Convention Bookings Open: 21/22-- Shooter, Golden, Suydam, Cook, Ishwerwood, Morales, Nolan! Take a look at all of our Amazing talent!

Hi Everyone-- 2021/2022 bookings are fully underway. Michael Golden, Rags Morales, Jim Shooter, Georges Jeanty, Graham Nolan Arthur Suydam! Read our full list and book ASAP! My email is: evaink@aol.com Best, Renee Check the bios of some of our great creators below:

Michael Golden--(Artist/Writer/Consultant/Designer) One of THE storytellers in the industry, influencing generations of comics fans and professionals, Michael Golden boasts creations that are some of the most licensed and enduring in the industry. Co-Creator of Rogue, Bucky O'Hare, Micronauts and "The 'Nam," among much more, Golden is known as one of THE artists on such characters as Batman, Doctor Strange, G.I. Joe and the Punisher. Golden's recent covers can be seen on everything from "Spawn" to the "Walking Dead," to World Wrestling work. Recent covers include works on "The Walking Dead," "Deadpool," and "DareDevil," to name a few. In short, no history of comics is complete without touching on the influence that this legendary artist has had on this industry. Recent books on the colorful life and vibrant art of Golden include "Michael Golden: Alchemy" "Modern Masters: Michael Golden" and "Excess: The Art of Michael Golden," and "Michael Golden: Dangerous Curves." In addition, having served as both Senior Art Director at Marvel Comics and Senior Editor at DC Comics, Golden's lectures and classes in storytelling are sought after world wide, with recent venues including places as diverse as Spain, France, Russia, Norway, Brazil, Chile and China. With recent gallery shows mounted in New York City, Maryland, Spain and Russia. Programing Notes: Various panels on the art of comic books can be scheduled with Michael, to highlight this special event at your show. (Note: Michael has specific table and listing requirements. )

Mike Zeck--(Artist, Creator) Note: Mike is Currently on Hiatus. But do send us your interest for future bookings. When discussing comics heavy hitter, Mike Zeck, you'd have to argue which is his most influential work, or which is most deeply embossed on our pop culture. His series "Kraven's Last Hunt," took Spider-man to a whole new level and has been voted by readers as the "Greatest Spider-Man story ever told." His subsequent work on the Punisher with "Cricle of Blood," cemented him as one of the THE artists for the character, while the series "Secret Wars," set comic book readership on their ears, and heralded Zeck's creation of the black and white Spider-Man costume, still around as the attire of the super-villain, Venom. His work on Captain American also stands out as some of the most influential in the industry, and iconic images of this and other characters such as Superman and Batman, are etched in comic history. In fact, Zeck images are featured on Marvel merchandising ad nauseam year after year, evidence of his enduring popularity. It's hard not to notice all those "Secret Wars" t-shirts! Recent books on Mike include "Raw Fury: The Art of Mike Zeck," while Zeck's series with writer Steven Grant (creator of the hit movie "Two Guns"), "Damned," was released in a recent volume by IDW Publishing, which has also just released a deluxe volume of Mike's classic Marvel covers. Programming Notes: Mike prefers not to do panels. But is at his table for fans all hours of any show he attends. (Note that Mike will be doing very limited appearances, and certain conditions apply. Please contact me for details. )

Arthur Suydam-- (Artist/ Creator) The Zombie King," as he is known, rose to stardom for his work on the smash hit series "Marvel Zombies," the lines at his booth at any given show are a testament to the enduring "zombie craze," with Suydam as a forerunner. He is also renowned as the Deadpool cover artist on "Merc with a Mouth." As well as "The Walking Dead." And he is credited as being one of the first artists to bring fine art painting techniques to the world of comics in such books as "Cholly and Flytrap" and "Mudwogs." 
Recent awards for Arthur include "The Spike TV Scream Award (Best Artist)," "Spectrum Gold Award for Institutional Art," "The San Sebastian Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award,"as well as the "University of Maryland Eastern Shore Lifetime Achievement Award," among others. 
His work can also be seen on works for "DCeased," "The Walking Dead," "Deadpool, "Batman," "Wolverine," "Fantastic Four," "X-Men," "Ghost Rider," "Army of Darkness" "Vampirella," and too many to name here. His "Cholly and Flytrap" series has recently been compiled into a collected volumne, marking that great achievement and it's place in comic history. 
Programing Notes: Arthur is also offering to do a special promo for shows that includes free sketches for kids on Sundays. Ask for details. (Note: Arthur has certain table and listing requirements.)

Jim Shooter-- (Writer/ Marvel Editor-in-Chief) Jim Shooter started writing Superman and other titles for DC Comics at the age of 13 in 1965. He worked his way through high school writing stories, laying out pages and designing covers. He was hired by Marvel Comics in 1976 as associate editor and in 1978 became Editor in Chief. He introduced benefits, royalties and other incentives for creators that attracted a legion of phenomenal talents who., under his oversight, authored a decade of brilliant creativity and unparalleled success. Jim wrote several notable series including the Avengers and Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars. He also headed up the creative teams that developed G.I. Joe and Transformers. Jim went on to found Voyager Communications in 1989, where he was the CEO and President. He also served as Editor in Chief, principal creator, head writer and occasional artist for the highly acclaimed comics published under the VALIANT imprint, which included Magnus Robot Fighter, Solar Man of the Atom, Harbinger, X-O Manowar, UNITY and more. Programming Notes: Jim has certain booking conditions and is open to doing numerous panels, including two that he always brings to the table.

Geof Isherwood--(Artist/Designer/Storyboards) Renowned artist for Marvel, DC, Broadway, and Heroes Of The North, in fact, creator of Psylocke's Katana! Some of Geof's major title runs include "Dr. Strange," "Suicide Squad," "Conan the Barbarian," "Conan The King," "Namor" and "The 'Nam". Geof is also the inker of the graphic novel, "Revenge of the Living Monolith," over Marc Silvestri. But he says the comic brought to him most often to sign is probably "Dr. Strange" #50. Geof has also worked on over 60 film and TV productions, including X-Men: DOFP and X-Men: Age of Apocalypse, Being Human (US), Hot Wheels, Helix, Wings of the Dragon, The Phantom, The Last Templar, Race to Mars, The Covenant, Dead of Night, Battlefield Earth, Gothika, Rollerball,The Fountain and much, much more. In addition to film work, as an expert in figure drawing, Geof teaches in the Concept Art and Illustration program at Algonquin College in Ottawa, Ontario, as well as having a sketch list that is in demand at every show he attends. Geof is now also working for Renegade Media drawing the final issue of the soon-to-be-released "Necromatics". Programming Notes: Geof is available for programming encompassing subjects ranging from comics to TV/film!

Graham Nolan-- (Writer/Artist) Graham is an Inkpot Award winning cartoonist and writer, best known for his long run on BATMAN in Detective Comics and as the designer and co-creator of the iconic Batman Villain: BANE. He is also the creator of the graphic novel: MONSTER ISLAND, web-comic: SUNSHINE STATE and the co-creator of the IDW horror adventure series: JOE FRANKENSTEIN. When he is not chained to the drawing board you will find him in his Jeep, down at the lake fishing... And we hope at a show near you! Georges Jeanty-- (Artist)

Georges Jeanty-- (Artist) Georges is a New York Times bestselling comic book illustrator, his first major work was Marvel Comics’ BISHOP: THE LAST X-MAN, and it just got better from there. Currently, Jeanty's work can be seen in AGE OF X-MAN: THE X-TREMISTS, part of Marvel’s “Enter the Age of X-Man” story arc.

