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Thursday, October 01, 2009
Baltimore Comic-Con 2009 First Annual Costume Contest, More!
Cartoons at Saturday brunch in Arlington
The Express has the story about how to get Bugs Bunny with your waffle.
Looking for Calvin and Hobbes booksignings
Nevin Martell writes in "I'm doing a couple of DC-area events" for his book "Looking for Calvin and Hobbes: The Unconventional Story of Bill Watterson and His Revolutionary Comic Strip"
Oct 29 at 7-9 PM - Bethesda, MD at Big Planet Comics
http://www.bigplanetcomics.com/index.htm
Nov 19 in Baileys Crossroads, VA at Borders
http://www.borders.com/online/store/StoreDetailView_45?schid=GLBC|Baileys+Crossroads+VA|45
Oct 29 at 7-9 PM - Bethesda, MD at Big Planet Comics
http://www.bigplanetcomics.com/index.htm
Nov 19 in Baileys Crossroads, VA at Borders
http://www.borders.com/online/store/StoreDetailView_45?schid=GLBC|Baileys+Crossroads+VA|45
Crafty Bastards fest this weekend
The Washington City Paper’s annual Craft Bastard festival is Saturday, Oct 3, 10-5 in Adams Morgan. There’s usually cartoonists there. Rob Ullman will definitely be there, and I’m sure the City Paper’s Ben Classen will also.
Disney film opens at E Street Cinema
According to today’s Express, the documentary Walt and El Grupo opens tomorrow at the E Street Cinema at 555 11th St. This film looks at Walt Disney’s good will tour of South America, which resulted in The Three Caballeros and some characters we rarely see that are popular in the rest of the world.
Comic Riffs poll on Cul de Sac
I'm falling a bit behind but Michael Cavna asked for reactions to Our Man Thompson's Cul de Sac earlier this week.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Book review: Looking for Calvin and Hobbes
Martell, Nevin. Looking for Calvin and Hobbes: The Unconventional Story of Bill Watterson and His Revolutionary Comic Strip. New York: Continuum, 2009. $24.95.
ISBN-10: 082642984X, ISBN-13: 978-0826429841
Nevin Martell has written a curious book, although one would probably best consider it a biography. Bill Watterson so consistently shunned the media that one is put in mind of the Shakespeare biography industry in which a few facts are churned in an attempt to generate a larger picture of a life. Readers of a certain age may end up recalling Leonard Nimoy's syndicated television show, In Search Of, in which apparently mythical beasts such as the Loch Ness Monster or the yeti were diligently pursued for an hour. A better analogy might be In Search of Lost Time, as, like Proust, Martell seeks both Watterson's youth, and by extension, his own.
To his credit, while lacking Watterson's cooperation, Martell avoided writing a book that just looks at his favorite Calvin and Hobbes strips. The book covers Watterson's school life and his earlier attempts at comic strips and editorial cartooning. Martell goes into some detail looking at the influences that Watterson claimed – Charles Schulz, Walt Kelly and George Herriman, relying largely on Watterson's writings in published collections. He covers the main characters, storylines and tropes of Calvin and Hobbes, as well as the history of the strip and Watterson's relationships with the media and his syndicate. Both of these relationships were prickly, as were his relationships with other cartoonists as he rarely participated in social activities nor accepted the awards they voted him.
Martell demonstrates how Watterson's eventual pursuit of a Platonic image of a comic strip, in which licensing and commercialism never played a factor, led to his quitting the field. This unrealistic view is gainsaid by the actual history of comics which were merchandised as often as possible from their 19th century beginnings in both the US and the Great Britain. Universal Press Syndicate and Andrews McMeel representatives are circumspect in their quotes, but one is clearly left with their negative opinion about the staggering amount of money Watterson "left on the table" by refusing to merchandise his strip.
Since Watterson would not talk to Martell, the author tried to talk to his family and eventually did speak with the cartoonist's mother. He also met with Watterson's friends such as comics historian Rich West and others from Watterson's childhood. Martell also talked to many other cartoonists about Watterson's influence, whether or not they actually know him, and the book takes on a somewhat scattered voice. Martell ends the book with his trip to Chagrin Falls, OH where he speaks with his mother.
In the end, one is left uncertain as to how to consider Watterson. He was at the top of his career, a career the book amply shows how hard he had tried to achieve, and he left it. As a result, he avoided the downturn in quality that many strips have at periods in their lifespans. The reader is then left with the question of whether this is actually a good idea – the comic strip survives as a decade-long achievement – but what is then left unachieved is of course unknown and unknowable. In spite of Watterson's refusal to speak for himself, Martell has written an engaging and informative book while avoiding most of the traps that catch fan writers. The book includes a bibliography and an index. (This reviewer is thanked in the acknowledgements for helping with research).
Michael Rhode
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Virginia Commonwealth University picks comic book as item 2 million
See "Spider-Man comic VCU Libraries' 2 millionth volume" By the Associated Press, September 28, 2009. It's the Obama Spider-Man appearance, but still this is an odd story. Thanks to Tom Inge and another big donor they've got a decent comic book collection, but it's not something they're really known for.
Mautner and Collins on SPX
Tom Spurgeon's got one of his big linkfests up so I'm not going to post too many more links, but here's two more.
Sean Collins has audio of two panels he was on - Comics Time: Two Panels from SPX 2009
and Chris Mautner of the old Comix@ list has his impressions at Comic Book Resources' Robot6.
Finally, I stuck my pictures from 2007-2009 into Flickr's SPX group. They've all been here in the past, but in case you want to see them again...
Sean Collins has audio of two panels he was on - Comics Time: Two Panels from SPX 2009
and Chris Mautner of the old Comix@ list has his impressions at Comic Book Resources' Robot6.
Finally, I stuck my pictures from 2007-2009 into Flickr's SPX group. They've all been here in the past, but in case you want to see them again...
DC Comic Books Examiner: Small Press Expo discernibly contributes to festive Washington DC weekend
Small Press Expo discernibly contributes to festive Washington DC weekend The last Sept. weekend had less room for a lack of activities across the Greater DC Metro. Outside of sports, namely both National games and Washington's Sunday loss against the Lions, and the political events like the CBCF Legislative Conference,... Read more » Tuesday, September 29, 2009
DC Comic Books Examiner, Mark Ruffin 
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Post's Shales on Cleveland Show
He doesn't like it.
'Cleveland's' a Chip Off the Old Crock
'Cleveland's' a Chip Off the Old Crock
By Tom Shales
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
More SPX photos
This set's new additions has local DC cartoonists and my friends for the most part. Many of the shots are by my daughter, and these are from Day 2- Sunday, 9/27/09.
Chris Schweizer. I love his Crogan's Revenge pirate story.
Crack ex-DC journalist Scott Rosenberg.
Steve Conley. Steve was selling original strips from Socks and Barney for an insanely low price so I bought 2. (that's one of Rob Ullman's girls behind him)
Rob Ullman, the sadly-missed Washington City Paper's Savage Love columnist.
Carla Speed McNeil of Finder
Andy Runton of Owly. Box Brown in the background. Pic by Claire.
Jennifer Hachigian who does Lore. Pic by Claire.
Jim Ottaviani of GT Labs. Pic by Claire.
Doug "Pop Culture Shock Therapy" Bratton and John "Bo-nanas" Kovaleski. I wasn't familiar with Bratton's work but bought a complete set. I think I've got a full set of John's except for minis.
John Kovaleski
Raina Telgemeier. Pic by Claire.
Ed Piskor. Pic by Claire.
Chris Schweizer. I love his Crogan's Revenge pirate story.
Crack ex-DC journalist Scott Rosenberg.
Steve Conley. Steve was selling original strips from Socks and Barney for an insanely low price so I bought 2. (that's one of Rob Ullman's girls behind him)
Rob Ullman, the sadly-missed Washington City Paper's Savage Love columnist.
Carla Speed McNeil of Finder
Andy Runton of Owly. Box Brown in the background. Pic by Claire.
Jennifer Hachigian who does Lore. Pic by Claire.
Jim Ottaviani of GT Labs. Pic by Claire.
Doug "Pop Culture Shock Therapy" Bratton and John "Bo-nanas" Kovaleski. I wasn't familiar with Bratton's work but bought a complete set. I think I've got a full set of John's except for minis.
John Kovaleski
Raina Telgemeier. Pic by Claire.
Ed Piskor. Pic by Claire.
Ben Towle on SPX
To my chagrin, I only saw Ben briefly when he was grilling Paul Karasik on the copyright status of Fletcher Hanks' comics, but you can read his impressions here.
