Tuesday, June 30, 2009

2009 Harvey Award Nominees Announced!



The Harvey Awards &
The Baltimore Comic-Con 
Press Release

Dragon Prince #1 Baltimore Comic-Con2009 Harvey Awards Nominees Announced!

Visit www.harveyawards.org for Ballots &  Submission Details!  
 
BALTIMORE, MD (June 29, 2009) -- The 2009 Harvey Awards Nominees have been announced with the release of the final ballot, presented by the Executive Committees of the Harvey Awards and the Baltimore Comic-Con.  Named in honor of the late Harvey Kurtzman, one of the industry's most innovative talents, the Harvey Awards recognize outstanding work in comics and sequential art. They will be presented October 10, 2009 in Baltimore, MD, in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con.
 
Nominations for the Harvey Awards are selected exclusively by creators - those who write, draw, ink, letter, color, design, edit or are otherwise involved in a creative capacity in the comics field.  They are the only industry awards both nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals.  Professionals who participate will be joining nearly 2,000 other comics professionals in honoring the outstanding comics achievements of 2008.  Thank you to all that have already participated by submitting a nomination ballot.

Final ballots are due to the Harvey Awards by Friday, August 28, 2009.  Full details for submission of completed ballots can be found on the final ballot.  Voting is open to anyone professionally involved in a creative capacity within the comics field.  Final ballots are available for download at www.harveyawards.org.  Those without Internet access may request that paper ballots be sent to them via mail or fax by calling the Baltimore Comic-Con (410-526-7410) or e-mailing baltimorecomicccon@yahoo.com.

This will be the fourth year for the Harvey Awards in Baltimore, MD.  Our Master of Ceremonies this year will be Scott Kurtz (www.pvponline.com).  Look for more details soon on how you can attend the Harvey Awards dinner.

This year's Baltimore Comic-Con will be held October 10-11, 2009.  The ceremony and banquet for the 2008 Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, October 10.
 
Without further delay, the 2008 Harvey Award Nominees:        
 
 
BEST WRITER

  Kyle Baker, NAT TURNER, Abrams books
  Ed Brubaker, CAPTAIN AMERICA, Marvel Comics
  John Gallagher, BUZZBOY, Sky Dog Comics
  Jeff Kinney, DIARY OF A WIMPY KID, Amulet Books
  Grant Morrison, ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, DC Comics

BEST ARTIST

  Gabriel Ba, UMBRELLA ACADEMY, Dark Horse Comics
  Kyle Baker, NAT TURNER, Abrams Books
  Jimmy Gownley, AMELIA RULES, Renaissance Press
  Jason Kruse, WORLD OF QUEST, Yen Press
  Frank Quitely, ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, DC Comics

BEST CARTOONIST

  Lar deSouza, LEAST I COULD DO, www.leasticoulddo.com
  John Gallagher, BUZZBOY, Sky Dog Comics
  Al Jaffee, TALL TALES, Abrams Books
  Jeff Kinney, DIARY OF A WIMPY KID, Amulet Books
  Thom Zahler, LOVE & CAPES, Maerkle Press

BEST LETTERER

  Jimmy Gownley, AMELIA RULES, Renaissance Press
  Rob Leigh, THE SPIRIT, DC Comics
  Doug Sherwood, LOCAL, Oni Press
  John Workman, MARVEL 1985, Marvel Comics
  Thom Zahler, BUZZBOY, Sky Dog Comics

BEST  INKER

  Rich Faber, BUZZBOY, Sky Dog Comics
  Jamie Grant, ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, DC Comics
  Jeff Kinney, DIARY OF A WIMPY KID, Amulet Books
  Mark Morales, THOR, Marvel Comics
  Ryan Winn, THE DARKNESS, Image Comics

BEST COLORIST

  Frank Cammuso, OTTO'S ORANGE DAY, Raw Junior, LLC
  Jamie Grant, ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, DC Comics
  Laura Martin, THOR, Marvel Comics
  Wil Quintana, THE MICE TEMPLAR, Image Comics
  Dave Stewart, UMBRELLA ACADEMY, Dark Horse Comics

BEST COVER ARTIST

  Frank Cho, BUZZBOY: SIDEKICKS RULE!#3, Sky Dog Press
  James Jean, FABLES, Vertigo Comics
  Jay Lynch, MINDSHAFT #23, Mindshaft Publishing
  Ken Rocafort, PILOT SEASON: CORE #1, Top Cow
  Alex Ross, JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA, DC Comics

BEST NEW SERIES

  THE DREAMER, IDW
  ECHO, Abstract Studios
  HIGH MOON, www.zudacomics.com
  NIGHT OWLS, www.zudacomics.com
  SUPERTRON, www.zudacomics.com

BEST CONTINUING OR LIMITED SERIES

  ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, DC Comics
  CAPTAIN AMERICA, Marvel Comics
  DIARY OF A WIMPY KID, Amulet Books
  MICE TEMPLAR, Image Comics
  UMBRELLA ACADEMY, Dark Horse Comics

BEST BIOGRAPHICAL, HISTORICAL OR JOURNALISTIC PRESENTATION

  DRAW!, edited by Mike Manley, Twomorrows Publishing
  HOW TO MAKE WEBCOMICS, Brad Guigar, Dave Kellett,
            Scott Kurtz, and Kris Straub, Image Comics
  KIRBY: KING OF COMICS, Mark Evanier, Abrams Books
  SCORCHY SMITH AND THE ART OF NOEL SICKLES,
            edited by Dean Mullaney, IDW
  WORDLESS BOOKS: THE ORIGINAL GRAPHIC NOVELS,
            edited by David A. Berona, Abrams Books

BEST SYNDICATED STRIP OR PANEL

  BREWSTER ROCKIT: SPACE GUY!, Tim Rickard, Tribune Media Services
  GET FUZZY, Darby Conley, United Features Syndicate
  MUTTS, Patrick McDonnell, King Features Syndicate
  THE NORM, Michael Jantze, Uclick Gocomics
  PEARLS BEFORE SWINE, Stephan Pastis, United Features Syndicate

BEST ANTHOLOGY

  COMIC BOOK TATTOO, edited by Rantz Hoseley, Image Comics
  FLIGHT VOLUME 5, edited by Kazu Kibuishi, Villard
  MOME VOLUME 10, edited by Eric Reynolds, Fantagraphics Books
  PIXU #1, edited by Gabriel Ba and Fabio Moon, Self-Published
  POPGUN VOLUME 2, edited by Joe Keatinge and Mark Andrew Smith,
             Image Comics

BEST GRAPHIC ALBUM - ORIGINAL 

  BOTTOMLESS BELLY BUTTON, Fantagraphics Books
  DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: RODRICK RULES, Amulet Books
  ESSEX COUNTY: THE COUNTRY NURSE, Top Shelf
  SKIM, Groundwood Books
  TOO COOL TO BE FORGOTTEN, Top Shelf
  WORLD OF QUEST: VOL. 2, Yen Press

BEST GRAPHIC ALBUM - PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED

  AMELIA RULES!: FUNNY STORIES, Renaissance Press
  M, Abrams Books
  NAT TURNER, Abrams Books
  THE MICE TEMPLAR: VOL. 1, Image Comics
  QUEEN AND COUNTRY: VOLUME 3, Oni Press
  SKYSCRAPERS OF THE MIDWEST (HARDCOVER), Adhouse Books

