Richard Thompson's Acclaimed Comic Strip Cul de Sac Debuts on GoComics
Wed Sep 26, 2007
The most recent addition to the GoComics neighborhood may be unfamiliar to some, but Richard Thompson's Cul de Sac is no ordinary "new comic strip on the block." Formerly a Washington Post Magazine weekly exclusive, Cul de Sac made its highly anticipated daily debut in syndication on September 10th, launching simultaneously at GoComics.com and in 70 U.S. newspapers.
Kansas City, MO (PRWEB) September 26, 2007 -- The most recent addition to the GoComics neighborhood may be unfamiliar to some, but Richard Thompson's Cul de Sac is no ordinary "new comic strip on the block." Formerly a Washington Post Magazine weekly exclusive, Cul de Sac made its highly anticipated daily debut in syndication on September 10th, launching simultaneously at GoComics.com and in 70 U.S. newspapers.
Cul de Sac is an all-ages comic strip that follows the everyday suburban life of preschooler Alice Otterloop. Thompson has surrounded Alice with a colorful supporting cast, including her perpetually down-trodden older brother Petey, wide-eyed and inquisitive fellow Blisshaven Preschoolers Beni and Dill, and Mr. Danders, the class guinea pig. The strip is characterized by Thompson's quirky, intelligent wit and distinct, sketch-style cartoon art.
Now that Cul de Sac has made its long-awaited launch into syndication, Thompson is looking forward to playing to a larger crowd.
"I'm proud and tickled to have moved into the neighborhood, among so many nice people, talking animals, zombies, babies & dancing bugs," said Thompson. "And I hope that those who pass through Cul de Sac slow down long enough to enjoy it, and watch out for the hidden entrances & children at play."
To say that Cul de Sac is hitting the ground running would be an understatement. The strip began in 2004 as a weekly feature in the Washington Post Magazine. In the nearly three years since, Cul de Sac has gained a large, loyal fan following, becoming one of the magazine's most-read features.
Thompson gained further momentum when he garnered an unsolicited endorsement from one of the most successful and notoriously reclusive cartoonists of the modern era. Bill Watterson, creator of the modern-classic comic strip Calvin and Hobbes, recently voiced his praise for Thompson's work.
"Thompson has a sharp eye, a fun sense of language and a charmingly odd take on the world," said Watterson. "Best of all, his drawings are wonderful -- something one doesn't often see in cartoons anymore. I'm delighted to see Cul de Sac, and I have high hopes that Thompson will bring a much-needed jolt of energy to the daily newspaper."
Those are lofty aspirations, but GoComics CEO Chris Pizey is confident that Cul de Sac will be a monumental hit with fans.
"Cul de Sac gets top marks for every standard one can apply to a comic strip," said Pizey. "Beyond the charming characters, the perfect pitch of the artwork and the clever dialogue, there's a unique spirit that infuses this strip -- a rare and unquantifiable quality that resonates strongly with readers. There may not be a perfect word for it, but Cul de Sac has it in abundance, and we're excited to bring it to a wider audience."
Fans can read the latest Cul de Sac strip at www.GoComics.com/culdesac. They can also sign up to receive each new installment in their email for free through GoComics, or have Cul de Sac emailed to them daily along with a customized collection of their favorite comics through MyComicsPage.com, a premium subscription service offered by GoComics.
About GoComics:
GoComics (www.gocomics.com) is the online distribution portal for uclick, a leading digital entertainment provider offering a broad mix of popular comic strips for the web and mobile phones. uclick delivers entertaining comics and games to hundreds of online clients, including major consumer and news portals such as Yahoo!, MSNBC.com, New York Times, washingtonpost.com, CNNi, USA Today and AOL. Their mobile division brings comic books, manga, illustration, photography, video and games to mobile consumers worldwide. Their feature lineup includes top brands such as Garfield, The Boondocks, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, TOKYOPOP, USA Today, Pat Sajak, Mary Engelbreit, Wyland and many more. uclick's products are available through the GoComics website, top U.S. carriers and leading distributors worldwide.
uclick is a division of Andrews McMeel Universal, the leading syndicate and publisher of humor books and calendars in North America.
For more information on uclick, visit www.uclick.com.
###
uclick, LLC.
Josh Peres
816-360-6936
E-mail Information
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Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Sept 30: new exhibit - ZAPP! Comic Books and the Arts.
This rolled in over the e-transom today; I'll try to make it on Sunday. Anyone else?
You're Invited!
Grand Opening and Dedication
VisArts at Rockville
Sunday Sept. 30th
Noon - 5pm
155 Gibbs Street
Rockville, Maryland 20850
Grand Opening Schedule of Events:
Noon - VisArts Dedication in Rockville Town Square
12:30pm - A very unique ribbon cutting ceremony at the 155 Gibbs Street
entrance!
Official opening of the VisArts gallery featuring the
inaugural exhibition, ZAPP! Comic Books and the Arts
1:00-5:00pm - Education Sneak Peek! Meet the teachers, see artist
demonstrations, enjoy hands-on art activities, and find out more
about art classes for you and your family. Register in person and receive a free gift!
Visit Resident Artist studios. Featuring Karen Fricke, Fabric
Kathie Lynch & Eileen Martin, Glass
Bertrand Mao, Chinese Ink-brush
Pam Hill Byrne & Johnnie Gins, Jewelry
Lauren Hinds, Fabric/Sculpture
ZAPP! Comic Books and the Arts.
Kaplan Gallery: Comics in our Culture
Regional Gallery: The Beat Goes On
Children's Discovery Gallery: What's a Hero? What's a Villain?
Portfolio Gallery: Anime, Manga and You
Children's Imagination Stations! Look for Lola the Art Dog
Building Tours
Refreshments
We look forward to seeing you there!
For more information please call the VisArts office ~ 301-315-8200
VisArts at Rockville ~ 155 Gibbs Street ~ Rockville, MD 20850
You're Invited!
Grand Opening and Dedication
VisArts at Rockville
Sunday Sept. 30th
Noon - 5pm
155 Gibbs Street
Rockville, Maryland 20850
Grand Opening Schedule of Events:
Noon - VisArts Dedication in Rockville Town Square
12:30pm - A very unique ribbon cutting ceremony at the 155 Gibbs Street
entrance!
Official opening of the VisArts gallery featuring the
inaugural exhibition, ZAPP! Comic Books and the Arts
1:00-5:00pm - Education Sneak Peek! Meet the teachers, see artist
demonstrations, enjoy hands-on art activities, and find out more
about art classes for you and your family. Register in person and receive a free gift!
Visit Resident Artist studios. Featuring Karen Fricke, Fabric
Kathie Lynch & Eileen Martin, Glass
Bertrand Mao, Chinese Ink-brush
Pam Hill Byrne & Johnnie Gins, Jewelry
Lauren Hinds, Fabric/Sculpture
ZAPP! Comic Books and the Arts.
Kaplan Gallery: Comics in our Culture
Regional Gallery: The Beat Goes On
Children's Discovery Gallery: What's a Hero? What's a Villain?
Portfolio Gallery: Anime, Manga and You
Children's Imagination Stations! Look for Lola the Art Dog
Building Tours
Refreshments
We look forward to seeing you there!
For more information please call the VisArts office ~ 301-315-8200
VisArts at Rockville ~ 155 Gibbs Street ~ Rockville, MD 20850
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
SWANN FOUNDATION ACCEPTING FELLOWSHIP APPLICATIONS
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
101 Independence Avenue SE
Washington DC 20540
September 25, 2007
Public contact: Martha Kennedy (202) 707-9115
SWANN FOUNDATION ACCEPTING FELLOWSHIP APPLICATIONS
Foundation Supports Research in the Humorous Arts of Caricature and Cartoon
The Caroline and Erwin Swann Foundation for Caricature and Cartoon, administered by the Library of Congress, is accepting applications for its graduate fellowship for the 2008-2009 academic year. Applications are due by close of business on Friday, Feb. 15, 2008, and notification will occur in the spring.
