A Life in Words-- Interview with Renee Witterstaetter, "Texarkana Gazette," 12-30-12

Renee's Notes: A visit home to Texas this Christmas, included a nice interview with the local newspaper, "The Texarkana Gazette." Back in college, I also wrote travel articles for them. So it was kinda fun to see myself on the front page. A few things I talked about in the interview didn't make it into the final article. So, I'd also like to mention the names of these several folks who were important to me early on, and whom I've never forgotten. Besides of course, going more in-depth about my parents, Erma and Raymond Witterstaetter, who sacrificed so much of their time and energy to raise my brothers and I, there are others... 

Namely, Coach McGregor who was my history teacher at Westlawn Jr. High School, Mark Gruenwald, my boss and wonderful teacher at Marvel Comics. Craig Anderson, my direct boss at Marvel Comics, and Jim Salicrup, my friend and boss at Topps Comics. All people I feel blessed to know. 

Since you have to have a subscription to the paper to read the story on-line, here is the article in it's entirety. 

Telling Stories: Love of Reading led to a lifelong career of film, comic books and publishing for Wake Village native Renee Witterstaetter


*Renee Witterstaetter, a writer, comic book editor and color artist who has worked for Marvel and DC Comics, holds a copy of one of her books, "Michael Golden's More Heroes and Villains," on Friday in the graphic novels section of Books-A-Million in Texarkana, Texas.

By Marie Martin * Texarkana Gazette
December 30, 2012

Storytelling comes naturally to Wake Village, Texas native Renee Witterstaetter, whose homegrown talent gave her a lifelong career in the creative worlds of comics, literature, music and film.

Witterstaetter, a 1980's graduate of Texas High School and East Texas State University-Commerce, spent her childhood reading, writing and watching old movies. She said her introduction to comics came from reading comics collected by her brothers, Robert and Ray.

"Spider-Man," specifically the issue where Peter meets Mary Jane, by Marvel Comics and DC Comics "Jerry Lewis" books…these were the first comics I discovered as a kid from my brother's collection, long before I knew I'd ever work in comics."

Witterstaetter said she returns to East Texas two or three times a year to keep herself grounded and reminded of the place where she "found the early love of storytelling," including the inspiration from her grandmother.

"(She) was always writing poetry," Witterstaetter said of grandmother Eva Hicks of Texarkana. "She made quilts and used them to remind her of a story from her life with fabric from an old dress or a flour sack."

(My Grandmother, Eva Vann Hicks with me right before my move to Connecticut, and below as a teenager.)

In December, Witterstaetter visited Books-A-Million in Texarkana, which sells a number of graphic novels that list Witterstaetter's name in the credits.

Witterstaetter is the daughter of Erma and Raymond Witterstaetter. She said her influences were many, including elementary teacher Jewel Gwyn; French teacher Sue Kimbro, who encouraged her to got to Paris on a school trip; high school Journalism teacher Connie Penny; and college professor Dr. Lawrence McNamee, who taught her about William Shakespeare and worked with her on writing collaborations.

(Above, my parents visiting in Connecticut, and my dear friend Dr. Lawrence McNamee.)

Witterstaetter said she became aware of her creative aptitude when she won an award in Junior High School for a World War II slide show. She recruited a concentration camp survivor to narrate the project.

(Working at the East Texan at ETSU Commerce.)

Just after completing college, Witterstaetter left East Texas to work at a company that organized comic book events. Eventually, she became an editor at comic book publishers DC, Marvel and Topps. She worked on "Superman" at DC. At Marvel she worked on the "Silver Surfer," "Conan the Barbarian," the reintroduction of "She-Hulk" and the "Conan Saga." At Topps, she was the editor for "Jurassic Park," "Xena" and "Hercules." She is the co-creator of the comic book series "Spartan X" with artist Michael Golden.

(With the one and only Stan Lee at the Dallas Fantasy Faire, where I was the Co-Chair.)

Now, Witterstaetter owns her own publishing company, Eva Ink in Connecticut, and represents several comic artists in the Eva Ink Artist Group. She also has written several historical, film, art and children's books.