Along with his work on many Marvel and DC Comics titles, Georges is known for the critically acclaimed, sixties-era graphic novel THE AMERICAN WAY, written by screenwriter John Ridley and published by DC Comics, its sequel THE AMERICAN WAY: THOSE ABOVE AND THOSE BELOW , and being a regular artist for Dark Horse Comics’ official continuation of BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER and SERENITY (2007-2018). If you want a legit media tie-in for your next convention-- we're talking Buffyverse, Whedonverse, Firefly, Serenity, Godzilla, Gamera, vampires, Gambit, Wolverine, Deadpool, Weapon X-- this pop culture phenom of an artist will add some sparkle to any event.

John Beatty-- (Artist) John Beatty ( Inker – Marvel Super Heroes “Secret Wars”, Captain America, The Punisher, Thanos Quest, Batman ) John Beatty is a veteran comic book artist, best know for his inking work for both Marvel and DC Comics. Developing into one of the industries top inkers over his career, Beatty has worked with top pencil artists, such as Mike Zeck, Kelley Jones and Michael Golden. Working on almost every major comic character in the industry at one time or another. Titles best known for include many fan favorites such as: Marvel Super Heroes “Secret Wars”, Captain America, The Punisher, Thanos Quest and many Batman projects, including a highly regarded fan favorite 3 year run on the monthly “Batman” book. Being picked or picking titles and peers to work with carefully and with cause, many of these series still remain highly regarded and collectable in today's current comic culture.

Rags Morales-- (Artist, Illustrator) A veteran of the comic industry, Rags began his career with DC Comics in 1989 with the TSR licensed book Forgotten Realms. His first super hero series was "Black Condor." He has since worked on countless titles for DC, most notably "Identity Crisis". Other notable projects include: long runs on "JSA," "Hawkman," not to forget "Batman/Superman," "Nightwing," The New 52 and "First Wave." Rags has also worked with Valiant, Dark Horse, and Marvel Comics. From September to May, Rags also teaches at the Joe Kubert School of Cartooning and Graphic Art. He lives in eastern Pennsylvania. Programming Notes: Rags is available for programming regarding his career in comics and creating comic books.

SAM DE LA ROSA-- Venom Artist Sam's work on VENOM LETHAL PROTECTOR #'s 1-6 is the basis of the worldwide successful billion-dollar grossing VENOM MOVIE! Sam de la Rosa has provided finished art and inks for Marvel, DC Comics, Image, Disney and Dark Horse among others. Credits include Spider-man, Venom, Carnage, Iron Man, Captain America, Black Panther, The Avengers, Star Wars, X-Men, Power Rangers and more! He worked on Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Star Trek, Firestorm and others from DC Comics. For Dark Horse Comics he worked on the very first Predator comic book. Sam's favorite work in his own words has always been Venom, Carnage, and the Symbiotes! What a great well rounded celebrity artist to add to your event. Sam truly has it ALL!

Phil Ortiz -- (Artist--Simpsons, Hanna-Barbera, Warner Bros., Muppet Babies!) Come and be sketchanized by Phil and see what you would look like if you were to appear as a character on the Simpsons! It costs $70 per person to be sketched inked and colored. This is a work of art that you will cherish for the rest of your life. Phil Ortiz grew up in East LA of Mexican and Spanish/Norwegian parents in 1953. He currently lives and works in the beautiful Lake Arrowhead area. Over his more than 30 years as a professional artist, Phil has worked on everything from daily newspaper comic strips (Bugs Bunny) to layouts and character design for animated cartoons including The Simpsons where Phil had a hand in the look of about 200 characters on the longest running comedy series in TV history. Some of the notable characters Phil designed for the Simpsons include: Flanders, Otto, Herman, Lou and Eddie, Ralph, and Apu. Phil has won five CERTIFICATES of ACHIEVEMENT for his work in TV animation and has been drawing for The Simpsons comic books for many years. Programming Notes: Phil will sketchanize your convention attendees to turn your whole world into a Simpsons landscape!

Tom Cook-- (Artist- Scooby Do, He-Man, Smurfs) Tom began his career as an animator and artistic director in 1978 at Hanna-Barbera Studios where he was hired to work as an assistant animator on Challenge of the SuperFriends, Godzilla, Scooby Doo, Smurfs, Pacman and the Flintstones. A short stop at Ruby-Spears had him working on Thundarr the Barbarian (had the privilege to meet and work with Jack Kirby), Heathcliff, Fang Face and Plastic Man. Freelancing at Film Roman he worked on the Garfield Special Babes and Bullets and for Bill Melendez on the Peanuts Special This is America Charlie Brown. He then moved over to Filmation Studios in 1980, which at this point had become the only animation studio doing animation in the United States, and worked on Tarzan, Flash Gordon, Blackstar, Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, Brown Hornet, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, She-Ra Princess of Power, Ghostbusters, Lone Ranger, Zorro, The Kids Super Power Hour with Shazam (Captain Marvel), Hero High and the futuristic Western Bravestarr. He was also involved with many TV commercials such as The Jolly Green Giant, Chevrolet, and the 7 Up Spot campaign. He then became the timing director on Road Rovers, Disney's Mighty Ducks, PB & J Otter, Duckman, King of the Hill, Savage Dragon, HBO's Happily Ever After Fairy Tales, Extreme Ghostbusters, Extreme Dinosaurs and many more. He also animated on a number of motion pictures such as Walt Disney's Prince and the Pauper starring Mickey Mouse, Roger Rabbit in Tummy Trouble, The Jetson's Movie, Rover Dangerfield, Stay Tuned, Pinocchio and the Emperor of the Night, Steven Spielberg's Were Back, and Don Bluth's Thumbelina.

Mike DeCarlo-- (Archie and Marvel Artist) Mike DeCarlo is a 4 decade veteran of the Comic Industry. Trained by the legendary Dick Giordano. He has worked as a penciler, artist and inker for Marvel, DC, The Simpsons, Disney, BOOM Studios, Warner Communications and Archie. His best attribute is the ability to draw ANY property in any style, period or genre. 
After graduating Notre Dame High School and studying art for 2 years at Southern CT ST College, he began his professional career as sports cartoonist for The New Haven Register. He left that position to begin that apprenticeship with Giordano and after 18 months branched off to begin a solo career in the comic book industry. Over the next dozen years, he worked primarily as an ink artist on such titles as Batman, Teen Titans, Green Lantern, Thor, Iron Man and Conan the Barbarian. In the mid-nineties, his focus changed to the cartoon/animation genre and worked as an artist on Looney Tunes, Powerpuff Girls, Ben-10, Scooby-Doo and Pinky the Brain among others. In the last decade, in addition to the work he now does for The Simpsons comic company Bongo Entertainment, he works for Disney Worldwide Publishing on Phineas & Ferb, Marvel Superheroes Magazine and Spider-Man Magazine. Mike also has extended his repertoire into the digital field, becoming accomplished at digital inking in Illustrator and coloring in Photoshop.