The Swann Foundation seeks to award one fellowship annually (with a stipend of up to $15,000) to assist in continuing scholarly research and writing projects in the field of caricature and cartoon.
A fellow is required to be in residence in Washington, D.C., for a minimum of two weeks, use the Library’s extensive collections and deliver a public lecture at the Library on his or her work. Each fellow must also provide a copy of his or her dissertation, thesis or postgraduate publication upon completion, for the Swann Foundation Fund files.
Guidelines and application forms are available through the Swann Foundation’s Web site www.loc.gov/rr/print/swann/swann-fellow.html, by e-mailing swann@loc.gov or by calling Martha Kennedy in the Prints and Photographs Division of the Library at (202) 707-9115.
To be eligible, an applicant must be a resident of the United States and a candidate for a master’s or doctoral degree at a university based in the United States, Canada or Mexico. The applicant must be working toward completion of a dissertation or thesis for that degree or be engaged in postgraduate research within three years of receiving an M.A. or a Ph.D. Individuals who are not U.S. residents but who otherwise meet these academic qualifications may also apply and be considered for a fellowship, contingent upon their visa eligibility.
The applicant’s research must be in the field of caricature and cartoon. There are no restrictions on the place or time period covered. To encourage research in a variety of academic disciplines, any university department may oversee a project proposed for the fellowship, provided the subject pertains to caricature or cartoon art.
Requirements for the fellowship applications include a statement of qualifications, a one-page abstract of the proposed project, a project description that specifies research needs and a budget, two letters of reference and official transcripts.
The Swann Foundation fellowship in caricature and cartoon is the only scholarly fellowship that provides direct support for continuing graduate research in the field. It has supported groundbreaking research on caricature and cartoon that focuses on a variety of subjects and topics such as the Cold War; representations of race, class conflict and disease; and the early origins of caricature and political satire, and the cultural and social forces that have influenced the development of prominent cartoonists’ work. For a list of research projects, visit www.loc.gov/rr/rint/swann/swann-fellowslist.html.
The Caroline and Erwin Swann Foundation for Caricature and Cartoon is overseen by an advisory board composed of scholars, collectors, cartoonists and Library of Congress staff members. The foundation’s activities support the study, interpretation, preservation and appreciation of original works of humorous and satiric art by graphic artists from around the world. New York advertising executive Erwin Swann (1906-1973) established the Swann Foundation for Caricature and Cartoon in 1967.
# # #
PR07-189
9/25/07
ISSN: 0731-3527
101 Independence Avenue SE
Washington DC 20540
September 25, 2007
Public contact: Martha Kennedy (202) 707-9115
SWANN FOUNDATION ACCEPTING FELLOWSHIP APPLICATIONS
Foundation Supports Research in the Humorous Arts of Caricature and Cartoon
The Caroline and Erwin Swann Foundation for Caricature and Cartoon, administered by the Library of Congress, is accepting applications for its graduate fellowship for the 2008-2009 academic year. Applications are due by close of business on Friday, Feb. 15, 2008, and notification will occur in the spring.
The Swann Foundation seeks to award one fellowship annually (with a stipend of up to $15,000) to assist in continuing scholarly research and writing projects in the field of caricature and cartoon.
A fellow is required to be in residence in Washington, D.C., for a minimum of two weeks, use the Library’s extensive collections and deliver a public lecture at the Library on his or her work. Each fellow must also provide a copy of his or her dissertation, thesis or postgraduate publication upon completion, for the Swann Foundation Fund files.
Guidelines and application forms are available through the Swann Foundation’s Web site www.loc.gov/rr/print/swann/swann-fellow.html, by e-mailing swann@loc.gov or by calling Martha Kennedy in the Prints and Photographs Division of the Library at (202) 707-9115.
To be eligible, an applicant must be a resident of the United States and a candidate for a master’s or doctoral degree at a university based in the United States, Canada or Mexico. The applicant must be working toward completion of a dissertation or thesis for that degree or be engaged in postgraduate research within three years of receiving an M.A. or a Ph.D. Individuals who are not U.S. residents but who otherwise meet these academic qualifications may also apply and be considered for a fellowship, contingent upon their visa eligibility.
The applicant’s research must be in the field of caricature and cartoon. There are no restrictions on the place or time period covered. To encourage research in a variety of academic disciplines, any university department may oversee a project proposed for the fellowship, provided the subject pertains to caricature or cartoon art.
Requirements for the fellowship applications include a statement of qualifications, a one-page abstract of the proposed project, a project description that specifies research needs and a budget, two letters of reference and official transcripts.
The Swann Foundation fellowship in caricature and cartoon is the only scholarly fellowship that provides direct support for continuing graduate research in the field. It has supported groundbreaking research on caricature and cartoon that focuses on a variety of subjects and topics such as the Cold War; representations of race, class conflict and disease; and the early origins of caricature and political satire, and the cultural and social forces that have influenced the development of prominent cartoonists’ work. For a list of research projects, visit www.loc.gov/rr/rint/swann/swann-fellowslist.html.
The Caroline and Erwin Swann Foundation for Caricature and Cartoon is overseen by an advisory board composed of scholars, collectors, cartoonists and Library of Congress staff members. The foundation’s activities support the study, interpretation, preservation and appreciation of original works of humorous and satiric art by graphic artists from around the world. New York advertising executive Erwin Swann (1906-1973) established the Swann Foundation for Caricature and Cartoon in 1967.
# # #
PR07-189
9/25/07
ISSN: 0731-3527
Small Press Expo Announces the Slate of Programming Events for SPX 2007
Small Press Expo Announces the Slate of Programming Events for SPX 2007
For Immediate Release
Contact: Warren Bernard
Phone: 301-537-4615
E-Mail: webernard@spxpo.com
Bethesda, Maryland; September 25, 2007 - Small Press Expo is proud to announce its slate of programming events for SPX 2007. There will be a series of Creator Spotlights, providing a unique opportunity to learn and interact with the special guests at this years Expo. There will also be a series of panels and workshops to further probe the world of graphic novels and comics. Below are the descriptions and participants, which are subject to change, with exact dates and times forthcoming on the SPX web site at http://www.spxpo.com.
This years SPX will be held October 12 and October 13 at The North Bethesda Marriott Convention Center in Bethesda, Maryland, across from the White Flint Metro stop on the Shady Grove Red Line.
For further information, please contact Warren Bernard at webernard@spxpo.com.
SPX, a non-profit organization, 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.
SPX will be open to the public from 2 pm - 8 pm, Friday, October 12 and 10am - 7 pm Saturday, October 13. Admission is $8 for a single day and $15 for both days.
SPX culminates with the presentation of the 11th Annual Ignatz Awards for outstanding achievement in comics and cartooning. The Ignatz is the first Festival Prize in the US comic book industry, with winners chosen by balloting during the SPX and will be held Saturday, October 13 at 9PM.
CREATOR SPOTLIGHTS
Bill Griffith - As an underground cartoonist, Bill Griffith created such characters as Mr. The Toad and Zippy the Pinhead, while co-editing the anthologies Young Lust and Arcade. Zippy has since "escaped into the real world" as the star of a syndicated daily newspaper strip, surely the oddest character to still roam that now staid realm. Over the course of an hour Griffith will deliver a heavily illustrated slideshow talk about his life and work to date.
