Truitt and Post blog on Amanda Palmer

Amanda Palmer gets graphic with 'Evelyn Evelyn'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY 9/20/2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-20/Amanda-Palmer-gets-graphic-with-Evelyn-Evelyn-book/50480588/1

and the derivative Post post -

Amanda Palmer graphic novel for kids – another book that will scare parents
By Elizabeth Flock
Washington Post Blogpost September 29 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/amanda-palmer-graphic-novel-for-kids--another-book-that-will-scare-parents/2011/09/29/gIQADMm16K_blog.html?wprss=blogpost

Truitt interview on X-Men cartoon

Scott Porter takes X-Men love to new level with G4 anime
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 29 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-29/Scott-Porter-voices-Cyclops-in-new-G4-X-Men-anime-series/50607406/1

McDaniel College's speaker series

 

THE SERIOUS SIDE OF COMICS SPEAKER SERIES

*All events are held in McDaniel Lounge, 2 College Hill, Westminster, Md., unless otherwise noted.

BRIAN WALKER

Wednesday, October 19, at 7:30 p.m.

Brian Walker is a prominent cartoon historian and second‐generation creator of "Hi and

Lois" and a writer for "Beetle Bailey," comic strips begun by his father, Mort. He was the

curator of the Museum of Cartoon Art for 18 years, has taught courses on comics at Fairfield

University and the School of Visual Arts in New York City, and has published several comics

compendiums, including his latest, "The Comics: The Complete Collection."

HARRY BLISS

Wednesday, October 26, at 7:30 p.m.

Harry Bliss is a New Yorker cartoonist and creator of the self-titled, syndicated cartoon,

"Bliss." He is also a successful children's book illustrator, best known for his work on the

award-winning trilogy "Diary of a Worm," "Diary of a Spider," and "Diary of a Fly," all by

Doreen Cronin. His self-titled cartoon collection "Death by Laughter" with an introduction

by mockumentary filmmaker Christopher Guest was published in 2008.

RICHARD THOMPSON

*Tuesday, November 1, at 7 p.m.

Corcoran College of Art + Design, Frances and Armand Hammer Auditorium

500 17th Street, NW, Washington, D.C.

For more information, visit www.corcoran.org/calendar or call 202-639-1770.

Richard Thompson has been described by a peer as "probably the most talented all‐around

syndicated cartoonist working today." His comic strip "Cul de Sac," which has gained

national recognition, is known for its unique illustrations and wit. He was the 2011

recipient of the Reuben Award, the nation's preeminent award for cartoonists and

illustrators. He has also illustrated for The New Yorker, National Geographic, and U.S. News

& World Report.

KEVIN KALLAUGHER (KAL)

Tuesday, November 8, at 7:30 p.m.

Kevin Kallaugher, known as KAL, is an internationally renowned political cartoonist for The

Economist and the former cartoonist at The Baltimore Sun. Throughout his 17 years at The

Sun, he drew more than 4,000 cartoons while continuing to draw two cartoons per week for

The Economist. His work for The Economist includes more than 120 illustrated covers. A

collection of his more recent work, "KAL Draws Criticism," was published in June 2006.

Washington Redskin collects comics

Hulk alert: Redskins' S Atogwe loves his comics

Joseph White  / Associated Press.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/football/nfl/wires/09/29/2020.ap.fbn.redskins.oj.s.hulks.1st.ld.writethru.0824/index.html

Jim Ottaviani's in town this weekend, and the City Paper has an interview

Meet a Visiting Cartoonist: A Chat with Jim Ottaviani

by Mike Rhode on Sep. 30, 2011

His new book is a comics biography of Richard Feynman.

Oct 3: Ariel Dorfman at Politics and Prose

Dorfman's first major impact in English-language works was How to Read Donald Duck about American cultural imperialism.

 

Monday, October 3, 7 p.m.
Ariel Dorfman
Feeding on Dreams: Confessions of an Unrepentant Exile (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, $27)
In his powerful memoir of politics and exile, the Chilean novelist, essayist, playwright, and human rights activist looks back to 1973. After the military overthrew Allende, Dorfman stayed one step ahead of death squads, moving from his homeland to Buenos Aires, Paris, Amsterdam, and finally the U.S, where he is now a professor of literature and Latin American studies at Duke.

Tom Toles caption contest returns

Click here to see Toles cartoon and enter a caption.

Cartoonist Rights Network's Robert Russell interviewed in Taiwan

IPI World Congress 2011: Innovations in Political Cartooning
Panelists Discuss Free Speech, Role of Static Images in Electronic Media
By Lin King and Adrienne Shih
International Press Institute September 28 2011
http://www.freemedia.at/home/singleview/article/ipi-world-congress-2011-innovations-in-political-cartooning.html

Caro on SPX

"Comics as a Spiritual Pursuit" versus "People Don't Buy Comics" – Thoughts after SPX 2011
by Caro (Caroline Small)
Hooded Utilitarian blog September 26, 2011
http://hoodedutilitarian.com/2011/09/comics-as-a-spiritual-pursuit/

She's SPX's treasurer.  There's a lively exchange in the comments section too.

Truitt on Aquaman

No joke: Geoff Johns aims to make Aquaman cool
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 28 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-28/DC-Comics-launches-new-Aquaman-series/50582360/1

Fantom Comics' Comics Journeyman's upcoming comics recommendations

The Comics Journeyman is going through Previews for what interests him, but also noting how many copies of some books have been requested by subscribers at his Fantom Comics store.  The link is to the 4th installment.  His tastes and mine overlap about 1/2 the time it appears.

