Friday: Nick Galifianakis book-signing

Tomorrow: Nick Galifianakis at Politics and Prose

Posted by Mike Rhode on Feb. 10, 2011

http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/books/2011/02/10/tomorrow-nick-galifianakis-at-politics-and-prose/

PR: New Arlington bookstore's grand opening starts tonight

This is the store that had Richard Thompson in over the holidays, before they actually opened. You've got to appreciate dedication like that.

 

 

One More Page 

2200 N. Westmoreland Street #101

Arlington VA  22213

 

We kick off with a Galley Giveaway and Wine Tasting on Thurs, Feb 10th.  Stop by to pick up an advance reading copy (or two while they last) and taste several of our excellent wines and snacks.
   Thursday, February 10th, 7:30 - 9 pm

Ellen Byerrum signs the latest in her A Crime of Fashion Mystery series - Shot Through Velvet - on Friday evening.  We'll also have copies of her previous books, such as Hostile Makeover and Grave Apparel and enjoy cookies from our neighbor, La Cote D'Or (including their famous chocolate chip and bacon cookie - it's delicious!).
   Friday, February 11th, 6:30 - 8:30 pm

On Saturday, we will have TWO Grand Opening Events:

On Saturday afternoon from 1 - 3 pm, we will host an event with four(!) local Children's Authors.  We are so fortunate to have Jacqueline Jules, Wendy Shang, Marty Rhodes Figley and Fred Bowen confirmed for this event.  Don't miss it!

We wrap up our Grand Opening weekend with a Wine, Champagne and Chocolate Tasting.  If you've been in the store, you know we have a great selection of chocolate and (plus it goes well with the champagne and wine we've selected for our tasting)!  The store will be closing after the tasting, so shop early!
 Children's Authors Event, Sat, Feb 12th, 1 - 3 pm
 Wine, Champagne & Chocolate Tasting, Sat, Feb 12th ,4 - 6 pm

Truitt on Hawkeye

First look: Archer's aims ring true in 'Hawkeye: Blindspot'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY February 9 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-02-09-HawkeyeBlindspot_N.htm

Matt Wuerker interviewed by David Paccia

Another great interview, or perhaps that's interview with another great, or maybe it's great that it's another interview...

Matt Wuerker - Cartoonist Survey #210
by David Paccia
David-Wasting-Paper blog February 9, 2011
http://www.david-wasting-paper.blogspot.com/

New Flugennock cartoon

He's staying busy.  I like this one.

http://sinkers.org/stage/?p=780

And here you thought all the fun was over after the Berlin Wall fell.
"End Of History", my ass.

Oscar animated shorts in Baltimore

Animated Oscar Shorts
By Laura Dattaro
Baltimore City Paper February 9, 2011
http://citypaper.com/film/animated-oscar-shorts-1.1101728

They start February 11th at the Charles Theater.

March 7: James Sturm speaking at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore

Cartoonist James Sturm to Speak at Johns Hopkins March 7
Priya Lopes on 02 8, 2011
http://www.vadvert.co.uk/education/8865-cartoonist-james-sturm-to-speak-at-johns-hopkins-march-7.html

Weldon on Daytripper

'Daytripper' Explores The Quiet Moments That Shape A Man's Life. And His Death(s).

by Glen Weldon

 National Public Radio's Monkey See blog February 9, 2011

 

http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/02/09/133607454/daytripper-explores-the-quiet-moments-that-shape-a-mans-life-and-his-death-s

February 10: Bill Ayers at Busboys and Poets

William Ayers Book Talk & Signing

Thursday, February 10, 2011
6:30 pm -8:00 pm
Busboys and Poets
14th and V St. NW

William Ayers, school reform activist, will discuss and sign copies of his recent books - To Teach: The Journey in Comics & Teaching the Taboo: Courage and Imagination in the Classroom (co-authored with Rick Ayers). Sponsored by Teaching for Change and Graduate Students from The College of Education at the University of Maryland.  The event is free and open to the public.