Dilbert made somebody's job easier
Not his pointy-haired boss, but this lady who just passed away - She "Combined Corporate Ethics, 'Dilbert'", Washington Post Monday, September 28, 2009. The obituary by Joe Holley begins, "Carol Marshall, 56, an attorney and corporate ethics consultant who relied on the comic strip "Dilbert" to teach ethics awareness to Lockheed Martin employees in the 1990s..."
Cavna and Thompson address new feature and turfing of CdS
Michael Cavna mentions "Our Town," his new feature of cartoon reporting on Comic Riffs today and also pulls in Our Man Thompson in the comments for answers to the B&W issues of today.
Post magazine editors want you to embrace change
Here's the relevant sections from their chat. Cul de Sac was dismissed with "we had a note to tell you where to find it":
chi-town: Sad that "Editor's Query" has disappeared. Loved those.
What exactly is the point of "Our Town?" I like Michael Cavna and his work with Comic Riffs, but I didn't really understand the point of the Our Town illustration. Was he actually there, drawing the sights? Is this what it will be every week? Because 1) I imagine it will get old after a few weeks, and 2) I think it would be better in photograph form. Cavna's artistic abilities would be better suited for some other feature...maybe a "Six Chix" type of arrangement with rotating artists but more comic-strippish.
washingtonpost.com: Our Town (Post Magazine, Sept. 27, 2009)
Debra Leithauser and Janet Michaud: The point of Our Town is to capture a slice of life in the metro area, as told via artwork rather than a traditional story. And, yes, Cavna certainly was there.
Quick Reviews for Comics Due 09-30-09
QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 09-30-09
By John Judy
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #607 by Joe Kelly and Mike McKone. Dear Spidey, It's actually pretty great if a Black Cat crosses your path. Just don't marry her…
ASTRO CITY: ASTRA SPECIAL #1 of 2 by Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson. Little hopscotch playing Astra of the First Family graduates college! Now it's time for a road trip as only super-heroes can do it!
BATMAN: WIDENING GYRE #2 of 6 by Kevin Smith and Walter Flanagan. An issue of a Kevin Smith mini-series appears to have shipped on time. In related news, Satan needs a pair of ice skates.
BOOK OF GENESIS ILLUSTRATED HC by Robert Crumb. Yes, you will go to Hell if you read this. Me first! Highly recommended.
BOYS: HEROGASM #5 of 6 by Garth Ennis and John McCrea. It's the best awards show ever: The Supies, celebrating the outstanding achievements of your favorite corporate-controlled heroes! And isn't Neil Patrick Harris doing a fabulous job at the mic? Not for kids.
GREEN LANTERN #46 by Geoff Johns and Doug Mahnke. Mongul and Sinestro battle for control of the Yellow Lantern gang, which is sort "deck chairs on the Titanic" when you've got the Black Lanterns gunning to kill everyone in the universe. Recommended.
HULK #15 by Jeph Loeb and Ian Churchill. The Red Hulk hijinks continue as different characters try to figure out who he is and long-time fans try to figure out WHY he is.
ICON: A HERO'S WELCOME SC by Dwayne McDuffie and M.D. Bright. Collecting the first eight issues of ICON, Milestone Comics' original black Superman from 1992! Highly recommended.
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA 80-PAGE GIANT #1 by Many, Many People. The JLA fights all kinds of people all across the timestream. That's it really.
JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #31 by Bill Willingham, Matthew Sturges and Jesus Merino. Magog and Wildcat duke it out while a dirty traitor in the ranks stands revealed!
MARVEL ZOMBIES RETURN #5 by Fred Van Lente and Wellinton Alves. Meet the Zombie Avengers. Hopefully this is now out of everyone's system. "Or is it..?"
PREVIEWS by Marvel and Diamond Comics. Featuring lots of your favorite characters sitting in sleighs with Santa suits over their spandex!
THOR #603 by J. Michael Straczynski and Marko Djurdjevic. Dear Loki, God(dess) of Mischief, Manipulating and generally screwing with Thor, Balder and your fellow Asgardians is, let's face it, pretty easy. Not a lot of brains under the stylish headgear. Doctor Doom, however….
THUNDERBOLTS #136 by Rick Remender and Mahmud A. Asrar. Norman Osborn has somehow co-opted Luke Cage and Iron Fist, Heroes for Hire, into his employ. Because he is clever, that one.
TROTSKY HC written and drawn by Rick Geary. A graphic biography of Stalin's arch-nemesis, and it ain't Hitler. Two pick-axes up! Recommended!
WOLVERINE WEAPON X #5 by Jason Aaron and Ron Garney. Wolvie and the Adamantium Men, the final round! Guess whose name isn't on the cover, kids? Recommended.
WONDER WOMAN #36 by Gail Simone and Aaron Lopresti. The Olympian gods send Achilles to take Wonder Woman's place! Let's hope WW finally breaks a heel.
X-FACTOR #49 by Peter David and Valentine DeLandro. Cortex, Madrox's evil cyborg twin from the future…. Oh nevermind. I'm pretty sure Peter David lost a bet.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Zadzooks on comics, this week
Zadzooks: Reviews of Star Wars Adventures, Archibald Aardvark and more, By Joseph Szadkowski, Washington Times September 24 2009
Oct 25: Bechdel day at Katzen Arts Center
* 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
* Visiting Writing Series presents Department of Literature Annual Colloquium, featuring Alison Bechdel
* Battelle-Tompkins Atrium
Alison Bechdel, Fun Home
Welcome! Each year, the American University students, faculty, staff, alumni and other members of the greater community come together for one day to explore a great book. Subjects of previous colloquia include Milan Kundera’s The Unbearable Lightness of Being and Mikhail Bulgakov’s The Master and Margarita.
We invite you to participate in the seventh annual Department of Literature Colloquium, featuring Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel.
About the Author and the Book
Named by Time magazine in 2006 as one of the “10 Best Booksof the Year,” Bechdel’s Fun Home was a finalist for a 2006 National Book Critics Circle Award and the winner of the 2007 Eisner Award for Best Reality-Based Work. Of Bechdel’s memoir, Amy Bloom has written: “If David Sedaris could draw, and if Bleak House had been a little funnier, you’d have Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home.” Bechdel is also known for her acclaimed, long-running comic strip, Dykes to Watch Out For. A graduate of Oberlin College, she lives near Burlington, Vermont, where she is now completing a second graphic memoir, Love Life: A Case Study. Alison Bechdel’s appearance is sponsored by the Visiting Writers Series and the Bishop McCabe Lecture Series.
Schedule: Sunday, Oct. 25, 2009
Register Online (by Oct. 21)
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Colloquium in
Battelle-Tompkins Atrium
(Presentations to be announced!)
See Campus Directions/Maps
3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Lecture with Alison Bechdel,
Katzen Arts Center,
Abramson Family Recital Hall
Questions?
Literature
202-885-2971
lit@american.edu
Battelle Tompkins, Room 237
Thanks to Rick Banning for the tip.
* Visiting Writing Series presents Department of Literature Annual Colloquium, featuring Alison Bechdel
* Battelle-Tompkins Atrium
Alison Bechdel, Fun Home
Welcome! Each year, the American University students, faculty, staff, alumni and other members of the greater community come together for one day to explore a great book. Subjects of previous colloquia include Milan Kundera’s The Unbearable Lightness of Being and Mikhail Bulgakov’s The Master and Margarita.
We invite you to participate in the seventh annual Department of Literature Colloquium, featuring Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel.
About the Author and the Book
Named by Time magazine in 2006 as one of the “10 Best Booksof the Year,” Bechdel’s Fun Home was a finalist for a 2006 National Book Critics Circle Award and the winner of the 2007 Eisner Award for Best Reality-Based Work. Of Bechdel’s memoir, Amy Bloom has written: “If David Sedaris could draw, and if Bleak House had been a little funnier, you’d have Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home.” Bechdel is also known for her acclaimed, long-running comic strip, Dykes to Watch Out For. A graduate of Oberlin College, she lives near Burlington, Vermont, where she is now completing a second graphic memoir, Love Life: A Case Study. Alison Bechdel’s appearance is sponsored by the Visiting Writers Series and the Bishop McCabe Lecture Series.
Schedule: Sunday, Oct. 25, 2009
Register Online (by Oct. 21)
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Colloquium in
Battelle-Tompkins Atrium
(Presentations to be announced!)
See Campus Directions/Maps
3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Lecture with Alison Bechdel,
Katzen Arts Center,
Abramson Family Recital Hall
Questions?