Jeff Smith - Jeff Smith's Bone, a beautifully drawn black and white synthesis of Carl Barks and J. R. R. Tolkein, began as a self-publishing success story, drawing raves from all corners of the comics world. The series is now an international hit for young readers in its new incarnation as a series of full-color graphic novels from Scholastic. The artist will discuss his work in a special spotlight session with moderator Heidi MacDonald.
Kim Deitch - Underground comix veteran Kim Deitch continues to produce the best work of his career, most recently the graphic novels Alias the Cat and Shadowlands. His other books include The Boulevard of Broken Dreams, Hollywoodland, and A Shroud for Waldo, and he has contributed to RAW, Weirdo, Zero Zero, Arcade, Esquire and McSweeney's. Over the course of an hour Deitch will discuss his most recent books, his career, his thoughts about art and comics, and his current works-in-progress.
Gilbert Hernandez - In 1982 Gilbert Hernandez and his brothers Jaime and Mario burst onto the comics scene with the publication of Love and Rockets #1. Since then Gilbert has spun out a vast, intergenerational saga detailing the lives, loves, and heartbreaks of the citizens of Palomar, a fictional Central American town, as well as challenging short-form work and a variety of stand-alone stories for various publishers. The prolific artist continues to challenge himself and his audience with new work in a variety of formats and genres, including the self-contained graphic novel Chance in Hell. Long-time friend and publisher Gary Groth will lead a discussion with the seminal artist.
Rutu Modan - Israeli cartoonist Rutu Modan is a co-founder of the Actus Tragicus comics collective, a group of Israeli cartoonists seeking to reach an international audience with accomplished, personal comics work. Her first graphic novel, Nobody Said It Was Going to Be Fun, was a collaboration with author and Actus collaborator Etgar Keret. Exit Wounds is her first full-length graphic novel to be published domestically in the United States.
Nick Abadzis - London-based cartoonist Nick Abadzis has worked in various areas of comics, including the British small press, Vertigo Comics, and 2000 AD, and has also drawn several children's books. Most recently he wrote and drew the graphic novel Laika, about the first living being to be sent into space. Abadzis will discuss the research intensive process behind his latest work.
C.F. - C.F. (aka Christopher Forgues) is the creator of the mini-comics series "Low Tides" and also performs musically as "Kites." His work has appeared in numerous anthologies including Paper Rodeo, Free Radicals and Kramers Ergot (including the wrap-around cover for that anthology's fifth volume). Dan Nadel, whose PictureBox publishing company has just published C.F.'s book Powr Mastrs, will lead a discussion with the artist.
MODERATED PANELS and WORKSHOPS
The State of Comics Criticism - Comics are getting more press than ever, but how good is the press? Is it too good? Do comics suffer from the lack of a vibrant critical milieu? Gary Groth (The Comics Journal), Tim Hodler (Comics Comic), Dan Nadel (Picturebox/Comics Comics), and Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics) discuss in a conversation led by Bill Kartalopoulos.
Center for Cartoon Studies Workshop - Robyn Chapman joins us from the Center for Cartoon Studies, a two-year educational institution for budding cartoonists in White River Junction, Vermont. Robyn will talk about this unique school and will lead a hands-on cartooning workshop. No matter how little experience you have, you will leave this panel having drawn a comics page!
Inanimate Cartoons - Comics and animated cartoons are two distinct media which are often conflated. And yet, the two forms share similarities and share influences (including one another). Douglas Wolk will lead a discussion with Kim Deitch, Roger Langridge, Tom Neely and Jeff Smith about the points of overlap and points of distinction between these two media.
Nemo's Wake: Comic Stripping Today - More than 100 years after comics emerged as a mass medium in American newspapers, the comic strip survives. Bill Griffith (Zippy the Pinhead), Nicholas Gurewitch (The Perry Bible Fellowship), Keith Knight (The K Chronicles) and Ted Rall (Search and Destroy) discuss the strengths and struggles of drawing personal work in the comic strip form today, in venues ranging from the web to alternative newsweeklies to the traditional daily comics page. Josh Fruhlinger (The Comics Curmudgeon) moderates.
Top Shelf Tenth Anniversary Panel - Brett Warnock and Chris Staros reflect on ten years of their publishing house, Top Shelf Comics.
Fletcher Hanks Presentation - Paul Karasik examines the life and work of Fletcher Hanks, the obscure cartoonist whose mad visions of grim superheroic retribution saw print in the pages of second-rate comics in the earliest years of the comic book industry. Karasik will delve into the themes and imagery of Hanks' work and will answer the burning question: What ever happened to Fletcher Hanks?
The Generic and the Particular: Genre in Comics - For decades comics were dominated by a handful of genres, most notably superhero comics, to the point that the genre became identified with the medium. Underground comix inspired several generations of cartoonists who have utilized the medium for artistic, personal expression, often rejecting traditional genres in the process. More recently, independent cartoonists have begun to incorporate generic tropes into their work, while a new generation of critics have begun to reclaim older genre comics. Tim Hodler leads a discussion with Sammy Harkham, Gilbert Hernandez, Jon Lewis and Matt Wagner.
Graphic Not-Novels - As "graphic novels" dominate public perception of comics, where does that leave comics that are more structurally analogous to poetry? Or painting? Moderated by Isaac Cates, who will lead a discussion with a group of cartoonists whose work defies easy categorization.
For Immediate Release
Contact: Warren Bernard
Phone: 301-537-4615
E-Mail: webernard@spxpo.com
Bethesda, Maryland; September 25, 2007 - Small Press Expo is proud to announce its slate of programming events for SPX 2007. There will be a series of Creator Spotlights, providing a unique opportunity to learn and interact with the special guests at this years Expo. There will also be a series of panels and workshops to further probe the world of graphic novels and comics. Below are the descriptions and participants, which are subject to change, with exact dates and times forthcoming on the SPX web site at http://www.spxpo.com.
This years SPX will be held October 12 and October 13 at The North Bethesda Marriott Convention Center in Bethesda, Maryland, across from the White Flint Metro stop on the Shady Grove Red Line.
For further information, please contact Warren Bernard at webernard@spxpo.com.
SPX, a non-profit organization, 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.
SPX will be open to the public from 2 pm - 8 pm, Friday, October 12 and 10am - 7 pm Saturday, October 13. Admission is $8 for a single day and $15 for both days.
SPX culminates with the presentation of the 11th Annual Ignatz Awards for outstanding achievement in comics and cartooning. The Ignatz is the first Festival Prize in the US comic book industry, with winners chosen by balloting during the SPX and will be held Saturday, October 13 at 9PM.
CREATOR SPOTLIGHTS
Bill Griffith - As an underground cartoonist, Bill Griffith created such characters as Mr. The Toad and Zippy the Pinhead, while co-editing the anthologies Young Lust and Arcade. Zippy has since "escaped into the real world" as the star of a syndicated daily newspaper strip, surely the oddest character to still roam that now staid realm. Over the course of an hour Griffith will deliver a heavily illustrated slideshow talk about his life and work to date.
Jeff Smith - Jeff Smith's Bone, a beautifully drawn black and white synthesis of Carl Barks and J. R. R. Tolkein, began as a self-publishing success story, drawing raves from all corners of the comics world. The series is now an international hit for young readers in its new incarnation as a series of full-color graphic novels from Scholastic. The artist will discuss his work in a special spotlight session with moderator Heidi MacDonald.
Kim Deitch - Underground comix veteran Kim Deitch continues to produce the best work of his career, most recently the graphic novels Alias the Cat and Shadowlands. His other books include The Boulevard of Broken Dreams, Hollywoodland, and A Shroud for Waldo, and he has contributed to RAW, Weirdo, Zero Zero, Arcade, Esquire and McSweeney's. Over the course of an hour Deitch will discuss his most recent books, his career, his thoughts about art and comics, and his current works-in-progress.