Comic Riffs on Ziggy's father and son

ZIGGY'S GIFT: How the artistic son treasures his father's creative inheritance
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog September 28 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/ziggys-gift-how-the-artistic-son-treasures-his-fathers-creative-inheritance/2011/09/20/gIQA6UU34K_blog.html#pagebreak

Weldon on Kupperman's Twain

Satirist, Spy, Soldier, Sex Machine: 'Mark Twain's Autobiography: 1910-2010'
by Glen Weldon
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (September 28, 2011):
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/09/28/140852658/satirist-spy-soldier-sex-machine-mark-twains-autobiography-1910-2010

Gib Crockett cartoons at the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington

This is an automatically generated message, but I'll tweek it a bit - Gib Crockett designed custom labels for a local liquor store, and they're preserved here.

Here is an interesting link from the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington:

https://cjm.catalogaccess.com/archives/4249 (link updated 6/11/2024)

Oct 22: Lovestruck signing in Annapolis

OCT 22nd – LOVESTRUCK SIGNING WITH KEVIN MELLON & DENNIS HOPELESS

Click here for the full 6 WEEK HEART ATTACK Schedule.

What's the scoop on LOVESTRUCK?  This original graphic novel is a killer new IMAGE COMICS project about the manipulations of a greedy modern day Cupid who has made love his business. In a world where often talented, and gifted people just can't seem to make relationships work, we're shown what would happen when they're given the powers of Cupid. But, how can you control love when you don't understand it?

In LOVESTRUCK, love is a billion dollar industry, and Cupid has more in common with a megalomaniacal CEO than the classic cherub we all know.

A killer looking premise, with loads of promise, we're really excited to have Kevin and Dennis by the shop to sign LOVESTRUCK.

Pop Mhan's new comic

Nguyen and Co. Offer New Shades in "Carbon Grey Origins"
by TJ Dietsch,  September 7th, 2011
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=34182

""Pop is a phenomenal artist," Nguyen said..."

Truitt on television's Castle adaptation

'Castle' series enters realm of graphic novels
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 28 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-28/richard-castle-graphic-novel-deadly-storm/50574842/1

Truitt on Teen Titans and Makeshift Miracle

DC rolls out a 'Teen Titans' for a new generation
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 26 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-26/DC-Comics-rolls-out-a-Teen-Titans-series-for-a-new-generation/50554688/1

'Makeshift Miracle' makes a grand return to the Web
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 26 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-26/Makeshift-Miracle-makes-a-grand-return-to-the-Web/50559418/1

OT: Viennese cartoon exhibit

So my wife just returned from Vienna, Austria, where she stumbled across a comics exhibit - the Fiese Bilder des Schwarzen Humors Meisterwerke comic and cartoon exhibit. She photographed it for me.

There's a few non-exhibit comics shots in there too of things she stumbled across - 2 of an Asterix sign, 1 of a poster warning of pollen, and 1 of a car with Michel Valiant comic art decoupage.

Thanks, Cathy!

District of Geeks on SPX and Fantom Comics store manager

The dreaded tombstone question, led off by Danielle Corsetto -

SPX Specs: Part 1!
District of Geeks blog September 12, 2011
http://districtofgeeks.wordpress.com/2011/09/12/spx-specs-part-1/#more-229

and an interview with the Fantom Comics store manager -

Geek of the Week: Devon Sanders
District of Geeks September 13, 2011
http://districtofgeeks.wordpress.com/2011/09/13/geek-of-the-week-devon-sanders/

OT: 60 Minutes on South Park

This is completely off-topic, but they were kind enough to send me the PR, and South Park is a big favorite of one of my neighborhood friends.

So - behind the scenes at 60 Minutes:

"South Park": Laughs on a deadline: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504803_162-20111061-10391709.html?tag=contentBody;currentVideoInfo

and the story itself:

Parker & Stone's subversive comedy
60 Minutes September 25, 2011
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7382312n

Library of Congress exhibit featured at io9

Some of the Best Comic Art in the World, from the Library of Congress
By Keith Veronese
Sep 23, 2011
http://io9.com/5842657/some-of-the-best-comic-art-in-the-world-from-the-library-of-congress

Fix and Foxi exhibit featured in today's Post

Fix and Foxi: Exhibit features Germany's Mickey and Minnie
 Raymond M. Lane,
Washington Post September 26 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/kidspost/fix-and-foxi-exhibit-features-germanys-mickey-and-minnie/2011/09/12/gIQAYxXzwK_story.html

Sept 28: DC Artist Cliff Chiang In-Store Appearance at Cards Comics & Collectibles

Cliff Chiang In-Store Appearance at Cards, Comics and Collectibles      Cliff Chiang In-Store Apperance    From the Store that Brings You the Baltimore Comic-Con...     Cliff Chiang will be at Cards Comics and Collectibles on Wednesday, September 28th from 3pm-7pm!   Cliff is the artist of the new DC 52 Wonder Woman series, the critically-acclaimed graphic novel "Neil Young's Greendale," as well as Swamp Thing, Human Target, and others.   Wonder Woman # 1 ships on 9/21 with that week's new DC #1's!  The new DC 52 are a hit and CC&C have them! Other stores have sold out but we still have first printings @ cover price!   We also offer each week's issues in special packs, bagged, boarded and 25% off cover price!    We will be featuring 50% off trade paperbacks & hardcovers (excluding new items this week) all day!    Check us out for updates on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cards-Comics-and-Collectibles/105966149473844   We bring the best comic show and best guests to Baltimore!  Make sure to mark your calendars for next year's Baltimore Comic-Con, September 8-9, 2012 -- stay tuned to www.baltimorecomiccon.com for more info!     !  "Like" us on Facebook!

Oct 2: Jim Ottaviani at Air & Space

Jim Ottaviani, who writes comics about scientists, will be at the National Air & Space Museum at noon on Sunday, October 2, discussing his new biography, Feynman.

And to editorialize, Jim's a real sweet guy.