BEST SINGLE ISSUE OR STORY

  ACME NOVELTY LIBRARY #19, Self-Published
  FIRST BORN: AFTERMATH #1, Top Cow
  LOVE AND ROCKETS, VOL. 3 #1, Fantagraphics Books
  M, Abrams Books
  NASCAR HEROES #5, NASCAR Comics
  NAT TURNER, Abrams Books
  THE AMAZING REMARKABLE MONSIEUR LEOTARD, First Second
  Y: THE LAST MAN #60, Vertigo Comics

BEST DOMESTIC REPRINT PROJECT

  ASTOUNDING SPACE THRILLS, IDW
  COMPLETE PEANUTS, Fantagraphics Books
  COMPLETE TERRY AND THE PIRATES, IDW
  SCORCHY SMITH AND THE ART OF NOEL SICKLES, IDW
  WACKY PACKAGES, Abrams Books

BEST AMERICAN EDITION OF FOREIGN MATERIAL
 
  GUS AND HIS GANG, First Second
  POCKET FULL OF RAIN, Fantagraphics Books
  RED COLORED ELEGY, Drawn and Quarterly
  SOLANIN, Viz
  WITCHBLADE TAKERU MANGA #'s 11 & 12, Top Cow

BEST ON-LINE COMICS WORK

  BLACK CHERRY BOMBSHELLS, Tony Trovarello and     
           John Zito, www.zudacomics.com
  HIGH MOON, Scott O. Brown, www.zudacomics.com
  LEAST I COULD DO, Lar deSouza and Ryan Sohmer, www.leasticoulddo.com
  NIGHT OWLS, Bobby & Peter Timony, www.zudacomics.com
  PVP, Scott Kurtz, www.pvponline.com

SPECIAL AWARD FOR HUMOR IN COMICS

  Lar deSouza, LEAST I COULD DO, www.leasticoulddo.com
  John Gallagher, BUZZBOY, Sky Dog Comics
  Al Jaffee, TALL TALES, Abrams Books
  Jeff Kinney, DIARY OF A WIMPY KID, Amulet Books
  David Malki, WONDERMARK, www.wondermark.com

SPECIAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN PRESENTATION

  COMPLETE LOCAL: HARDCOVER EDITION, Ryan Kelly and
             Brian Wood, Oni Press
  KIRBY: KING OF COMICS, Mark Evanier, Abrams Books
  QUEEN AND COUNTRY: VOLUME 3, Greg Rucka, Mike Norton,
             Steve Rolston, and Chris Samnee, Oni Press
  TALL TALES, Al Jaffee, Abrams Books
  WONDERMARK, VOL. 1: BEARDS OF OUR FOREFATHERS,
              David Malki, Dark Horse Comics

BEST NEW TALENT

  Matt Cassan, NASCAR: HEROES, nascar comics
  Bryan J.L. Glass, THE MICE TEMPLAR, image books
  Laura Innes, THE DREAMER, Idw
  Tim Sievert, THAT SALTY AIR, top shelf
  Bobby Timony, NIGHT OWLS, www.zudacomics.com
 
Congratulations to all the nominees!  If you know a nominee, please pass on the good news!
 
           
The Harvey committee and the Baltimore Comic-Con will make every effort to contact all nominees.  If you are a nominee and do not hear from us by the end of June, please contact us at baltimorecomiccon@yahoo.com.  We would love to discuss your involvement in the ceremony and the Baltimore Comic-Con.
 
For additional information about the Harvey Kurtzman and the Harvey Awards, visit www.harveyawards.org.

For additional information about the Baltimore Comic-Con, visit www.comicon.com/baltimore.
 
For additional information about the Harvey Awards Master of Ceremonies Scott Kurtz, visit
  


Jaffe likes Beeler on Jackson

Nate Beeler's been tugging the heartstrings lately. Sarah Jaffee of Newsarama picked his Michael Jackson cartoon as her favorite. Last week, Michael Cavna picked Nate's Metro accident cartoon as his favorite.

Barney & Clyde will be Weingarten's new strip

In his lastly weekly chat (monthly is the new schedule), the only comics news was -

Gene Weingarten:
The comic strip is Barney & Clyde. We hope it will debut before the first of the year.

Monday, June 29, 2009

June 29: Superman 4: The Quest for Peace 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

June 29, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace
June 31, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace - at CCSP
July 6, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns
July 8, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns - at CCSP
July 13, 2009 - X-Men
July 15, 2009 - X-Men - at CCSP
July 20, 2009 - X2
July 22, 2009 - X2 - at CCSP
July 27, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand
July 29, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand - at CCSP
August 3, 2009 - Fantastic Four
August 5, 2009 - Fantastic Four - at CCSP
August 10, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer
August 12, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer - at CCSP
August 17, 2009 - Batman
August 19, 2009 - Batman - at CCSP
August 24, 2009 - Batman Returns
August 26, 2009 - Batman Returns - at CCSP
August 31, 2009 - Batman Forever
September 2, 2009 - Batman Forever - at CCSP
September 7, 2009 - Batman & Robin
September 9, 2009 - Batman & Robin - at CCSP
September 14, 2009 - Batman Begins
September 16, 2009 - Batman Begins - at CCSP
September 21, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight
September 23, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight - at CCSP

Tonight! Richard Thompson at Arlington's Central Library

Author Event: Cartoonist Richard Thompson
Mon Jun 29, 7pm
Arlington Central Library Auditorium
Hear from the man behind the syndicated daily comic strip "Cul de Sac," and who's unique style and humor have graced the various parts of the Washington Post ("Richard's Poor Almanack"), National Geographic, The Atlantic and the New Yorker--Arlington's own Richard Thompson. No, not the musician by the same name. The cartoonist Richard Thompson.

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Welsh animators at Smithsonian Folklife Festival

I was completely surprised to find a tent labeled 'Animation' at the Smithsonian's annual Folklife Festival down on the Mall.

100_7640

The animators will be there from Wednesday until Sunday of this upcoming week.

The two animators (only one of whom was there when I walked by) both appear to work in stop-motion. Annoyingly, I can't find any information about them on the Folklife website - if anyone runs across it, post it in the comments and I'll update this.

100_7641 Gerald Conn's workspace, where he appears to have been doing stop-motion animation with paper cutouts.

100_7642The other animator explains his work to a young boy.

100_7643

100_7644An animation camera and people viewing a finished work.

A couple, or four, of Bennett's Best

Bennett's Best for the week of June 14
June 24, 2009 Zadzooks blog

Bennett's Best for the week of June 21, 2009
June 25, 2009 Zadzooks blog

Both by Greg Bennett of course.

Luna Brothers interview

See "5 Quick Questions With the Luna Brothers," by Brian Isaacs, Pendragon Post blog Thursday, June 25, 2009.

Politics and Prose featured in Post

See "Bookish Doyennes Nurture D.C. Landmark," By Thomas Heath, Washington Post Staff Writer, Sunday, June 28, 2009.

Did anyone attend the first Graphic Novel bookclub meeting and want to tell us about it? What's the book for the next one?

Feiffer exhibit at American University

Here's the description from their website:


My Fellow Americans: 40 Years of Political Cartoons by Jules Feiffer

June 27–August 16

Pulitzer Prize–winning New York cartoonist, author, playwright, and artist, Jules Feiffer's political cartoons are sharp in their wit and piercing in their criticism. His cartoons ran for more than forty years in the Village Voice, and were syndicated nationally, and are a testament to his unique insight into the social and political upheavals around him. Their messages maintain their relevancy in contemporary society. In form, his cartoons are distinguished in their simplicity. His often text-heavy panels are balanced by simple, but whimsically drawn figures. While his punch lines are often caustic, he still frequently manages to imbue political figures with humanity.