Gilbert Hernandez - In 1982 Gilbert Hernandez and his brothers Jaime and Mario burst onto the comics scene with the publication of Love and Rockets #1. Since then Gilbert has spun out a vast, intergenerational saga detailing the lives, loves, and heartbreaks of the citizens of Palomar, a fictional Central American town, as well as challenging short-form work and a variety of stand-alone stories for various publishers. The prolific artist continues to challenge himself and his audience with new work in a variety of formats and genres, including the self-contained graphic novel Chance in Hell. Long-time friend and publisher Gary Groth will lead a discussion with the seminal artist.
Rutu Modan - Israeli cartoonist Rutu Modan is a co-founder of the Actus Tragicus comics collective, a group of Israeli cartoonists seeking to reach an international audience with accomplished, personal comics work. Her first graphic novel, Nobody Said It Was Going to Be Fun, was a collaboration with author and Actus collaborator Etgar Keret. Exit Wounds is her first full-length graphic novel to be published domestically in the United States.
Nick Abadzis - London-based cartoonist Nick Abadzis has worked in various areas of comics, including the British small press, Vertigo Comics, and 2000 AD, and has also drawn several children's books. Most recently he wrote and drew the graphic novel Laika, about the first living being to be sent into space. Abadzis will discuss the research intensive process behind his latest work.
C.F. - C.F. (aka Christopher Forgues) is the creator of the mini-comics series "Low Tides" and also performs musically as "Kites." His work has appeared in numerous anthologies including Paper Rodeo, Free Radicals and Kramers Ergot (including the wrap-around cover for that anthology's fifth volume). Dan Nadel, whose PictureBox publishing company has just published C.F.'s book Powr Mastrs, will lead a discussion with the artist.
MODERATED PANELS and WORKSHOPS
The State of Comics Criticism - Comics are getting more press than ever, but how good is the press? Is it too good? Do comics suffer from the lack of a vibrant critical milieu? Gary Groth (The Comics Journal), Tim Hodler (Comics Comic), Dan Nadel (Picturebox/Comics Comics), and Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics) discuss in a conversation led by Bill Kartalopoulos.
Center for Cartoon Studies Workshop - Robyn Chapman joins us from the Center for Cartoon Studies, a two-year educational institution for budding cartoonists in White River Junction, Vermont. Robyn will talk about this unique school and will lead a hands-on cartooning workshop. No matter how little experience you have, you will leave this panel having drawn a comics page!
Inanimate Cartoons - Comics and animated cartoons are two distinct media which are often conflated. And yet, the two forms share similarities and share influences (including one another). Douglas Wolk will lead a discussion with Kim Deitch, Roger Langridge, Tom Neely and Jeff Smith about the points of overlap and points of distinction between these two media.
Nemo's Wake: Comic Stripping Today - More than 100 years after comics emerged as a mass medium in American newspapers, the comic strip survives. Bill Griffith (Zippy the Pinhead), Nicholas Gurewitch (The Perry Bible Fellowship), Keith Knight (The K Chronicles) and Ted Rall (Search and Destroy) discuss the strengths and struggles of drawing personal work in the comic strip form today, in venues ranging from the web to alternative newsweeklies to the traditional daily comics page. Josh Fruhlinger (The Comics Curmudgeon) moderates.
Top Shelf Tenth Anniversary Panel - Brett Warnock and Chris Staros reflect on ten years of their publishing house, Top Shelf Comics.
Fletcher Hanks Presentation - Paul Karasik examines the life and work of Fletcher Hanks, the obscure cartoonist whose mad visions of grim superheroic retribution saw print in the pages of second-rate comics in the earliest years of the comic book industry. Karasik will delve into the themes and imagery of Hanks' work and will answer the burning question: What ever happened to Fletcher Hanks?
The Generic and the Particular: Genre in Comics - For decades comics were dominated by a handful of genres, most notably superhero comics, to the point that the genre became identified with the medium. Underground comix inspired several generations of cartoonists who have utilized the medium for artistic, personal expression, often rejecting traditional genres in the process. More recently, independent cartoonists have begun to incorporate generic tropes into their work, while a new generation of critics have begun to reclaim older genre comics. Tim Hodler leads a discussion with Sammy Harkham, Gilbert Hernandez, Jon Lewis and Matt Wagner.
Graphic Not-Novels - As "graphic novels" dominate public perception of comics, where does that leave comics that are more structurally analogous to poetry? Or painting? Moderated by Isaac Cates, who will lead a discussion with a group of cartoonists whose work defies easy categorization.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Bendis interview in Examiner
The Examiner snuck a small return to comics in today - they used to have 2 pages of strips AND 2 pages of weekly reviews - with a short interview with Brian Bendis on the Halo videogame. The online version is longer than the print one. See Jeremy Monken, "Believe in Bendis," Washington Examiner September 24, 2007, p 25.
Montreal Gazette's 1st editorial cartoonist dies, born in DC
The master of the gentle barb; The Gazette's First Editorial Cartoonist, John Collins preferred to draw a smile than blood with his pen" by ALAN HUSTAK, The Montreal Gazette Thursday, September 20.
Jeffrey Brown in today's Express
Sorry to be so late with this, but I was out of the office all day, and then buying new tires. Scott Rosenberg's in today's paper with, "Sincere intent to flatter: Jeffrey Brown's love of a toy spawned his need to satirize it", Express (September 24, 2007): 22. It's about Brown's Incredible Change-Bots, his 'Transformers' comic book. Not online though.
Guy Billout in Post magazine
The 9/23 Post Magazine had an article illustrated by Guy Billout - one of my favorites.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Sept 29 - Gene Yang at National Book Festival
Yang, author of American Born Chinese, a National Book Finalist apparently has at least one other book out now. He's speaking in the Teens & Children's tent at 2:55 pm and signing at 4 pm. This is on the mall, between the main Smithsonian museums.
Interview with Amy Lago over Opus censorship controversy
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, September 20, 2007 had this interview with the Post's Amy Lago - "Unpacking the OPUS Controversy" by Tom Spurgeon.
Spotted by Dirk at Journalista.
I'm a regular contributor to the Fund.
Spotted by Dirk at Journalista.
I'm a regular contributor to the Fund.
Zadzooks interviews Bill Sienkiewicz
For an interview with Bill Sienkiewicz, see "Master of sequential art influences generations," by Joseph Szadkowski, Washington Times, September 22, 2007.
Part two next week.
Part two next week.
New feature: QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS by John Judy
Many moons ago, probably when comics came out on Friday like they were meant to, John Judy worked at Big Planet Comics in Bethesda, and we'd run into each other every week. John moved to the other coast to pursue his acting career. He keeps his hands, and wit, in comics working at a store in Los Angeles called HiDeHO, and writing the following Quick Reviews which he's given me permission to post. So courtesy of John, and through the intermediary of Big Planet Comics, enjoy!
QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 09-26-07
By John Judy
ALL-STAR BATMAN AND ROBIN THE BOY WONDER #7 by Frank Miller and Jim Lee. “Things fall apart, the center cannot hold…”
ASTOUNDING WOLF-MAN #3 by Robert Kirkman and Jason Howard. So you’ve just ripped the guts out of a beloved super-hero. Do you take it on the lam or just hope you get a Hollywood jury? Fun stuff from Kirkman. Not for younger kids.
ASTRO CITY THE DARK AGE BOOK TWO #4 by Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson. Gang War, Astro-style! “Sweet Christmas!”
AVENGERS DEFENDERS WAR PREMIERE HC by Steve Englehart, Bob Brown, and Sal Buscema. One of the earliest big team cross-over fights and still one of the best. Beloved by Fan-Boys of A Certain Age. *sniff* Recommended for all ages.