Jeremy Clark-- (Artist) Jeremy Clark is know for his stellar work on various comic projects for multiple publishers including IDW (TMNT), Image Comics (Prodigy) (Undiscovered Country), Zenescope Entertainment (Grimm Fairy Tales) (Hellchild) (Day of the Dead) (Escape From Monster Island), Coffin Comics (Lady Death) (La Muerta) (Hellwitch), Source Point Press (Ogre) (Franklin & Ghost) (Salvagers) (Dead End Kids) (Samurai Grandpa) (Broken Gargoyles) (Warcorns: Combat Unicorns For Hire), Professional artist will at a bit of excitement to any show! Show Notes: Jeremy is always up for doing a panel on his career or comic art creation.

Steve Leialoha-- (Artist) Steve Leialoha has been an artist for Marvel, DC and others since the 70’s,
with runs on: Vertigo’s Fables, Petrefax, Warlock, Howard the Duck, Spider-Woman, the New Mutants, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and the original Star Wars adaptation. 

He has also drawn issues of Dr Strange, the Justice League, Iron Man, the X-Men, the Hulk, She-Hulk, Spider-Man, and Star Trek! 

And also as an inker on: Daredevil, GI Joe (Silent issue), Superman, Batman, Captain America, Captain Marvel, Ms Marvel, the Avengers, Power Man/ Iron-Fist, Secret Wars II, and the Fantastic Four!

Trina Robbins--(Writer/Historian) Award-winning herstorian and writer Trina Robbins has been writing books, comics, and graphic novels for over forty years. Her 2009 book, The Brinkley Girls: the Best of Nell Brinkley’s Cartoons from 1913-1940 (Fantagraphics), and her 2011 book, "Tarpe Mills and Miss Fury," were nominated for Eisner awards and Harvey awards. Her all-ages graphic novel, Chicagoland Detective Agency: The Drained Brains Caper, first in a 6-book series, was a Junior Library Guild Selection. Her graphic novel, "Lily Renee: Escape Artist," was awarded a gold medal from Moonbeam Chidren’s Books and a silver medal from Sydney Taylor Jewish Library Awards. Trina’s most recent book is Pretty in Ink, her final and definitive history of women cartoonists. In 2013, Trina was voted into the Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Fame. Programming Notes: Trina is available for panels highlighting her career as well as panels on women in comics and the history of comics.

D. Michael Watkins-- (Artist) D. Michael Watkins is the founder and owner of Highburn Studios. He's also the guy underneath that shiny cowboy hat you see at most cons. Michael received his lucky break on FEMME-NOIR with Joe Staton and has since went on to work for Marvel, DC, Image, Dynamite, Dark Horse , Upper Deck, as well as his creator owned project GUARDIANS. You've seen his work on titles such as SONIC THE HEDGEHOG, TRANSFORMERS, IRON MAN, AVENGERS ASSEMBLE, PANTHA, VILLAINS SUPREME, and you can see him on film in the blockbuster movie THE DARK KNIGHT RISES. Outside of comics, Michael is a Voice Actor with roles for Marvel and Disney voicing the characters of: Venom, Scorpion, Mole Man, and Magneto. Michael is also an avid Martial Artist, studying Hak Dari Shon Hap Ki Do, Kenpo. and several other styles for over 30 years. Programming Notes: Michael is available for programming regarding his career in comics, martial arts and creating comics..

Konstantin Komardin--(Artist/Animator/Writer) After several successful signing and screening tours in the United States, Konstantin is busy at work on his current lengthy animation project focused on human rights, now in development. Komardin is an award-winning sequential artist, graphic artist and animator. His work includes the BD magazines “Veles,” “Hacker,” “Max Cooler,” “Moulin Rouge,” “Timof” which published his story “Siberian Dreams,” and the renowned comics “Agent Z,” “Sit-o-city,” “Gate of Alice,” and “Mechanics of Senses.” Konstantin was awarded the Grand Prize for “The Site of Polis” at the Moscow Comics Festival. His animation works include the concept designs on “Elka,” “Man with the Wind in his Head,” which was featured at the Suzdal Film Festival, “Tram,” “Spindel” which was honored at the Moscow Short Film Festival, and “The Man in Penze Nez,” which screened at both the Suzdal Film Festival and the Moscow International Film Festival. Programing Notes: Konstantin can do panels on animation as well as sequential art for your show, and talk about the cross-cultural world of comics.

Ric Meyers-- (Writer/Film Consultant/Director/Actor) Novelist Richard S. Meyers is responsible for the Marvel prose novel featuring the Hulk among others, but around 100 other books as well! Creator of the Destroyer series, Ric is also the writer of "Santa Confidential," illustrated beautifully by artist Chris Browne of "Hagar the Horrible" fame, "The Kung Fu Movie Book," featuring everything you want to know about the martial arts world, and is the director of "The Kung Fu Movie Movie." His commentary is sought after on director cuts of movies and television compilations worldwide. As well as acting (most recently as a villain in a Scotland filmed production), Ric has been called on as an expert consultant for such projects as "Twilight Zone," and "Kung Fu Panda." He yearly runs the Marital Arts movie segments at the San Diego Comic Con. Programing Notes: Ric is available for a plethora of programming, Kung Fu, comics, film and otherwise! Screening of his movie works are also possible.

Rodney Ramos-- (Artist) Artist Rodney Ramos has worked on just about every major character for Marvel Comics and DC Comics with a flourish that makes him a master at his craft. He began his storied journey in comics as a Romita Raider at Marvel Comics, learning his craft under the legendary John Romita, Sr. Regular work on titles like "Psi-Force," "What The!?" "Thundercats" "Punisher War Journal," "Amazing Spider-Man," and "Iron Man" followed, as well as work on Green Lantern, Batman, Wonder Woman, and much more. His works include masterful craftsmanship for clients ranging from Valiant, Malibu, Acclaim, Marvel UK, and Neal Adams Continuity Studios, in addition to Marvel and DC. He reached cult status with his work on DC's "Transmetropolitan," a huge fan favorite, and most recently over Simon Bisley's pencils at Legendary. Programming Notes: Rodney is available for panels on his career and comics in general.

Jim Salicrup--(Writer/Artist/Editor) Jim Salicrup is the Editor-in-Chief of Papercutz, the graphic novel publishing company he co-founded with Terry Nantier. Papercutz is devoted to publishing great graphic novels for all ages: Annoying Orange, Ariol, Classics Illustrated, Dance Class, Disney Fairies, Geronimo Stilton, LEGO® Ninjago, LEGO Chima,Lunch Witch, Nancy Drew Diaries, The Smurfs Anthology, and many more. Recently, Papercutz launched a new imprint, modestly called Super Genius, which publishes titles such as WWE Superstars, Neil Gaiman’s Lady Justice, and more. After being published as a writer and artist in Kids Magazine at age 14, Jim moved on to working at Marvel Comics for twenty years, editing most of their top titles, such as Spider-Man (with Todd McFarlane), The Uncanny X-Man (with Claremont & Byrne), The Fantastic Four (with John Byrne), Iron Man, and many more. Jim was the writer, and then editor of Spidey Super Stories, , a comic created to help children learn how to read. Spidey Super Stories was produced in co-operation with the Children’s Television Workshop, the producers of Sesame Street and The Electric Company. Editing and writing Spidey Super Stories was important in getting Jim to think about comics created for kids. Jim was also the writer of such comics as Transformers, Visionaries, The Spider-Man Child Abuse Prevention comic, The A-Team, The Inhumanoids, Kool-Aid Man, and more. He also wrote and edited Marvel calendars, toilet paper, coloring books, posters and drinking cups. He also was the editor on Marvel Age Magazine for eight years. After Marvel, Jim developed a line of comics for the Topps Company, Inc., where he was Editor-in-Chief. At Topps Comics Jim worked with such writers and artists such as Charlie Adlard, Ray Bradbury, Steve Ditko, Keith Giffen, Michael Golden, Don Heck, Gil Kane, Miran Kim, Jack Kirby, Don McGregor, Mike Mignola, George Perez, Stefan Petrucha, P. Craig Russell, Scott Shaw!, Roy Thomas, Craig Yoe, and many others. Jim was also Senior Writer/Editor for Stan Lee Media, and a Trustee for the Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art. Programming Notes: Jim is available for panels on his career and comics in general.