 

(thanks to Joe Azar for the tip)

Truitt on Venom

Classic Spider-Man character gets a venomous makeover
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY February 8 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-02-08-NewVenom_N.htm

Wuerker comments at Comic Riffs on Huffington Post sale

BOON OR BOONDOGGLE? Working artists react to the HuffPo/AOL deal
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog February 8 2011
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/comic-riffs/2011/02/artists_react_to_the_huffpoaol.html

PR: This Sun, 2/13-Capicons Comic Con

I plan on being at this show close to opening time.

................
Capicons Comic Book & Pop Culture Con
http://capicons.com

Capicons Comic Book & Pop Culture Con
Sun, Feb. 13, 2011

10 am - 3 pm
Dunn Loring Volunteer Fire Hall, 

2148 Gallows Rd, Dunn Loring, Virginia
Admission $3 - Kids FREE!

Open to the public from 10 am - 3 pm. Buy, sell & trade: Gold, Silver,
Bronze Age comics; Indie & Modern comics, Publishers & Creators, TV &
Movie Collectibles. Non-sport cards; Videos & DVDs; Horror/Sci-Fi;
figures, toys; Star Wars & Star Trek memorabilia; original artwork,
posters and other comic-related collectibles.

FEATURING:
John Gallagher of Sky-Dog Comics (Buzzboy, Roboy Red)
Dan Nokes, 21st Century Sandshark Studios
Also featuring:
Tom Arvis, of Sureshot Comics
and Josh C. Lyman

Over 50 dealer tables!
Door prize drawings at 11 am, 12 pm and 1 pm!

Directions to DLVFRD: 
Take I-495 (DC/Capital Beltway) to Exit 47A
(Rt. 7 West). Go 1/2 Mile, Left on Gallows Rd. 1 mile to 2148 Gallows Rd.

Spider-Man musical reviews begin appearing

There seems to be a consensus to start running reviews that began over the weekend with British newspapers...

'Spider-Man' on Broadway: No superpowers needed to sniff out this stinker
By Peter Marks
Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, February 7, 2011; 8:39 PM
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/02/07/AR2011020704088.html

Meltzer interview

Grace Bello
An Interview with Brad Meltzer
Bookslut February 2011
http://www.bookslut.com/features/2011_02_017188.php

...he used to live around here, etc etc

Gnomeo and Juliet story in today's Express

Dawson, Angela / Entertainment News Wire.  2011.

Disney's Own 'Rocket Man': Elton John provides the soundtrack for 'Gnomeo & Juliet'.

[Washington Post] Express (February 7): 30

Bill McKay interview up at City Paper

Meet a Local Cartoonist: A Chat With Bill McKay
 by Mike Rhode on Feb. 7, 2011

http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/books/2011/02/07/meet-a-local-cartoonist-a-chat-with-bill-mckay/

 

March 15: Kevin Smith intros new movie in DC

Kevin Smith, who sometimes writes comic books, will be at the Warner Theatre introducing his new movie Red State on March 15th.

Flugennock on Egypt's protests

From: Mike Flugennock:

Finally, getting in the groove on Egypt: http://sinkers.org/stage/?p=776

This one was inspired by a sign I saw someone carrying at the solidarity demonstration at the Egyptian Embassy last week ( http://sinkers.org/stage/?p=755).

Steve Brodner caricatures in Sunday's Post again

This time it's 'House of Cards' about Egypt in the Outlook section for February 6th.

Annapolis animation writer profiled

Annapolis native receives writing nod for cartoon
Matt Beans nominated for episode of 'Robot Chicken'
By ALEXANDRA HILL, Staff Writer
Capital Gazette Communications 02/04/11
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/news/can/2011/02/04-11/Annapolis-native-receives-writing-nod-for-cartoon.html

Chris Gash, Washington Post freelance illustrator, interviewed

Chris Gash - Cartoonist Survey #209
by David Paccia
David-Wasting-Paper blog February 5, 2011

Gash has an illo of some sort in the Post about every week (and the NY Times too).

Today at 2pm: Summer Wars anime in Arlington

Today at 2pm, the Artisphere is showing Summer Wars anime movie in Arlington.

David Hagen's Team Cul de Sac contribution is sweeeet

Richard Thompson's friend David Hagen has painted his Team Cul de Sac contribution and put the image up on his blog. I'll be bidding on this at the auction, although I already have a Hagen hanging in my house. David also did the original ComicsDC logo out of the blue, and the goodness of his heart.