Truitt on Near Death, BPRD, Transformers and DC's New 52

Grading DC's 'New 52': Batman books rule Week 3
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 22 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-22/Grading-DCs-New-52-Batman-books-rule-Week-3/50515950/1

R.I.P. Optimus Prime? Big changes for IDW's 'Transformers'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 22 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-22/RIP-Optimus-Prime-Big-changes-in-store-for-Transformers-comic-series/50515988/1

Mike Mignola continues B.P.R.D. legacy with two miniseries
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 21 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-21/Mike-Mignola-continues-BPRD-legacy-with-two-new-miniseries/50496860/1

'Near Death': A hitman with a change of heart
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-19/Near-Death-comic-stars-a-hitman-with-a-change-of-heart/50469060/1

Big Planet Comics - Georgetown's last day

Just a couple of pictures...

Visit them at their new U St, NW location this week.

Beeler is a Cartoon for the Classroom

Nate Beeler's cartoon of Obama as Icarus is the subject of the American Association of Editorial Cartoonists' Cartoons for the Classroom for the week of September 25th. Direct download here.

Sept 25: Cartoonists at National Book Festival (corrected)

It's on the Mall today, and includes Richard Thompson, Kazu Kibuishi and others. I'll be introducing Kibuishi at 1:55, so feel free to grab me to say hello.

Here's my intro, as it stands now:

Kazu Kibuishi (KAH-zoo Kee-boo-EE-shee), was born in Japan in 1979, but came to the United States as a young child. Trained in film-making, he worked in animation, , but as comics evolved in recent years, he has distinguished himself in new formats. He began his webcomic Copper in 2002, and the short stories follow the dreamlike adventures of Fred and his dog Copper. These stories were collected in a book in 2010. Kibuishi began the Flight anthology book series in 2004 to showcase the work of young cartoonists, including animators. It was originally published by Image Comics, but moved to mainstream publishers to get into bookstores. He recently ended the series with book #8. While working on Flight, he also created the steampunk graphic novel Daisy Kutter: The Last Train which was an American Library Association 2006 pick for Best Books for Young Adults. In 2008, he began Amulet a child-friendly steampunk series published by Scholastic. His newest book is Amulet #4: The Last Council which debuted this month on the New York Times’ bestsellers lists.

Here's more details on the cartoonists:

The National Book Festival Is Cartoon-Friendly, Too
by Mike Rhode on Sep. 23, 2011
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/books/2011/09/23/the-national-book-festival-is-cartoon-friendly-too/

Sept 24: 50% off sale at Big Planet Georgetown today only

Today only! Moving sale at Big Planet Comics' Georgetown location only! Everything in the store 50% off! 11 am-6 pm. No rainchecks!

Massive Guy Billout illustration in today's Post

One of my favorite cartoonist/illustrators is Guy Billout, and the Post's Business section has a big drawing by him today, of a man poking the flexible pillars of a bank. 

Weldon on Kate Beaton

Cartoonist Beaton's "Hark! A Vagrant!" Finds Drollery in Drawing Rooms
by Glen Weldon
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (September 22, 2011):
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/09/22/140658742/cartoonist-beatons-hark-a-vagrant-finds-drollery-in-drawing-rooms

Politico and USA Today on Bluewaters' latest political comic books

Comic books to feature GOP candidates, Tea Party
by Catalina Camia, USA TODAY September 23 2011
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/onpolitics/post/2011/09/michele-bachmann-comic-book-rick-perry-presidential-race-/1?csp=34news

Obama, Perry comic books out soon
By PATRICK GAVIN  9/23/11
 http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0911/64250.html

Wuerker rules

Internet chatter suggests that Politico's Matt Wuerker has been elected head of the American Association of Editorial Cartoonists.  I'm sure it's true, since I can't be bothered to email him and check.  Who'd lie about something like this?

Seriously, congratulations, Matt, and good luck planning the con coming up in DC.

Cavna's illustrated review of Thompson's Habibi

HABIBI': The Illustrated Review of Craig Thompson's ornate new epic

Michael Cavna

Washington Post Comic Riffs blog September 23, 2011-09-23

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/habibi-the-illustrated-review-of-craig-thompsons-ornate-new-epic/2011/09/22/gIQAWSxSqK_blog.html#pagebreak

George O'Connor interview online now, prior to tomorrow's National Book Festival appearance

Meet a Visiting Cartoonist: A Chat With George O'Connor

by Mike Rhode on Sep. 23, 2011

http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/books/2011/09/23/meet-a-visiting-cartoonist-a-chat-with-george-oconnor/

Cartoonists at the National Book Festival

The National Book Festival Is Cartoon-Friendly, Too
by Mike Rhode on Sep. 23, 2011
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/books/2011/09/23/the-national-book-festival-is-cartoon-friendly-too/

Annapolis Comic Con profiled in Baltimore Sun

Small but vibrant crowd expected for Annapolis Comic-Con
Organizers aim for intimate vibe at city's first convention
By Jonathan Pitts, The Baltimore Sun September 22, 2011
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/anne-arundel/bs-ar-annapolis-comic-con-20110922,0,2399489.story

Matt Dembicki skirts child-labor laws and has son selling comics at SPX

SPX Talks: Adam Dembicki
Beth Scorzato
Spandexless Sep 22, 2011
http://www.spandexless.com/2011/09/spx-talks-adam-dembicki/

They talked to other people too:

SPX Talks: Alex Robinson
Alex Jarvis
Spandexless on Sep 21, 2011
http://www.spandexless.com/2011/09/spx-talks-alex-robinson/

SPX Talks: Aaron Diaz/Dresden Codak
Alex Jarvis
Spandexless Sep 21, 2011
http://www.spandexless.com/2011/09/spx-talks-aaron-diazdresden-codak/

SPX Talks: Box Brown
Alex Jarvis
Spandexless Sep 20, 2011
http://www.spandexless.com/2011/09/spx-talks-box-brown/

SPX Talks: John Allison
by Alex Jarvis
Spandexless Sep 20, 2011
http://www.spandexless.com/2011/09/spx-talks-john-allison/

Ziggy obituary in today's print Post

'Ziggy' creator Tom Wilson Sr. dies at 80
By Michael Cavna, Washington Post September 22 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/ziggy-creator-tom-wilson-sr-dies-at-80/2011/09/21/gIQAmuaLmK_story.html

Weldon on David B.'s new American book

Legends Spring To Life In The 'Armed Garden'
by Glen Weldon
NPR.org September 21, 2011
http://www.npr.org/2011/09/21/140430482/legends-spring-to-life-in-the-armed-garden

Friday, Sept 23: Feiffer at Politics and Prose

10:30 am, signing My Side of the Car.

