T10:16:00.000-04:00

TALES FROM RIVERDALE #39 is on sale this week at your local handy-dandy comic book store. The InterWeb tells me that I inked a story in the book. Don’t know which one that is, though. So, pick up your copy tomorrow.

Bleeding Cool reporting no Neal Gaiman credit in SPAWN ORIGINS...

2010-07-31T11:51:00.000-04:00

Looks like the Neil Gaiman and Todd McFarlane squabbles will continue. Bleeding Cool is reporting that McFarlane is reprinting Gaiman’s story and not giving the writer credit.

I still side with Neil Gaiman on this one. And the courts do, as well. As I’ve said before, it was ruled that both Neil Gaiman and Todd McFarlane share ownership to the characters that were first introduced in SPAWN #9. They include Angela, Cagliostro, and Medieval Spawn.

More Ink Plots info...

2010-07-30T10:54:00.003-04:00

Above photo: Outside the School of Visual Arts (located at 209 East 23rd Street, New York, NY).

Below is some more information concerning the School of Visual Arts’ Ink Plots graphic novel exhibit:

From the School of Visual Arts:

"Ink Plots: The Tradition of the Graphic Novel at SVA"
o Exhibition: October 8 - November 6, 2010
o Opening Reception: Thursday, October 14
o Ink Plots Cocktail Party Benefit: Thursday, October 14
o Graphic Novel Panel Discussion: Wednesday, October 20
o Distinguished Alumnus Lecture with Dash Shaw: Thursday, November 4

Harvey Pekar...

2010-07-13T12:51:00.001-04:00

Above photo: Cartoonist Harvey Pekar.

As many of you might have heard, cartoonist Harvey Pekar passed away. On July 12, 2010, around 1 a.m., Pekar's wife, Joyce Brabner, found him at their home in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. Reportedly, Pekar had been suffering from prostate cancer. Harvey Pekar was 70 years old.

At his Old Metal Lunchbox blog, artist and fellow P.I.C. member, Joe Borzotta shares with us his personal accounts with Harvey Pekar.

From Joe Borzotta:

Here's a link to my blog about my contacts with Harvey Pekar ("American Splendor") who just died.

Who owns Sonic?

2010-07-10T15:40:00.009-04:00

Above: Cover to SONIC SUPER SPECIAL #7.

I once inked a SONIC X issue for Archie Comics. Issue #34, in fact. That was kinda fun.

But, here’s something that might not be so much fun for some people…

Apparently, Ken Penders is claiming ownership of stories and characters that he penciled and wrote while working on SONIC THE HEDGEHOG. As he tells it, Penders never signed a work-made-for-hire contact with Archie Comics.

From Ken Penders:

That means anyone seeking to use my characters, concepts and stories that were published in the pages of SONIC THE HEDGEHOG, various SONIC 48-page specials, various issues of SONIC SUPER SPECIALS, the PRINCESS SALLY mini-series, the SONIC’S FRIENDLY NEMESIS KNUCKLES mini-series, KNUCKLES THE DARK LEGION and the KNUCKLES THE ECHIDNA series, must first contact me for permission and to make arrangements for the use of this material.

It’ll be interesting to see how this all turns out in regards to Creator’s Rights in the comics industry.

Thanks go out to Rich Johnston and Bleeding Cool for bringing this to everyone’s attention.

Check out "Comics and Work-Made-for-Hire: Creator’s Rights" for additional information on work-made-for-hire.

For more information regarding comic book Creator’s Rights, stop by Ya Can’t Erase Ink and the Creator’s Rights forum.

Above: Artwork from SONIC X #34 by (penciler) David Hutchison and (inker) myself.

Update: Robot 6 is reporting feedback from Archie Comics’ Managing Editor, Mike Pellerito:

We have been in contact with our legal team and the claims by Ken Penders are completely false. We will be responding through proper legal channels.

Nihilist-Man @ Ink Plots exhibit!

2010-07-06T22:34:00.007-04:00

Above: Cover artwork to NIHILIST-MAN AND HIS AMAZING FRIENDS #1 by (penciler) Fernando Ruiz, (colorist) Greg Hyland, and (inker) myself.

From October 9th to November 7th, the School of Visual Arts will be having a gallery exhibit of comic book art titled "Ink Plots." The exhibit will include original comic book art, as well, as print-outs of comic book pages.

Above: Artwork from NIHILIST-MAN AND HIS AMAZING FRIENDS #1 by (penciler) Fernando Ruiz and (writer/inker) myself.

I received word from SVA that the college wants to include pages #2-7 from NIHILIST-MAN AND HIS AMAZING FRIENDS #1 in the exhibit. These would be pages that Fernando Ruiz and I worked on in a story titled "Nihilist-Man and Kid-Cockroach."

Ink Plots will also include print-out pages, as well. From NIHILIST-MAN AND HIS AMAZING FRIENDS #1, I submitted the cover, pages 11 and 15 (penciled by Michael Kornstein), as well as pages 26 and 28 (penciled by Joe Staton). I’m waiting to hear back from SVA concerning the print-out pages. Hopefully, SVA will include these pages, too.

To learn more about NIHILIST-MAN AND HIS AMAZING FRIENDS #1, stop by www.nihilistman.com.

Stay tuned to P.I.C. News for future details about Ink Plots.

The Independence of a Judeo-Christian nation...