Literature
202-885-2971
lit@american.edu
Battelle Tompkins, Room 237
Thanks to Rick Banning for the tip.
Cul de Sac to appear in B&W in Sunday's Post
Today's newly-redesigned Washington Post Magazine says Cul de Sac, the strip it began and nurtured before syndication is being turfed from the magazine and will run in the Style section, presumably always sans color. Bad decision. You can tell the editors that too, in their upcoming chat on Monday at 11 am.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Gahan Wilson in the Spotlight at SPX
Gary Groth was running late so Gahan Wilson began speaking without an introduction. I missed the very beginning where he said he thought he'd like to live an academic life, but you can listen to the rest of his talk......or you can download it here.
Post debuts new cartoon journalism feature
Michael Cavna and another cartoonist are illustrating "Our Town" in the Post's Magazine, starting tomorrow. I love comics journalism and I have high hopes for this feature.
Wash Times on Disney purchase of Marvel
Out of characters: Disney should go indie, By Sonny Bunch, Washington Times September 25 2009.
SPX the first day
Spx crowd scene including Jeff AlexanderSome quick notes that are essentally stream of conciousness. Richard was under the weather and didn't come. My photos are here.
Carol TylerThe show appears to be a success with good, but not overwhelming crowds. I bought a lot from Fanfare and Fantagraphics. Gahan Wilson and Carol Tyler both had shorter lines that I expected. The big draw at the show, based solely on line length, appears to be Kate Beaton.
Gary GrothGahan Wilson is a born storyteller and his off the cuff talk (now online!) was very fun to hear, if not overly insightful. Look for the 3-volume set of Playboy cartoons coming from Fantagraphics, which has an interview and a biography by Gary Groth. Pre-orders at the show get a signed print and free shipping.
Gahan Wilson and Gary GrothFrank Camusso has a new Knights of the Lunch Table, his retelling of King Arthur. My daughter said Oh boy! when I brought it home tonight. Emily Flake, whose work appears in the Baltimore City Paper has a new collection as does Rob Ullman whose work used to appear in the Washington CP. I bought both.
Emily Flake and Warren BernardSome of the usual suspects are missing this year including Batton Lash and Jackie Estrada. Cartoonists with Attitude is not there, except Ted Rall and Stephanie McMillan are holding down an NBM table. Ted's got a new graphic biography and Stephanie a new comic.
R. SikoryakJames Kochalka is hanging out at the Top Shelf table as is Matt Kindt and Andy Runton. R Sikoryak is at Drawn and Quarterly and will draw Little Nemo in your book.
David MalkiDustin Harbin has a new book out and is holding my IOU for $47. He'll draw Alan Moore in a sketchbook if you ask him to.
Dustin HarbinPeter Kuper's got a new book out on his experiences living in Mexico. His publisher is in the far left corner as you face into the room.
Peter Kuper
Chris Mautner's pre-plan for SPX
Richard Thompson and I should be cruising around today, starting when it opens. Tomorrow I'll be on my own. I'm going to try to go to the sessions on Sikoryak, Kuper, Wilson, Tyler, and Neufeld
Meanwhile, see Chris Mautner's pre-plan for SPX.
Meanwhile, see Chris Mautner's pre-plan for SPX.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Oct 20: Cartoonist Ding Cong Symposium at LOC
Library of Congress
101 Independence Avenue SE
Washington DC 20540
September 25, 2009
Public contact: Robert Saladini (202) 707-2692, rsal@loc.gov
Library of Congress Symposium Celebrates
Chinese Cartoonist and Artist Ding Cong, Oct. 20
A Library of Congress symposium, "Public Art and Illustrations: The Cartoons and Art of Ding Cong," will celebrate the life and work of China's famous cartoonist and artist, Ding Cong, who provided daring social commentary on Chinese society during China's turbulent 20th century.
The symposium, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, Oct. 20, in Room 119 of the Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. S.E., Washington, D.C. The event is sponsored by the Library's John W. Kluge Center, and reservations or tickets are not needed.
Ding Cong (1916-2009), who worked under the pen name Xiao Ding, was born in Shanghai into a family of artists. He was a frequent admirer of the magazines The New Yorker and Vanity Fair, which were available in treaty-port Shanghai. From these and other Western influences, Ding Cong developed his art.
Ding Cong used his cartoons and illustrations to reveal the true state of Chinese society, which faced corruption and turmoil during most of the 20th century. His popularity stemmed from an intellectual and artistic integrity that made the inept of both the right and left fair game for his art. But the cartoonist paid dearly for his efforts, as he was exiled twice to the countryside and borderlands, effectively losing more than 20 years of his artistic life.
The symposium features lectures by preeminent scholars of Chinese cartoons as well as family and friends of the artist.
9:00-9:05 Welcome by Carolyn Brown, director of the John W. Kluge Center, Library of Congress
9:05-9:25 "Ding Cong: The Artist and Art Form" by Marcia Ristaino, visiting scholar, John W. Kluge Center
9:25-9:45 "Ding Cong's Art During the Years of Hardship" by Shelley Drake Hawks, lecturer, Boston University
9:45-10:10 "Ding Cong: His Artistic Circle and Contributions" by John A. Lent, publisher and editor-in-chief, International Journal of Comic Art
10:10-10:30 Break
10:30-10:55 "One Who Saw China As It Really Was: Ding Cong in the Forties" by Michael Sullivan, fellow emeritus of St. Catherine's College, Oxford
10:55-11:20 "The Relationship Between Chinese Visual Art and Society" (tentative) by Carma Hinton, documentary filmmaker and Robinson Professor of Visual Culture and Chinese Studies, George Mason University
11:20-11:40 "Herblock's Caricature of Mao Zedong: A Window onto Resources for Cartoon-Related Research in the Library's Prints and Photographs Division" by Martha Kennedy, curator, Library of Congress
11:40-12:00 Questions and Discussion
At 1:45 p.m., an exhibition of 30 reproductions of Ding Cong's work may be viewed at the Mason Atrium Art Gallery, School of Visual and Performing Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax, Va., along with additional commentary from speakers, his widow and friends. For more information, visit http://today.gmu.edu/48188/.
Through a generous endowment from John W. Kluge, the Library of Congress established the Kluge Center in 2000 to bring together the world's best thinkers to stimulate and energize one another to distill wisdom from the Library's rich resources and to interact with policymakers in Washington. For further information on the Kluge Center, visit www.loc.gov/kluge/.
# # #
PR09-188
9/25/09
ISSN: 0731-3527
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Speaking of SPX, in a way
This isn't directly about comics, but many of the lessons here are used by cartoonists, or should be -
On Web, A Most Novel Approach
With Promotion Money Tight, Authors Take to Online Sites To Toot Their Own Horns
By Neely Tucker
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, September 24, 2009
On Web, A Most Novel Approach
With Promotion Money Tight, Authors Take to Online Sites To Toot Their Own Horns
By Neely Tucker
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, September 24, 2009
PR: John Kovaleski at Small Press Expo
I bought everything John had last year ...
Hi there-
Just a quick little note to tell you that I'll be at the Small Press Expo this weekend (September 26 and 27) in Bethesda, MD. I'll be signing "Bo Nanas," "Jack N. Box" and "Great Scott" books for your personal reading enjoyment at table C9. Hope to see you there.
For more info http://www.spxpo.com/
Best,
John Kovaleski
You can see more of my work here:
http://www.kovaleski.com/
As always you can find out too much about me on my blog:
http://kovaleski.wordpress.com/
Or follow me on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/johnkovaleski
BIO: Before becoming a cartoonist, John Kovaleski had "done time" at an ad agency, a consulting firm, a newspaper and a big, faceless corporation.
His humorous scribblings have adorned magazines, newspapers, greeting cards, puzzles, billboards, and that new-fangled Internet that all the kids are talking about.
In 2003 his comic strip "Bo Nanas" was unleashed on an unsuspecting world by the fine folks at The Washington Post Writers Group.
In 2006 he became "one of the usual gang of idiots." In other words, a contributor to MAD Magazine.
In his spare time he practices the ukulele and does the occasional escape-artist trick
Hi there-
Just a quick little note to tell you that I'll be at the Small Press Expo this weekend (September 26 and 27) in Bethesda, MD. I'll be signing "Bo Nanas," "Jack N. Box" and "Great Scott" books for your personal reading enjoyment at table C9. Hope to see you there.