AVENGERS INITIATIVE #6 by Dan Slott and Steve Uy. A mystery at Camp Hammond with an ending you’ll never see coming. Dan Slott continues his rise in the Pantheon of must-read writers. Recommended.
BART SIMPSONS TREEHOUSE OF HORROR #13 by Various Folks. Tales to chill your funnybone from the good citizens of Springfield.
BATMAN #669 by Grant Morrison and JH Williams III. The Club of Heroes strikes back!
CAPTAIN AMERICA CHOSEN #2 of 6 by David Morrell and Mitch Breitweiser. The creator of Rambo continues the story of America’s greatest “dead” hero.
CRIMINAL #9 by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. “Counterfeit?!?” Highly recommended.
IMMORTAL IRON FIST #9 by Ed Brubaker, Matt Fraction, and David Aja. The best Iron Fist series ever continues even though Our Hero gets slapped around by a fat guy.
IMMORTAL IRON FIST ANNUAL #1 by Ed Brubaker, Matt Fraction, Howard Chaykin, and Dan Bereton. For lovers of the pulp adventure and completists of the latest series. Fun stuff.
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #13 by Dwayne McDuffie and Joe Benitez. After everything that went on at Green Arrow’s wedding, you know the JLA’s looking to hand out some hurt. It happens here.
MARVEL ZOMBIES BOOK ANGELS DEMONS & MONSTROSITIES by Dewey, Cheatham, and Howe. What it sounds like, kids.
MARVEL ZOMBIES COLONEL AMERICA ACTION FIGURE. “He eats people and he’s missing half his head, heh, heh, heh…” Not for kids you care about.
PUNISHER PRESENTS BARRACUDA MAX SC by Garth Ennis and Goran Parlov. Collecting five issues of the most twisted boys adventure stories ever to come from the mind of Garth Ennis. Think about that. Not for kids.
SHOWCASE PRESENTS METAL MEN VOL.1 SC by Robert Kanigher, Ross Andru, and Mike Esposito. The earliest Silver-Age adventures of Doc Magnus and his robot creations can be found here. Recommended.
SPIRIT #10 written and drawn by Darwyn Cooke. Someone’s killing TV personalities and the Spirit has to pretend it’s a bad thing! Recommended.
WALKING DEAD VOL.7: CALM BEFORE SC by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard. Imagine trying to remember a Lamaze class you’ve never had after your hand’s been chopped off and you’re surrounded by flesh-eating zombies. Highly recommended. NOT for kids.
WONDER WOMAN ANNUAL #1 by Allan Heinberg and Friends. Wrapping up stuff from two years ago. At last!
X-MEN #203 by Mike Carey. Okay, any story where the Big Bad has a name like “Mister Sinister” is not my cup of meat. Still, the back-up story with Beast and Dark Beast is worth the price of admission. And yes, “Dark Beast” is a way cooler name than “Mister Sinister.” So is “Wavy Gravy” or “Urkel.”
Plus this week is PREVIEWS week from Diamond and Marvel Comics.
www.johnjudy.net
QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 09-26-07
By John Judy
ALL-STAR BATMAN AND ROBIN THE BOY WONDER #7 by Frank Miller and Jim Lee. “Things fall apart, the center cannot hold…”
ASTOUNDING WOLF-MAN #3 by Robert Kirkman and Jason Howard. So you’ve just ripped the guts out of a beloved super-hero. Do you take it on the lam or just hope you get a Hollywood jury? Fun stuff from Kirkman. Not for younger kids.
ASTRO CITY THE DARK AGE BOOK TWO #4 by Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson. Gang War, Astro-style! “Sweet Christmas!”
AVENGERS DEFENDERS WAR PREMIERE HC by Steve Englehart, Bob Brown, and Sal Buscema. One of the earliest big team cross-over fights and still one of the best. Beloved by Fan-Boys of A Certain Age. *sniff* Recommended for all ages.
AVENGERS INITIATIVE #6 by Dan Slott and Steve Uy. A mystery at Camp Hammond with an ending you’ll never see coming. Dan Slott continues his rise in the Pantheon of must-read writers. Recommended.
BART SIMPSONS TREEHOUSE OF HORROR #13 by Various Folks. Tales to chill your funnybone from the good citizens of Springfield.
BATMAN #669 by Grant Morrison and JH Williams III. The Club of Heroes strikes back!
CAPTAIN AMERICA CHOSEN #2 of 6 by David Morrell and Mitch Breitweiser. The creator of Rambo continues the story of America’s greatest “dead” hero.
CRIMINAL #9 by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. “Counterfeit?!?” Highly recommended.
IMMORTAL IRON FIST #9 by Ed Brubaker, Matt Fraction, and David Aja. The best Iron Fist series ever continues even though Our Hero gets slapped around by a fat guy.
IMMORTAL IRON FIST ANNUAL #1 by Ed Brubaker, Matt Fraction, Howard Chaykin, and Dan Bereton. For lovers of the pulp adventure and completists of the latest series. Fun stuff.
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #13 by Dwayne McDuffie and Joe Benitez. After everything that went on at Green Arrow’s wedding, you know the JLA’s looking to hand out some hurt. It happens here.
MARVEL ZOMBIES BOOK ANGELS DEMONS & MONSTROSITIES by Dewey, Cheatham, and Howe. What it sounds like, kids.
MARVEL ZOMBIES COLONEL AMERICA ACTION FIGURE. “He eats people and he’s missing half his head, heh, heh, heh…” Not for kids you care about.
PUNISHER PRESENTS BARRACUDA MAX SC by Garth Ennis and Goran Parlov. Collecting five issues of the most twisted boys adventure stories ever to come from the mind of Garth Ennis. Think about that. Not for kids.
SHOWCASE PRESENTS METAL MEN VOL.1 SC by Robert Kanigher, Ross Andru, and Mike Esposito. The earliest Silver-Age adventures of Doc Magnus and his robot creations can be found here. Recommended.
SPIRIT #10 written and drawn by Darwyn Cooke. Someone’s killing TV personalities and the Spirit has to pretend it’s a bad thing! Recommended.
WALKING DEAD VOL.7: CALM BEFORE SC by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard. Imagine trying to remember a Lamaze class you’ve never had after your hand’s been chopped off and you’re surrounded by flesh-eating zombies. Highly recommended. NOT for kids.
WONDER WOMAN ANNUAL #1 by Allan Heinberg and Friends. Wrapping up stuff from two years ago. At last!
X-MEN #203 by Mike Carey. Okay, any story where the Big Bad has a name like “Mister Sinister” is not my cup of meat. Still, the back-up story with Beast and Dark Beast is worth the price of admission. And yes, “Dark Beast” is a way cooler name than “Mister Sinister.” So is “Wavy Gravy” or “Urkel.”
Plus this week is PREVIEWS week from Diamond and Marvel Comics.
www.johnjudy.net
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Ann Telnaes, like Tom Toles, also lacking basic decency
An Insult to a Patriot
Washington Post Saturday, September 22, 2007; Page A15
I had to shake my head at the disrespectful cartoon depicting Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) in a bikini and high heels, surfing on top of his campaign bus [Drawing Board, Sept. 15].
It seemed to be more than editorial misfeasance. It suggested to me purposeful nastiness that probably had your editorial board chuckling.
It was distasteful and shameful, and it seems clear that if the slight is focused on Republicans, then to heck with decorum and good taste.
Your arrogant paper obviously feels it can do whatever it wants without consequence. Whatever happened to real journalism and respect, in this case, for a man who has devoted his life in service to his country?