2010-07-03T14:40:00.009-04:00

On July 4, 1776, fifty-six of our Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. In doing so, thirteen states formed a free American nation separate from that of Great Britain:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

The Declaration of Independence was authored primarily by Thomas Jefferson and signed at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (P.I.C. even once visited Independence Hall.)

In my continuing studies of our Founding Fathers and the idea that the United States of America was founded as a Judeo-Christian nation, I have included a few more quotes from our Founding Fathers. This idea goes all the way back (at the very least) to the Pilgrims and the Mayflower Compact. (Click the "Christianity" and "History" Label links for further quotations.)

-George Washington (1752, Part of a prayer written in Washington's prayer journal):

Let me live according to those holy rules which Thou hast this day prescribed in Thy Holy Word…direct me to the true object, Jesus Christ, the way, the truth, and the life. Bless, O Lord, all the people of this land.

-Thomas Jefferson (April 21, 1803, In a letter written to Dr. Benjamin Rush):

My views... are the result of a life of inquiry and reflection, and very different from the anti-Christian system imputed to me by those who know nothing of my opinions. To the corruptions of Christianity I am indeed opposed, but not to the genuine precepts of Jesus Himself. I am a Christian in the only sense in which He wished anyone to be, sincerely attached to His doctrines in preference to all others.

-John Adams (October 11, 1798, A message to the Officers of the First Brigade of the Third Division of the Militia of Massachusetts.):

We have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry, would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.

"Tragic Genius: Wally Wood"

2010-07-01T11:05:00.000-04:00

Above: Self-portrait by Wally Wood.

Jim McLauchlin writes about the life, career, and death of Wally Wood with "Tragic Genius: Wally Wood."

From Jim McLauchlin:

It's the text of the Wally Wood feature I just wrote for Wizard #228. I found the piece very difficult to write. The subject matter is not always very pleasant. But I hope that in the end, you as a reader will get a circumspect view of Wood, and see the amazing warmth and his genius that accompanied his tragic, but very human, flaws.

The "Ink Plots" exhibit at SVA…

2010-06-30T12:50:00.003-04:00

Above photo: Outside the School of Visual Arts.

This Fall, the School of Visual Arts (located at 209 East 23rd Street, New York, NY) is having an art exhibit focusing on comic book artwork by SVA alumni. Stay tuned for details.

Press release from the School of Visual of Arts:

Coming This Fall—Ink Plots: The Tradition of the Graphic Novel at SVA

October 9 - November 7, 2010
Visual Arts Gallery
601 West 26 Street, 15th Floor
New York City

It’s been three decades since legendary cartoonist and former SVA faculty member Will Eisner coined the term "graphic novel," and since then the format has grown steadily in popularity and critical acclaim. The graphic novel’s success is especially noteworthy as other print media have struggled for an audience in the face of blogs, Facebook pages and iPhone apps. Curated by Marshall Arisman, chair of the MFA Illustration as Visual Essay Department, and Thomas Woodruff, chair of the BFA Illustration and Cartooning Department, this exhibition of published works and original art by SVA alumni helps explain the format’s enduring appeal.

Stay tuned for information on events planned in conjunction with "Ink Plots," including a benefit to establish a scholarship fund for cartooning and illustration students.

LETHARGIC LAD 2009...

2010-06-18T20:18:00.007-04:00

Above: My copy of LETHARGIC LAD 2009 which includes a cover sketch of the New Lethargic Lad by Greg Hyland.

Do you want to read comics that don’t give you a headache? Do you want to read comics that don’t treat you like an idiot? Well, then you should be reading LETHARGIC LAD.

In a comic book world full of undead Black Lanterns, zombies, shape-shifting aliens, reboots, retcons, and money-sucking-world-shattering-crossover-mega-events that lead to nothing, there remain a few comics that are still fun, entertaining, and well-crafted. One of those includes Greg Hyland’s LETHARGIC LAD (there are others such as INVINCIBLE, ATOMIC ROBO, and THE TICK NEW SERIES, but we’re not discussing those books right now).

Today, my mailbox gave me my copy of LETHARGIC LAD 2009. It came with Greg Hyland’s cover sketch. This book collects LETHARGIC LAD webcomics featuring the "Frankenstein School", "Lethargic Lad R.I.P.", the Blog-Boy Legion, a naked Walrus Boy (Wah), the Real Dark Lethargic Lads, Black Suit Lethargic Space Zombies, the death of Lethargic Lad (again?), and the New Lethargic Lad. Also, LETHARGIC LAD 2009 has plenty of Pop Culture and comic book mockery… which I always enjoy.

If you’re not reading LETHARGIC LAD, then you’re probably reading a bunch of crap.

To purchase LETHARGIC LAD 2009 or to read the weekly LETHARGIC LAD webcomic, head on over to www.lethargiclad.com.

I give LETHARGIC LAD 2009 four out of five NM’s:

More Hero Initiative sketchcards...

2010-06-17T21:58:00.001-04:00

I drew two more sketchcards for the Hero Initiative:

The Hero Initiative is the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strictly to helping comic book creators in need. Hero creates a financial safety net for yesterdays' 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.

Al Williamson has died!

2010-06-14T18:04:00.014-04:00

There have been a number of reports stating that legendary illustrator, Al Williamson, has died on June 12, 2010 in New York City.