PR: Anime USA

Anime USA 2011 Proudly Announces Our First Round Of Webcomics Guests

Anime USA 2011 announces Onezumi and Kevin Bolk as webcomics guest for this year's convention on November 18-20th at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City.

Onezumi's Lovecraftian horror comic is located at http://www.onezumi.com. It is updated two times a week. Her art and art tutorials are at http://www.Onezumiverse.com. Her creator-focused art and technology convention is located at http://www.InterventionCon.com

  Oni worked professionally for places like The Disney Channel before going independent. Her empire of original art, comics, and educational events is regarded as one of the most successful webcomic-based businesses in existence. She has been a guest speaker at XM Satellite Radio and most other conventions in the northeast. Corporate sponsors for Oni's work are too numerous to name."

Kevin Bolk is a freelance cartoonist, illustrator, and proud alumnus of Awesome University (his favorite imaginary alma mater). Although he's done work for Nickelodeon, Tokyopop, Udon Entertainment, Blind Ferret Entertainment, and Voices For, he's best known for his parody webcomics It Sucks to be Weegie and Ensign Sue Must Die! as part of Interrobang Studios'  Pot Luck Comics.

He's also responsible for the quirky auto-bio comic "I'm My Own Mascot" as well as the fantasy webcomics send-up The Last Mystical Legend of the Fantastic Fantasy Trigger Star, just to name a few. All of these delightful diversions can be conveniently located at the Interrobang Studios website at www.interrobangstudios.com.

You can also check out K-Bo's art on this year's AnimeUSA t-shirt. When he's not drawing, he can be found fighting badly-dressed monsters while wearing a skirt far too short for a guy his age. In the name of the w00t, he will punish you!

Registrations are at $43 until October 30th and along with further information about the con can be found at www.animeusa.org.

About Anime USA: In 1999 Anime USA began as a northern Virginia convention started by fans, and in 2004 become a non-profit educational organization. Our mission is to educate the public about and promote Japanese arts and popular culture. As in the beginning, we remain a convention of fans, by fans, and for fans. Anime USA is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization.

 

 

Sept 23: Ex-Simpsons writer Dana Gould in Arlington

Former Simpsons writer Dana Gould is at the Arlington Cinema 'n' Drafthouse, 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington, at 9:55.  $22.

Fist of Justice's Mike Imboden interview online at City Paper

Meet a Local Comics Writer: A Chat With Mike Imboden

by Mike Rhode on Sep. 21, 2011

http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/books/2011/09/21/meet-a-local-comics-writer-a-chat-with-mike-imboden/

Truitt on 'Evelyn Evelyn' and Avengers

Amanda Palmer gets graphic with 'Evelyn Evelyn'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 20 2011http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-20/Amanda-Palmer-gets-graphic-with-Evelyn-Evelyn-book/50480588/1

Notable for being written by Neil Gaiman's wife.

'Children's Crusade' explores superhero family matters
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 20 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-20/Childrens-Crusade-series-explores-superhero-family-matters/50482488/1

Sept 25: Annapolis Comic-Con

Time	Sunday, September 25 · 10:00am - 4:00pm
Location	Annapolis Elks Lodge 2517 Solomon's Island Rd Annapolis, MD
More Info	SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 25th 10AM-4PM ************************************* Join us for the first ever ANNAPOLIS COMIC-CON, A GOOD OLD FASHIONED COMIC BOOK SHOW! ADMISSION is $5 for adults, kids under 10 get in free! Come in costume, and admission is only $1! SPECIAL GUESTS include: legendary FLASH artist GREG LAROCQUE indie all-star STEVE CONLEY (ASTOUNDING SPACE THRILLS, AMAZING ADVENTURES OF THE ESCAPIST) Image Comics DEADLANDS publishers VISIONARY COMICS and more! PLUS: Loads of vendors bringing all sorts of comic awesomeness, ranging from vintage Silver and Golden Age back issues to the hottest modern day titles. Costume Contest at 1PM, with an awesome prize TBA Live Auction at 2PM for all sorts of comic goodness!

PR: Fantagraphics Bookstore Welcomes Warren Bernard and Tom Neely this Saturday!

F.B.I. Informant

Join us on Saturday, September 24 at 6:00 PM for an eclectic evening of comix entertainment. Comic strip historian and curator Warren Bernard (from the other Washington) will discuss his new book and companion exhibition Drawing Power: A Compendium of Cartoon Advertising. His slide talk will be followed by an art reception and book signing. Also appearing is iconoclastic Los Angeles artist Tom Neely presenting his new self-published "painted novel" The Wolf. Tom's provocative work seamlessly combines elements of fine art, narrative comix, and pop culture. He'll present a short video piece followed by a book signing. Hope to see you all soon and often at Fantagraphics Bookstore & Gallery, located at 1201 S. Vale Street in the heart of Seattle's historic Georgetown art colony.

Oct 13: Mo Willems member-only event at National Zoo

Mo Willems does cartooning in addition to crazy-popular children's books. Registration for this free event starts on September 29th.