-- Christopher S. Moody
Gaithersburg
Obviously, the intent of the bikini was to compare Sen McCain's reinventing of himself with Britney Spears's performance flop in a bikini earlier in the month. The artist, unmentioned in the following rant, is Ann Telnaes of Washington, DC, who's won a Pulitzer Prize for her commentary. Comments on the letter can be seen by clicking through to the Post website.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Trying to find Richard Relkin, publisher of Comics Culture
I want to reprint a Harvey Pekar interview he did in the 1990s. In 1995, he was in Lexington, KY. Anyone know of him?
Geppi's Entertainment Museum news
The Star Wars exhibit is extended until early October - GEM reports, "The Force™ is with Us: 30 Years of Star Wars® opened June 23 and will run through October 7, 2007 due to overwhelming response. Geppi’s Entertainment Museum at Camden Yards is located at 301 W. Camden St., Baltimore, MD 21201. For additional details log on to www.geppismuseum.com or call 410-625-7060. Group tours are welcome, and admission is free to museum members."
Remember, they're having the launch of Arnold Blumberg's zombie book soon too. Everyone who reads this blog semi-regularly or more should visit this museum.
Also, they've made a promotion from within, which I reprint without comment:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Date of release: Sept. 17, 2007
Melissa Bowersox named executive VP at Geppi’s Entertainment Museum
BALTIMORE – Melissa Geppi Bowersox has been appointed executive vice president at Geppi’s Entertainment Museum at Camden Yards (a k a “GEM”). Previously, Bowersox served as director of Events & Special Promotions for the 17,000-square-foot pop culture mecca, providing critical expertise during the museum’s pre-launch and first year of operation.
In her new role, Bowersox will lead a team of experienced professionals in developing new programs and special events while at the same time overseeing both permanent and changing exhibits. Bowersox said an important goal is spreading the word to civic groups, schools and the travel and tourism industry that Baltimore has added yet another world-class museum to its atmospheric landscape – one that appeals to all ages.
“We have the location, the exhibits and the support of the community,” Bowersox said. “My goal is to raise GEM’s profile so it is recognized not only locally, but also on a national and international level as an outstanding destination for families, students and tour groups.”
Bowersox has had a lifelong passion for pop culture and her native Baltimore. The daughter of GEM’s founder and CEO, Stephen A. Geppi, she began working in the “family business” at age six. “In the early days, my dad had a comic book shop in the basement of a TV repair shop in one of the city’s suburbs,” Bowersox said. “I would go in on weekends, sweep up or count comic book bags, which used to sell for 100 for a dollar – someone had to count the bags. Even as I got older, I continued to work at his retail shops, eventually being ‘promoted’ to working behind the counter, handling subscription orders and assisting the customers.”
As her father’s commercial ventures grew and prospered, Bowersox was always there to pitch in and do her part, whether it was working summers in the back of the warehouse, collating orders for Geppi’s Diamond Comics, or later working as a receptionist for another Geppi firm, Diamond International Galleries.
Bowersox is particularly proud that she represents the first of the Geppi children to join her father’s businesses in an executive capacity. “I know that it was always my dad’s fondest wish that one of his children would want to be involved in his businesses, but he would not have thrust it upon anybody,” Bowersox said. “He wanted us to come to him and let him know if we were interested.” Bowersox recalled that the right moment came in February when she represented the Geppi companies at a major comic book industry event, the New York Comic-Con. “I saw all the people I recognized from my youth when I was working for my dad. I saw the excitement in their faces when they realized that a younger Geppi was involved now, and I realized the timing was perfect. I invited my dad to lunch and told him what I wanted to do, and he said, ‘This is what I’ve been waiting to hear. You’ve just made my day.’”
Steve Geppi remarked, “We are very pleased to have Melissa taking on these new duties at GEM. We look forward to her continued enthusiastic efforts to get the word out about the museum, its facilities, and what we have to offer.”
GEM’s president, John K. Snyder Jr., praised the patient, lifelong course Bowersox has followed en route to her new position with the museum. “Melissa has spent years studying the whole foundation of collecting, interacting with the people who collect and learning how the element of emotion fits into the hobby,” Snyder said. “She’s an idea person, very much like her father. She has taken the knowledge she acquired during the time she spent working in the gallery and watching how her father does things, and is now eminently capable of moving into this high-level position. She spent her time in the arena of learning – it was a baptism of fire, so to speak. Now she’s getting her chance and bringing in a fresh approach that we all wholeheartedly welcome.”
Geppi’s Entertainment Museum is located at Baltimore’s world-famous Camden Yards, immediately adjacent to Oriole Park and across the street from the Baltimore Convention Center. Its displays are arranged in a timeline fashion, incorporating pop-culture memorabilia from the late 18th century through contemporary times. Among the many characters permanently “residing” at GEM are Superman, Batman, Spider-Man, Howdy Doody, Betty Boop, Hopalong Cassidy, Elvis Presley and the original hand-made prototype of G.I. Joe.
To learn more about GEM, log on to www.geppismuseum.com. Tel. 410-625-7060 or
e-mail info@geppismuseum.com.
OT: Children's booksignings in Arlington
On Sunday, September 23 at 1:30 p.m., Arlington resident Barbara Kanninen will present her new book, A Story With Pictures, a funny and colorful depiction of what happens when an author loses her manuscript—and the illustrator decides to take charge of the story. Ms. Kanninen’s stories and poems have been published in a number of children’s magazines, like Highlights, Ladybug, and Fun for Kids. Book signing will follow. Ages 4-8. Please call to register.
On Thursday, September 27 at 6:00 p.m., join us in welcoming Caldecott winner Simms Taback! Mr. Taback, whose vibrant, fanciful illustrations have won him widespread acclaim, will introduce his newest book, I Miss You Everyday. Silly and sweet, I Miss You Every Day is the ideal read-aloud to share with those who, although they might not live close by, are always close to your heart. What do you do when you miss someone you love so much? There’s only one solution, really – wrap yourself up, jump in a box (don’t forget the air holes, of course!) and send yourself for a visit! At least, that’s what happens here, as a little girl wraps herself up, decorates the wrapping and the box and makes her way through the US Postal system. Her final destination? That special someone’s home where good times, yummy sweets and a bedtime story make the trip worthwhile. Its story makes I Miss You Everyday a perfect choice for children to read with their grandparents. Each page is cleverly illustrated with Simms Taback’s signature artwork, packed with details and humorous asides. Mr. Taback’s other books include There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly (1998 Caldecott Honor), Joseph Had a Little Overcoat (2000 Caldecott Medal), This is the House that Jack Built, and Kibitzers and Fools. Book signing will follow. Ages 4-8. Please call to register.
Finally, on Friday, September 28 at 4:30 p.m., award-winning author and illustrator D.B. Johnson will read his new book, Four Legs Bad, Two Legs Good!, a hilarious child-friendly take on the George Orwell classic Animal Farm, in which a mischievous little duck transforms the farm. Other books by Mr. Johnson include his series based on the life of Henry David Thoreau, Henry Hikes to Fitchburg, Henry Builds a Cabin, Henry Climbs a Mountain, and Henry Works, in which the American philosopher appears as a bear. Book signing will follow. Ages 4-8. Please call to register.
As usual, all these events are free. Hope your family can participate.