For more info http://www.spxpo.com/
Best,
John Kovaleski
You can see more of my work here:
http://www.kovaleski.com/
As always you can find out too much about me on my blog:
http://kovaleski.wordpress.com/
Or follow me on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/johnkovaleski
BIO: Before becoming a cartoonist, John Kovaleski had "done time" at an ad agency, a consulting firm, a newspaper and a big, faceless corporation.
His humorous scribblings have adorned magazines, newspapers, greeting cards, puzzles, billboards, and that new-fangled Internet that all the kids are talking about.
In 2003 his comic strip "Bo Nanas" was unleashed on an unsuspecting world by the fine folks at The Washington Post Writers Group.
In 2006 he became "one of the usual gang of idiots." In other words, a contributor to MAD Magazine.
In his spare time he practices the ukulele and does the occasional escape-artist trick
USA Today cartoonist Joel Pett featured in campus newstory
See "What in the world is so funny? Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist Joel Pett talks politics at Whitman," By Eric Nickeson-Mendheim, Whitman Pioneer September 22, 2009.
National Book Festival, the OTHER Saturday event
Cartoonist Jeff Kinney will be among the authors at the Library of Congress' National Book Festival on the Mall on Sept 26th. Also appearing are Jodi Picoult who briefly wrote Wonder Woman, and Junot Diaz who's influenced by comics.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Daily Cross Hatch previews SPX
The excellent site Daily Cross Hatch previews SPX - they're much hipper than I am so pay attention to what they say. Also they run excellent interviews, usually by Brian Heater so check the site regularly.
KAL speaks to Maryland students
See Web site hopes to spark high school students' interest in current events
by Amber Parcher
The Gazette September 23 2009
by Amber Parcher
The Gazette September 23 2009
Weldon on Wednesday Comics
Weldon, Glen. 2009.
Comic Books Take A Bold Leap Backward And Nail The Dismount.
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (September 23)
Small Press Expo This Weekend with Gahan Wilson, Carol Tyler, Kate Beaton, Jerry Moriarity and Josh Neufeld
Small Press Expo This Weekend with Gahan Wilson, Carol Tyler, Kate Beaton, Jerry Moriarity and Josh Neufeld
For Immediate Release
Contact: Warren Bernard
E-Mail: warren@spxpo.com
Bethesda, Maryland; September 24, 2009 - The Small Press Expo (SPX), the preeminent showcase for the exhibition of independent comics, graphic novels and alternative political cartoons, will be held this weekend, Saturday Sept 25 from 11AM-7PM and Sunday, September 26 from noon-6PM. The guest list this year includes Gahan Wilson, Paul Karasik, Carol Tyler, Josh Neufeld, John Porcellino, Peter Kuper, Kevin Huizenga, Kate Beaton, Al Columbia, Jerry Moriarity, R. Sikoryak and Joshua Cotter .
There will be 11 panel discussions on a wide variety of comics topics as well as one on one sessions with Gahan Wilson, Jerry Moriarity, R. Sikoryak, John Porcellino and Carol Tyler, amongst others.
SPX culminates with the presentation of the Ignatz Awards for outstanding achievement in comics and cartooning which will occur Saturday night, September 26 at 9PM. Attendees at SPX get in free to the Ignatz Awards. The Ignatz is the first Festival Prize in the US comic book industry, with winners chosen by balloting by attendees during SPX.
For detailed information about guests, panels and the Ignatz Awards, visit the SPX web site at www.spxpo.com.
SPX brings together more than 300 artists and publishers to meet their readers, booksellers and distributors each year. Graphic novels, political cartoon books and alternative comics will all be on display and for sale by their authors and illustrators.
As in previous years, profits from the SPX will go to support the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (CBLDF), protecting the First Amendment rights of comic book readers and professionals. For more information on the CBLDF, go to their website at http://www.cbldf.org/.
SPX will be held The North Bethesda Marriott Convention Center in Bethesda, Maryland, next to the White Flint Metro stop. Admission is $10 for a single day and $15 for both days.
Post on local comic book store economy
One Comics Shop to Close; Others Stay in the Action
By Mike Musgrove
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
DC Comic Books Examiner: Atomic Books throws SPX-plosion 2
DC Comic Books Examiner, Mark Ruffin
| |
Sept 23: Peter Kuper at GMU
Tip courtesy of Ignatz-nominee Matt Dembicki -
2009 Fall for the Book festival in Fairfax
Graphic Novelist Peter Kuper
Wed, September 23, 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Center for the Arts, Grand Tier III, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
Graphic novelist Kuper explores the history of comics as political art — from Thomas Nast to Diego Rivera to the artists of World War 3 Illustrated — and offers a visual tour of the art he produced while living in Oaxaca, Mexico, when striking teachers and federal troops clashed.
2009 Fall for the Book festival in Fairfax
Graphic Novelist Peter Kuper
Wed, September 23, 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Center for the Arts, Grand Tier III, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
Graphic novelist Kuper explores the history of comics as political art — from Thomas Nast to Diego Rivera to the artists of World War 3 Illustrated — and offers a visual tour of the art he produced while living in Oaxaca, Mexico, when striking teachers and federal troops clashed.
Xoc #2 at SPX
Matt Dembicki says
-Sweet cover, isn't it? (I hope that shows up on this email posting method)
I'll be premiering the second issue of Xoc, which is up for an Ignatz Award in the mini-comic category, at SPX this weekend. This issue is chockfull of underwater goodness!
-Sweet cover, isn't it? (I hope that shows up on this email posting method)
Riffs interviews Fall Out Boy
The Riffs Interview: Fall Out Boy's Pete Wentz Dives Headlong Into Being a Comic-Book Creator
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs September 22, 2009
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/comic-riffs/2009/09/the_riffs_interview_fall_out_b.html#more
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs September 22, 2009
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/comic-riffs/2009/09/the_riffs_interview_fall_out_b.html#more
Sept 23: Graphic novel book group at Politics and Prose
GRAPHIC NOVEL (4th Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, September 23
Exit Wounds
by Mutu Rodan
2008/12 - TP
Drawn & Quarterly
9781897299838
Publisher Comments
Set in modern-day Tel Aviv, a young man, Koby Franco, receives an urgent phone call from a female soldier. Learning that his estranged father may have been a victim of a suicide bombing in Hadera, Koby reluctantly joins the soldier in searching for clues. His death would certainly explain his empty apartment and disconnected phone line. As Koby tries to unravel the mystery of his father's death, he finds himself piecing together not only the last few months of his father's life but his entire identity. With thin, precise lines and luscious watercolors, Rutu Modan creates a portrait of modern Israel, a place where sudden death mingles with the slow dissolution of family ties.
"Exit Wounds "is the North American graphic-novel debut from one of Israel's best-known cartoonists. Modan has received several awards in Israel and abroad, including the Best Illustrated Children's Book Award from the Israel Museum in Jerusalem four times and Young Artist of the Year by the Israel Ministry of Culture. She is a chosen artist of the Israel Cultural Excellence Foundation.
Wednesday, September 23
Exit Wounds
by Mutu Rodan
2008/12 - TP
Drawn & Quarterly
9781897299838
Publisher Comments
Set in modern-day Tel Aviv, a young man, Koby Franco, receives an urgent phone call from a female soldier. Learning that his estranged father may have been a victim of a suicide bombing in Hadera, Koby reluctantly joins the soldier in searching for clues. His death would certainly explain his empty apartment and disconnected phone line. As Koby tries to unravel the mystery of his father's death, he finds himself piecing together not only the last few months of his father's life but his entire identity. With thin, precise lines and luscious watercolors, Rutu Modan creates a portrait of modern Israel, a place where sudden death mingles with the slow dissolution of family ties.
"Exit Wounds "is the North American graphic-novel debut from one of Israel's best-known cartoonists. Modan has received several awards in Israel and abroad, including the Best Illustrated Children's Book Award from the Israel Museum in Jerusalem four times and Young Artist of the Year by the Israel Ministry of Culture. She is a chosen artist of the Israel Cultural Excellence Foundation.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Sept 22 Comic-Book Fan Adam Besenyodi at GMU
Tip courtesy of Ignatz-nominee Matt Dembicki -
2009 Fall for the Book festivalin Fairfax
Comic-Book Fan Adam Besenyodi
When: Tue, September 22, 3pm – 4pm
Where: Grand Tier III, Center for the Arts, George Mason University, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax, Virginia 22030
Besenyodi discusses his new book, Deus ex Comica: The Rebirth of a Comic-Book Fan, praised by Wired as a “a great study in emotional psychology and the things in life that really get our brains ticking and our hearts pumping.”