(Children's book, "Kerry and the Scary Things," with cover by Michael Golden, text by Renee Witterstaetter and illos by Keith Wilson.)

Witterstaetter said her career--which took her from working with a Dallas company that organizes comic conventions, to authoring her own books, to working on music videos with Madonna, Usher and Seal--is proof that "doors are always opening."

"When a door opens and it feels right, that's what I do. I am very fortunate and blessed."

Witterstaetter said the comics business is collegial.

"It's a small industry, and everyone knows everyone in the industry."

One of those Witterstaetter knows is Mike Carlin, an editor at Marvel and DC.

"He taught me a great deal about the essentials of telling a good story."

Witterstaetter travels to China, Norway, Spain, Australia, Costa Rica and Hong Kong and other places have introduced her to celebrities, including Jackie Chan, about whom she wrote a book and whom she considers a good friend, and famed comedian Buster Keaton's widow, Eleanor, whom she traveled to Los Angeles to introduce to Chan at one point.

Witterstaetter worked with Chan on his movie "Rush Hour 2" and with Anthony Hopkins on "Red Dragon."

(With Jackie in Hong Kong, on his birthday one year.)

Witterstaetter studied journalism in high school, at Texarkana College and at Texas A&M Commerce. She was the editor of the Tiger Times, TC News and at A&M (Then ETSU)--Commerce's student newspaper The East Texan. She also worked at Citizens Tribune newspaper in New Boston.

(Working on the school newspaper at Texas High School.)

Witterstaetter said most o the books Eva Ink publishes are limited edition, and some are picked up by other companies for various foreign editions. Her book "Nick Cardy: The Artist at War" recently was picked up by Britain's Titan Publishing. The book can be purchased on Titanbooks.com and will be in bookstores soon.

Cardy is a movie poster artist and a comic book artist on DC's "Tomahawk," "Aquaman" and "Teen Titans."

Witterstaetter said the idea for the Cardy book came after she visited the artist a couple of years ago. He showed her some of his never-before-seen combat sketches of World War II. Cardy, 93, carried his artist tools with him while an assistant tank driver in the 3rd Armored Division. He received two Purple Hearts.

(With Nick Cardy at MegaCon in Orlando, Florida.)

Witterstaetter said despite the popularity of electronic media, there always will be a place for paper books.

"It's a treasure that shouldn't be lost…(It's) an artifact, history of our existence as people," she said.

Witterstaetter, who fancies ballroom and Salsa dancing and still likes to fish in NYC's Central Park, has a number of nieces and nephews in East Texas. She will travel to Russia next year to lecture on comics.



Renee Witterstaetter List:

A partial list of some of the books on which Renee Witterstaetter has worked:

*"Nick Cardy: The Artist at War" by Renee Witterstaetter, published by Eva Ink (2011) and Titan Publishing (2013)

*"Santa Confidential"--Artwork by Chris Browne of "Hagar the Horrible" fame, text by S. Claus, edited and designed by Renee Witterstaetter. Consultant Ric Meyers. Eva Ink Publishing (2012)

*"Nick Cardy: Wit-Lash," by Renee Witterstaetter, published by Eva Ink (2012)

*"Dying for Action: The Life and Films of Jackie Chan," Warner Publishing, author Renee Witterstaetter (1998). Updated version due in 2013.

*"Kerry and the Scary Things," children's book by Renee Witterstaetter. Cover by Michael Golden. Interior art by Keith Wilson. Published by Eva Ink (2011)

*"Tex: The Art of Mark Texeira," author Renee Witterstaetter. Published by Vanguard Productions (2009)

*"Excess: The Art of Michael Golden," author Renee Witterstaetter from Vanguard Productions (2009)

*"Fantastic Art of Arthur Suydam," Editors J. David Spurlock and Renee Witterstaetter. Text by Arthur Suydam. From Vanguard Publishing (2007).

Matt Triano: "Sherlock Holmes: The Liverpool Demon" #1--Hits the Stands!