Renee Witterstaetter--(Writer/Editor/Color Artist) Writer, editor, colorist and publisher Renee Witterstaetter has acted as editor on such books as "Thanos Quest," "Guardians of the Galaxy," "Hercules," "Xena," "X-Files," "Conan," "She-Hulk," "The Marvel Holiday Special," "Impossible Man Summer Special," "Jurassic Park," and too many books to mention here. As a film professional, she has worked on such movies as "Red Dragon" and "Rush Hour 2," while also behind the scenes, racking up credits on dozens of music videos and commercials for artists as diverse as Madonna, Seal and Usher. Her books as a writer include: "Jackie Chan: Dying for Action," "Nick Cardy: The Artist at War," "Excess: The Art of Michael Golden," "Nick Cardy: Wit-Lash," "Art of the Barbarian," "Michael Golden: Excess," "The Art of Mark Texeira," and her children's book "Kerry and the Scary Things." In addition, combining her film work with comics, she is a producer of DVD's on various comic book creators and talents in other fields through her partnership with Amdale Media, and has spearheaded mounting art shows and retrospectives in the United States, Spain, China, Russia and other venues worldwide. She has lectured on the industry in China, Spain, Norway, and numerous other countries, not to mention the United States! She is also the owner of Eva Ink Artist Group, Pros & Cons Celebrity Booking and Happyspacepop.com

Christopher Rokku Coates-- (Artist) Christopher Rokku Coates: At young age Christopher was fascinated by Disney animations like Pete’s Dragon, and mickey mouse. Watching the characters come to life on the screen and on the page, he found himself inspired. Over the years Chris grew as an artist; he entered local contests and showcases. Funding each project himself through odd jobs , selling candy to his friends, and eventually selling small pieces of artwork at local skateboard shops. Chris developed a keen eye for design and trends, landing his first job at Design Werks. Specializing in events, Chris created many beautiful pieces for the state of utah. This threw him forward into the art world. He then began working with Activision in the late 2000s , working on major titles such as Guitar Hero and Spider-man. From there he spent the next decade sharpening his skill as a freelance artist in the comic book convention industry. Claiming infamy with the only game accurate prop inspired foam Master Sword, and Link hats, form the Legend of Zelda video game series. As well as, creating countless pieces of commission work, comic book art, and original paintings.

Arthur Suydam Gets (Re) Animated About His Career, Talking Zombies!

Great new article with Arthur.  Here is the interview below:

Original Link:  https://scoop.previewsworld.com/Home/4/1/73/1017?ArticleID=243121

 

 

Arthur Suydam Gets (Re)Animated Talking Zombies, His Career 

 

 