Graphic Novelist Peter Kuper
Wed, September 23, 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Center for the Arts, Grand Tier III, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
Graphic novelist Kuper explores the history of comics as political art — from Thomas Nast to Diego Rivera to the artists of World War 3 Illustrated — and offers a visual tour of the art he produced while living in Oaxaca, Mexico, when striking teachers and federal troops clashed.
2009 Fall for the Book festivalin Fairfax
Comic-Book Fan Adam Besenyodi
When: Tue, September 22, 3pm – 4pm
Where: Grand Tier III, Center for the Arts, George Mason University, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax, Virginia 22030
Besenyodi discusses his new book, Deus ex Comica: The Rebirth of a Comic-Book Fan, praised by Wired as a “a great study in emotional psychology and the things in life that really get our brains ticking and our hearts pumping.”
Graphic Novelist Peter Kuper
Wed, September 23, 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Center for the Arts, Grand Tier III, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
Graphic novelist Kuper explores the history of comics as political art — from Thomas Nast to Diego Rivera to the artists of World War 3 Illustrated — and offers a visual tour of the art he produced while living in Oaxaca, Mexico, when striking teachers and federal troops clashed.
Sept 21: Batman: The Dark Knight in Crystal City
Crystal Screen - Superheroes
Join the Crystal City BID for 21 weeks of Superheros! On Monday nights from May 4, 2009-September 21, 2009, Crystal City will be protected by Batman, Spiderman, Superman, and many others. Each night will also have special giveaways, sponsors, and other activities.
Date(s):
May 4, 2009 - September 21, 2009
Location:
18th and Bell Street - Courtyard Across from Crystal City Metro Station & Marriott Hotel
Event Fee:
Free
Hours:
Movies begin at sundown
Description:
Join the Crystal City BID for 21 weeks of Superheros! On Monday nights from May 4, 2009-September 21, 2009, Crystal City will be protected by Batman, Spiderman, Superman, and many others. Each night will also have special giveaways, sponsors, and other activities. Check back here for more information.
CRYSTAL KID BONUS: Since it gets dark later in the summer and movies often start past bedtime, the BID has partnered with Crystal City Sports Pub to rebroadcast each movie at 3:30 PM on the 3rd Floor of CCSP on the Wednesday following the outdoor showing, starting May 6. Bring your kids and a blanket and enjoy the fabulous surround network of TVs.
Festival Rules: Patrons can bring their own picnics as long as they abide by city and festival rules. Low-backed chairs and blankets are allowed, but grills, umbrellas, and pets are prohibited.
Schedule
September 21, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight
September 23, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight - at CCSP
Join the Crystal City BID for 21 weeks of Superheros! On Monday nights from May 4, 2009-September 21, 2009, Crystal City will be protected by Batman, Spiderman, Superman, and many others. Each night will also have special giveaways, sponsors, and other activities.
Date(s):
May 4, 2009 - September 21, 2009
Location:
18th and Bell Street - Courtyard Across from Crystal City Metro Station & Marriott Hotel
Event Fee:
Free
Hours:
Movies begin at sundown
Description:
Join the Crystal City BID for 21 weeks of Superheros! On Monday nights from May 4, 2009-September 21, 2009, Crystal City will be protected by Batman, Spiderman, Superman, and many others. Each night will also have special giveaways, sponsors, and other activities. Check back here for more information.
CRYSTAL KID BONUS: Since it gets dark later in the summer and movies often start past bedtime, the BID has partnered with Crystal City Sports Pub to rebroadcast each movie at 3:30 PM on the 3rd Floor of CCSP on the Wednesday following the outdoor showing, starting May 6. Bring your kids and a blanket and enjoy the fabulous surround network of TVs.
Festival Rules: Patrons can bring their own picnics as long as they abide by city and festival rules. Low-backed chairs and blankets are allowed, but grills, umbrellas, and pets are prohibited.
Schedule
September 21, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight
September 23, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight - at CCSP
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Quick Reviews for Comics Due 09-23-09
QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 09-23-09
By John Judy
BLACKEST NIGHT: SUPERMAN #2 of 3 by James Robinson and Eddy Barrows. If you've ever wanted to see Superman fight a zombie version of himself with wistful, poetic dialogue by James Robinson THIS is the one for you! Plus, other zombies with rings. Fun stuff.
DARK REIGN: THE LIST: X-MEN ONE-SHOT by Matt Fraction and Alan Davis. Fraction! Davis! Osborn! X-Men!!!! (Contains some verbs.)
DETECTIVE COMICS #857 by Greg Rucka, JH Williams III and Cully Hamner. Batman had the Mad Hatter. Batwoman has "Alice" which should be a lot hotter than it sounds. At least there's poison gas involved. Also, the Question takes on a human trafficking ring. Note: Human traffickers are this year's drug dealers.
FANTASTIC FOUR #571 by Jonathan Hickman and Dale Eaglesham. Ben and Johnny get ready to road trip while Reed gets ready to fix everything. "Socialism!"
FLASH CHRONICLES VOL. 1 SC by Various Silver Age Legends. Collecting the earliest adventures of Barry Allen, the fastest man alive, in affordable paperback. Great gift idea for the young and old. Recommended.
GOON VOL. 9: CALAMITY OF CONSCIENCE SC written and drawn by Eric Powell. "Now that's a beatin'. You know you been beat proper when your arm is stickin' out at an angle like that." Collecting issues 28-31, this twisted humor-adventure title will tug at your heart strings then get really angry and rip them out entirely. And make you like it! Recommended.
HELLBLAZER #259 by Peter Milligan and Simon Bisley. The Biz is back for two issues of covers and interiors! First up, Constantine tries to escape his troubles by skipping town. Because that always works when you're John Constantine…
IMMORTAL WEAPONS #3 of 5 by Rick Spears, Duane Swierczynski and Timothy Green II. If you're a down on your luck orphan during China's first opium war, have no fear for Living Weapon Dog Brother #1 is on your side! And you have opium!
INCREDIBLE HULK #602 by Greg Pak, Fred Van Lente, Ariel Olivetti and Michael Ryan. Hulk and Son take on the Juggernaut! There's also this back-up story about the appalling new She-Hulk but don't let that ruin it for you.
MARVEL ZOMBIES RETURN #4 by Seth Grahame-Smith and Richard Elson. One of the authors of "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" takes a swing at a Zombies versus Hulk story. On the moon! Gotta look!
ODD AND THE FROST GIANTS HC by Neil Gaiman and Brett Helquist. A hardback edition of the story Neil wrote for the UK's World Book Day about a boy in Viking times who must save Asgard from the Frost Giants and restore springtime to the world. Illustrated by Brent Helquist (of Lemony Snicket fame), 128 pages and appropriate for young readers. Recommended.
NEW AVENGERS #57 by Brian Michael Bendis and Stuart Immonen. The Avengers are powerless and now so are the Dark Avengers and they're all facing seriously hacked off rogue criminals who are not powerless. Boy, I sure hope they all get their powers back in time for a BIG FIGHT!
SPIDER-WOMAN #1 by Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev. Congratulations to Bendis for finally getting his dream job and his old DAREDEVIL partner to draw it. Let's hope this doesn't distract him from the other 20-some weekly titles he's writing! "Thwip!"
SUPERMAN: SECRET ORIGIN #1 of 6 by Geoff Johns and Gary Frank. It's the new Official Canon of Superman's Life and Times. Put your Byrne-autographed MAN OF STEEL back on the shelf, kids. It is now an antique. Recommended.
UNCANNY X-MEN #515 by Matt Fraction and Greg Land. One of the original X-Men makes his exit! But who is it?
UNDERGROUND #1 of 4 by Steve Lieber and Jeff Parker. "Thriller set in a cave" doesn't really do justice to this tense, good-looking comic by the artist of WHITEOUT and the author of AGENTS OF ATLAS. Highly recommended.
WEDNESDAY COMICS #12 of 12 by Various Courageous Risk-Takers. Final issue! Some hits, some misses, a few head-scratchers, but overall a noble and successful experiment that gave us some great artwork and appreciation for just how beautiful the Sunday newspaper comics used to be. Highly recommended.
WOLVERINE GIANT-SIZE OLD MAN LOGAN #1 by Mark Millar and Steve McNiven. Grampa Wolverine chops up a bunch of green people. The final chapter. Not for younger kids because it's got a guy with claws killing people fer cryin' out loud!
Cavna article on Hader's voice acting
Bill Hader Stars as King Midas and Mr. Unassuming
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Staff Writer
Sunday, September 20, 2009
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Staff Writer
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Friday, September 18, 2009
Post on Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs includes interview
Cavna, Michael. 2009.