Feiffer has received critical acclaim for his work in various media. He won an Academy Award in 1961 for his animated short Monroe and the Pulitzer Prize in 1986 for editorial cartooning. He has also received Lifetime Achievement awards from both the Writer's Guild of America East and the National Cartoonist Society, as well as the Harold Washington Literary Award (2004) for his creative uses of the written word to address issues of contemporary life.

Visiting

Hours (Admission is free):
11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tue–Sun
And 1 hour before Katzen Events
Closed July 3–4

Location/Parking: See Katzen Visiting
Contact Us

Ph: 202-885-1300
Fax: 202-885-1140
E-mail: museum@american.edu

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 07-01-09

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 07-01-09
By John Judy

AGENTS OF ATLAS #7 by Jeff Parker, Gabriel Hardman and Carlo Pagulayan. Namor and Namora bring a bit of West Virginia to Atlantis. Eeewww!!! Recommended anyway.

ASTRO CITY: THE DARK AGE BOOK THREE #3 of 4 by Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson. Oh, it’s getting busy in the Astro. Lots of stuff coming to a boil. Not to be missed.

BATMAN AND ROBIN #2 by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely. The Dynamic Duo faces off against the Circus of Strange. Old school. Highly recommended.

THE BOYS #32 by Garth Ennis and Carlos Ezquerra. The Female is down and the rest of the Boys have to choose fight or flight in the face of suddenly aggressive supes. Hey, they’re the Boys… Not for kids.

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER #26 by Jane Espenson and Georges Jeanty. “Jane. Espenson.” If these words don’t make you buy this comic there’s really no hope for you. Just sayin’. Highly recommended.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: REBORN #1 of 5 by Ed Brubaker and Bryan Hitch. Is Steve Rogers finally coming back? In the hands of anyone but Brubaker this would be pedestrian super-hero stuff. But Bru makes that pedestrian run! Gotta look!

DESTROYER #4 of 5 by Robert Kirkman and Cory Walker. The final adventures of a dying violent super-guy. It’s great. Recommended.

FANTASTIC FOUR #568 by Mark Millar and Bryan Hitch. The new Doctor Doom a.k.a. The Marquis of Death brings it to Reed Richards. “Doctor Richards? It’s on !@#$” He gets that a lot now….

FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: RUN #3 of 6 by Mathew Sturges and Freddie E. Williams II. The hateful Human Flame gets himself a new girl. No doubt she’s a real catch. Fun stuff.

THE GOON, VOL. 8: THOSE THAT IS DAMNED SC written and drawn by Eric Powell. The Goon versus Labrazio on the edge of Horse-Eater’s Woods. Must Have.

GREEK STREET #1 by Peter Milligan and Davide Gianfelice. The lads re-imagine the tragedies of ancient Greece set in the streets of modern London. Outrageous and no doubt deeply disturbing and absolutely highly recommended.

JUSTICE LEAGUE: CRY FOR JUSTICE #1 of 7 by James Robinson and Mauro Cascioli. Hal Jordan’s splinter JLA group gets medieval on the bad guys. Awesome wish fulfillment, but will there be consequences? One can certainly hope.

MARVEL DIVAS #1 of 4 by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Tonci Zonjic. Hellcat, Black Cat, Firestar and Photon go all “Sex and the City.” And just like that show, you have to look even though you hate it.

SECRET SIX #11 by Gail Simone and Nicola Scott. The Six are in way over their heads and it’s time to swim for it. Count on waves. Recommended.

UNCANNY X-MEN #513 by Matt Fraction and Terry & Rachel Dodson. The X-Men become the O-Men as Norman Osborn takes over. That guy’s got his fingers in everybody’s pie! And it tastes good! Recommended.

USA COMICS 70th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL #1 by John Arcudi and Steve Ellis. The meanest hero of WWII cuts his way through Nazis, saboteurs and assorted no-goodniks with no pause for niceties. Yes. Also featuring a golden-age reprint from Back in The Day. Recommended.

WAS SUPERMAN A SPY AND OTHER LEGENDS REVEALED SC by Brian Cronin. A fine bit of sleuthing around the rumors and legends that have cropped up among Fandom in the last 70 years. A great gift for the geek who has everything!

www.johnjudy.net

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Shore Leave 31: July 10-12, 2009 at the Marriott's Hunt Valley Inn, Baltimore, MD

Sub-titled "A Fan Run Science Fiction Convention", Shore Leave in Baltimore largely features guests from TV and movies, such as the Star Trek and Star Wars franchises, Stargate, Xena, and this year, Dollhouse, among others. They also feature authors, some of whom happen to work in the comics field, including the following:

Mike W. Barr
Greg Cox
Peter A David
Keith DeCandido
Michael Jan Friedman
Robert Greenberger
Glen Haumann
David Mack (the less-famous one who has worked at Image)

...and perhaps some of the other authors whose names didn't ring a bell right off the bat for me. Check out the bios and homepage links from the Guests section of the show's website.

The show is July 10th-July 12th at the Marriot's Hunt Valley Inn.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Israeli-Austrialian claymation $9.99 opens in DC; City Paper underwhelmed

See "Reviewed: $9.99; In claymation, the meaning of life doesn't come cheap," By Tricia Olszewski, Washington City Paper June 25, 2009 or pick up the print edition.

New book on history of medicine as seen in cartoons and comic books

My friend Bert Hansen's got an excellent new book out, PICTURING MEDICAL PROGRESS FROM PASTEUR TO POLIO: A History of Mass Media Images and Popular Attitudes in America that includes a minuscule amount of research from the Medical Museum (and cites me in the acknowledgments, but don't buy it just because of that). I'm about 1/3 of the way through and learning about the history of both medicine and cartoons.

I'm really enjoying his look at the graphic history (including editorial cartoons and comic books) of medicine. Bert's explanations of the shifting cultural view of medicine resulting from mass media, especially regarding both the transmittal of knowledge to a wider audience than ever before, and, as he points out most convincingly in this book, for the public support of science and medicine, is wildly overlooked in the field at large. His website has reproductions of some of the cartoons and he's planning on adding to it. One of Burt's articles on comic books, "True-Adventure Comic Books and American Popular Culture in the 1940s: An Annotated Research Bibliography of the Medical Heroes," ran a few years back in the International Journal of Comic Art, Vol. 6, No. 1, Spring 2004 and you can still buy the back issue.

Here's the official PR:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PICTURING MEDICAL PROGRESS FROM PASTEUR TO POLIO
A History of Mass Media Images and Popular Attitudes in America
Bert Hansen

“Bert Hansen’s rich exploration of the intersection of popular culture and the history of medicine opens wide a window on a time between the 1880s and the 1950s when physicians, nurses, and scientists were highly regarded warriors against disease and human suffering. It is a major contribution to our understanding of how medicine’s cultural authority was established and expanded in the United States, vital to scholars and valuable to those who hope to spark a renewed enthusiasm among Americans for the study of science and medicine.”
—Alan Kraut, professor of history, American University

Today, pharmaceutical companies, HMOs, insurance carriers, and the health care system in general may often puzzle and frustrate the general public—and even physicians and researchers. By contrast, from the 1880s through the 1950s Americans enthusiastically embraced medicine and its practitioners. PICTURING MEDICAL PROGRESS FROM PASTEUR TO POLIO (Paper $37.95, ISBN: 978-0-8135-4576-9, July 2009), by Bert Hansen, offers a refreshing portrait of an era when the public excitedly anticipated medical progress and research breakthroughs.