Genre mash-ups provide very entertaining stories as seemingly disparate genres come together and artist Arthur Suydam’s art is a great example of how that can work. His Marvel Zombies and homage covers have become highly collectible Modern books, featuring the decaying forms of Marvel’s biggest heroes. Suydam recently talked to Scoop about those covers, his work on Deadpool: Merc with a Mouth, and how he became a fan of comics.
Scoop: Were you a fan of comics before you got into the industry?
Arthur Suydam (AS): When I was 5 years old, I was caught in a fire and as a consequence laid up for a year in the hospital. Having been burned over 50% of my body, no one expected me to make it and the team of four doctors in charge of my case lobbied my parents, that perhaps it might be more merciful to just let me go. My father would hear none of that, and told them that if they didn't try everything to save his son that he would kill them.
On weekends my parents would come to visit me, and they would bring me comic books to read. DC’s Star Spangled War Stories with dinosaurs, Legion of Super Heroes, World’s Finest and Superman. At that time those were my favorites. I was wrapped from head to toe in bandages, wrapped up like a mummy. When I finally was released from the hospital a year later, I had to relearn how to walk. Soon as they began to take some of the bandages off my hands I began to draw. I taught myself to hold a pencil between fingers that were less burned. At that time, I drew mostly dinosaurs with my older brother who also liked to draw, later animals, and then superheroes.
In my early teens I stumbled on the Marvel pre-hero sci-fi books from the “title cut off” comic book returns, because they were cheap and that’s what I could afford. Three in a pack for 20¢ at the little corner dime store. The ‘60s sci-fi short stories with the great [Steve] Ditko and [Jack] Kirby art really caught my attention and called to me and I became a big Marvel comics fan. I spent all my money on comics. One day, years later while trading comics with a local neighbor I discovered these incredible large size black and white horror magazine size comics with the best comic art I had ever seen. Turns out those were the Warren books featuring many of the EC comics faculty – Reed Crandall, Al Williamson, Angelo Torres, Frank Frazetta along with my own personal hero, Steve Ditko, doing the best work of his career. In fact, they were all doing the best work of their careers. That work still holds up for me as the best comic art I’ve ever seen.
I made a promise to myself that someday I would work for Warren publishing doing their horror books. Years later, when I was in my senior year of high school, I went up to visit their editor, Jim Warren in New York to show him my work. Warren hired me on the spot. However, when I mentioned that I was still in high school, he informed me that I had the job if I wanted it, but to come back after I graduated. Upon graduation, the following year, I returned to New York to begin work at Warren publishing on their Creepy and Eerie magazines and on the way, I stopped off at DC Comics to see editor Joe Orlando who was managing a series of EC/Warren style horror comics for DC. During the interview, Joe informed me that he was the art director for Warren who had brought over all the great EC artists to work at Warren. After reviewing my portfolio Joe asked me to work for DC Comics instead and to forget about working for Warren. Joe opened up a drawer and told me that there were 250 scripts in that drawer and that I could have as many of them as I wanted and he handed me my first script and the pro career began. My first story was entitled: “Carnival of Dwarfs.”
Scoop: What’s your artistic process like – do you do a lot of preliminary sketches and planning?
AS: I had an uncle who reportedly studied with Albert Dorne and Norman Rockwell and I inherited his lesson books from my aunt when I was about 8 years old. That began my formal art studies. Later on, I studied at a classical atelier recreation of the school of Raphael, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci in New York City modeled after their old study notes. These studies inform my drawing process. The Rockwell system, I’d say, is the system which most resembles my process when painting illustrations. Much the same for sepia illustrations. I do lots of pre-sketches and typically a pretty exact ink drawing for most of the covers and then an exact underpainting.
Scoop: How about the environment when you work – do you listen to music, do you like having a view, etc.?
AS: I like to either listen to a mix of classical solo instrumental performances – or to silence while working depending on which stage I’m at in the job. Silence when writing and in the planning stage – and then solo music in the grunt work stages. I need to be next to a window with lots of natural light when illustrating. When so many hours are going into the work, one needs to stretch the eyes to prevent eye strain and fatigue from setting in and hopefully keep the progress moving.
Scoop: You are well known for attention grabbing cover art. What do you find challenging about crafting covers?
AS: Typically, things run pretty smoothly. My MO is always to try to deliver my best work to publishers. It’s good for everyone. At Marvel I worked directly with the artist liaison at the time, Chris Allo, who very smartly always endeavored to place the right artist with the right job and then did follow through to make it all happen. Chris was one of the instrumental forces behind the incredible zombie explosion prompted by the Marvel Zombie project.
Scoop: Did you like zombie movies as a kid? If so, what’s your favorite?
AS: Actually, I’ve always had a hard time watching them, mostly because they were low quality – and then the good ones actually gave me nightmares for decades. That said, my favorite Z-list goes something like this: Return of the Living Dead – great in large part because the creative team was comprised of talented comic book talent like Dan Obandon and Bill Stout. Night of the Living Dead, Shaun of the Dead, had a nice first half and then fell flat once the comedy fell out in the second act. Marvel Zombies is what prompted the big recent zombie craze and was instrumented in establishing the signing of The Walking Dead AMC TV series. I thought the series was incredible and I like it better than the movies.
Scoop: Are there any Marvel characters that you wanted to turn into zombies but didn’t get the opportunity?
AS: In the opinion of many fans, there is an untapped gold mine for Marvel in the Marvel Zombies universe, both in publishing and more so on the big screen. The Marvel Zombies movie is the film all the fans have been calling for for years. I have IP designs for a comprehensive collection of cutting edge progressive new Marvel Zombies scripts and series titles here in the office on ice. Maybe we can all get something to happen there someday. I’d like to write and do covers for a DC “Batman Zombie” series. I’ve been pretty busy lately with the KISS Zombies series.
Scoop: For Deadpool: Merc with a Mouth you created a series of homage covers for movie posters and other covers. Which was your favorite and why?
AS: Yea, the whole mash-up homage cover thing I do began with Marvel Zombies and the Dynamite series, Raise the Dead, and Army of Darkness vs Marvel Zombies. I was told that fans were collecting the books for the covers, purchasing five copies of the same book just to get the new covers. Because these series were big hits, editors kept calling me to work on their other series. I recall one particular meeting when one editor, who had been soliciting me for a year to work on his line of books, blew up because I couldn’t work on his books because all my time was already contracted with the Marvel Zombie series, which kept selling out every couple of days mandating new covers for the second, third, and fourth printings and so on. There were a lot of months where I had very little sleep during those days. Finally, one day he called me when there was an opening and I was able to say yes to the Deadpool Merc with a Mouth series, where I continued the homage to the classics direction.
Regarding favorites, I don’t think I have any favorites. I try to do my best work on whatever series I’m working on at the time. I believe some of the fans favorite from that series might be the Nirvana water baby homage I did for issue 12. That one was based on a cover I did for the Dynamite, Raise the Dead series. I told Marvel’s editor that I didn’t want to repeat anything I had already done on another series, however the editor insisted, so here we are.
Scoop: What do you like about working on horror and sci-fi titles like House of Secrets and Heavy Metal?
AS: I grew up on horror movies, TV and novels and came into the business doing horror and have been doing horror my entire life. I guess over the decades one is informed by what one eats. What I like are writing and illustration opportunities to do some good work – unrestricted – uncensored. That’s the opportunity Heavy Metal provided. They told me I could write and draw anything I wanted and that’s what we all did. That magazine revolutionized the comics industry.
Scoop: You’ve worked on many big name characters from Black Panther to Wolverine to Ghost Rider and several others. Do you have a favorite character or title that you like working on and if so, why that one?
AS: My favorite gigs are the ones that provide opportunity to try out new things and that give me a challenge. I like inserting little ironies into the storytelling of a cover illustration and find that it can help prevent a theme from going flat.
Scoop: In addition to comics, you’ve provided art for the game Touch the Dead, for the novel Dead Street, and worked with the Misfits a few times. How do those projects differ from working in comics?
AS: There’s no difference really. Perhaps a bit more of input in the planning stage from the client working on band album covers, depending on the group. Bands tend to come to you with an idea of what they want – comic publishers tend to want me to provide the full concept from start to finish for a piece.
Scoop: Are you a collector? If so, what do you collect?
AS: These days I collect sculpture and original art. I like to have a piece by some of the artists whose work I’ve admired growing up. I have a few in mind from the Warren days I’d love to get ahold of someday – maybe some splash pages. When traveling I look for little pieces of art that speaks to me to add to my collection. Could be any genre by anyone. I like to support other artists.
Scoop: What are you working on now and how can fans support your work?
AS: Well I just finished working on the big Kiss Zombies series for Dynamite and currently I’m working on the Mars Attacks vs Red Sonja series – the final cover for that series took so long. I had a friend pose for the main character and spent days painting scores of tiny Martians running around, driving little space cars and the like. I am just starting another new series, and as always, teaching Muay Thai.
Fans can come by to see me at any show when shows start up again. I’d be happy to meet you all. My agents contact is also included in this article for those who are interested in convention bookings. A big thank you to all of those who have supported my work over the years.
For more information on booking Arthur Suydam or inquiring about artwork, contact his agent at Eva Ink Artist Group: evaink@aol.com.

2020 Bookings open! Michael Golden, Mike Zeck, Rags Morales, Jim Shooter, Georges Jeanty, Graham Nolan Arthur Suydam! Read our full list and book ASAP!

2020 Artist Guests Available-- Eva Ink Artist Group List of Talent

Hi Everyone--

We are starting full force on  our bookings for 2020!  Here are just a few of the folks we'll be offering next year. If you know your dates, please do get with me ASAP!

My email is: evaink@aol.com

Best,
Renee

Check the bios of some of our great creators below:

Michael Golden--(Artist/Writer/Consultant/Designer)

One of THE storytellers in the industry,  influencing generations of comics fans and professionals, Michael Golden boasts creations that are some of the most licensed and enduring in the industry.

Co-Creator of Rogue, Bucky O'Hare, Micronauts and "The 'Nam," among much more, Golden is known as one of THE artists on such characters as Batman, Doctor Strange, G.I. Joe and the Punisher. Golden's recent covers can be seen on everything from "Spawn" to the "Walking Dead," to World Wrestling  work. Recent covers include works on "The Walking Dead," "Deadpool," and "DareDevil," to name a few.

In short, no history of comics is complete without touching on the influence that this legendary artist has had on this industry. Recent books on the colorful life and vibrant art of Golden include "Michael Golden: Alchemy" "Modern Masters: Michael Golden" and "Excess: The Art of Michael Golden," and "Michael Golden: Dangerous Curves."

In addition, having served as both Senior Art Director at Marvel Comics and Senior Editor at DC Comics, Golden's lectures and classes in storytelling are sought after world wide, with recent venues including places as diverse as Spain, France, Russia, Norway, Brazil, Chile and China. With recent gallery shows mounted in New York City, Maryland, Spain and Russia.

Programing Notes: Various panels on the art of comic books can be scheduled with Michael, to highlight this special event at your show.  (Note: Michael has specific table and listing requirements. )

Mike Zeck--(Artist, Creator)

When discussing comics heavy hitter, Mike Zeck, you'd have to argue which is his most influential work, or which is most deeply embossed on our pop culture.

His series "Kraven's Last Hunt," took Spider-man to a whole new level and has been voted by readers as the "Greatest Spider-Man story ever told." His subsequent work on the Punisher  with "Cricle of Blood," cemented him as one of the THE artists for the character, while the series "Secret Wars," set comic book readership on their ears, and heralded Zeck's creation of the black and white Spider-Man costume, still around as the attire of the super-villain, Venom. His work on Captain American also stands out as some of the most influential in the industry, and iconic images of this and other characters such as Superman and Batman, are etched in comic history. 