Sherlock Holmes is busy doing what he does best, solving a case of far-reaching international notoriety. It has landed him at the Port of Liverpool, a bustling hub of commerce both legitimate and illicit. As that chapter closes, ours begins. They head to Lime Street Station, to catch a fast steam locomotive home to London and Baker Street, when violent weather keeps The Great Detective and Watson in Britain's second city a while longer. Long enough to encounter a monster, discover the Liverpool underworld, and to become embroiled in one of his strangest cases yet.

Bringing Holmes and Watson to life is the stunning artwork of artist Matt Triano!

Matt Triano is already known for his storyboard work, motion comic work, and artwork for various ad agency projects developing custom comics for high profile clients. His art can currently be seen in works for Robin Hood Charities in New York, Moonstone (Captain Action), Zenescope (Grimm's Myths and Legends, Robyn Hood, Sleepy Hallow, Story of Mankind), The Discovery Channel and Marvel Trading cards (Marvel Characters), as well as a Batman story for the "DC Halloween Special. "Sherlock Holmes" is a stellar addition to the list!

Story by Leah Moore and John Reppion, Pencils and inks by Matt Triano, cover by Francesco Francavilla. Cover price: $3.99 Publisher Dynamite Entertainment.

To read a little more about Matt, go to:

http://witterstaetterwrites.blogspot.com/2012/01/spotlight-new-interviw-with-matt-triano.html

For more information on Matt's booking and assignments contact Renee at Eva Ink Artist Group at: evaink@aol.com

 

Painting Commission List Opens for Mark Texeira!

It's that time again. Mark Texeira is accepting two painting commissions. And only when those two are completed will the list be open again.

Fine art painter, Mark Texeira has long been known for a conflagration of characters, including "MoonKnight," "Black Panther," "Ghost Rider," "Wolverine," and much more. Currently his series "Space Punisher" has been released to rave reviews. His catalogue of work over the last 30 years has astounding.

Take a look at this just completed Black Cat commission by Mark to get you started!

Of course, throughout 2013, at various convention appearances, Mark will also be accepting, penciled, inked as well as watercolor commissions to be done on site. 

 

But here is a rare opportunity to get on Mark's list for a fully painted original piece!! Character of your choice. 

 

 

 

For more information, contact Renee at: evaink@aol.com for details and pricing.
 

NYCC 2012 in Pictures and Posts!

 (Jim Steranko, Renee Witterstaetter and Mark Texeira.)

 (Bob Camp, Larry Hama, Hecto Calazzo, Jim Salicrup, Michael Golden, Renee Witterstaetter.)

 (Glenn Herdling, Ed Lazellari, Scott Morelli, Renee Witterstaetter and Mark Texeira.)

 (Renee Witterstaetter, Steve Bunche, and Mark Texeira.)

(Jim Steranko and Michael Golden)

The New York Comic Con was great this year: A new room all to ourselves, great space on and behind the tables, and enthusiastic folks through the door.

Pitching up badges and getting organized was a breeze. Of course there are always a few glitches with a show this big, but they didn't come from the organization. Despite the massive crowds, it all seemed to go like clock-work.

Highlights included meeting many new fans, as well as seeing some regulars. Much thanks to those that were courteous and worked with us for signings and sketches. A few kind words and consideration for the artist and their time can go a long way. You helped make it enjoyable for both sides of the table.

Writer Jack Abramowitz also stopped by and much thanks for him highlighting our books and appearance at the NYCC by Michael Golden, myself, Mark Texeira, Dennis Calero, Matt Triano, Ric Meyers and Rodney Ramos. With our trusty assistant Constance Katsafanas on hand!

Here's a little of Jack's report:

"Renee Witterstaetter represents not only her own work but also that of Michael Golden, Mark Texeira, and many others. Her company, Little Eva Ink, produces art books and portfolios including two from Nick Cardy. 'Nick Cardy: The Artist at War' features sketches from World War II, which Witterstaetter described as “one man’s story of the war as told through his art.” 'Nick Cardy: Wit-Lash' presents a collection of Cardy’s humor work. New sketchbooks available include 'Joe Jusko: Maelstrom' and 'Michael Golden: Alchemy.' Making its debut at Comic Con, however, was 'Santa Confidential,' drawn by Chris Browne (current creator of the comic strip Hagar the Horrible) and ostensibly written by Santa Claus himself. “It’s 52 questions, one for every week of the year,” Witterstaetter explained. “These are actual questions that the kids have asked of Santa over the years so parents can read one question a week to their kids leading up to Christmas.” '

You can read the full article here:


http://www.cbgxtra.com/knowledge-base/con-reports/you-can-do-it-all-at-new-york-comic-con

And finally, the best thing about any show is seeing people we know and love. We had far too little time with most of them. But just reconnecting for a few moments is still grand. Even if your photo isn't here (I didn't start snapping until the last day,)  you know who you are.