PICTURING MEDICAL PROGRESS FROM PASTEUR TO POLIO is a unique study with 130 archival illustrations drawn from newspaper sketches, caricatures, comic books, Hollywood films, and LIFE magazine photography. This book analyzes the relationship between mass media images and popular attitudes. Bert Hansen considers the impact these representations had on public attitudes and shows how media portrayal and popular support for medical research grew together and reinforced each other.

“This book is analytical, nostalgic, sensitive, and just plain fun. Bert Hansen's meticulous privileging of the visual is a pathbreaking achievement for methods in the social and cultural history of medicine. You can be rewarded simply by looking at the wonderful pictures, but you will ‘see’ so much more in his lively prose.”
—Jacalyn Duffin, Hannah Professor, Queen's University, and former
president of the American Association for the History of Medicine

“Even as a long-time collector of medical prints, I learned a lot from this extraordinary book. Hansen's digging has turned up many discoveries, providing a new perspective on graphic art in popular culture. The images are wonderful, but this is not just a picture book; it's a great read as well, filled with remarkable insights.”
—William Helfand, trustee of the Philadelphia Museum of Art

“PICTURING MEDICAL PROGRESS FROM PASTEUR TO POLIO is an authoritative, well-written account that will be a significant contribution not only to the history of American medicine, but to the history of American popular culture.”
—Elizabeth Toon, Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Manchester


BERT HANSEN, a professor of history at Baruch College, has published a book on medieval science and many articles on the history of modern medicine and public health.

PICTURING MEDICAL PROGRESS FROM PASTEUR TO POLIO
A History of Mass Media Images and Popular Attitudes in America
Bert Hansen

Paper $37.95 | ISBN 978-0-8135-4576-9
Cloth $75.00 | ISBN 978-0-8135-4526-4 | 350 pages | 7 x 10

Publication Date: July 2009

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Cavna on Thompson on San Diego

It's been a few days since we linked to Comic Riffs, so here's a quick bit on Richard Thompson's maiden San Diego Comicon voyage.

Summer Anime Series: Skycrawlers June 26th @ JICC!

Summer Anime Series 2009
Presented by the Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan
and DC Anime Club

Winner of the Mainichi Award for Best Animated Film 2008

SKY CRAWLERS

June 26th @ 6:30pm

 

In a hauntingly familiar yet futuristic alternate reality, eternally youthful fighter pilots struggle for supremacy of the skies. Genetically modified to exist in perpetual adolescence, these immortal "kildren" are forced to carry out a war between competing international corporations in an otherwise peaceful world—all for the entertainment of the consumer. But when an ace pilot falls for his beautiful new commander, he begins to question his fate. From award-winning anime director Mamoru Oshii comes this stunning adaptation of the original series of graphic novels by Hiroshi Mori. The highly anticipated DVD was released in the US on May 26th.

 

Mamoru Oshii is revered by both film enthusiasts and anime aficionados as a true innovator in animation. His introspective, philosophical style of storytelling challenges the stereotypes of conventional animation. With a unique atmospheric touch and surreal narrative approach, his film Innocence (2004) became the first animated film to be chosen as a finalist for the prestigious Palm d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. 

 

Japanese with English subtitles.120 min, 2008. Rated PG-13. Directed by Mamoru Oshii.
This event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited and will be granted on a first come, first served basis. Reservations required. Please send your name, affiliation, the number in your party and the names of your guests to jiccrsvpsummer09@embjapan.org.

 

Summer Anime Series 2009

 

July 31 Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro

The escapades of master thief Lupin III continue in this action-packed anime feature. Lupin and the gang set out to expose an evil counterfeit operation at Count Cagliostro's impenetrable fortress. But if they fail to rescue the beautiful princess from the dark lord's grip, they risk destroying the world -- and losing the vast fortune of gold hidden within. Written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, Steven Spielberg calls it "One of the greatest adventure movies of all time." Don't miss it!

 

Aug. 28 Death Note II: The Last Name

Following on the heels of the first Death Note movie, Light Yagami joins the investigation of the serial killer known as "Kira," trying to uncover L's real name so he can kill him with his Death Note. L suspects that Light is Kira, but a new rash of murders are taking place around the world, with a "Second Kira" claiming responsibility. When Light learns the identity of the Second Kira, he suggests they join forces to get rid of L. Will L be able to catch Kira before he is killed?

 

Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan
Lafayette Centre III (lower level) 1155 21st Street NW, Washington D.C. 20036
Metro: Dupont Circle, Farragut North (Red) / Farragut West (Orange / Blue)

www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc

 


Glen Weldon on Seth's new book

Weldon, Glen.  2009.

8 Practical Uses For The Giant Graphic Novel 'George Sprott, 1894-1975'.

National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (June 24):

http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2009/06/8_practical_uses_for_the_giant.html?sc=nl&cc=msb-20090624

                     

Politics and Prose graphic novel group meets tonight for the first time

P&P's new Graphic Novel Reading Group will begin meeting the fourth Wednesday of each month. Please contact Adam Waterreus at awaterreus@politics-prose.com for information if you would like to join.

I wrote to Adam who responded with these details:

The group will meet on the fourth Wednesday of every month starting in June at 7:30pm. It will be led by myself, and possibly Thad Ellerbe, the other Graphic Novel buyer/enthusiast at the store. I'm hoping to read a variety of work, from superhero, to lit, experimental, word-less, manga, all of it as long as it's intriguing and fun to talk about. I decided on Ex Machina volume 1 by Brian Vaughn for the first book because it melds a good superhero premise with character driven/political plotting, not to mention it's accessible (for those unsure about reading a graphic novel) and cheap, $9.99, (for those with light wallets). Hopefully it goes well. I'm thinking that in the future the group might discuss to figure out what we'll read next, or maybe do themed readings...I don't know. One of the perks of the book-group will be that if you buy the book-group book from Politics and Prose you'll get a 20% discount.

Cartoonist Richard Thompson at Arlington Central Library 6/29

If you missed him at Heroes Con (a no show there, but he'll be at San Diego Comicon), I'll remind folks of Richard's appearance Monday at Arlington Central Library:
 

 
Cartoonist Richard Thompson Speaks at Arlington Central Library Monday, June 29, 7 p.m.

Arlington Central Library Auditorium, 1015 N. Quincy Street, Arlington, Va.

Hear from the man behind the syndicated daily comic strip "Cul de Sac," and who's unique style and humor have graced the various parts of the Washington Post ("Richard's Poor Almanac"), National Geographic, the Atlantic and the New Yorker--Arlington's own Richard Thompson. No, not the musician by the same name. The cartoonist Richard Thompson. Book-signing follows.

 

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Times reviews League of Extraordinary Gentlemen vol. 3

"Heroes, villans and patriotism," Ron Capshaw, Washington Times Sunday, June 21, 2009 is a positive review of

THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN, VOL. 3: CENTURY NO. 1: 1910
By Alan Moore, Kevin O'Neill
Top Shelf Productions, $7.95, 80 pages

Washington Times ALSO has a full-page strip on Sunday


I previously mentioned the Art Spiegelman strip that ran this weekend, but the Washington Times ALSO had a full-page strip on Sunday - and apparently has done so for months. Alexander Hunter's Hunter's Big Picture appears to be a monthly full-page editorial cartoon strip that is later animated on the Times' website. The Sunday June 21st page "Who's Your Daddy?" appeared on Father's day and just fell into my hands today - it's a pretty good strip on various aspects of fatherhood. There's 31 of them online so far, and most of them appear to be more political than this one... sigh. Just when you think you've got your blog's subject covered fairly well...