Al Williamson has had an extensive and lengthy career. I’ve always enjoyed Williamson's artwork on the STAR WARS and BLADERUNNER comics, as well as his inks on DAREDEVIL and SPIDER-MAN. In his youth, Al Williamson took classes at Burne Hogarth's Cartoonists and Illustrators School, now known as The School of Visual Arts.

Here’s part of a press release that has been approved by the Williamson family:

Al Williamson, who for over fifty years drew for both comic books and comic strips, died June 12, 2010, at age 79. In recent years he suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. He is survived by his wife of thirty-two years, Cori, his daughter Valerie and his son Victor.

The Comics Reporter has an excellent account of Al Williamson’s career.

Benjamin Franklin: "Join, or Die"

2010-06-09T16:03:00.001-04:00

Benjamin Franklin had an extraordinary resume. He was an ambassador, diplomat, publisher, author, editor, inventor, scientist, and patriot.

Benjamin Franklin was the only Founding Father who signed all four of the major documents that helped build the United States including the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Alliance with France, the Treaty of Paris (which formally ended the Revolutionary War), and the United States Constitution.

Benjamin Franklin was also a man of many firsts. He created the first American political cartoon ("Join, or Die"). He created the first American hospital. He initiated the first American library. He began the first American volunteer Firefighter department. He started the first series of interracial schools of trade for youngsters. He was one of our first Postmasters. And he organized the first American militia.

As a scientist and inventor, Benjamin Franklin made many achievements. He discovered that lightning was electrical. Franklin invented the bifocals, the first iron furnace stove, the odometer, and the lightning rod (which protected buildings and ships from lightning damage).

Also, Benjamin Franklin was an "editor" of the Declaration of Independence. He was the head of the Abolition Society. And he raised money for the first synagogue in Philadelphia.

Above: "Join, or Die" was a political cartoon created by Benjamin Franklin. It was first published in his PENNSYLVANIA GAZETTE on May 9, 1754.

There are several well known sayings attributed to Benjamin Franklin including "a penny saved is a penny earned," "remember that time is money," and "early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise." Although my favorite being, after signing the Declaration of Independence, Franklin stated: "We must all hang together, or most assuredly we will all hang separately." There’s also: "Those who would give up Essential Liberty to purchase a little Temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."

As I wrote earlier, the majority of our Founding Fathers were not deists, as many secular historians would like you to believe. Benjamin Franklin was a church member. He believed in the power of prayer. He believed in God’s divine providence and intervention in the affairs of men (see quote below). Franklin was raised as a Puritan. When he moved to Philadelphia, he joined the Presbyterian Church. But, by today’s standards, Benjamin Franklin would probably be thought of as a Unitarian.

-Benjamin Franklin’s Constitutional Convention Address on Prayer (June 28, 1787, Philadelphia, PA):

I have lived, Sir, a long time and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth-- that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? We have been assured, Sir, in the sacred writings that "except the Lord build they labor in vain that build it." I firmly believe this; and I also believe that without his concurring aid we shall succeed in this political building no better than the Builders of Babel: We shall be divided by our little partial local interests; our projects will be confounded, and we ourselves shall be become a reproach and a bye word down to future age. And what is worse, mankind may hereafter this unfortunate instance, despair of establishing Governments by Human Wisdom, and leave it to chance, war, and conquest.

BACK ISSUE cover sneak-peeks…

2010-06-08T19:28:00.000-04:00

Above: The revised cover to BACK ISSUE #42. Cover art by Tony DeZuniga. Cover design by Michael Kronenberg.

Above: The cover to BACK ISSUE #45 by Neal Adams. Cover design by Michael Kronenberg.

For more on BACK ISSUE magazine, stop by TwoMorrow Publishing’s website.

Wanna buy some comic book art?

2010-06-04T14:59:00.003-04:00

Comic Art House in now selling some of my original comic book artwork. Pages include comic art that I have inked for Archie Comics, DC Comics, Warp Graphics, as well as my first SECRET INVASION #1 original-comic-book-cover issue.

Check out my webpage at Comic Art House… and bring your wallet.

ARCHIE'S DOUBLE DIGEST #208 now on sale!

2010-05-26T21:52:00.001-04:00

Above: ARCHIE'S DOUBLE DIGEST #208 cover artwork by Pat Kennedy, Jon D'Agostino, and Tito Peña.

I was at the local comic book store today and noticed that ARCHIE'S DOUBLE DIGEST #208 is on sale. I inked the last story in the book, "No Company." Grab your copy today before it’s too late!

My Secret Invasion...

2010-05-22T18:14:00.001-04:00

I will be working with Comic Art House in selling some of my original comic book artwork. This will include pages that I worked on for DC Comics, Warp Graphics, Archie Comics, and other art. Once the pages are posted on the InterWeb, I’ll let everyone know where to purchase the art.

In recent months, I’ve been blessed to contribute artwork to Hero Initiative in the likes of sketchcards and original comic book covers. Doing so encouraged me in to sell some of my comic book art.

Above: Front cover to Al Nickerson’s SECRET INVASION #1 original comic book cover.

Cartoonists sketching original comic book covers seem to be all the rage. I figured I’d see what all the hubbub was all about. Above is my first SECRET INVASION #1 original comic book cover. I was thinking of using a theme like "Who SHOULD have been a Skrull." Here, Nihilist-Man is beating the tar out of some guy in armor. My SECRET INVASION #1 original comic book cover will be sold through Comic Art House, as well.

Above: Back cover to Al Nickerson’s SECRET INVASION #1 original comic book cover.