The 'Riffs Interview: 'SNL's' Bill Hader Embraces His Inner Nerd for 'Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs' Washington Post Comic Riffs (September 18): http://voices.washingtonpost.com/comic-riffs/2009/09/thursdays_riffs_5.html#more
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/17/AR2009091704446.html
The 'Riffs Interview: 'SNL's' Bill Hader Embraces His Inner Nerd for 'Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs' Washington Post Comic Riffs (September 18): http://voices.washingtonpost.com/comic-riffs/2009/09/thursdays_riffs_5.html#more
'Cloudy With a Chance' of Hilarity; Children's Book Is Basis of Wacky, Inventive Comedy
By Dan Kois
Special to The Washington Post Friday, September 18, 2009http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/17/AR2009091704446.html
Ohio State Names Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum in Honor of $7 Million Gift
Here's a PR from OSU, and the Schulz Challenge to match funds is still going strong.
Ohio State Names Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum in Honor of $7 Million Gift
The Ohio State University Board of Trustees today approved the naming of the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum in recognition of a $7 million gift from the Elizabeth Ireland Graves Foundation to support the renovation of Sullivant Hall, an historic building located at a main gateway to the university’s campus.
The project is estimated to cost $20.6 million and will be completed in 2013, at which time Sullivant Hall will house both the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum and The Ohio State University Department of Dance.
“The Graves Foundation has made a critical investment to enhance the learning environment for students, faculty, and visitors from around the world,” said President E. Gordon Gee. “The revitalized Sullivant Hall will be a fitting home to two university treasures – the top-ranked Department of Dance and the world-renowned Cartoon Library and Museum. Naming the latter in Billy Ireland’s honor is a fitting tribute to a remarkable Ohioan.”
The Elizabeth Ireland Graves Foundation is managed by Billy Ireland's granddaughter, Sayre Graves, and is based out of Bremo Bluff, Va..
The Columbus Dispatch hired Ireland, a native of Chillicothe, Ohio, shortly after his high school graduation in 1898. A self-taught cartoonist, he worked for the Dispatch until his death in 1935 and was known both for his editorial cartoons and for his Sunday feature The Passing Show.
An exhibition of Ireland’s work will be held at Ohio State in the fall 2010.
“Billy Ireland was a Columbus celebrity during his lifetime,” according to Lucy Shelton Caswell, the cartoon library and museum's founding curator. “He enjoyed a national reputation and his work is still delightful to read. This is a fitting honor for a great cartoonist. We look forward to sharing his work with a new generation of readers.”
Established in 1977 with a founding gift of the Milton Caniff Collection, the Cartoon Library and Museum was housed in two converted classrooms in the Ohio State's Journalism Building. Since then, Caswell has built it into a widely renowned collection that is a destination for both cartoon researchers and fans from around the world.
Thousands of donors have contributed to the collection, with gifts ranging from one item to tens of thousands. With the recent addition of the IMCA’s extensive permanent collection, the Cartoon Library and Museum now houses more than 400,000 works of original cartoon art, 35,000 books, 51,000 serial titles, 2,800 linear feet of manuscript materials, and 2.5 million comic strip clippings and newspaper pages.
Now the world's largest collection of cartoon art and comics, the Cartoon Library and Museum is currently located in the basement of the Wexner Center for the Arts http://cartoons.osu.edu/. Its new, permanent home in Sullivant Hall will expand its space from its current 6,808 square feet to more than 40,000 gross square feet of space storage and exhibit space allowing more of the collection to be displayed and accessible to the public.
Sullivant Hall also will provide greatly enhanced facilities for Ohio State’s top-ranked dance program, including state-of-the-art dance facilities, upgraded administrative offices, and an upgrade of the existing auditorium.
Ohio State Names Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum in Honor of $7 Million Gift
The Ohio State University Board of Trustees today approved the naming of the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum in recognition of a $7 million gift from the Elizabeth Ireland Graves Foundation to support the renovation of Sullivant Hall, an historic building located at a main gateway to the university’s campus.
The project is estimated to cost $20.6 million and will be completed in 2013, at which time Sullivant Hall will house both the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum and The Ohio State University Department of Dance.
“The Graves Foundation has made a critical investment to enhance the learning environment for students, faculty, and visitors from around the world,” said President E. Gordon Gee. “The revitalized Sullivant Hall will be a fitting home to two university treasures – the top-ranked Department of Dance and the world-renowned Cartoon Library and Museum. Naming the latter in Billy Ireland’s honor is a fitting tribute to a remarkable Ohioan.”
The Elizabeth Ireland Graves Foundation is managed by Billy Ireland's granddaughter, Sayre Graves, and is based out of Bremo Bluff, Va..
The Columbus Dispatch hired Ireland, a native of Chillicothe, Ohio, shortly after his high school graduation in 1898. A self-taught cartoonist, he worked for the Dispatch until his death in 1935 and was known both for his editorial cartoons and for his Sunday feature The Passing Show.
An exhibition of Ireland’s work will be held at Ohio State in the fall 2010.
“Billy Ireland was a Columbus celebrity during his lifetime,” according to Lucy Shelton Caswell, the cartoon library and museum's founding curator. “He enjoyed a national reputation and his work is still delightful to read. This is a fitting honor for a great cartoonist. We look forward to sharing his work with a new generation of readers.”
Established in 1977 with a founding gift of the Milton Caniff Collection, the Cartoon Library and Museum was housed in two converted classrooms in the Ohio State's Journalism Building. Since then, Caswell has built it into a widely renowned collection that is a destination for both cartoon researchers and fans from around the world.
Thousands of donors have contributed to the collection, with gifts ranging from one item to tens of thousands. With the recent addition of the IMCA’s extensive permanent collection, the Cartoon Library and Museum now houses more than 400,000 works of original cartoon art, 35,000 books, 51,000 serial titles, 2,800 linear feet of manuscript materials, and 2.5 million comic strip clippings and newspaper pages.
Now the world's largest collection of cartoon art and comics, the Cartoon Library and Museum is currently located in the basement of the Wexner Center for the Arts http://cartoons.osu.edu/. Its new, permanent home in Sullivant Hall will expand its space from its current 6,808 square feet to more than 40,000 gross square feet of space storage and exhibit space allowing more of the collection to be displayed and accessible to the public.
Sullivant Hall also will provide greatly enhanced facilities for Ohio State’s top-ranked dance program, including state-of-the-art dance facilities, upgraded administrative offices, and an upgrade of the existing auditorium.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
NPR's Weldon on Stitches
Weldon, Glen. 2009.
'Stitches' Draws On An Artist's Painful Childhood.
National Public Radio's Books We Like (September 15)
I read this over the weekend for part of my cancer research. It's a strong, moving work. It's not my favorite of either autobiographical comics, or cancer comics, but it's well worth reading.
'Stitches' Draws On An Artist's Painful Childhood.
National Public Radio's Books We Like (September 15)
I read this over the weekend for part of my cancer research. It's a strong, moving work. It's not my favorite of either autobiographical comics, or cancer comics, but it's well worth reading.
Sept 23: Graphic novel book group at Politics and Prose
GRAPHIC NOVEL (4th Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, September 23
Exit Wounds
by Mutu Rodan
2008/12 - TP
Drawn & Quarterly
9781897299838
Publisher Comments
Set in modern-day Tel Aviv, a young man, Koby Franco, receives an urgent phone call from a female soldier. Learning that his estranged father may have been a victim of a suicide bombing in Hadera, Koby reluctantly joins the soldier in searching for clues. His death would certainly explain his empty apartment and disconnected phone line. As Koby tries to unravel the mystery of his father's death, he finds himself piecing together not only the last few months of his father's life but his entire identity. With thin, precise lines and luscious watercolors, Rutu Modan creates a portrait of modern Israel, a place where sudden death mingles with the slow dissolution of family ties.
"Exit Wounds "is the North American graphic-novel debut from one of Israel's best-known cartoonists. Modan has received several awards in Israel and abroad, including the Best Illustrated Children's Book Award from the Israel Museum in Jerusalem four times and Young Artist of the Year by the Israel Ministry of Culture. She is a chosen artist of the Israel Cultural Excellence Foundation.
Wednesday, September 23
Exit Wounds
by Mutu Rodan
2008/12 - TP
Drawn & Quarterly
9781897299838
Publisher Comments
Set in modern-day Tel Aviv, a young man, Koby Franco, receives an urgent phone call from a female soldier. Learning that his estranged father may have been a victim of a suicide bombing in Hadera, Koby reluctantly joins the soldier in searching for clues. His death would certainly explain his empty apartment and disconnected phone line. As Koby tries to unravel the mystery of his father's death, he finds himself piecing together not only the last few months of his father's life but his entire identity. With thin, precise lines and luscious watercolors, Rutu Modan creates a portrait of modern Israel, a place where sudden death mingles with the slow dissolution of family ties.