In fact, Zeck images are featured on Marvel merchandising ad nauseam year after year, evidence of his enduring popularity. It's hard not to notice all those "Secret Wars" t-shirts!

Recent books on Mike include "Raw Fury: The Art of Mike Zeck," while Zeck's  series with writer Steven Grant (creator of the hit movie "Two Guns"), "Damned," was released in a recent volume by IDW Publishing, which has also just released a deluxe volume of Mike's classic Marvel covers.

Programming Notes: Mike prefers not to do panels. But is at his table for fans all hours of any show he attends.  (Note that Mike will be doing very limited appearances, and certain conditions apply. Please contact me for details. )

Arthur Suydam-- (Artist/ Creator)

The Zombie King," as he is known, rose to stardom for his work on the smash hit series "Marvel Zombies," the lines at his booth at any given show are a testament to the enduring "zombie craze," with Suydam as a forerunner.

He is also renowned as the Deadpool cover artist on "Merc with a Mouth." As well as "The Walking Dead." And he is credited as being one of the first artists to bring fine art painting techniques to the world of comics in such books as "Cholly and Flytrap" and "Mudwogs."

Recent awards for Arthur include "The Spike TV Scream Award (Best Artist)," "Spectrum Gold Award for Institutional Art," "The San Sebastian Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award,"as well as the "University of Maryland Eastern Shore Lifetime Achievement Award,"  among others.

His work can also be seen on works for "DCeased,"  "The Walking Dead," "Deadpool, "Batman," "Wolverine," "Fantastic Four," "X-Men," "Ghost Rider," "Army of Darkness" "Vampirella," and too many to name here. His "Cholly and Flytrap" series has recently been compiled into a collected volumne, marking that great achievement and it's place in comic history.


Programing Notes: Arthur is also offering to do a special promo for shows that includes free sketches for kids on Sundays. Ask for details.  (Note: Arthur has certain table and listing requirements.)

Jim Shooter-- (Writer/ Marvel Editor-in-Chief)

Jim Shooter

Jim Shooter started writing Superman and other titles for DC Comics at the age of 13 in 1965.  He worked his way through high school writing stories, laying out pages and designing covers.

He was hired by Marvel Comics in 1976 as associate editor and in 1978 became Editor in Chief.  He introduced benefits, royalties and other incentives for creators that attracted a legion of phenomenal talents who., under his oversight, authored a decade of brilliant creativity and unparalleled success.  Jim wrote several notable series including the Avengers and Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars.  He also headed up the creative teams that developed G.I. Joe and Transformers.

Jim went on to found Voyager Communications in 1989, where he was the CEO and President.  He also served as Editor in Chief, principal creator, head writer and occasional artist for the highly acclaimed comics published under the VALIANT imprint, which included Magnus Robot Fighter, Solar Man of the Atom, Harbinger, X-O Manowar, UNITY and more.

Programming Notes:  Jim has certain booking conditions and is open to doing numerous panels, including two that he always brings to the table.

Geof Isherwood--(Artist/Designer/Storyboards)

Renowned artist for Marvel, DC, Broadway, and Heroes Of The North, in fact, creator of Psylocke's Katana! Some of Geof's major title runs include "Dr. Strange," "Suicide Squad," "Conan the Barbarian," "Conan The King," "Namor" and "The 'Nam".  Geof is also the inker of the graphic novel, "Revenge of the Living Monolith," over Marc Silvestri. But he says the comic brought to him most often to sign is probably "Dr. Strange" #50.

Geof has also worked on over 60 film and TV productions, including X-Men: DOFP and X-Men: Age of Apocalypse, Being Human (US), Hot Wheels, Helix, Wings of the Dragon, The Phantom, The Last Templar, Race to Mars, The Covenant, Dead of Night, Battlefield Earth, Gothika, Rollerball,The Fountain and much, much more.

In addition to film work, as an expert in figure drawing, Geof teaches in the Concept Art and Illustration program at Algonquin College in Ottawa, Ontario, as well as having a sketch list that is in demand at every show he attends.

Geof is now also working for Renegade Media drawing the final issue of the soon-to-be-released "Necromatics".

Programming Notes:  Geof is available for programming encompassing subjects ranging from comics to TV/film!

Graham Nolan-- (Writer/Artist)

Graham Nolan

Graham is an Inkpot Award winning cartoonist and writer, best known for his long run on BATMAN in Detective Comics and as the designer and co-creator of the iconic Batman Villain: BANE.

He is also the creator of the graphic novel: MONSTER ISLAND, web-comic: SUNSHINE STATE and the co-creator of the IDW horror adventure series: JOE FRANKENSTEIN.

When he is not chained to the drawing board you will find him in his Jeep, down at the lake fishing...

And we hope at a show near you!
  

  Georges Jeanty-- (Artist)

Georges is a New York Times bestselling comic book illustrator, his first major work was Marvel Comics’ BISHOP: THE LAST X-MAN, and it just got better from there. 

Currently, Jeanty's work can be seen in AGE OF X-MAN: THE X-TREMISTS, part of Marvel’s “Enter the Age of X-Man” story arc.

Along with his work on many Marvel and DC Comics titles, Georges is known for the critically acclaimed, sixties-era graphic novel THE AMERICAN WAY, written by screenwriter John Ridley and published by DC Comics, its sequel THE AMERICAN WAY: THOSE ABOVE AND THOSE BELOW , and being a regular artist for Dark Horse Comics’ official continuation of BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER and SERENITY (2007-2018).

If you want a legit media tie-in for your next convention-- we're talking Buffyverse, Whedonverse, Firefly, Serenity, Godzilla, Gamera, vampires, Gambit, Wolverine, Deadpool, Weapon X-- this pop culture phenom of an artist will add some sparkle to any event.

John Beatty-- (Artist)

John Beatty ( Inker – Marvel Super Heroes “Secret Wars”, Captain America, The Punisher, Thanos Quest, Batman )

John Beatty is a veteran comic book artist, best know for his inking work for both Marvel and DC Comics.

Developing into one of the industries top inkers over his career, Beatty has worked with top pencil artists, such as Mike Zeck, Kelley Jones and Michael Golden.

Working on almost every major comic character in the industry at one time or another.

Titles best known for include many fan favorites such as: Marvel Super Heroes “Secret Wars”, Captain America, The Punisher, Thanos Quest and many Batman projects, including a highly regarded fan favorite 3 year run on the monthly “Batman” book.

Being picked or picking titles and peers to work with carefully and with cause, many of these series still remain highly regarded and collectable in today's current comic culture.

Rags Morales-- (Artist, Illustrator)

A veteran of the comic industry, Rags began his career with DC Comics in 1989 with the TSR licensed book Forgotten Realms. His first super hero series was "Black Condor."

He has since worked on countless titles for DC, most notably "Identity Crisis". Other notable projects include: long runs on "JSA," "Hawkman," not to forget "Batman/Superman," "Nightwing," The New 52 and "First Wave."

Rags has also worked with Valiant, Dark Horse, and Marvel Comics.

From September to May, Rags also teaches at the Joe Kubert School of Cartooning and Graphic Art. He lives in eastern Pennsylvania.