Above: Al’ sketch for the cover.

Nihilist-Man is TM and © 2010 Albert Gordon Nickerson Jr.. Other characters are TM and © 2010 by someone else.

The words of Washington...

2010-05-17T18:44:00.004-04:00

Over the past couple of years, I’ve been giving a lot of time to reading and researching the writings of America’s Founding Fathers. The strongest theme that I keep coming across is that, despite what some may say, they were NOT deists. Fifty of the fifty-two founding fathers were church-going, Bible-reading Christians. George Washington often spoke of God. He prayed in public. He insisted Christian clergy be part of his army (booth British and American). Washington often spoke of God’s divine hand protecting not only himself, but also guiding the creation of our nation.

All George Washington wanted to do was to return to private life as a farmer. Since Washington was incredibly passionate about liberty, freedom, and divine providence, he always answered when his country called upon him.

After the Revolutionary War, George Washington was asked to become our nation’s first President. Washington is remembered saying (and this breaks my heart): "Have I not yet done enough for my country?"

On March 15, 1783, George Washington addressed some of his officers gathered at a church building in Newburgh, NY: "Gentlemen, you will permit me to put on my spectacles, for I have not only grown gray but almost blind in the service of my country."

George Washington died on December 14, 1799. Henry Lee served in the Continental Army, was the ninth Governor of Virginia, and the Virginia Representative to the United States Congress. Lee, delivering the funeral oration, described George Washington in this way: "first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen."

Here’s some more interesting quotes by George Washington (first President of the United States, commander of the Continental Army, Founding Father, Patriot):

-George Washington (April 30, 1789, New York):

No People can be bound to acknowledge and adore the invisible hand, which conducts the Affairs of men more than the People of the United States. Every step, by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation, seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency. And in the important revolution just accomplished in the system of their United Government, the tranquil deliberations, and voluntary consent of so many distinct communities, from which the event has resulted, cannot be compared with the means by which most Governments have been established, without some return of pious gratitude along with an humble anticipation of the future blessings which the past seem to presage. These reflections, arising out of the present crisis, have forced themselves too strongly on my mind to be suppressed. You will join me I trust in thinking, that there are none under the influence of which, the proceedings of a new and free Government can more auspiciously commence.

-George Washington's letter to the Jewish community of Newport, Rhode Island who numbered approximately 300 (August 17, 1790, Newport, RI):

May the Children of the Stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land, continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other Inhabitants; while every one shall sit in safety under his own vine and figtree, and there shall be none to make him afraid. May the father of all mercies scatter light and not darkness in our paths, and make us all in our several vocations useful here, and in his own due time and way everlastingly happy.

-George Washington (January 1, 1795, Philadelphia, PA):

When we review the calamities which afflict so many other nations, the present condition of the United States affords much matter of consolation and satisfaction. Our exemption hitherto from foreign war, an increasing prospect of the continuance of that exception, the great degree of internal tranquillity we have enjoyed, the recent confirmation of that tranquillity by the suppression of an insurrection which so wantonly threatened it, the happy course of our public affairs in general, the unexampled prosperity of all classes of our citizens, are circumstances which peculiarly mark our situation with indications of the Divine beneficence toward us. In such a state of things it is in an especial manner our duty as a people, with devout reverence and affectionate gratitude, to acknowledge our many and great obligations to Almighty God and to implore Him to continue and confirm the blessings we experience.

When Creators speak out...

2010-05-14T12:21:00.002-04:00

David Brothers and the Comics Alliance have an interesting article titled "The Exit Interview: When Disgruntled Creators Speak Their Mind". The article concerns poorly-treated, yet vocal, comic book creators:

It's terrible that these creators went through situations that made them feel like they had to speak out, and while they may be telling tales out of school, isn't it better that somebody know what's happening behind the scenes? While staying silent might be considered more professional, shouldn't there be some kind of accountability for when people are wronged? Actual people make the comics go round, so shouldn't they be treated with respect -- even if they insist upon it publicly?

Why do comic book publishers not want us to speak out? Well, for various reasons, perhaps. Maybe they don’t want to abide by existing contracts, maybe they’re cheap, or maybe they don’t want to look bad in the public eye. Well, if you don’t promote unethical business practices, then you don’t have to worry about others speaking out about your unethical behavior.

I’m continuing to speak out on the topic of Creator’s Rights for several reasons. We need young cartoonists it’s very important to teach young cartoonists about the pitfalls of working in comics, their rights as creators, and how to approach publishers.

We all need to speak out when publishers act inappropriately or dishonestly. We need to change work-made-for-hire in comics.

Frank Frazetta has passed away...

2010-05-10T18:17:00.016-04:00

This afternoon, legendary artist Frank Frazetta has died at the age of 82. The cause of death was a stroke.

Several years ago, I had the pleasure of visiting the Frank Frazetta museum. To view Frazetta’s work in person was spectacular. I even had the pleasure of talking with Frazetta's wife, Eleanor "Ellie" Frazetta.

Please keep the Frazetta family in your prayers.

Above photo: Inside the Frank Frazetta museum.

Not just a beer: Samuel Adams...

2010-04-30T21:53:00.003-04:00

In the continuing of my mentioning various American heroes, legends, and patriots, I’ve decided to post some words from founding father Samuel Adams who (even during his own lifetime) was known as "The Father of the American Revolution."