Fantom Comics update

Here's what their newsletter said today:

We're settling into our single store at Union Station quite nicely and want to thank all of our loyal subscribers for their cooperation and understanding. We're still negotiating for the Cleveland Park location (three doors down from the Uptown), but no progress has yet been made.

A note on tomorrow: it happens to be the single largest New Comic Book Day in Fantom history. There are tons of great books coming out. Blackest Night and especially Dark Reign are both represented. We're excited to offer the very first issue of Barack the Barbarian. (Union Station tourists can't get enough Barack, so I recommend coming in early to snag one of these issues that will at least have kitsch appeal if not a good story...which it might also, we'll just have to see). The soft cover of All Star Batman & Robin is finally out!

Spy vs. Spy vs. Spy

Today's Express has a Spy vs Spy drawing by Ben Classen illustrating the Baggage Check column. The strip was originally done by Antonio Prohias for Mad Magazine and been done recently by Peter Kuper. This is the second look at the strip in DC this week - Sunday's Baby Blues comic strip's opening throwaway panel used the strip as well.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Pekar mention in yesteday's New York Times

This article is by Harvey Pekar's second cousin and glances at family ties - Sidewalk Phantom, By AUSTIN RATNER, New York Times Magazine June 21, 2009
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/21/magazine/21lives-t.html

June 22: Superman 3 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

June 22, 2009 - Superman 3: Superman vs. Superman
June 24, 2009 - Superman 3: Superman vs. Superman - at CCSP
June 29, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace
June 31, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace - at CCSP
July 6, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns
July 8, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns - at CCSP
July 13, 2009 - X-Men
July 15, 2009 - X-Men - at CCSP
July 20, 2009 - X2
July 22, 2009 - X2 - at CCSP
July 27, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand
July 29, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand - at CCSP
August 3, 2009 - Fantastic Four
August 5, 2009 - Fantastic Four - at CCSP
August 10, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer
August 12, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer - at CCSP
August 17, 2009 - Batman
August 19, 2009 - Batman - at CCSP
August 24, 2009 - Batman Returns
August 26, 2009 - Batman Returns - at CCSP
August 31, 2009 - Batman Forever
September 2, 2009 - Batman Forever - at CCSP
September 7, 2009 - Batman & Robin
September 9, 2009 - Batman & Robin - at CCSP
September 14, 2009 - Batman Begins
September 16, 2009 - Batman Begins - at CCSP
September 21, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight
September 23, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight - at CCSP

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Zadzooks on Ghostbusters videogame

See "Zadzooks: Ghostbusters: The Video Game review,"
Joseph Szadkowski, Washington Times Thursday, June 18, 2009, which has a passing mention of the IDW comic book series.

Bennett's best returns - "Bennett's Best for the week of June 7", June 17, 2009 at Zadzooks' blog.

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 06-24-09

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 06-24-09
By John Judy


ACTRESS AND THE BISHOP #1 written and drawn by Brian Bolland. Collecting Bolland’s little known humor strips about a duo that can most charitably be called “Politically Incorrect.” From Desperado Publishing. Gotta look!

ASTONISHING X-MEN #30 by Warren Ellis and Simone Bianchi. The prettiest X-book on the stands wraps up its first arc, “Ghost Boxes.” Recommended.

AVENGERS: INITIATIVE #25 by Christos Gage and Humberto Ramos. In which things go South for our heroes. That Norman Osborn is a bad egg to be sure…

AVENGERS INVADERS #12 of 12 by Alex Ross, Jim Kreuger and Steve Sadowski. Our long national nightmare is over.

BARACK THE BARBARIAN: QUEST FOR THE TREASURE OF STIMULI #1 of 4 by Larry Hama, Chris Schons and Rachelle Rosenberg. A humor title featuring a familiar figure. But will a comic book with President Obama on the cover sell? A bit of risk-taking from Devil’s Due Publishing.

DAREDEVIL #119 by Ed Brubaker and Michael Lark. Lady Bullseye and her hangers-on finally come out of hiding. Not good for heroes with horns and their fat sidekicks.

DARK AVENGERS #6 by Brian Michael Bendis and Mike Deodato. Norman Osborn is hearing voices again. And they’re not keeping tempo and harmony.

DARK AVENGERS/UNCANNY X-MEN: UTOPIA #1 by Matt Fraction and Marc Silvestri. The Dark Avengers are sent to San Francisco to keep the hippies in line. Mutants too. Hijinks ensue.

DARK REIGN: SINISTER SPIDER-MAN #1 by Brian Reed and Barry Kitson. The evil Dark Avengers Spidey (who is really The Scorpion/Venom) is living life and eating people. Because somebody’s gotta do it!

DETECTIVE COMICS #854 by Greg Rucka, J.H. Williams and Cully Hamner. Oh sure, you think of this old war horse book of DC’s as another in an endless series of Bat-titles. But what if I told you this one had not one but TWO awesome creative teams and the book was devoted to the two most high-profile, butt-kicking lesbians in the DCU? Got your attention now, eh? Batwoman and The Question every month. Must Have. Highly recommended.

FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: INK #2 of 6 by Eric Wallace and Fabrizio Fiorentino. Granted, it’s a spin-off series from a disappointing “event” book, but this one’s actually pretty durn good. A mostly reformed bad guy whose tattoos come to life to hurt other less-reformed bad guys. And it’s set in my new/old hometown of Washington, DC. Worth checking out if only to see if the new Tattooed Man goes after Marion Barry. Recommended.

GOLDEN-AGE STARMAN ARCHIVES VOL. 2 HC by Numerous Legends of the Comics/Sci-Fi Golden Age. Collecting ADVENTURE COMICS #77-102. Thousands of dollars worth of comics for a lot less than you’d pay on E-Bay.

GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #1 by Paul Dini and Guillem March. The adventures of Catwoman, Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn featuring covers that will make you hit puberty all over again. What more can one ask?

GREEN LANTERN #42 by Geoff Johns and Philip Tan. Green vs. Orange! Will power vs. Greed! Must say, on paper I’m betting on Greed. Good luck, Hal.

IMMORTAL IRON FIST #27 by Duane Swierczynski and Travel Foreman. The Final Issue. I guess his kung-fu wasn’t so tough after all. This was a good series and will be missed. Recommended.

JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #28 by Jerry Ordway and Bob Wiacek. A Japanese spirit who’s still peeved about the A-bombs takes it to the JSA. Enter their old ally, the Spectre! Of course this is the new Spectre who’s a little less inclined to throw planets at people when he’s moody. Anything can happen. Read it!

NEW AVENGERS #54 by Brian Michael Bendis, Chris Bachalo and Billy Tan. Brother (I mean “Brudder”) Voodoo?!? Are you kidding me, Bendis?! Screw it, I’m rooting for Dormammu….

NORTHLANDERS #18 by Brian Wood and Danijel Zezelj. A Must-Have two-parter about the real story of the Norse Valkyries. “The Shield Maidens” begins here. Highly recommended.

PREVIEWS by Diamond and Marvel Comics. “Uncertain the future is.” Here’s everyone’s best guess for three months from now.

SUPERMAN #689 by James Robinson and Renato Guedes. A dying Mon-El decides to see the world before he cashes in his chips. And hit people.

THOR #602 by J. Michael Straczynski and Marko Djurdjevic. Loki continues rocking all of Thor’s nine worlds. Okay, that sounds dirty. “Loki continues vexing Thor with his/her mischief.” Eh, better. Thor still needs his head examined. Trusting Loki? Too many war clubs to ye olde noggin.