Thanks,
Alina Gawlik
Aladdin's Lamp Children's Books and Other Treasures
2499 N. Harrison St.
Arlington, VA 22207
Tel 703-241-8281
Fax 703-241-8283
Email: aladlamp@speakeasy.net
On Thursday, September 27 at 6:00 p.m., join us in welcoming Caldecott winner Simms Taback! Mr. Taback, whose vibrant, fanciful illustrations have won him widespread acclaim, will introduce his newest book, I Miss You Everyday. Silly and sweet, I Miss You Every Day is the ideal read-aloud to share with those who, although they might not live close by, are always close to your heart. What do you do when you miss someone you love so much? There’s only one solution, really – wrap yourself up, jump in a box (don’t forget the air holes, of course!) and send yourself for a visit! At least, that’s what happens here, as a little girl wraps herself up, decorates the wrapping and the box and makes her way through the US Postal system. Her final destination? That special someone’s home where good times, yummy sweets and a bedtime story make the trip worthwhile. Its story makes I Miss You Everyday a perfect choice for children to read with their grandparents. Each page is cleverly illustrated with Simms Taback’s signature artwork, packed with details and humorous asides. Mr. Taback’s other books include There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly (1998 Caldecott Honor), Joseph Had a Little Overcoat (2000 Caldecott Medal), This is the House that Jack Built, and Kibitzers and Fools. Book signing will follow. Ages 4-8. Please call to register.
Finally, on Friday, September 28 at 4:30 p.m., award-winning author and illustrator D.B. Johnson will read his new book, Four Legs Bad, Two Legs Good!, a hilarious child-friendly take on the George Orwell classic Animal Farm, in which a mischievous little duck transforms the farm. Other books by Mr. Johnson include his series based on the life of Henry David Thoreau, Henry Hikes to Fitchburg, Henry Builds a Cabin, Henry Climbs a Mountain, and Henry Works, in which the American philosopher appears as a bear. Book signing will follow. Ages 4-8. Please call to register.
As usual, all these events are free. Hope your family can participate.
Thanks,
Alina Gawlik
Aladdin's Lamp Children's Books and Other Treasures
2499 N. Harrison St.
Arlington, VA 22207
Tel 703-241-8281
Fax 703-241-8283
Email: aladlamp@speakeasy.net
Oct 11-13: RUTU MODAN ON TOUR
Drawn & Quarterly presents:
RUTU MODAN ON TOUR
With the generous support of the Consulate General of Israel, Rutu Modan presents her recent graphic novel Exit Wounds on a tour to Washington DC, Bethesda, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco, Toronto, and New York.
------------------------------------------------------------------
SPEAKING AT THE DC JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER
Thursday, Oct. 11, 7:30 PM
1529 16th Street, NW.
Washington, DC 20036
Cost: $8/$6 member
Rutu Modan speaks about and signs her graphic novel Exit Wounds.
Presented alongside Israillustrators 2007: Illustrations from Israeli Children’s Books
In the Barbara & Harold Berman Café and in the Ina and Jack Kay Community Hall
The Jewish Literary Festival, the J’s Ann Loeb Bronfman Gallery and the Embassy of Israel have teamed up to present Israillustrators 2007. This colorful banner exhibition features children’s book illustrations by leading Israeli illustrators, including Rutu Modan. Selected works from this exhibition have been displayed in Israeli pavilions at international book fairs and at other literary events in 30 countries in Europe, Asia and South America. Israeli Illustrator Liora Grossman curated the exhibition, and it is on loan from the Israeli Foreign Ministry. Presented in partnership with the J’s Ann Loeb Bronfman Gallery. Co-sponsored by the Embassy of Israel as part of the Israel @ 60 celebrations.
For more information contact Drawn & Quarterly at 514-279-0691
DCJCC box office: 202-777-3210
http://washingtondcjcc.org/classes/center-for-the-arts/literary/litfest2007/exit-wounds.html
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SPECIAL GUEST AT THE SMALL PRESS EXPO
Friday & Saturday, Oct. 12-13
Expo hours: Friday 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
programming & signing schedule at D+Q booth TBA
http://www.spxpo.com/
Marriott Bethesda North Hotel & Conference Center
5701 Marinelli Road
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Cost: $8 day/$15 weekend
In its twelfth year, SPX now serves as the preeminent showcase for the exhibition of independent comic books and the discovery of new creative talent. SPX will bring together over 400 artists and publishers to meet their readers, booksellers, distributors, and each other. The celebration culminates in the 11th annual Ignatz Awards Reception -- Rutu Modan and Exit Wounds are nominated in the Outstanding Artist and Outstanding Graphic Novel categories. Expect great programming all weekend long, including a presentation by Rutu Modan, speaking about Exit Wounds.
For more information contact Drawn & Quarterly at 514-279-0691
Tickets available at the event.
------------------------------------------------------------------
ABOUT EXIT WOUNDS:
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 not only piecing together the last few months of his father’s life, but his entire identity. With thin, precise lines and luscious watercolors, Modan creates a portrait of modern Israel, a place where sudden death mingles with the slow dissolution of family ties. Exit Wounds is her North American graphic novel debut, and was nominated for the 2007 Quill Award for Best Graphic Novel.
ABOUT RUTU MODAN:
Rutu Modan is one of Israel’s best-known cartoonists. Born in Tel-Aviv in 1966, she has received much recognition for her work, including four Best Illustrated Children's Book Awards from the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. The Israel Ministry of Culture named Rutu Modan the Young Artist of the Year in 1997, she has been a chosen artist of the Israel Cultural Excellence Foundation since 2005, and her work has received nominations for Eisner, Ignatz, and Angoulême awards. She currently lives in England with her family, and will be on tour in select North American cities in October 2007, with the generous support of the Consulate General of Israel.
Small Press Expo Related Book Signing Events for the Washington, D.C. Area
Small Press Expo Related Book Signing Events for the Washington, D.C. Area
For Immediate Release
Contact: Warren Bernard
Phone: 301-537-4615
E-Mail: webernard@spxpo.com
Bethesda, Maryland; September 21, 2007 - A number of Small Press Expo (SPX) creators attending this years event will be at a series of book signings that will take place at various locations and dates across the Washington, D.C. area.
This year's SPX will be held October 12 and October 13 at The North Bethesda Marriott Convention Center in Bethesda, Maryland, across from the White Flint Metro stop on the Red Line.
The book signings will feature such creators as Bill Griffith (Zippy The Pinhead), Kim Deitch (Alias The Cat), Ted Rall (America Gone Bonkers!), Richard Thompson (Richard's Poor Almanac", "Cul-de-Sac”) and Matt Wagner (Grendel).
The book events are as follows:
will be signing his latest acclaimed graphic novel, Laika, which is being released in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the launching of the first manned satellites.
Date: September 29
Time: 12:30PM and 2PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: National Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C.
Rutu Modan will be part of the Washington DCJCC Book Festival to discuss and sign her new graphic novel, Exit Wounds.
Date: October 11
Time: 7:30PM
Admission Fee: $8 Adult/$6 Children
Location: Washington DCJCC 1529 16th St., NW Washington, D.C.
Kim Deitch (Alias The Cat) and Cartoonists With Attitude with Ted Rall, Jen Sorensen and Keith Knight will have a joint signing event including a slide presentation about their respective works.
Date: October 11
Time: 7PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: Barnes and Nobles Bethesda 4801 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD
Matt Wagner is one of the pioneers of indie comics with his original creation of “Grendel”, which celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year. Matt also created, wrote and drew “Mage”, and has worked on a number of projects for both DC and Vertigo.
Date: October 11
Time: 5PM-7PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: Big Planet Bethesda 4908 Fairmont Ave. Bethesda, MD
Nick Abadzis will once again be signing his latest acclaimed graphic novel, Laika.
Date: October 11
Time: 5PM-7PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: Big Planet College Park 7315 Baltimore Ave. College Park, MD
Richard Thompson, will have a discussion on creating comics. His cartoons "Richard's Poor Almanac" and "Cul-de-Sac" appear in the Washington Post, with Cul-de-Sac going into national syndication this fall. There will also be a display of his original art work.
Date: Friday, 12 October
Time: 7.30PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: The Writer's Center 4508 Walsh Street, Bethesda, MD 20814; four block south of the Bethesda Metro stop, just off Wisconsin Avenue.