Samuel Adams led the Boston Tea Party, signed the Declaration of Independence, served as a member of the Continental Congress, helped draft the Articles of Confederation, and was an outspoken opponent of slavery.

After the battle(s) of Saratoga, Samuel Adams called for a day of Thanksgiving (November 1, 1777):

Forasmuch as it is the indispensable duty of all men to adore the superintending providence of Almighty God; to acknowledge with gratitude their obligation to Him for benefits received and to implore such farther blessings as they stand in need of…to offer humble and earnest supplication that it may please God, through the merits of Jesus Christ, mercifully to forgive and blot of remembrance…and to prosper the means of religion for the promotion and enlargement of that kingdom which consiseth in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Happy Free Comic Book Day!

2010-04-27T15:56:00.001-04:00

Don’t forget! Free Comic Book Day is this Saturday!

You can even download previews at the Free Comic Book Day website.

Here’s what I wanna pick up:

"Professor Al"

2010-04-23T16:18:00.001-04:00

Above: A flyer promoting the workshop/lecture for Sequential Art: Comics Illustration. Go here to see a larger view of the flyer.

This Fall, at Orange County Community College, I will be teaching a new course called Sequential Art: Comics Illustration. The class is described thusly:

Sequential Art offers instruction in the creation of comic books and comic strips as well as topical discussion on the operation of the comic book industry. Students learn about the pitfalls of working in comics, their rights as creators, and how to approach publishers. Course material includes the design of comic book characters, comics illustration and storytelling, self-publishing, submitting work to editors, comic book Creator’s Rights, webcomics, and strong emphasis on comic book inking. Prerequisite: ART 103 or Permission of Instructor 3 credits (2 lecture, 2 lab).

On Tuesday (April 27th), I will be giving a workshop/lecture at the college about Sequential Art: Comics Illustration. I’ll be discussing the course, and the art of creating comics.

My 2010 Harvey Awards nomination ballot...

2010-04-20T17:08:00.007-04:00

Well, I just sent in my 2010 Harvey Awards nomination ballot. The Harvey Awards are one of two fancy-schmancy awards given out in the comic book industry which are voted upon by comic book professionals.

If ya work in comics, then fill out a ballot. The deadline is Friday.

I hope this doesn’t seem too tacky, but here’s the list of my nominations:

HARVEY AWARD VOTING CATEGORIES

BEST WRITER
1.Robert Kirkman INVINCIBLE
2.Paul Grist JACK STAFF
3.Greg Hyland LETHARGIC LAD
4.Brian Clevinger ATOMIC ROBO
5.Mike Mignola HELLBOY

BEST ARTIST
1.Ryan Ottly INVINCIBLE
2.Alan Davis DARK REIGN THE LIST: UNCANNY X-MEN
3.Paul Grist JACK STAFF
4.Greg Hyland LETHARGIC LAD
5.Scott Wegener ATOMIC ROBO

BEST CARTOONIST
1.Greg Hyland LETHARGIC LAD
2.Les McClaine LIFE WITH LESLIE
3.Terry Moore ECHO
4.Paul Grist JACK STAFF
5.Stephen Scanlon PIPE DREAMS

BEST LETTERER
1.Dave Sim GlamourPuss
2.Greg Hyland LETHARGIC LAD 2008
3.Jeff Powell ATOMIC ROBO

BEST INKER
1.Mark Farmer DARK REIGN THE LIST: UNCANNY X-MEN
2.Greg Hyland LETHARGIC LAD 2008
3.Terry Moore ECHO
4.Andy Owens BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER
5.Cliff Rathburn INVINCIBLE

BEST COLORIST
1.FCO Plascencia INVINCIBLE
2.Paul Mounts POWER GIRL
3.Greg Hyland LETHARGIC LAD 2008

BEST COVER ARTIST
1.Adam Hughes POWER GIRL
2.Amanda Conner POWER GIRL
3.Jo Chen BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER

BEST NEW SERIES
1.THE TICK NEW SERIES New England Comics Press

BEST CONTINUING OR LIMITED SERIES
1.INVINCIBLE Image Comics
2.JACK STAFF Image Comics
3.ATOMIC ROBO Red Five Comics
4.POWER GIRL DC Comics
5.LETHARGIC LAD Lethargic Comics International

BEST SYNDICATED STRIP OR PANEL
1. GET FUZZY

BEST SINGLE ISSUE OR STORY
1.INVINCIBLE #61-65 "Conquest" Image Comics
2.ATOMIC ROBO AND THE SHADOW BEYOND TIME #1-5 Red Five Comics

BEST DOMESTIC REPRINT PROJECT
1.TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES COLLECTED BOOK: VOLUME 1 Mirage Studios

BEST ONLINE COMICS WORK
1.LETHARGIC LAD http://www.lethargiclad.com/
2.LIFE WITH LESLIE http://www.evilspacerobot.com/lifewithleslie/
3.YIRMUMAH http://yirmumah.com/
4.PIPE DREAMS http://scanscorner.blogspot.com/
5.ATOMIC ROBO:"The Yonkers Devil" http://www.nuklearpower.com/2009/09/28/the-yonkers-devil-1-of-7/

SPECIAL AWARD FOR HUMOR IN COMICS
1.Stephen Scanlon PIPE DREAMS
2.Greg Hyland LETHARGIC LAD
3.D.J. Coffman YIRMUMAH
4.Josh Alves THE ADVENTURES OF THE ARAKNID KID #1
5.Benito Cereno/Les McClaine THE TICK NEW SERIES

SPECIAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN PRESENTATION
1.BACK ISSUE TwoMorrows Publishing
2.LETHARGIC LAD 2008 Lethargic Comics International
3.INVINCIBLE: THE ULTIMATE COLLECTION, VOL. 4 Image Comics

BEST BIOGRAPHICAL, HISTORICAL, OR JOURNALISTIC PRESENTATION (ANY BOOK, MAGAZINE, FILM, OR VIDEO THAT CONTRIBUTES TO THE UNDERSTANDING OF COMICS AS AN ARTFORM)
1.BACK ISSUE TwoMorrows Publishing
2.MODERN MASTERS TwoMorrows Publishing

BEST ORIGINAL GRAPHIC PUBLICATION FOR YOUNGER READERS
1.THE ADVENTURES OF THE ARAKNID KID #1 Crash Land Studio

LETHARGiC LAD 2009 to debut on Free Comic Book Day!

2010-04-12T14:15:00.002-04:00

Above: Cover to Greg Hyland’s LETHARGiC LAD 2009.

Greg Hyland’s LETHARGiC LAD 2009 will debut this upcoming Free Comic Book Day (May 1st… if ya didn’t know).

From Lethargiclad.com:

The new limited edition full colour LETHARGiC LAD 2009 book will "premiere" at a Free Comic Book Day signing event held at Big B Comics in Hamilton, Ontario. The signing will coincidentally feature me, Lethargic Lad creator Greg Hyland.

Of course, I am excited about the announcement of the LETHARGiC LAD 2009 book. So, I just had to ask Greg some questions:

P.I.C. News: Congratulations on the tenth anniversary of LETHARGiC LAD being a webcomic. Ya know, it doesn’t seem that long since Lethargic Lad’s webcomic debut.

Greg Hyland: I agree. The anniversary actually snuck up on me, too. My original "goal" for the strip was to last 100 strips.

P.I.C. News: Do you feel as passionate about webcomics today as you did ten years ago?

Greg Hyland: I guess so. I mean, I keep doing them for some unknown reason!

P.I.C. News: There doesn’t seem as much a divide between webcomics and print comics creators like there once was. Now-a-days, many webcomics cartoonists collect their webcomics in a printed format. Years ago, you’ve even collected Lethargic Lad’s webcomics in printed form with your LETHARGICLAD.COM mini-comics. As I used to often say: "Comics is comics."

Greg Hyland: I think that putting comics up on the web and then collecting them for sale is the new comics "business model." And it's easier these days to do nice things in print thanks to better print-on-demand companies.

P.I.C. News: I really enjoyed your 2007 and 2008 LETHARGiC LAD books. I’m looking forward to the LETHARGiC LAD 2009 book. The widescreen, color format is a brilliant way to go.

Greg Hyland: Well, it was YOUR idea to do them this way!

P.I.C. News: What’s Lethargic Lad doing during his tenth anniversary webcomic debut?

Greg Hyland: Check out this week's comic (Lethargic Lad.com#120.2) to get an idea.

Gene Colan injured…

2010-04-09T11:08:00.007-04:00

Above photo: Comic book artist and former SVA teacher, Gene Colan.

Clifford Meth is reporting that legendary cartoonist and former School of Visual Arts instructor, Gene Colan, has been injured:

Gene was injured last week and is now being cared for by his son and daughter. In addition, it appears that some of Gene’s artwork has disappeared, including pages from Nathanial Dusk and a Star Wars-related piece. The police are involved in the matter.

Above photo: Taken in a classroom at the School of Visual Arts. (Left to right) Mitch and (comic book legend and SVA instructor) Gene Colan. School year 1986-1987.

Update:

The Beat is reporting that Gene Colan was injured in his home, but that he was not mugged as first reported. Details are sketchy. I’m not sure if we’ll learn the whole story, and if this is indeed a private matter, then we shouldn’t. Please keep Gene in your prayers.

From The Beat:

I’ve been contacted by a reliable source stating that this is not the case. Colan was indeed injured in his house and art is missing, but it is not part of a mugging. Details of the injury and missing artwork are being kept vague to respect the Colan family’s privacy.

Colan is home and recuperating and expected to recover from the injury.

Covering BACK ISSUE...

2010-04-05T13:50:00.003-04:00

Thanks to Ye Ed, Michael Eury, here’s some sneak-peeks to upcoming covers for BACK ISSUE magazine:

Above: The cover to BACK ISSUE #42, our "Wild West" issue, featuring Jonah Hex by Tony DeZuniga, with cover design by Michael Kronenberg.

Above: The cover to BACK ISSUE #43, our "Born To Be Wild" issue, featuring Shanna the She-Devil by Frank Cho, with colors by Glenn Whitmore and cover design by Michael Kronenberg.

Above: The cover to BACK ISSUE #44 by Bob Larkin, cover design by Michael Kronenberg.

For more on BACK ISSUE magazine, stop by TwoMorrow Publishing’s website.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-02T21:13:00.002-04:00

Happy Easter! Happy Passover! Happy Resurrection Day!

Matthew 28:2-10 (King James Version):

2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. 3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: 4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.

5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, "Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. 6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. 7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you."

8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.

9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, "All hail." And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. 10 Then said Jesus unto them, "Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me."

Hero Initiative's "Archie 50 Hub"...

2010-03-30T11:09:00.001-04:00

Above: George Perez’s Hero Initiative ARCHIE #600 "original cover" contribution.