THUNDERBOLTS #133 by Andy Diggle and Roberto De La Torre. Osborne’s hit squad tries once again to take down Songbird. Only Andy Diggle and a few others could make this work. And he does.

UNCANNY X-MEN #512 by Matt Fraction and Yanick Paquette. Mutant chicks, time travel and the first Sentinel. I’m in.

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE WORLD OF TOMORROW? HC written and drawn by Brian Fies. A graphic novel by the creator of MOM’S CANCER. This one takes us through an account of growing up from 1939 to 1975 when technology was making promises its creators never quite managed to keep. Does not come with a jetpack, appropriately enough.

WOLVERINE: WEAPONX #3 by Jason Aaron and Ron Garney. Wolvie vs. the Adamantium Men. This is the good Wolverine book, folks. Aaron/Garney. Accept no substitutes. Recommended.

WONDER WOMAN #33 by Gail Simone and Aaron Lopresti. WW puts paid to her evil future zombie self and lots more. The final chapter, at least for some. Gotta look!

X-FACTOR #45 by Peter David and Valentine DeLandro. Madrox meets Doctor Doom. This could be the shortest issue yet.

www.johnjudy.net

Art Spiegelman in today's Post

See "The St. Louis Refugee Ship Blues: Art Spiegelman recounts a sad story 70 years later" for Spiegelman's full-page look at editorial cartoons on the St. Louis, a ship full of Jewish refugees from the Nazis that wasn't allowed to dock in the US. It's an excellent piece of cartoon journalism with a hat-tip to Herblock included. A piece like this shows what newspapers could still be for people.

Saturday, June 20, 2009

That darn Luckovich!

A Cartoonist in Reverse
Washington Post Saturday, June 20, 2009

I have been a Post convert ever since moving to the area in 2001. While dissenting viewpoints are to be expected, Mike Luckovich's June 13 cartoon provoked me.

He depicted four frustrated burqa-clad Muslim women discussing their envy of first lady Michelle Obama, with a turbaned man in the foreground cursing President Obama.

I cannot fathom how this cartoon could have passed muster for inclusion. Surely America has come out of the Stone Ages.

Wasn't it just this month in Cairo that President Obama provided us with several reminders that we need to adjust our own lens to better understand the Muslim world? Speaking explicitly to perceptions of Muslim women, he stated "I reject the view of some in the West that a woman who chooses to cover her hair is somehow less equal" and that "it is important for Western countries to avoid impeding Muslim citizens from practicing religion as they see fit -- for instance, by dictating what clothes a Muslim woman should wear."

I thought that this was finally the spirit of our discourse, but your cartoon diminished some of the strides we're making, reinforced old and tired stereotypes and took us decades back.

-- Vijitha M. Eyango

Silver Spring

That darn Beetle Bailey!

No Salute for Beetle Bailey
Washington Post June 20 2009

Mort Walker and The Post owe an apology to the men and women of the U.S. military for the June 18 "Beetle Bailey" cartoon insinuating that our armed services have a mission only to "blow things up" around the world. As a veteran and the parent of two servicemen, I believe an apology is also owed to the families whose loved ones died protecting our freedoms, including the right to publish offensive cartoons.

-- Jack Koehler

Annapolis

June 20, 21: Lucky Luke at NGA

National Gallery of Art
Family Programs

Go West! A Lucky Luke Adventure
June 13 and 20, 10:30 a.m.
June 14 and 21, 11:30 a.m.
ages 7 and up
In French with English subtitles

Based on the popular Franco-Belgian comic book series, Go West! A Lucky Luke Adventure (Tous a l'Ouest: Une aventure de Lucky Luke) is the first feature film about the renowned wandering cowboy who rides Jolly Jumper, fights crime and injustice, and is known to "shoot faster than his shadow." This adventure has Luke leading a group of settlers from New York to California—a trip they have to make in eighty days in order to claim their land from the evil Crook—while also battling the bumbling Dalton Brothers, a gang of robbers who have hidden their loot in a covered wagon but can't remember which one. Filled with sight gags, action sequences, and witty narrative, this comedy entertains both children and adults. (Olivier Jean Marie, France, 2007, 90 minutes)

All film programs are shown in the East Building Auditorium, and admission is free. No registration is required. Seating is offered on a first-come, first-seated basis. Groups are welcome.

Friday, June 19, 2009

"A friend to cartoonists gets fired"

The following came in through the e-transom today:

There's sad news out of the Post.  They just let Dan Froomkin go-- he wrote their most excellent blog White House Watch, I think it was their first blog even. 

He was also a great supporter of cartoonists with a daily feature called "Cartoon Watch" in which he'd point people to the better cartoons offered up that day.

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/white-house-watch/

It wouldn't hurt if people took the opportunity to write in on his behalf.... and maybe also mention how great the Cartoon Watch feature was.


Major Lazer interviewed on DCist

See:

DCist Interview: Major Lazer [music-related cartoon character].

By Andrew Wiseman in Arts and Events on June 19, 2009

http://dcist.com/2009/06/dcist_interview_major_lazer.php

(Tip from Matt Dembicki)

Kyle's Bed and Breakfast strip still in Blade

Kyle's Bed and Breakfast strip is still in the Washington Blade - it's on page 55 of the June 19th issue.

Mike Ritter's editorial cartoon appears again, credited to the Southern Voice / Blade, leading me to wonder if he's permanently replacing Paul Berge (who appeared through syndication).

Thursday, June 18, 2009

June 20: James Warhola at National Portrait Gallery

Science fiction, children's book and occasional Mad comic book artist James Warhola will be at the National Portrait Gallery on June 20th at 12:15 for their Warholapalooza! event. He'll be reading from and signing his children's book about his uncle Andy Warhol, but I imagine he'll be open to questions or signing other material.

OT: AAEC president Rall has a letter in the NYTimes

I'm not sure how widely this will be picked up, and since I'm home with a sick kid, and saw it in the paper, here you go - "And Now a Word From the Artists: Pay for Our Work," Published: June 18, 2009.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Thompson unveils new Cul de Sac cover

Richard's got the cover of his second Cul de Sac book online now.

And we won't be at Heroes Con this year, due to Our Man Thompson's workload. Sorry!

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

No more comic strips in Blade?

The Washington Blade may have dropped the last comic strip it was carrying - Kyle's Bed & Breakfast by Greg Fox. It hasn't been in the last two issues. The syndicated political cartoon is still there, although last week's was not by Paul Berge who had been the main editorial cartoonist lately.

Wuerker's new Operation game


Pulitzer-prize nominee Matt Wuerker's got a new game up on the Politico website - Operation. Matt's also added a couple of other animations since the last time I checked in.

Library of Congress Swann Fellowships Announced


Library of Congress
101 Independence Avenue SE
Washington DC   20540

June 16, 2009

Swann Foundation Announces Awards for 2009-2010

The Caroline and Erwin Swann Foundation for Caricature and Cartoon, administered by the Library of Congress, announces fellowship awards to three applicants for the academic year 2009-2010: Yasemin Gencer, Amanda Lahikainen and Jason E. Hill.

Because of an unusually large number of strong applications, the foundation’s advisory board did not award a single fellowship this year but instead decided to support three applicants’ projects with smaller awards.

Gencer, a doctoral candidate in the history of art at Indiana University, will receive a fellowship to support research for her dissertation titled “Pushing Out Islam: Cartoons of the Reform Period in Turkey (1918-1928).”  She will contend that political cartoons produced during this decade―a decade that is critical to the history of modern Turkey―display and define a secular Turkish culture.  This effect is achieved by contrasting symbols of Islam and Arabic culture with those of Turkish modernism.  In many of these cartoons, Gencer says, textual and visual elements reinforce one another to advance a new Turkish Republic that is seeking to disengage itself from its Islamic past, stressing its secular and thus non-Islamic political and social structure, and thereby, aligning itself with modern Europe.