"Exit Wounds "is the North American graphic-novel debut from one of Israel's best-known cartoonists. Modan has received several awards in Israel and abroad, including the Best Illustrated Children's Book Award from the Israel Museum in Jerusalem four times and Young Artist of the Year by the Israel Ministry of Culture. She is a chosen artist of the Israel Cultural Excellence Foundation.
Small Press Expo Announces Peter Kuper, Kevin Huizenga, Kate Beaton, and Al Columbia as Guests
Small Press Expo Announces Peter Kuper, Kevin Huizenga, Kate Beaton, and Al Columbia as Guests for SPX 2009
Bethesda, Maryland; September 17, 2009 - The Small Press Expo (SPX), the preeminent showcase for the exhibition of independent comics, graphic novels and alternative political cartoons, is pleased to announce Peter Kuper, Kevin Huizenga, Kate Beaton and Al Columbia as guests for SPX 2009. This completes the guest list for one of the best SPX's ever, adding these great creators to our previously announced guests Gahan Wilson, Paul Karasik, Carol Tyler, Josh Neufeld, John Porcellino, Willy Linthout Jerry Moriarity, R. Sikoryak and Joshua Cotter .
Peter Kuper is a contributor to Time, Newsweek, The New York Times and many other publications as an illustrator. He is the co-founder of the long running World War 3 Illustrated as well as being the main artist on Mad's long running series Spy vs. Spy. Peter's latest creation is Diario de Oaxaca: A Sketchbook Journal of Two Years In Mexico published by PM Press. Diario is a combination of comics, sketches, photography and a journal of the time he and his family lived in Oaxaca, Mexico during a time of political turmoil there. This work comes on the heels of his critically acclaimed semi-autobiographical Stop Forgetting To Remember-The Autobiography of Walter Kurtz released in 2007 by Crown Publishers. Peter will only be at SPX on Saturday, September 26 in the afternoon.
Kevin Huizenga has just released the latest stories of the philosophical sage Glen Ganges, with #3 published recently by Fantagraphics. Kevin twice made Time Magazines Top Ten Comics and is a weekly contributor to the irreverent and always humorous Amazing Facts and Beyond with Leon Beyond. Visit Kevin at his blog The Balloonist at http://kevinh.blogspot.com/.
Kate Beaton is the winner of the 2009 Doug Wright Award for Best Emerging Talent. Her History Comics takes an irreverent and comical view of history and historical figures, this leading to coverage in Wired Magazine, Bitch and Macleans. Kate is responsible for the all of the banners on the SPX site, for which SPX has received rave reviews. Kate's work can be viewed at her web site http://harkavagrant.com/.
Al Columbia is the creator behind the just released PIm & Francie: The Golden Bear Days from Fantagraphics, which is a collection of excavations, comic strips, animation stills, storybook covers, and other output over the years. Al started as an assistant to Bill Sienkiewicz, then moved on to create the Biologic Show.
SPX will be held Saturday, September 26 from 11AM to 7PM and Sunday, September 27, noon-6PM at The North Bethesda Marriott Convention Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Admission is $10 for a single day and $15 for both days.
For further information on the Ignatz Awards, the nominees or to request an interview, please contact Warren Bernard at warren@spxpo.com.
For more information on the Small Press Expo and the Ignatz Awards, please visit http://www.spxpo.com.
Lethem and Chabon in town this fall
Comics-friendly authors Jonathan Lethem and Michael Chabon will be in town, reading from new books this fall.
Oct. 9; Chabon is at Lisner Auditorium, at 7:00, free.
Nov. 2: Lethem is at Folger Elizabethan Theatre, at 7:30, $15.
Oct. 9; Chabon is at Lisner Auditorium, at 7:00, free.
Nov. 2: Lethem is at Folger Elizabethan Theatre, at 7:30, $15.
Former Baltimore Sun Cartoonist Retires from Syndication
From Rob Tornoe:
Former Baltimore Sun cartoonist Mike Lane has announced that he will stop drawing editorial cartoons for syndication. Lane took a buyout from The Sun back in 2004.
From Daryl Cagle, cartoonist for MSNBC.com and owner of the Cagle Cartoons syndicate:
"I'm saddened to write that one of the great editorial cartoonists has decided to retire. Mike Lane, who drew for the Baltimore Sun for decades and was one of the very first cartoonists to form our little syndicate, is calling it quits."
http://blog.cagle.com/daryl/2009/09/17/mike-lane-retires/
Mike stopped drawing early last month when he was slated for open heart surgery
http://blog.cagle.com/daryl/2009/08/26/best-wishes-for-mike-lanes-recovery/
--
Rob Tornoe
Cartoonist/Illustrator
Cagle Cartoons, Inc.
302.222.4647
robtornoe@gmail.com
http://blog.cagle.com/news
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/RobTornoe
AIM: RobTornoe
Former Baltimore Sun cartoonist Mike Lane has announced that he will stop drawing editorial cartoons for syndication. Lane took a buyout from The Sun back in 2004.
From Daryl Cagle, cartoonist for MSNBC.com and owner of the Cagle Cartoons syndicate:
"I'm saddened to write that one of the great editorial cartoonists has decided to retire. Mike Lane, who drew for the Baltimore Sun for decades and was one of the very first cartoonists to form our little syndicate, is calling it quits."
http://blog.cagle.com/daryl/2009/09/17/mike-lane-retires/
Mike stopped drawing early last month when he was slated for open heart surgery
http://blog.cagle.com/daryl/2009/08/26/best-wishes-for-mike-lanes-recovery/
--
Rob Tornoe
Cartoonist/Illustrator
Cagle Cartoons, Inc.
302.222.4647
robtornoe@gmail.com
http://blog.cagle.com/news
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/RobTornoe
AIM: RobTornoe
October 20: Chinese cartoonist and caricaturist Ding Cong at Library of Congress
| Chinese cartoonist and caricaturist Ding Cong To comprehend a tumultuous history like that of twentieth century China, we can benefit greatly from the acute observations of a creative artist active during the period. Ding Cong (1916-2009), until recently China’s most famous living cartoonist and artist, offers that perspective. The Library of Congress and George Mason University are sponsoring a one day symposium and exhibition showing Ding Cong’s life and work. The morning conference at the Library of Congress will include speakers intimately familiar with Ding’s life and work. In the afternoon, the Mason Gallery at GMU will display 50 cartoons and artwork and include more commentary. These events will celebrate the life and works of this artist whose cogent insights illuminate China’s volatile century. October 20, 2009 Conference: 8: 30 a.m. - Noon Exhibition: 1:45 p.m. – 4: 30 p.m. |
Marcia Ristaino
Researcher
Kluge Center for Scholars
Library of Congress
Washington, DC 20540
Email: mris@loc.gov
Weldon on comic book cheesecake
Weldon, Glen. 2009.
Sirens Vs. Divas: Who Will Win The Great Comic Book Cheesecake-Off?
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (September 16):
I actually am buying Divas due to this article - because of the breast cancer mention. I'm writing a lecture on comics and cancer.
Politics and Prose graphic novel reading club - The next 6 books
Adam Waterreus says of Politics and Proses' graphic novel reading group:
So here are the books which ranked highest and the month we will read them:
October:
Too Cool to be Forgotten by Alex Robinson
November:
Jimmy Corrigan: The Smartest Kid on Earth by Chris Ware
December:
Asterios Polyp by David Mazzucchelli
January:
Pitch Black by Youme Landowne and Anthony Horton
February:
Stitches by David Small
March:
Cages by Dave McKean
Hope everyone is enjoying Exit Wounds, and I'll see you all on the 23rd of September.
Sept 27: Animania Press Release.
CONTACT: Chris Wanamaker, 202 262 2083 president@dcaimeclub.org
FYE and DC Anime Club Present: Animania
FYE in Collaboration with DC Anime Club present Animania on Sunday September 27,2009 11am-4pm at FYE in Ballston Mall 4238 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22203.Activities such as Anime Trivia, Cosplay (Japanese term meaning costume play) contest and anime screenings will take place during Animania.
Animainia is not only held at the ballston mall fye location but in FYE Stores all over the
US. This event is free and open to the public. Age range 13 and up.