Hero Initiative has created it’s "Archie 50 Hub" webpage where folks can find ongoing news information and links to articles concerning the "50 new Archie covers by 50 great artists will benefit Hero Initiative" project.

TMNT, Cerebus, and a letter from Dave Sim...

2010-03-29T18:16:00.003-04:00

Above: Promotional art for TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #8 by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird.

In May of 2008, Peter Laird and Dave Sim came up with an agreement concerning the reprint rights to TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #8 (July 1986). The comic book featured the guest-appearance of Dave’s Cerebus and team-up with Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

In October of 2009, Peter Laird sold the Teenage Mutant Turtles to Viacom for approximately $60 million. I was curious to find out how this deal affected Dave and Peter’s agreement. I wrote Dave. I also e-mailed Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman about this, as well.

I did hear back from Dave Sim. I finally got Dave’s letter in the mail today. Looks like the letter was lost in the postal system for some time. The letter has a cover date of December 23, 2009. Anyway, here’s what Dave Sim has to say about the Viacom sale and it’s affects on TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #8:

50 new Archie covers by 50 great artists will benefit Hero Initiative...

2010-03-24T14:23:00.004-04:00

Above: Al Nickerson's Hero Initiative ARCHIE #600 "original cover." Click here for a larger version.

The Hero Initiative (a worthwhile charity in the comic book industry) is doing a new "original cover" project with Archie Comics. This project will use 50 artists drawing original covers for ARCHIE #600 (the "Archie Gets Married Part 1: The Proposal" issue). Each comic book will be auctioned off to generate funds for Hero Initiative.

The Hero Initiative (God bless them) had asked me to draw one of the ARCHIE #600 original cover comics, and I was very happy to contribute. The front cover has the Shield reacting to Archie and Veronica’s wedding announcement. The back cover is my tribute to Dan DeCarlo (the creator of Josie and the Pussycats) with my interpretation of Josie. This is the first time (I think) that I ever drew Josie.

Anyway, I felt like sharing because my Josie (and the Pussycats) back cover is kinda rock n’ roll. Plus, tipping-the-hat to Dan DeCarlo seems like the right thing to do, especially with such an important project as this one.

From Hero Initiative:

Los Angeles, CA (March 24, 2010): Archie and the whole Riverdale gang certainly are heroes. Now they’re joining forces to aid cartoonists in need.

Archie Comics is teaming up with the Hero Initiative, the charity dedicated to helping comic creators in medical or financial need, for an amazing artistic extravaganza involving the premier issue of the world-renowned Archie wedding series, Archie #600. Archie Comics has printed 50 blank-covered copies of the landmark book, and Hero will have 50 stellar artists do original Archie covers on the special edition books. The originals will be auctioned off at a later date to benefit Hero, and a book will be published, collecting all 50 covers.

Superstar artists such as Neal Adams, Darwyn Cooke, Sam Kieth, Jerry Ordway, George Pérez, John Romita, Tim Sale and more are all contributing to the project, "Archie Covers: Fifty Times an American Icon." More artistic surprises are yet in store, as artists from the animation world and even underground comics will be making contributions as well!

"I’ve been in comics for 35 years, and this is the first chance I’ve had to draw Archie ‘for real,’" said legendary Marvel/DC artist and Hero board member George Pérez. "And given that opportunity, I’d be foolish not to draw the stunning Betty and Veronica as well! It’s a lot of fun, a great opportunity, and of course, a great cause. I hope everyone enjoys these covers!"

"Archie Comics is committed to supporting those who have spent their lives as the cornerstone of the comics industry. We are thrilled to be working with the Hero Initiative on this project," remarks Co-CEO Jon Goldwater. "The covers have been remarkable and we can’t wait to see what the remaining artists have in store for their edition of the Hero covers for Archie #600."

Each original cover will be auctioned off via eBay.com at a future date. A release date for the book is also pending. Stay tuned! You will not want to miss out on these amazing once-in-a-lifetime covers!

About The Hero Initiative:

The Hero Initiative is the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strict to helping comic book creators in need. Hero 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 $400,000 to the comic book veterans who have paved the way for those in the industry today. For more information, visit www.heroinitiative.org or call 626-676-6354.

Update:

Jim McLauchlin of Hero Initiative talks with Newsarama about the 50 ARCHIE #600 original cover project.

I’m not an Avenger...

2010-03-17T12:25:00.006-04:00

Above: "I’m not an Avenger": the Nihilist-Man version. Design by Al Nickerson and Greg Hyland. Nihilist-Man artwork by (penciler) Fernando Ruiz and (inker/colorist) Al Nickerson. A larger version can be seen here.

First, there was "I am an Avenger." Then, there was "I'm a member of the Guardians of the Globe." And now, Greg Hyland and I have started the "I’m not an Avenger" campaign. This is all in good fun, of course, and is only intended to help creators promote their comics.

If you would like to add your creator-owned character to the "I’m not an Avenger" campaign, you can get the template here. Don’t forget to add your character’s quotation and your website address. The quotation has a Helvetica Bold/Oblique font with a point size of 35. The website address is a Helvetica Bold font with a point size of 25.

Let us know where we can see your results. And spread the word.

Update:

Above: John Gallagher’s Buzzboy has joined the "I’m not an Avenger" campaign.

The "I’m not an Avenger" campaign has got some press already. The Pulse has plugged us.