Lahikainen, a doctoral candidate in the history of art at Brown University, was awarded support for her investigation into ways in which British political satires used the French Revolution to represent and comment upon English domestic politics from 1789 to 1804 (from the fall of the Bastille to Napoleon’s coronation as Emperor.)  In her dissertation titled “Anglicizing the French Revolution: The Politics of Humor in Late Eighteenth-Century English Political Graphic Satire,” she will focus on a number of works by Isaac Cruikshank, James Gillray, Richard Newton, Thomas Rowlandson and James Sayers, analyzing how such graphic satirists capitalized on the fear of religious dissent, violence and radicalism at home, maintenance of political hegemony over Ireland, and continual threat of a French invasion. Central to her study of such imagery is the way in which humorous satires addressing serious events invited shifting responses of laughter, horror, and fear within a single frame.

Hill will receive an award to help complete his dissertation titled “The Artist as Reporter: Picturing the News at PM Daily, 1940-1948.”  A doctoral candidate in the history of art at the University of Southern California, Hill will examine the place of cartooning within the visual repertoire of PM Daily, a newspaper whose editorial independence and sophisticated visual program attracted the participation of many of the era’s most celebrated artists, including cartoonists Charles E. Martin, Ad Reinhardt, Arthur Szyk and Theodore Geisel (a.k.a. Dr. Seuss).  

During the coming academic year, the three recipients of awards from the Swann Foundation for Caricature and Cartoon will conduct research in not only the Prints and Photographs Division's rich holdings of graphic art, but also use relevant periodical holdings in such other divisions as the African and Middle East Division and Serial and Government Publications Division.

New York advertising executive Erwin Swann (1906 1973) established the Swann Foundation for Caricature and Cartoon in 1967.  An avid collector, Swann assembled a large group of original drawings by over 500 artists, spanning two centuries, which his estate bequeathed to the Library of Congress in the 1970s. Swann's original purpose was to build a collection of original drawings by significant creators of humorous and satiric art and to encourage the study of original cartoon and caricature drawings as works of art.  The foundation=s support of research and academic publication is carried out in part through a program of fellowships.

# # #

PR09-122
6/16/09
ISSN: 0731-3527

 



Monday, June 15, 2009

June 15: Superman 2 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

June 15, 2009 - Superman 2
June 17, 2009 - Superman 2 - at CCSP
June 22, 2009 - Superman 3: Superman vs. Superman
June 24, 2009 - Superman 3: Superman vs. Superman - at CCSP
June 29, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace
June 31, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace - at CCSP
July 6, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns
July 8, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns - at CCSP
July 13, 2009 - X-Men
July 15, 2009 - X-Men - at CCSP
July 20, 2009 - X2
July 22, 2009 - X2 - at CCSP
July 27, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand
July 29, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand - at CCSP
August 3, 2009 - Fantastic Four
August 5, 2009 - Fantastic Four - at CCSP
August 10, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer
August 12, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer - at CCSP
August 17, 2009 - Batman
August 19, 2009 - Batman - at CCSP
August 24, 2009 - Batman Returns
August 26, 2009 - Batman Returns - at CCSP
August 31, 2009 - Batman Forever
September 2, 2009 - Batman Forever - at CCSP
September 7, 2009 - Batman & Robin
September 9, 2009 - Batman & Robin - at CCSP
September 14, 2009 - Batman Begins
September 16, 2009 - Batman Begins - at CCSP
September 21, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight
September 23, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight - at CCSP

June 26: Sky Crawlers Anime Press Release.

Sky Crawlers to be screened at the Japan Information and Culture Center, Embassy of Japan.

DC Anime Club in collaboration with Japan Information and Culture
Center, Embassy of Japan Present screen Sky Crawlers June 26, 2009 6:30 pm as part of a film series based on both Anime (Japanese Animation) and Manga ( Japanese Comics).

Directed by Mamoru Oshii, which was released across Japanese theatres by Warner Bros. Japan on August 2, 2008. Animated by Production I.G, the film was written by Chihiro Itō, features character designs by Tetsuya Nishio and music by Kenji Kawai.The 3D CG animation for the series was produced by the Polygon Pictures studio, who also produced the 3D CG for Oshii's previous film Innocence: Ghost in the Shell.

The series' creator Mori had stated that he felt The Sky Crawlers was the "most difficult" of his works to adapt, and had given his consent to the making of the film after learning of Oshii's involvement as director.

This event is free and open to the public. Reservations are required.

RSVP to jiccrsvpsummer09@embjapan.org.

Seating is limited and granted on a first come, first served basis.

For more information please visit the Japanese Information and Culture Center website at

http://www.us.embjapan.go.jp/jicc/  or visit the DC Anime Club website at http://dcanimeclub.org.


About DC Anime Club:

DC Anime Club 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). DC Anime club is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization, contributions to DC Anime Club are taxed 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 (Former Vice President) and Craig Vaughn (Vice President) on Saturday June 5,
2003. We have a strong membership that continues to grow -- most of which are teenagers.

About Japan Information and Culture Center:
The Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC) is the cultural and public affairs section of the Embassy of Japan in Washington D.C. Our primary role is to promote better understanding of Japan and Japanese culture by providing a wide range of information, educational services and programs to the public. The JICC is located on the lower level of the glass-enclosed Galleria at Lafayette Centre III in downtown Washington, D.C.  Its facilities include a research library, a 152-seat auditorium, and a 1,500-square-foot exhibition gallery where a wide variety of events sponsored by the JICC are hosted throughout the year.

 --
 Christopher Wanamaker
DC Anime Club President
http://www.dcanimeclub.org
202 262 2083


Sunday, June 14, 2009

NYC June 20: Release Party for WORKING and THE BEATS graphic adaptations

It's not in DC, but it's about Harvey Pekar and has my friend Nick Thorkelson appearing...

Come share a drink and a chat with the editor and some of the illustrators and writers of WORKING: A GRAPHIC ADAPTATION and THE BEATS: A GRAPHIC HISTORY, the two new comix collaborations between  HARVEY PEKAR and PAUL BUHLE.

Saturday, June 20, 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm

KGB Bar
85 East 4th Street / 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10003
Phone: 212-505-3360

On hand at this event will be:

Editor, PAUL BUHLE
(A People's History of American Empire: a Graphic Adaptation; From the Lower East Side to Hollywood: Jews in American Popular Culture)

Illustrators/writers including:

DANNY FINGEROTH
(The Rough Guide to Graphic Novels; Disguised as Clark Kent: Jews, Comics, and the Creation of the Superhero)

SUMMER MCCLINTON
(http://www.summermcclinton.com)

EMILY NEMENS
(http://www.nemens.com)

JOAN REILLY
(http://www.joanreilly.com)

NICK THORKELSON
(http://www.nickthorkelson.com)

Possible appearance by ED SANDERS
(http://www.furious.com/perfect/sanders.html)

Possible appearance by TULI KUPFERBERG'S SON
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuli_Kupferberg)



Bennett's best

Zadzooks' column was on videogames again, but Batman & Robin and Coraline are recommended in "Bennett's Best for the week of May 31," By Greg Bennett, June 14, 2009 Zadzooks blog.