Truitt on Supergirl

Supergirl gets a teenage makeover
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 19 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-19/Supergirl-gets-a-teenage-makeover-with-new-comic-series/50467308/1

Herblock exhibit at Harford Community College in Maryland

Hays-Heighe House in Bel Air hosts 'Herblock' exhibit
September 19, 2011
http://www.baltimoresun.com/explore/harford/neighborhoods/bel-air/ph-ag-news-block-foundation-0916-20110919,0,3655352.story

NPR's Weldon likes Thompson's Habibi

as did I. Darn it, I forgot to post a link to my interview with Craig Thompson at the City Paper's site.

Mysterious 'Habibi' Cuts To The Core Of Humanity
by Glen Weldon
NPR.org September 19, 2011
http://www.npr.org/2011/09/19/140498981/mysterious-habibi-cuts-to-the-core-of-humanity

Sept-Nov: German-American Heritage Museum exhibit

From Bruce Guthrie

From http://www.ugac.org/gahm/gahm.html

*OPENING*
Rolf Kauka's Fix& Foxi:
Creating a Comic Universe

On September 15, 2011, the German-American Heritage Museum will open its newest exhibit: Rolf Kauka's Fix and Foxi: Creating a Comic Universe. The exhibit explores the origins of German and American cartoons, traces Rolf Kauka's successful 50-year career as a cartoonist, and features many of his beloved cartoon characters, including Fix and Foxi, Lupo and Eusebia.The exhibit will be open until November 11, 2011.

Sept 26: A Lecture on COMICS IN RUSSIA at Howard University

A comics friend of mine is in town giving a free lecture next Monday (which I won't be able to make it to unfortunately).


A Lecture on COMICS IN RUSSIA

How to Read Post-Soviet Children's Comics: Snegirov's Keshka

Prof. José Alaniz  (University of Washington, Seattle), author of Komiks: Comic Art in Russia (2010), will present an illustrated talk on the history of comic books in Russia, with an emphasis on the politics behind  the post-Soviet children's series Keshka by Andrei Snegirov.

WHERE: Howard University,
             Douglass 240
WHEN: Mon, Sept. 26
 10:10 a.m.

Comic Riffs on the death of Ziggy's creator

RIP, TOM WILSON Sr.: 'Ziggy' creator dies at 80
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog September 19 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/rip-tom-wilson-sr-ziggy-creator-dies-at-80/2011/09/19/gIQAb8OtfK_blog.html

Another local writer about comics

In addition to electronically meeting Lauren Orsini tonight, she pointed out that Ed Sizemore who writes for Comics Worth Reading also lives in the DC area.

I've also met about 10 webcomics creators at Intervention that will need to be added to the blogroll and should have interviews featured at the City Paper after this coming Library of Congress Book Festival weekend.

Webcomics creators at SPX

I enjoyed Lauren Orsini's SPX article on webcomics - a good take on things that I hadn't considered before. It's amazing how one con can be so many things to so many people.

PR: Graphic Memoir course at Politics and Prose

Graphic Memoir course at Politics and Prose

The Graphic Memoir

The Graphic Memoir
Janice Shapiro
Monday, October 3, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

The graphic memoir is an exciting development in modern literature, filling the niche between prose and film. As exemplified by Art Spiegelman's Maus, Harvey Pekar's American Splendor, and Alison Bechdel's Fun Home, the combination of images and words strengthens, magnifies, and illuminates in unique ways the large and small truths of life. In this class we will look at examples of graphic memoirs and analyze and discuss the visual and storytelling techniques. Then everyone will have the opportunity to draft a one-page graphic memoir about a significant moment in his or her life. The moment does not have to be momentous: It can be funny, tragic, embarrassing, heroic or just about a surprising, cool observation, as long as the moment has resonance. This class is open to everyone and I mean, everyone! No background (or particular talent!) in art or writing is required. Just come with a desire to express yourself in a fresh, fun and exciting way.

Please bring paper and pencils; the instructor will provide additional supplies.

Janice Shapiro is a writer, graphic memoirist and screenwriter. She is the author of Bummer and Other Stories (Soft Skull Press, $14.95). Her stories and comics have been published in The North American Review, The Santa Monica Review, Fifty-Two Stories, Storyville, Devil's Lake, The Seattle Review, and Mixer Publications.

Suggested book: An Anthology of Graphic Fiction, Cartoons, and True Stories, edited by Ivan Brunetti (Yale Univ., $28)

Other recommended books:
One! Hundred! Demons!, by Lynda Barry (Sasquatch, $17.95)
Paying for It, by Chester Brown (Drawn & Quarterly, $24.95)
Stitches, by David Small (W.W.Norton, $15.95)

These four books will be discounted 20% for class participants.

*This class will meet in a private room at Jake's American Grille, 5018 Connecticut Avenue NW, across the street from Politics & Prose. Participants may gather in the fiction room at P&P at 6:45 and then walk to Jake's with the instructor. Light appetizers will be provided, other food and beverages are available for purchase, including beer and wine.

Price: $40 ($35 members)

Sept 25: Busiek at Beyond Comics

from their revamped e-newsletter

Kurt Busiek In Store Signing

Saturday Sept. 25th

1:00pm to 4:00pm

Kurt is making a visit o our store in Gaithersburg. Don't miss this awesome opportunity to talk to one of the most knowledgeable writers in comics today.

Seriously, think you can stump him with a question about Marvel or DC, go for it. Oh, by the way, he will be signing stuff for free.

Comics by Kurt Busiek: Astro City, Marvels, Conan (Dark Horse), Shock Rockets, Arrowsmith, Superman Camelot Falls, Supergirl Beyond Good & Evil, Trinity, , Wednesday Comics, JLA/Avengers, Avengers, Avengers Forever, Marvels Eye of the Camera, and tons more (check his bibliography)

and perhaps of interest...