Programming Notes:  Rags is available for programming regarding his career in comics and creating comic books.

SAM DE LA ROSA-- Venom Artist

 

Sam's work on VENOM LETHAL PROTECTOR #'s 1-6 is the basis of the worldwide successful billion-dollar grossing VENOM MOVIE! 

Sam de la Rosa has provided finished art and inks for Marvel, DC Comics, Image, Disney and Dark Horse among others. Credits include Spider-man, Venom, Carnage, Iron Man, Captain America, Black Panther, The Avengers, Star Wars, X-Men, Power Rangers and more!

He worked on Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Star Trek, Firestorm and others from DC Comics.

For Dark Horse Comics he worked on the very first Predator comic book.

Sam's favorite work in his own words has always been Venom, Carnage, and the Symbiotes!

What a great well rounded celebrity artist to add to your event. Sam truly has it ALL!

Phil Ortiz -- (Artist--Simpsons, Hanna-Barbera, Warner Bros., Muppet Babies!)

Come and be sketchanized by Phil and see what you would look like if you were to appear as a character on the Simpsons! It costs $70 per person to be sketched inked and colored. This is a work of art that you will cherish for the rest of your life.

Phil Ortiz grew up in East LA of Mexican and Spanish/Norwegian parents in 1953. He currently lives and works in the beautiful Lake Arrowhead area. Over his more than 30 years as a professional artist, Phil has worked on everything from daily newspaper comic strips (Bugs Bunny) to layouts and character design for animated cartoons including The Simpsons where Phil had a hand in the look of about 200 characters on the longest running comedy series in TV history.

Some of the notable characters Phil designed for the Simpsons include: Flanders, Otto, Herman, Lou and Eddie, Ralph, and Apu.

Phil has won five CERTIFICATES of ACHIEVEMENT for his work in TV animation and has been drawing for The Simpsons comic books for many years.

Programming Notes:  Phil will sketchanize your convention attendees to turn your whole world into a Simpsons landscape!

Tom Cook-- (Artist- Scooby Do, He-Man, Smurfs) 

Tom began his career as an animator and artistic director in 1978 at Hanna-Barbera Studios where he was hired to work as an assistant animator on Challenge of the SuperFriends, Godzilla, Scooby Doo, Smurfs, Pacman and the Flintstones.

A short stop at Ruby-Spears had him working on Thundarr the Barbarian (had the privilege to meet and work with Jack Kirby), Heathcliff, Fang Face and Plastic Man. Freelancing at Film Roman he worked on the Garfield Special Babes and Bullets and for Bill Melendez on the Peanuts Special This is America Charlie Brown.

He then moved over to Filmation Studios in 1980, which at this point had become the only animation studio doing animation in the United States, and worked on Tarzan, Flash Gordon, Blackstar, Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, Brown Hornet, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, She-Ra Princess of Power, Ghostbusters, Lone Ranger, Zorro, The Kids Super Power Hour with Shazam (Captain Marvel), Hero High and the futuristic Western Bravestarr. He was also involved with many TV commercials such as The Jolly Green Giant, Chevrolet, and the 7 Up Spot campaign.

He then became the timing director on Road Rovers, Disney's Mighty Ducks, PB & J Otter, Duckman, King of the Hill, Savage Dragon, HBO's Happily Ever After Fairy Tales, Extreme Ghostbusters, Extreme Dinosaurs and many more.
He also animated on a number of motion pictures such as Walt Disney's Prince and the Pauper starring Mickey Mouse, Roger Rabbit in Tummy Trouble, The Jetson's Movie, Rover Dangerfield, Stay Tuned, Pinocchio and the Emperor of the Night, Steven Spielberg's Were Back, and Don Bluth's Thumbelina.

 

Mike DeCarlo-- (Archie and Marvel Artist)

Mike DeCarlo

Mike DeCarlo is a 4 decade veteran of the Comic Industry. Trained by the legendary Dick Giordano. He has worked as a penciler, artist and inker for Marvel, DC, The Simpsons, Disney, BOOM Studios, Warner Communications and Archie. His best attribute is the ability to draw ANY property in any style, period or genre.

After graduating Notre Dame High School and studying art for 2 years at Southern CT ST College, he began his professional career as sports cartoonist for The New Haven Register. He left that position to begin that apprenticeship with Giordano and after 18 months branched off to begin a solo career in the comic book industry. Over the next dozen years, he worked primarily as an ink artist on such titles as Batman, Teen Titans, Green Lantern, Thor, Iron Man and Conan the Barbarian.
In the mid-nineties, his focus changed to the cartoon/animation genre and worked as an artist on Looney Tunes, Powerpuff Girls, Ben-10, Scooby-Doo and Pinky  the Brain among others.
In the last decade, in addition to the work he now does for The Simpsons comic company Bongo Entertainment, he works for Disney Worldwide Publishing on Phineas & Ferb, Marvel Superheroes Magazine and Spider-Man Magazine.
Mike also has extended his repertoire into the digital field, becoming accomplished at digital inking in Illustrator and coloring in Photoshop. 


Jeremy Clark-- (Artist) 

Jeremy Clark is know for his stellar work on  various comic projects for multiple publishers including  IDW (TMNT), Image Comics (Prodigy) (Undiscovered Country), Zenescope Entertainment (Grimm Fairy Tales) (Hellchild) (Day of the Dead) (Escape From Monster Island), Coffin Comics (Lady Death) (La Muerta) (Hellwitch), Source Point Press (Ogre) (Franklin & Ghost) (Salvagers) (Dead End Kids) (Samurai Grandpa) (Broken Gargoyles) (Warcorns: Combat Unicorns For Hire),  Professional artist will at a bit of excitement to any show! 

Show Notes:  Jeremy is always  up for doing a panel on his career or comic art creation.  




Steve Leialoha-- (Artist)

Steve Leialoha has been an artist for Marvel, DC and others since the 70’s,
with runs on: Vertigo’s Fables, Petrefax, Warlock, Howard the Duck, Spider-Woman, the New Mutants, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and the original Star Wars adaptation. 

He has also drawn issues of Dr Strange, the Justice League, Iron Man, the X-Men, the Hulk, She-Hulk, Spider-Man, and Star Trek!  

And also as an inker on: Daredevil, GI Joe (Silent issue), Superman, Batman, Captain America, Captain Marvel, Ms Marvel, the Avengers, Power Man/ Iron-Fist, Secret Wars II, and the Fantastic Four!

Trina Robbins--(Writer/Historian)

Award-winning herstorian and writer Trina Robbins has been writing books,

comics, and graphic novels for over forty years. Her 2009 book, The

Brinkley Girls: the Best of Nell Brinkley’s Cartoons from 1913-1940

(Fantagraphics), and her 2011 book, "Tarpe Mills and Miss Fury," were

nominated for Eisner awards and Harvey awards. Her all-ages graphic

novel, Chicagoland Detective Agency: The Drained Brains Caper, first in a

6-book series, was a Junior Library Guild Selection. Her graphic novel,

"Lily Renee: Escape Artist," was awarded a gold medal from Moonbeam

Chidren’s Books and a silver medal from Sydney Taylor Jewish Library

Awards. 

Trina’s most recent book is Pretty in Ink, her final and

definitive history of women cartoonists. In 2013, Trina was voted into

the Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Fame.

Programming Notes: Trina is available 
for panels highlighting her career as well as panels on women in comics and
the history of comics.