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 06-17-09

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 06-17-09
By John Judy

ACTION COMICS ANNUAL #12 by Greg Rucka and Pere Perez. Wow. Who knew ACTION COMICS was only 12 years old? Isn’t 1950 awesome? Anyway, this is the great Greg Rucka delving into the backstory on Nightwing and Flamebird. Guaranteed Rucka magic. Gotta look!

BATMAN: STREETS OF GOTHAM #1 by Many People. The new Batman is making his mark in Gotham and on the increasingly crowded comic book shelves of America. This will be interesting if only to see if all the different creative teams can keep their stories straight until Bruce Wayne returns. Also featuring a MANHUNTER back-up story by Andreyko and Jeanty.

BOYS: HEROGASM #2 by Garth Ennis and Peter Gross. Yes, I know we’re supposed to be rooting for the Boys against the Supes, but be honest, most of us would go to Herogasm if we were invited. Not for kids.

CAPTAIN AMERICA #600 by Ed Brubaker, Luke Ross and Many Others of Note. This one’s gonna make what’s left of The Papers. Plus, it’s awesome! Reserve your copy now!

CAPTAIN BRITAIN AND MI13 #14 by Paul Kirk and Leonard Cornell. Vampires, Dracula! Doctor Doom and warm beer! It’s on!

EX MACHINA #43 by Brian K. Vaughan and Tony Harris. Man, this comic looks great! It appears Mayor Hundred’s old enemy Pherson is back commanding New York City’s rats to kill everyone. It’s a zombie flick without the easy out. Way creepy and recommended.

INCOGNITO #4 by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. Our anti-hero’s antics have been noticed by all the wrong people on both sides of the law. Consequences ensue. Highly recommended.

MIGHTY AVENGERS #26 by Dan Slott and Stephen Segovia. “Doctor Richards? It’s on, b****.” This is officially the Best Comic Ever and Dan Slott should be President. Highly recommended.

ULTIMATUM SPIDER-MAN REQUIEM #1 of 2 by Brian Michael Bendis, Stuart Immonen and Mark Bagley. Ultimate J. Jonah Jameson writes Spidey’s obituary. Sometimes dreams really do come true.

YOUNG ALLIES COMICS #1: 70th ANNIVERSARY EDITION by Roger Stern, Marcos Martin and Others. It’s Our Gang fighting the ratzis on the homefront in an original adventure starring Bucky, Toro and the gang, presented along with a golden-age reprint. Good on Marvel for doing this stuff. Heritage ought not to be forgot. Check it out.

www.johnjudy.net

Wolk reviews comics in Post Book World

See "Picture Pages: A Graphic Novel Roundup," By Douglas Wolk, Washington Post Book World Sunday, June 14, 2009 for reviews of:

THE HUNTER Richard Stark's Parker By Darwyn Cooke IDW. 140 pp. $24.99
BRITTEN AND BRÜLIGHTLY By Hannah Berry Metropolitan. Unpaginated. Paperback, $20
DEAD, SHE SAID By Steve Niles and Bernie Wrightson IDW. 104 pp. $19.99

Saturday, June 13, 2009

June 13, 14, 20, 21: Lucky Luke at NGA

National Gallery of Art
Family Programs

Go West! A Lucky Luke Adventure
June 13 and 20, 10:30 a.m.
June 14 and 21, 11:30 a.m.
ages 7 and up
In French with English subtitles

Based on the popular Franco-Belgian comic book series, Go West! A Lucky Luke Adventure (Tous a l'Ouest: Une aventure de Lucky Luke) is the first feature film about the renowned wandering cowboy who rides Jolly Jumper, fights crime and injustice, and is known to "shoot faster than his shadow." This adventure has Luke leading a group of settlers from New York to California—a trip they have to make in eighty days in order to claim their land from the evil Crook—while also battling the bumbling Dalton Brothers, a gang of robbers who have hidden their loot in a covered wagon but can't remember which one. Filled with sight gags, action sequences, and witty narrative, this comedy entertains both children and adults. (Olivier Jean Marie, France, 2007, 90 minutes)

All film programs are shown in the East Building Auditorium, and admission is free. No registration is required. Seating is offered on a first-come, first-seated basis. Groups are welcome.

Friday, June 12, 2009

David Macaulay at Medical Museum

David Macaulay spoke for 50 minutes at the Medical Museum today. He covered a few sections of his new book on the human body (of which originals are on display) and it was a very good talk. He's speaking again twice on Saturday, June 15th so cruise 16th St and check it out.

Political cartoonist Dan Wasserman interviewed by Comic Riffs

See "The Interview: Dan Wasserman's Inside Line on the Boston Globe's Labor Woes," By Michael Cavna, Washington Post Comic Riffs blog June 12, 2009.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Check out John Kinhart's Sorry Comics


John Kinhart kindly pointed out the State Depts' Gene Yang video, so I followed his link to his webcomics site, Sorry Comics. I've just quickly read his first 4 autobiographical strips and he's got some good work there. Check it out. I'll put up a link on the side for future use.

Gene Yang in State Dept. video

John Kinhart of http://www.sorrycomics.com points out a short video on Gene Yang and his book American Born Chinese by DC filmmaker and Dept. of State employee Steven Greenstreet: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYCZqt5WSOM is on America.gov's channel on Youtube. I watched this a couple of nights ago and I'm glad to have a reason to highlight it here.

Scooby-Doo play and Gigantor featured in Express

See "Jinkies! Our Psyches!: 'Spooky Dog'," Written by Express contributor Stephen Deusner, June 11 2009 for the 'Scooby-Doo' play and "Still Stronger Than Strong: 'Gigantor' on DVD," Written by Express contributor Paul Stelter, June 11 2009 for the anime review. Both are in the physical paper too as is a Hollywood Reporter interview with Mike Judge.

Interactive talk on human anatomy with David Macaulay at NMHM tomorrow, 6/12 & Sat., 6/13

“The real beauty of the human body, as it turns out, has little to do with outward appearance. It is displayed in and beneath the skin in a remarkable demonstration of economy and efficiency.”

— David Macaulay from The Way We Work

“David Macaulay: Author Talk & Book Signing”

When: Friday, June 12, 2009 (1:00-2:30 p.m.)

Saturday, June 13, 2009 (10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. & 1:00-2:30 p.m.)

Where: National Museum of Health and Medicine

What: Join David Macaulay for an interactive and lively discussion about his new book, “The Way We Work,” as he illuminates the most important machine of all -- the human body. Your body is made up of various complex systems, and Macaulay is a master at making the complex understandable. He shows how the parts of the body work together, from the mechanics of a hand, to the process by which the heart pumps blood, to the chemical exchanges necessary to sustain life. A book signing will follow the discussion.

Cost: FREE!

Bring your kids along! This is a great opportunity to teach children about the human body.

Photo ID required.

Information: nmhminfo@afip.osd.mil or (202) 782-2200

www.nmhm.washingtondc.museum

David Macaulay bio: Born on December 2, 1946, Macaulay was eleven when his family moved from England to the United States. An early fascination with simple technology and a love of model-making and drawing ultimately led him to study architecture at the Rhode Island School of Design. He received his degree in 1969 after spending his fifth year with RISD’s European Honors Program in Rome. Macaulay is probably best known for a very thick book called “The Way Things Work” (1988), an exhaustively researched compendium of the intricate workings involved in almost anything that functions. It was followed by “Black and White,” winner of the 1991 Caldecott Medal. Over the next decade, Macaulay published eight additional books, and in 2003 he began a volume about the workings of the human body—the results of which comprise this exhibition. In 2006, Macaulay was named a MacArthur fellow.