Beyond Comics is Hiring

We are looking for some help in our Frederick location. The position is entry level only and may lead to more responsibilities. We may bring in as many as 2 new people. Hours will be limited. Number of hires depends upon fulfilling our coverage needs. Hours may increase to include occasional weekday closing shifts. If you had applied before, please do so again. Form of pay may be available in trade as well.

Position 1: Weekdays (Wed/Fri)

Hours: 3-6

Pay: $7.25-$10.00 (Commensurate with experience)

Duties: Helping customers, running cash register, sorting comics, cleaning, various duties as specified

Minimum Requirements: At least 18 years of age, able to lift at least 50lbs, good customer service skills, basic arithmetic, knowledge of comic books and pop culture a plus.

Position 2: Weekends

Hours: 3-6

Pay: $7.25-$10.00 (Commensurate with experience)

Duties: Helping customers, running cash register, sorting comics, cleaning, possible opening or closing. various duties as specified

Minimum Requirements: At least 18 years of age, able to lift at least 50lbs, good customer service skills, basic arithmetic, knowledge of comic books and pop culture a plus.

PR: DC Artist Cliff Chiang In-Store Appearance at Cards Comics & Collectibles

Cliff Chiang In-Store Appearance at Cards, Comics and Collectibles      Cliff Chiang In-Store Apperance    From the Store that Brings You the Baltimore Comic-Con...     Cards Comics and Collectibles welcomes Cliff Chiang on Wednesday, September 28th from 3pm-7pm.   Cliff is the artist of the new DC 52 Wonder Woman series, the critically-acclaimed graphic novel "Neil Young's Greendale," as well as Swamp Thing, Human Target, and others.   Wonder Woman # 1 ships on 9/21 with that week's new DC #1's!  The new DC 52 are a hit and CC&C have them! Other stores have sold out but we still have first printings @ cover price! We also offer each week's issues in special packs, bagged, boarded and 25% off cover price!     We will be featuring 50% off trade paperbacks & hardcovers (excluding new items this week) all day!     Check us out for updates on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cards-Comics-and-Collectibles/105966149473844   We bring the best comic show and best guests to Baltimore!  Make sure to mark your calendars for next year's Baltimore Comic-Con, September 8-9, 2012 -- stay tuned to www.baltimorecomiccon.com for more info!     !  "Like" us on Facebook!

Anti-Google comic strip ads in today's Post

3 Anti-Google comic strip ads, "Adventures in Searchville" ran in today's Post's Outlook section. These follow on one in last week's paper.  The website is http://fairsearch.org and the comic strips are here - http://www.fairsearch.org/searchville/

I have no opinion on this beyond noting it exists.

That darn Beetle Bailey

In the letters to the editor "Reflections on 9/11 coverage" in the Washington Post September 17, 2011, Melvin Dubee wrote, "...I was appalled by the wording of the 10th-anniversary tribute in 'Beetle Bailey.'  The letter doesn't appear to be online.

Bob Staake contest in Washington Post

Style Invitational Week 937: Staake it to Bob in a picture book caption contest

By Pat Myers
Washington Post September 18 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/style-invitational-week-937-staake-it-to-bob-in-a-picture-book-caption-contest/2011/09/11/gIQA5AQVWK_story.html

In this week's contest, Style Invitational illustrator Bob Staake was going to tweak the work of some famous New Yorker cartoonists, much as he did for us back in 1998. But now that Bob is now a New Yorker cover boy himself, not to mention a disturbingly successful, Cape Cod waterfront-residing children's-book author and illustrator, we decided instead to make fun of Bob's own oeuvre. This week: Write a caption for any of the five pages or details pictured above from some of Bob's more than 50 picture books. (His name's pronounced "stack," by the way.)

Winner gets the Inker, the official Style Invitational trophy. Second place gets a prize custom-made for the Invite: a dress sewn from two classic Loser T-shirts by Loser Barbara Turner. It even has pockets. But you have to be fairly petite — it's about a size 8. Before lunch. Modeled at a Loser brunch by "Loser groupie" Denise Sudell.

Frank Cho's new dinosaur book profiled

Frank Cho Mixes "Guns & Dinos"
by TJ Dietsch, Comic Book Resources September 15th, 2011
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=34256

Truitt on DC's new 52 and Lemire's Frankenstein

Grading the first half of DC Comics' 'New 52' relaunch
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 15 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-15/Grading-the-first-half-of-DC-Comics-New-52-relaunch/50415740/1

It's alive! Frankenstein electrifies DC Comics' 'New 52'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 12 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-12/Frankenstein-series-electrifies-DC-Comics-New-52/50365414/1

Library of Congress book festival schedules

Graphic Novel pavilion schedule (only on Sunday) is here - http://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/graphic-novels-pavilion/2011/09/07/gIQAzCdSVK_story.html

SUNDAY, SEPT. 25

1 P.M. RICHARD THOMPSON

The most recent Reuben Award, cartooning's equivalent of the Oscar, went to Richard Thompson, creator of "Cul de Sac," a strip born in The Washington Post seven years ago. Thompson also draws the "Richard's Poor Almanac" cartoon. His new book is "Shapes & Colors: A Cul de Sac Collection." Signing at 2:30 p.m.

1:55 P.M. KAZU KIBUISHI

Kazu Kibuishi is the founder and editor of the "Flight Anthologies," a critically acclaimed comics series, as well as the creator of "Daisy Kutter: The Last Train," a winner of the YALSA Best Books for Young Adults Award. Kibuishi's new book is "Amulet #4: The Last Council." Signing at 4 p.m.

2:50 P.M. ALLEN SAY

In 1972, Say illustrated his first children's book, and until 1987 was a part-time illustrator. That year, while illustrating "The Boy of the Three-Year Nap," which won a Caldecott Honor in 1989, he decided to work full-time on what he most liked to do: writing and illustrating children's books. His newest is "Drawing from Memory." Signing at 4 p.m.