Bill Griffith is known world wide for his syndicated strip, Zippy The Pinhead, which runs daily in The Washington Post. He has a new Zippy collection out from Fantagraphics entitled “Zippy: Walk A Mile In My Muu-Muu”.
Date: Friday October 12
Time: 9PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: Politics and Prose 5015 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington, DC 20008
For further information on the artists or to request an interview, please contact Warren Bernard at webernard@spxpo.com.
SPX, a non-profit organization, 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. A series of panel discussions will also be held of interest to readers, academicians and creators of graphic novels and political cartoons.
SPX will be open to the public from 2 pm - 8 pm, Friday, October 12 and 10am - 7 pm Saturday, October 13. Admission is $8 for a single day and $15 for both days.
SPX culminates with the presentation of the 11th Annual Ignatz Awards for outstanding achievement in comics and cartooning. The Ignatz is the first Festival Prize in the US comic book industry, with winners chosen by balloting during the SPX.
As in previous years, all 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/.
Founded in 1994, SPX is North America's premier alternative comic-book festival. This annual event brings together comic creators, publishers and more than 2000 fans together to celebrate the art of storytelling.
For Immediate Release
Contact: Warren Bernard
Phone: 301-537-4615
E-Mail: webernard@spxpo.com
Bethesda, Maryland; September 21, 2007 - A number of Small Press Expo (SPX) creators attending this years event will be at a series of book signings that will take place at various locations and dates across the Washington, D.C. area.
This year's SPX will be held October 12 and October 13 at The North Bethesda Marriott Convention Center in Bethesda, Maryland, across from the White Flint Metro stop on the Red Line.
The book signings will feature such creators as Bill Griffith (Zippy The Pinhead), Kim Deitch (Alias The Cat), Ted Rall (America Gone Bonkers!), Richard Thompson (Richard's Poor Almanac", "Cul-de-Sac”) and Matt Wagner (Grendel).
The book events are as follows:
will be signing his latest acclaimed graphic novel, Laika, which is being released in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the launching of the first manned satellites.
Date: September 29
Time: 12:30PM and 2PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: National Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C.
Rutu Modan will be part of the Washington DCJCC Book Festival to discuss and sign her new graphic novel, Exit Wounds.
Date: October 11
Time: 7:30PM
Admission Fee: $8 Adult/$6 Children
Location: Washington DCJCC 1529 16th St., NW Washington, D.C.
Kim Deitch (Alias The Cat) and Cartoonists With Attitude with Ted Rall, Jen Sorensen and Keith Knight will have a joint signing event including a slide presentation about their respective works.
Date: October 11
Time: 7PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: Barnes and Nobles Bethesda 4801 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD
Matt Wagner is one of the pioneers of indie comics with his original creation of “Grendel”, which celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year. Matt also created, wrote and drew “Mage”, and has worked on a number of projects for both DC and Vertigo.
Date: October 11
Time: 5PM-7PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: Big Planet Bethesda 4908 Fairmont Ave. Bethesda, MD
Nick Abadzis will once again be signing his latest acclaimed graphic novel, Laika.
Date: October 11
Time: 5PM-7PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: Big Planet College Park 7315 Baltimore Ave. College Park, MD
Richard Thompson, will have a discussion on creating comics. His cartoons "Richard's Poor Almanac" and "Cul-de-Sac" appear in the Washington Post, with Cul-de-Sac going into national syndication this fall. There will also be a display of his original art work.
Date: Friday, 12 October
Time: 7.30PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: The Writer's Center 4508 Walsh Street, Bethesda, MD 20814; four block south of the Bethesda Metro stop, just off Wisconsin Avenue.
Bill Griffith is known world wide for his syndicated strip, Zippy The Pinhead, which runs daily in The Washington Post. He has a new Zippy collection out from Fantagraphics entitled “Zippy: Walk A Mile In My Muu-Muu”.
Date: Friday October 12
Time: 9PM
Admission Fee: Free
Location: Politics and Prose 5015 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington, DC 20008
For further information on the artists or to request an interview, please contact Warren Bernard at webernard@spxpo.com.
SPX, a non-profit organization, 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. A series of panel discussions will also be held of interest to readers, academicians and creators of graphic novels and political cartoons.
SPX will be open to the public from 2 pm - 8 pm, Friday, October 12 and 10am - 7 pm Saturday, October 13. Admission is $8 for a single day and $15 for both days.
SPX culminates with the presentation of the 11th Annual Ignatz Awards for outstanding achievement in comics and cartooning. The Ignatz is the first Festival Prize in the US comic book industry, with winners chosen by balloting during the SPX.
As in previous years, all 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/.
Founded in 1994, SPX is North America's premier alternative comic-book festival. This annual event brings together comic creators, publishers and more than 2000 fans together to celebrate the art of storytelling.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Sept 20 - Anime Bento showing of Full Metal Alchemist somewhere in DC
“Full Metal Alchemist – The Movie – Conqueror of Shambala” –Thursday, Sept. 20th
and next week:
- “Lupin the III: The Castle of Cagliostro ” – Wednesday, Sept. 26th
- “Karas – The Prophecy” – Thursday, Sept. 27th
Tickets for “Anime Bento” can be purchased for $10.00 at www.FathomEvents.com or at participating theatre box offices. For a complete list of theatre locations, please visit the website (theatres are subject to change)
and next week:
- “Lupin the III: The Castle of Cagliostro ” – Wednesday, Sept. 26th
- “Karas – The Prophecy” – Thursday, Sept. 27th
Tickets for “Anime Bento” can be purchased for $10.00 at www.FathomEvents.com or at participating theatre box offices. For a complete list of theatre locations, please visit the website (theatres are subject to change)
Oct 4: Geppi's Entertainment Museum booksigning and party with free admission
I'm not into zombies, but Arnold's a real nice guy and this museum is totally cool, so if you're around the area, check this out. Date of Release: September 18, 2007
From: Geppi’s Entertainment Museum at Camden Yards
Contact: 410-625-7060
Geppi’s Entertainment Museum hosts the US book launch of Blumberg and Hershberger’s Zombiemania: 80 Movies to Die For on Thursday, October 4, from 6-9pm
BALTIMORE – From White Zombie to Land of the Dead … 80 zombie movies that shaped a horror subgenre and left us all with a mortal fear of flesh-eating ghouls clawing their way out of the cold, dark earth. Zombiemania takes an in-depth look at one of the most popular horror film categories of all time. What is it that makes us so scared of and yet so attracted to the living dead? Why is it that shambling corpses with a taste for brains, or mindless automatons controlled by a voodoo master still retain such relentless power? Illustrated with many photographs, some published here for the first time, this is one film guide that will leave you with a restless urge to walk the night in search of living flesh.
Geppi’s Entertainment Museum will host the official US launch party for Zombiemania, published by the UK-based Telos Publishing Ltd (www.telos.co.uk) and co-authored by GEM Curator Dr. Arnold T. Blumberg and GEM Registrar Andrew Hershberger. The party will take place on Thursday, October 4 from 6pm to 9pm. The museum is offering free admission during party hours to all attendees, Halloween-themed food, and the chance to chat with the authors and get a signed copy of Zombiemania.
Zombiemania not only covers 80 of the best and worst zombie movies in exhaustive detail with behind-the-scenes trivia, plot synopses and reviews, but also features a comprehensive title index with over 570 films described and cross-referenced with all alternate titles. The 500+ page book also features a cover by illustrator David Aikins.
The book is available now from Telos or via Amazon.com for $22.95 (ISBN 1-84583-003-2). The book also has an official website at www.zombiemania.com.
To learn more about GEM, log on to www.geppismuseum.com. Tel. 410-625-7060 or
e-mail info@geppismuseum.com. The museum is located at 301 W. Camden Street, Baltimore, MD 21201.
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