Until next time….

--Renee

(Constance with Squirrel Girl. Bringing up the tail end.)

Alert: Artwork Stolen From Suydam Studios-- Keep an eye out!

Hi Everyone-- Arthur asked me to circulate this for him. If you have been approached by the person(s) trying to sell this stolen work, he'd appreciate hearing from you. All tips are confidential. If you have a blog or place to post this, please do to help spread the word. Best, Renee

________


For Immediate Release:
October 15, 2012

STOLEN FRAZETTA, SUYDAM,  ARTWORK !!!
REWARD!

Alien  Genocide  by  Arthur Suydam

Little  Devil   by  Frank Frazetta  (  artist sketch of stolen  artwork)

 These  artworks, among others, were  recently stolen  from  the  studio  of   artist Arthur  Suydam .  If  you  see these artworks or have any information on  their  location, please  contact Arthur at  suyd@earthlink.net, 

212 475 4840.

All personal information will be kept  confidential.

Description of Two of the Pieces:

Alien Genocide  by  Arthur Suydam (  gouche  painting )

Little   Devil   by   Frank   Frazetta  (  ink  drawing 8 1/2 x 11”)

Santa Spills the Beans in "Santa Confidential!"--Artwork by Chris Browne

Are you the real Santa?"

"How do you deliver presents when we don’t have a chimney?"

"How do the reindeer fly?"

"Can you really see us when we’re sleeping?"

"How do you know who’s been naughty or nice?"

Did you ever want to know the real answers to these questions? All of them, and many more, have been asked of Santa Claus over the years, and he thinks it's time you knew the truth.

Here, in this amazing, entertaining, and funny book are the answers to the top fifty-two questions – one for each week of the year.

So whether parents read them to their children, or you read them for yourself, you’ll have fun every week from Christmas to Christmas.

Illustrated by world-famous artist Chris Browne, and penned by the “jolly ol’ elf” himself, Santa Confidential reveals what you’ve always wanted to know. 

 

The book is available for ordering from Diamond, and will ship in time for Christmas! (Stocking Stuffer, you know.)

ISBN # Signed Edition: 978-1-4675-3957-9
$17.99

ISBN # Sketch Edition:  978-1-4675-3959-3
$125.

For more information or to order directly from Eva Ink, contact us at: evaink@aol.com

Swimming with the Fishes--The Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta has a wonderful program called "Swimming with Gentle Giants." I've been lucky enough to be able to do this program twice. Most recently with Matt Driscoll and Mike Zeck.  It's amazing to realize that this is the only place, at least in the US, where you can swim with these whale sharks (four), while also being surrounded by manta rays and various types of more toothy sharks and other fish.

                                                    (Mike on the left, next to me. Matt, second from the right.)

As well as be a ton of fun, the money spent on the experience also goes to a good cause.  A portion of the proceeds from the Dive Immersion Program goes to the aquariums 4R Program, aimed at Research, Rehabilitation, Responsibility and Rescue of aquatic wildlife around the world. Georgia Aquarium currently has 4R projects involving beluga whales, loggerhead sea turtles and coral reefs, as well as the one with the whale sharks.

                                                               (I'm on the left. Mike with the yellow goggles.)

Research and conservation projects sponsored by the Georgia Aquarium are helping us better understand the biology of aquatic animals, and to provide protection for wildlife and their habitats in Georgia and around the world. Research projects on whale sharks in Mexico, Taiwan and in the Ocean Voyager exhibit in Georgia help scientists gain a better understanding of the biology of whale sharks, and will facilitate policy decisions to provide greater protection for this gentle giant.

Oh, and did I mention that it's an amazing experience?

--R.