D. Michael Watkins-- (Artist)

D. Michael Watkins is the founder and owner of Highburn Studios. He's also the guy underneath that shiny cowboy hat you see at most cons.

Michael received his lucky break on FEMME-NOIR with Joe Staton and has since went on to work for Marvel, DC, Image, Dynamite, Dark Horse , Upper Deck, as well as his creator owned project GUARDIANS. You've seen his work on titles such as SONIC THE HEDGEHOG, TRANSFORMERS, IRON MAN, AVENGERS ASSEMBLE, PANTHA, VILLAINS SUPREME, and you can see him on film in the blockbuster movie THE DARK KNIGHT RISES.

Outside of comics, Michael is a Voice Actor with roles for Marvel and Disney voicing the characters of: Venom, Scorpion, Mole Man, and Magneto.

Michael is also an avid Martial Artist, studying Hak Dari Shon Hap Ki Do, Kenpo. and several other styles for over 30 years.


Programming Notes:  Michael is available for programming regarding his career in comics, martial arts and creating comics..

Konstantin Komardin--(Artist/Animator/Writer)

After several successful signing and screening tours in the United States, Konstantin is busy at work on his current lengthy animation project focused on human rights, now in development.

Komardin is an award-winning sequential artist, graphic artist and animator. His work includes the BD magazines “Veles,” “Hacker,” “Max Cooler,” “Moulin Rouge,” “Timof” which published his story “Siberian Dreams,” and the renowned comics “Agent Z,” “Sit-o-city,” “Gate of Alice,” and “Mechanics of Senses.” Konstantin was awarded the Grand Prize for “The Site of Polis” at the Moscow Comics Festival. 

His animation works include the concept designs on “Elka,” “Man with the Wind in his Head,” which was featured at the Suzdal Film Festival, “Tram,” “Spindel” which was honored at the Moscow Short Film Festival, and “The Man in Penze Nez,” which screened at both the Suzdal Film Festival and the Moscow International Film Festival. 

Programing Notes: Konstantin can do panels on animation as well as sequential art for your show, and talk about the cross-cultural world of comics.

Ric Meyers-- (Writer/Film Consultant/Director/Actor)

Novelist Richard S. Meyers is responsible for the Marvel prose novel featuring the Hulk among others, but around 100 other books as well! Creator of the Destroyer series, Ric is also the writer of "Santa Confidential," illustrated beautifully by artist Chris Browne of "Hagar the Horrible" fame, "The Kung Fu Movie Book," featuring everything you want to know about the martial arts world, and is the director of "The Kung Fu Movie Movie." 

His commentary is sought after on director cuts of movies and television compilations worldwide. As well as acting (most recently as a villain in a Scotland filmed production), Ric has been called on as an expert consultant for such projects as "Twilight Zone," and "Kung Fu Panda." He yearly runs the Marital Arts movie segments at the San Diego Comic Con.

Programing Notes: Ric is available for a plethora of programming, Kung Fu, comics, film and otherwise! Screening of his movie works are also possible.

Rodney Ramos-- (Artist)

Artist Rodney Ramos has worked on just about every major character for Marvel Comics and DC Comics with a flourish that makes him a master at his craft. He began his storied journey in comics as a Romita Raider at Marvel Comics, learning his craft under the legendary John Romita, Sr. Regular work on titles like "Psi-Force," "What The!?" "Thundercats" "Punisher War Journal," "Amazing Spider-Man," and "Iron Man" followed, as well as work on Green Lantern, Batman, Wonder Woman, and much more.
His works include masterful craftsmanship for clients ranging from Valiant, Malibu, Acclaim, Marvel UK, and Neal Adams Continuity Studios, in addition to Marvel and DC. He reached cult status with his work on DC's "Transmetropolitan," a huge fan favorite, and most recently over Simon Bisley's pencils at Legendary.
Programming Notes:  Rodney is available for panels on his career and comics in general.

Jim Salicrup--(Writer/Artist/Editor)

Jim Salicrup is the Editor-in-Chief of Papercutz, the graphic novel publishing company he co-founded with Terry Nantier. Papercutz is devoted to publishing great graphic novels for all ages:  Annoying Orange, Ariol, Classics Illustrated, Dance Class, Disney Fairies, Geronimo Stilton, LEGO® Ninjago, LEGO Chima,Lunch Witch, Nancy Drew Diaries, The Smurfs Anthology, and many more. Recently, Papercutz launched a new imprint, modestly called Super Genius, which publishes titles such as WWE Superstars, Neil Gaiman’s Lady Justice, and more.

After being published as a writer and artist in Kids Magazine at age 14, Jim moved on to working at Marvel Comics for twenty years, editing most of their top titles, such as Spider-Man (with Todd McFarlane), The Uncanny X-Man (with Claremont & Byrne), The Fantastic Four (with John Byrne), Iron Man, and many more. Jim was the writer, and then editor of Spidey Super Stories, , a comic created to help children learn how to read. Spidey Super Stories was produced in co-operation with the Children’s Television Workshop, the producers of Sesame Street and The Electric Company. Editing and writing Spidey Super Stories was important in getting Jim to think about comics created for kids.

Jim was also the writer of such comics as Transformers, Visionaries, The Spider-Man Child Abuse Prevention comic, The A-Team, The Inhumanoids, Kool-Aid Man, and more. He also wrote and edited Marvel calendars, toilet paper, coloring books, posters and drinking cups. He also was the editor on Marvel Age Magazine for eight years.

After Marvel, Jim developed a line of comics for the Topps Company, Inc., where he was Editor-in-Chief. At Topps Comics Jim worked with such writers and artists such as Charlie Adlard, Ray Bradbury, Steve Ditko, Keith Giffen, Michael Golden,  Don Heck, Gil Kane, Miran Kim,  Jack Kirby, Don McGregor, Mike Mignola, George Perez, Stefan Petrucha, P. Craig Russell,  Scott Shaw!,  Roy Thomas, Craig Yoe, and many others.  Jim was also Senior Writer/Editor for Stan Lee Media, and a Trustee for the Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art.

Programming Notes: Jim is available for panels on his career and comics in general.

 

Renee Witterstaetter--(Writer/Editor/Color Artist)

Writer, editor, colorist and publisher Renee Witterstaetter has acted as editor on such books as "Thanos Quest," "Guardians of the Galaxy,"  "Hercules," "Xena," "X-Files," "Conan," "She-Hulk,"  "The Marvel Holiday Special," "Impossible Man Summer Special," "Jurassic Park,"  and too many books to mention here.

As a film professional, she has worked on such movies as "Red Dragon" and "Rush Hour 2," while also behind the scenes, racking up credits on dozens of music videos and commercials for artists as diverse as Madonna, Seal and Usher. 

Her books as a writer include: "Jackie Chan: Dying for Action," "Nick Cardy: The Artist at War," "Excess: The Art of Michael Golden," "Nick Cardy: Wit-Lash," "Art of the Barbarian,"  "Michael Golden: Excess," "The Art of Mark Texeira," and her children's book "Kerry and the Scary Things."

In addition, combining her film work with comics, she is a producer of DVD's on various comic book creators and talents in other fields through her partnership with Amdale Media,  and has spearheaded mounting art shows and retrospectives in the United States, Spain, China, Russia and other venues worldwide. She has lectured on the industry in China, Spain, Norway, and numerous other countries, not to mention the United States!

Programing Notes: Renee is available for portfolio reviews as well as panels relating to her career and working in the publishing industry and comics.