For more information please contact FYE at (703) 528-6940 or dc anime club at
202 262 2083. www.dcanimeclub.org.
About DC Anime Club: DCAC was established in 2003 to introduce and educate people in the Washington, DC area about East Asian culture, through viewing and discussion of Japanese animation (also known as anime) and Japanese comics (manga). DCAC is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization, contributions to DC Anime Club are tax deductible to the extent allowable under the law.
The club also works to provide a positive, alternative activity to the youth in the area by exposing them to foreign culture, encouraging artistic expression and creativity, and providing opportunities for participation in community activities and leadership.
In addition to our weekly meetings, the club holds an Annual Art Show, an Annual Costume fundraising event, and visits local schools to do presentations on anime. The club also works with the Smithsonian Freer Gallery and DC Asian Pacific American Film Festival on their anime screenings, and has helped locally promote performances for Japanese bands such as Puffy Ami Yumi and Pine am.
DC Anime Club was founded by Chris Wanamaker (President), Jules Chang (Vice President) and Craig Vaughn (Sgt in Arms) on Saturday June 5, 2003. We have a strong membership that continues to grow -- most of which are teenagers.
"Herblock!" Opens Oct. 13
Library of Congress
101 Independence Avenue SE
Washington DC 20540
September 17, 2009
Public contact: Sara Duke (202) 707-3630, sduk@loc.gov
Martha Kennedy (202) 707-9115, mkenn@loc.gov
"Herblock!"
New Exhibition at Library of Congress Opens Oct. 13
He was a fearless crusader who condemned corruption and exposed injustice, inequality and immorality. Artfully and effectively wielding his pen, he influenced public opinion and jarred the lives of many elected officials. He was Herblock, the master of editorial cartooning.
The Library of Congress will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Herbert L. Block, widely known as Herblock, with an exhibition that looks at his entire 72-year career, which began in 1929 under President Herbert Hoover and concluded in 2001 during the presidency of George W. Bush.
"Herblock!" opens on Tuesday, Oct. 13, the birthday of the four-time Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist, and runs through Saturday, May 1, 2010. The exhibition is free and open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day), in the second-floor South Gallery of the Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. S.E., Washington, D.C.
A companion book, "HERBLOCK: The Life and Works of the Great Political Cartoonist" has been published by the Library of Congress and the Herb Block Foundation, in association with W.W. Norton & Co. Written by Haynes Johnson and Harry L. Katz, the 304-page hardcover book features a DVD that contains more than 18,000 cartoons. (The authors will discuss the book from noon to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, in the Library's James Madison Building, 101 Independence Ave. S.E., Washington, D.C.) Arranged chronologically, the book illustrates the influence of history on Block's work as well as his influence on historical events as they unfolded.
The exhibition is organized similarly, with a chronological layout. The sections include: Herblock's early years, under the title "The Approaching Perils"; the rise of fascism and World War II, "Psychopathic Ward"; the Cold War, "White is Black, Black is White, Night is Day—"; McCarthyism, "Naughty, Naughty"; the 1960s, "Everything's [Not] Okay"; Richard Nixon, "Here He Comes Now"; the 70s and terrorism, "It Gets Into Everything"; Ronald Reagan, "Joy to the World"; Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, "Closing Years, Contrasting Styles of Leadership"; and some special pieces, "Classic Cartoons by a Master."
The 82 original drawings in this exhibition are new to the walls of the Library—they have never been previously displayed. The cartoons have been selected from the Library's Herb Block Collection, with a few iconic drawings loaned from the Washington Post collection. In 2002, the foundation donated Block's archive to the Library, and the collection includes more than 14,000 finished cartoons, in addition to preliminary sketches, files and manuscripts. The Library mounted displays of Herblock's work in 2000, 2003 and 2006.
Born in Chicago on Oct. 13, 1909, Block began his career as a professional cartoonist in 1929, working for the Chicago Daily News and the Newspaper Enterprise Association Service. In 1946, he joined the Washington Post, where he remained for 55 years until his death in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 7, 2001. Block won Pulitzer Prizes in 1942, 1954 and 1979. He shared a fourth Pulitzer with Washington Post colleagues for coverage of the Watergate scandal in 1973.
To view the Herblock collection on the Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Online Catalog, visit http://lcweb2.loc.gov/pp/hlbhtml/hlbabt.html.
Founded in 1800, the Library of Congress is the nation's oldest federal cultural institution. The Library seeks to spark imagination and creativity and to further human understanding and wisdom by providing access to knowledge through its magnificent collections, programs and exhibitions. Many of the Library's rich resources can be accessed through its website at www.loc.gov and via interactive exhibitions on a personalized website at myLOC.gov.
# # #
PR09-169
9/17/09
ISSN: 0731-3527
PR: Crystal Clear Coming Soon
Troy Allen of Bamn comics writes in:
Her is some new promo art for "Crystal Clear."
The new series (the number of issues is yet to be determined) is about the title character, a promiscuous superheroine who has become a public relations nightmare. Looking to improve her image, her agent calls on a struggling comic book scribe to re-imagine her into a wholesome crusader for truth and justice. They have their work cut out for them.
It's a romantic-comedy with capes, 3 genres that Jay knows and loves (pun intended).
Jay is pulling a grand-slam for this one! He is inking, drawing, and writing this bad bear.
Crystal Clear will make its' debut at The Small Press Expo '09.
Click Here for more on SPX!
Click here for more Crystal Clear art by Jay Payne
Her is some new promo art for "Crystal Clear."
The new series (the number of issues is yet to be determined) is about the title character, a promiscuous superheroine who has become a public relations nightmare. Looking to improve her image, her agent calls on a struggling comic book scribe to re-imagine her into a wholesome crusader for truth and justice. They have their work cut out for them.
It's a romantic-comedy with capes, 3 genres that Jay knows and loves (pun intended).
Jay is pulling a grand-slam for this one! He is inking, drawing, and writing this bad bear.
Crystal Clear will make its' debut at The Small Press Expo '09.
Click Here for more on SPX!
Click here for more Crystal Clear art by Jay Payne
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Fantom Comics launches at Pentagon City!
Matthew Klokel has written in with some exciting news about Fantom Comics. Arlington will have a comic book store again.
He writes,
Fantom Comics was approached late August by the Pentagon City Mall about taking on a lease in their shopping center (their rep saw our Union Station shop and liked it).
·We’d had no immediate plans to open up another store, as Union Station is making record profits and we were taking the time to implement our new comixology.com online ordering system, but a shot at Pentagon City was too cool to pass up.
·After several weeks of running the numbers and negotiating the lease, I signed the lease today.
·We’re scheduled to open on the 3rd floor of the Pentagon City Mall (next to the entrance to Nordstrom) on October 1st.
I've been going to Big Planet for 23 years and they treat me well, so I'm afraid I'm not going to switch stores, but I'll make a point of stopping in. Fantom definitely has a good store and good stock and I'm glad to see them sticking around. I find something to buy every time I go in.
I used to shop at Collector's Comic Shop in Paramus, NJ at a store in the Bergen Mall there since they opened in 1978. The whole family would go to the Mall on Friday nights, deposit Dad's check, have some dinner, walk around. Another mall, the Garden State Plaza, is now a megamall, but at the time they had a local bookstore that handled fanzines, and books like the Shadow (covered by Jim Steranko) and comics. Malls have gotten too homogeneous and need comics stores, I declare.
He writes,
Fantom Comics was approached late August by the Pentagon City Mall about taking on a lease in their shopping center (their rep saw our Union Station shop and liked it).
·We’d had no immediate plans to open up another store, as Union Station is making record profits and we were taking the time to implement our new comixology.com online ordering system, but a shot at Pentagon City was too cool to pass up.
·After several weeks of running the numbers and negotiating the lease, I signed the lease today.
·We’re scheduled to open on the 3rd floor of the Pentagon City Mall (next to the entrance to Nordstrom) on October 1st.
I've been going to Big Planet for 23 years and they treat me well, so I'm afraid I'm not going to switch stores, but I'll make a point of stopping in. Fantom definitely has a good store and good stock and I'm glad to see them sticking around. I find something to buy every time I go in.
I used to shop at Collector's Comic Shop in Paramus, NJ at a store in the Bergen Mall there since they opened in 1978. The whole family would go to the Mall on Friday nights, deposit Dad's check, have some dinner, walk around. Another mall, the Garden State Plaza, is now a megamall, but at the time they had a local bookstore that handled fanzines, and books like the Shadow (covered by Jim Steranko) and comics. Malls have gotten too homogeneous and need comics stores, I declare.
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