3:45 P.M. RACHEL RENEE RUSSELL

Rachel Renee Russell is an attorney who prefers writing tween books to legal briefs. She is the author of the "Dork Diaries" series, and her latest book is "Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Talented Pop Star." Signing at 2 p.m.

4:40 P.M. ERIC WIGHT

Eric Wight's first book, "My Dead Girlfriend," was nominated for the 2008 Best Graphic Novel of the Year Award by the Young Adult Library Services Association. Wight's most recent book is "Frankie Pickle and the Mathematical Genius." Signing at 3 p.m.

Children's books with Jon Muth and Harry Bliss - http://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/childrens-pavilion/2011/09/07/gIQA9tVNVK_story.html

Saturday, September 24th

3:45 P.M. HARRY BLISS

Cartoonist Harry Bliss has illustrated covers for the New Yorker as well as children's books. His comic, "Bliss," is syndicated in more than 50 newspapers. His new book is "Bailey." Signing at 2:30 p.m.

4:40 P.M. WILLIAM JOYCE

William Joyce's picture books include "George Shrinks," "Dinosaur Bob" and "Santa Calls." He has developed character concepts for the animated features "Toy Story" and "A Bug's Life," and made films, including "Robots" and "Meet the Robinsons." He is currently co-directing "Rise of the Guardians," a film inspired by his new series, "The Guardians of Childhood." The first picture book in the series is "The Man in the Moon," above. Signing at 1:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 25

1:00 P.M. JON J MUTH

Artist Jon J Muth is the creator of this year's National Book Festival poster. The first in his "Zen" series of illustrated books, "Zen Shorts," won a Caldecott honor. The latest in the series is "Zen Ghosts." Signing Saturday at 12 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

George O'Connor will be a the New York section signing his Olympian graphic novels on Saturday.

Sept 23: Kate & Jules Feiffer at Politics and Prose

10:30 am, signing My Side of the Car.

David Hagen's Cartoons & Cocktails donation

The annual charity event is coming up, and David Hagenwrites in:

I wanted to alert you that I just got my invitation to donate a cartoon to Cartoons & Cocktails for this year. Very tight deadline for some reason, Sept. 20th for the event on Oct. 20th.  This year will be exciting because it'll be at the Newseum instead of the National Press Club. Here's my submission...
http://hagenillustration.blogspot.com/

So check out David's cartoon, and if you wanted to donate a cartoon, you've got 2 days left.

September 30: Welcome to the Space Show anime at JICC

The Japanese Information and Culture Center, with the DC Anime Club, is showing the Welcome to the Space Show anime on September 30th at 6:30 pm. Details here.

Barney & Clyde picked up by Salt Lake Tribune

And the article includes an interview with Gene Weingarten -

New comic strip is a father-son collaboration
By Scott D. Pierce
The Salt Lake Tribune Sep 16 2011
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/entertainment/52567960-81/comics-strip-weingarten-sunday.html.csp

Interview Intervention Con

The interview -

Intervention Con Returns for a Second Year
by Mike Rhode on Sep. 16, 2011
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/books/2011/09/16/intervention-con-returns-for-a-second-year/

The Oatmeal video chat on Post's website earlier today

The Oatmeal Shows The Post How To Draw (video)
Washington Post.com (September 16 2011)
http://live.washingtonpost.com/the-oatmeal.html

Matthew Inman, creator of The Oatmeal web comic, answers reader questions while drawing reader suggestions.

Voice actor Hank Azaria in The Onion

This article is in the print edition on page 14, but the online version is longer.

Random Roles: Hank Azaria
by Will Harris
Onion September 15, 2011
http://www.avclub.com/articles/hank-azaria,61696/

Comic Book Resources on SPX

2011: A Banner Year for SPX
by Chris Mautner,
Comic Book Resources September 15th, 2011
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=34390

Comicsgirl at SPX

Eden's got 2 stories up - a good one on women cartoonists is here and she and I overlapped on buying about half of these books. I'm sorry I missed Baehr's travelogue. Note that local cartoonist Molly Lawless has a new book out, if not a new baby. 

A general overview is here - Nick Abadzis was there? I missed him again, dammit.

Local cartoonist RM Rhodes interviewed at SPX

Local cartoonist RM Rhodes was video interviewed at SPX.

Rhodes and I are planning on having a conversation about the difference between sequential and comic art. We'll let you know when we do...

Comic Riffs previews new Library of Congress exhibit

Looks good!

LIBRARY OF CONGRESS opens masterful 'Timely and Timeless' exhibit today to celebrate comic art
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog September 15 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/library-of-congress-opens-timely-and-timeless-exhibit-today-to-celebrate-comic-art/2011/09/13/gIQAqMA9UK_blog.html

Note that local cartoonists Ann Telnaes and Matt Wuerker are included.

OT: New book from Brian Biggs

My buddy Brian Biggs has largely forsaken comics for children's books, and he has a new one out - "Everything Off-gasses".  No, no, it's really "Everything Goes On Land" and I've ordered mine.

Read an article about it here:

In New Series from Balzer + Bray, Everything Goes
By Sally Lodge
Sep 15, 2011
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/48685-in-new-series-from-balzer--bray-everything-goes.html

NPR's Monkey See on the Lion King in 3-D

Lapin, Andrew.  2011.

'The Lion King' In 3-D: All Part Of The Corporate Circle Of Life.