And with comments like "Brilliant!" from the likes of Steve Conley (ASTOUNDING SPACE THRILLS, STAR TREK: YEAR FOUR), we must be on to something here.

The news of Buzzboy joining the "I’m not an Avenger" campaign
has made The Pulse, as well.

BACK ISSUE #39 on sale now!

2010-03-17T10:51:00.005-04:00

Above: Cover to BACK ISSUE #39 by Mike Wieringo and Karl Kesel.

BACK ISSUE #39 is now on sale. This issue features my "The Way-Out Wonder!" article focusing on the history of Marvel’s Forbush-Man. The article includes commentary by the legendary Stan Lee, writer extraordinaire Roy Thomas, the great Gene Colan, Ye-Ed Michael Eury, and famed cartoonist Greg Hyland.

BACK ISSUE editor, Michael Eury, gives the skinny on the cover:

Presenting, the cover to BACK ISSUE #39 (shipping mid-March 2010), our "April Fools" issue, starring Spider-Ham by Mike Wieringo and Karl Kesel.

Mike Wieringo penciled this as a Heroes Con sketch (with a black-costumed Spider-Ham) back in 2007. Karl Kesel recently inked it, altering Spidey's suit to the traditional red-and-blue. And Glenn Whitmore's colors are dazzling, aren't they?

We're honored to remind readers of the sorely missed Mike Wieringo with this one.

Special thanks go out to our designer, Rich Fowlks, who located this piece of art and suggested the April Fools theme.

To order a copy of BACK ISSUE #39, stop by here.

For more on BACK ISSUE magazine, stop by TwoMorrow Publishing’s website.

Got some booty...

2010-03-16T14:56:00.000-04:00

I got my box full of my Archie Comics comp copies today. It included two copies of ARCHIE ALL-STARS VOLUME 3: THE CARTOON LIFE OF CHUCK CLAYTON trade paperback (inked by me). Which is wonderful, of course. The trade paperback is really sweet-looking; nice paper, nice coloring, nice job. Thanks, Archie Comics.

Steve Bissette, Frank Miller, DC, Marvel, and censorship...

2010-03-09T14:53:00.003-05:00

Above: TYRANT artwork by Steve Bissette.

At his blog, Mr. Steve Bissette has posted "Forgotten Comics Wars Or: How Angry Freelancers Made It Possible for A New Mainstream Comics Era (Including Vertigo) to Exist…"

Here, Steve Bissette shares his insights and experience on the 1980’s censorship issues with Marvel Comics and DC Comics. Steve includes documents and a snazzy drawing by Frank Miller.

I very much enjoyed Mr. Bissette’s "Forgotten Comics Wars" blog article. In 1986-87, I was a young, snot-nosed, college kid, but I vaguely recall the censorship debate between comic book creators and the Big Two. Now, thanks to Steve, I’m aware of the particulars. Love that Frank Miller drawing.

It seems apparent that Steve Bissette and other comic book creators had a nice sense of comradery back in those days. Too bad we don’t have that today.

Colleen Doran & Creator’s Rights...

2010-03-06T11:16:00.001-05:00

Above photo: Colleen Doran and a comic-book-creator-signed Danish flag at the 2006 New York Comic Con.

Colleen Doran has mentioned that she will be taking part in a Creators Rights Panel at Wondercon. If you’re a cartoonist, especially one just starting out in the comics industry, visiting a panel such as this is absolutely worthwhile. In a time when many folks don’t like talking about comic book Creator’s Rights, it’s great to see someone like Colleen speak out on these issues.

Check out Colleen’s blog for more details about the Protect Yourself: Creators’ Rights panel.

Scott McCloud...

2010-03-03T16:52:00.002-05:00

Above photo: Scott McCloud, cartoonist and author of UNDERSTANDING COMICS and MAKING COMICS.

Here's an interesting article about/with Scott McCloud:

"One of the problems with Reinventing is that it includes a lot of ideas I’d had from years before and never got around to putting in a book," Scott admits. "I’m still passionately devoted to them, but was still moving on from some of them; especially some of the stuff from the first half of the book that were things from years before. There was stuff like the Creators’ Bill or Rights, which I’d been thinking about, and decided that it was something I needed to put to paper. It was like cleaning up. I think it felt that way for a lot of people, a little by the numbers."

And…

"I’ve always been more interested in what’s possible in the future than what’s happened in the past. I’ve never been very nostalgic and have never been much of a collector. You’re never going to hear me moaning about how much better comics were when I was a kid, because they weren’t! Comics are much better now…"

The Gettysburg Address...

2010-03-01T11:48:00.004-05:00

Above photo: In the center of the crowd, President Abraham Lincoln leaves the stage after giving his Gettysburg Address. Because of earlier, more long-winded speeches, the photographer underestimated the time needed to set up his camera for Lincoln’s address.

The Battle of Gettysburg was a historical moment in the American Civil War. Between July 1st to 3rd of 1863, 160,000 American soldiers fought one another at the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. There were between 46,000 and 51,000 Union and Confederate soldiers who died in that battle.

On the afternoon of Thursday, November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln gave a poignant speech at Gettysburg. I find Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address to be the most moving of speeches. Lincoln spoke of God, equality, liberty, and a unified government run by its people.

President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address has gone down in history to being quite memorable, despite what Lincoln may have thought of it at the time:

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation, so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate... we can not consecrate... we can not hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government: of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.