National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (September 15): http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/09/15/140497693/the-lion-king-in-3-d-all-part-of-the-corporate-circle-of-life

Truitt on ... yawn... another new Spider-Man

Miles Morales begins reign as star of 'Ultimate Spider-Man'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY September 14 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2011-09-14/Miles-Morales-begins-reign-as-star-of-Ultimate-Spider-Man-series/50397868/1

Reading Spider-Man = literacy

Rockville mentoring program gears up for 17th year
By Alison Bryant
Washington Post September 14 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/rockville-mentoring-program-gears-up-for-17th-year/2011/09/13/gIQA58UpRK_story.html

SPX Alex Robinson panel online at TCJ.com

TCJ Talkies
Alex Robinson & Ten Years of Box Office Poison
BY Mike Dawson Sep 14, 2011
http://www.tcj.com/alex-robinson-10-years-of-box-office-poison/
http://tcj.com/audio/TCJTalkies_11_AlexRobinson.mp3

New comics by local guys out today

Frank Cho's 50 Girls 50 (IMAGE) wraps up its first miniseries with a disturbing cover by Cho, and teases his new dinosaur comic at the end.

G. I. Joe 170 (IDW) is drawn by Shannon Gallant.

Weldon suckered by merchandising team-up

Your Mind Cannot Handle the Arrant Awesomeness Of This Comic Book Cover

by Glen Weldon

National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (September 14, 2011)

http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/09/14/140459789/your-mind-cannot-handle-the-arrant-awesomeness-of-this-comic-book-cover

October 7: 'Piled Higher and Deeper' movie coming to DC area

Jorge Cham's webcomic is now a movie, and the details are covered in this article -  PHD Comics, Coming to a Theater Near You. Wired.com's Wired Science blog (September 13 2011): http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2011/09/phd-comics-movie/

According to the movie's website it will be at both University of Maryland College Park and Georgetown University on October 7th.

PR: Spy vs. Spy is back! Win free swag from the Spy Museum and Catalog Spree

This rolled in recently:

Remember the Spy Vs. Spy comic strip and animated series from when you were a kid? That beloved pair of conniving black and white spies who were constantly trying to one-up each other?

Now you can relive all the fun – and the mischief – with the line of Spy vs. Spy books, accessories and apparel available through the Spy Museum Store. To celebrate the availability of this Spy vs. Spy merchandise, the Spy Museum is offering comic fans everywhere a chances to win some of the gear in a sweepstakes exclusively hosted by Catalog Spree, the free catalog shopping app on the iPad.

The sweepstakes offers up two $50 Spy Museum Store gift cards and ends at 11:59 p.m. PT on October 9th. For a valid entry, you must go to Catalog Spree Facebook Page and fill out the online entry form. Each entrant may enter only once. Entrants are not required to make any purchases from Sponsor or pay any fees to Sponsor to participate in the Sweepstakes. For more official rules, please visit: http://catalogspree.com/spy-rules.

To enter, please visit Catalog Spree's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/catalogspree?sk=app_181335378572390 or download the app at www.catalogspree.com and click on the "Dare to Enter" banner above any International Spy Museum catalog.

PR: The 2012 Economist Wall Kalendar and other Kal news

From: kevin Kallaugher

I have some news for you that I hope you will find of interest.

I am pleased to announce the new Economist wall calendar is at the printers! This is very exciting. The artwork has been 6 months in the making and I believe this year's product is the best one yet.

That Darn Toles, redux

Letter to the Editor
Our lefthanded president
Washington Post September 10 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/our-lefthanded-president/2011/09/08/gIQAP5szFK_story.html

Tom Toles, in his caricatures of public figures, often is spot on, but his depiction of President Obama making a golf swing in his Sept. 7 cartoon was inaccurate. The president is known to be a "southpaw," and his clubs are made to reflect that. Unless Toles's image was intended to be a mirror image, Obama's swing and club were both inaccurate.

R. Lance Gardner, Arlington

Michael Auger featured in Gazette

Gaithersburg artist isn't 'tooning' around
Newspaper featuring local comics distributed around town
by Cody Calamaio, Staff Writer
September 12 2011
http://www.gazette.net/article/20110912/ENTERTAINMENT/799999735/1020/gaithersburg-artist-isn-t-tooning-around&template=gazette

SPX article at Comics Worth Reading

SPX 2011: Quick Thoughts and Mini Reviews
 by Johanna Draper Carlson on September 11, 2011
http://comicsworthreading.com/2011/09/11/spx-2011-quick-thoughts-and-mini-reviews/

Comic Riffs on the fairness of Doonesbury

THE RIFF: Must a cartoon like 'Doonesbury' really be 'fair'?
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog September 13 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/the-riff-must-a-cartoon-like-doonesbury-really-be-fair/2011/09/13/gIQArvPuPK_blog.html

SPX covered at Publishers Weekly

Small Press Expo Gets Bigger Despite Earthquake
By Heidi MacDonald and Calvin Reid
Sep 13, 2011
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/book-news/comics/article/48662-small-press-expo-gets-bigger-despite-earthquake.html

PR: Fantom Comics Early Closing Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 14th

Just a quick head's up: Union Station is closing the West Wing of the station at 5pm sharp on New Comic Book Day tomorrow, Wednesday, September 14th.   So please be sure to pick up your books before 4:30pm, to be safe. Or on Thursday, when we'll be back to our regular schedule once again.   Thank you for your patience, and very sorry for the inconvenience. Union Station - 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE | Washington, DC 20002 | 202-216-9478 www.fantomcomics.com

Voice of America on webcomics

Sidestepping Newspapers, Comics Go Online
Artists earn income from online ads, merchandise sales
Faiza Elmasry | Washington, D.C.
Voice of America September 12, 2011
http://www.voanews.com/english/news/usa/arts/Sidestepping-Newspapers-Comics-Go-Online-129662013.html

I love Danielle Corsetto's Girls with Slingshots.

Donna Lewis comments on 9-11 comic strip project

Down in the comments section -

My feelings on Comics and 9/11
by Alan Gardner
Daily Cartoonist September 11, 2011
http://dailycartoonist.com/index.php/2011/09/11/my-feelings-on-comics-and-911/

Here's an earlier post I had about this topic with comments from local cartoonists.