'Illusionist' reviews in local papers

An illustrious, Oscar-nominated 'Illusionist'
Sally Kline
Washington Examiner (February 4 2011)

Amuse Your Illustion: A Tati-esque magician’s tale, plus great moments in douchiness By Tricia Olszewski
Washington City Paper February 4, 2011 p. 16

A poignant look at a vanishing breedBy Stephanie Merry
Washington Post February 4, 2011

Disney pops concert featured in Examiner

Kennedy Center showcases NSO Pops and M-i-c-k-e-y M-o-u-s-e
Marie Gullard
Washington Examiner (February 4, 2011)
http://washingtonexaminer.com/entertainment/2011/02/kennedy-center-showcases-nso-pops-and-m-i-c-k-e-y-m-o-u-s-e

SPX's Jeff Alexander's memorial service schedule

Convenant Funeral Service has an online obituary for SPX's Jeff Alexander stating that the funeral will be Saturday, February 5th in Fredericksburg, MD.

Truitt on Super Dinosaur

'Super Dinosaur' ready for a dino-mite debut
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY February 3 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-02-03-SuperDinosaur_N.htm

Ben Claasen III paper dolls in today's Express

Ben Claasen III drew paper dolls to illustrate the Weekend Pass system in today's Express. They're young hipsters, of course.

Feb 3-5: NSO Pops: Disney in Concert at the Kennedy Center

NSO Pops: Disney in Concert

Enjoy the magic of Disney with the NSO Pops. Memorable scenes and melodies you know by heart, from Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, The Lion King and more, will transform anyone into a Mouseketeer.

• Feb 3 - 5, 2011
• Concert Hall
• Approx. 2 hours
• $20.00 - $85.00

About the Program

Artists:

• Michael Krajewski , conductor
• Candice Nicole , vocalist
• Whitney Kaufman , vocalist
• Aaron Phillips , vocalist
• Andrew Johnson , vocalist

Enjoy the magic music of Disney in Concert with the NSO Pops and guest conductor Michael Krajewski. Every new generation has a favorite Disney musical, whether it's The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Aladdin, or The Lion King. And then there are the classics, from a Mary Poppins medley to the "Yo ho" of Pirates of the Caribbean. When everyone joins together for memorable moments and sing-along melodies that Mouseketeers of all ages know by heart, it feels like a small world, after all.

 

Program:

VARIOUS - Disney Classics Overture
	arr. Healey
MENKEN - The Little Mermaid Orchestral Suite
MENKEN - Pocahontas:"Colors of the Wind"
MENKEN - Beauty and the Beast Suite
	arr. Troob
SHERMAN - The Jungle Book: "I Wanna Be Like You"
	arr. van der Heijden
SHERMAN - Mary Poppins Medley
MENKEN - The Hunchback of Notre Dame Suite
	arr. Staroboin
MENKEN - Aladdin Medley
	arr. Troob
BADELT - Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
	arr. Ricketts
JOHN - The Lion King Suite
	arr. Kelley
SHERMAN - "It's a Small World"
	arr. Whitcomb

Weldon on bedbugs, ATC on Sendak

The Week In Comics: Bedbugs, Change-Bots And Tijuana Bibles
by Glen Weldon
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (February 2, 2011)
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/02/02/133416000/the-week-in-comics-bedbugs-change-bots-and-tijuana-bibles


A Parade, Restored: A Maurice Sendak Mural Goes From Bedroom To Gallery.
Robert Siegel and Linda Holmes
National Public Radio's All Things Considered February 1, 2011
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/02/02/133404891/a-parade-restored-a-maurice-sendak-mural-goes-from-bedroom-to-gallery
http://pd.npr.org/anon.npr-mp3/npr/atc/2011/02/20110201_atc_08.mp3
http://www.npr.org/templates/transcript/transcript.php?storyId=133404891

Truitt on Archie's new gay character

Kevin Keller proves a diverse and popular asset for Archie Comics
By Brian Truitt, USA Today February 2 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-02-02-KevinKeller_N.htm

Bill McKay interview coming soon

Bill McKay, who is currently working on Zombies Vs. Cheerleaders has done a Washington City Paper interview with me that's coming soon.

OT: Guy Billout interviewed by David Paccia

Guy Billout, one of my favorite magazine illustrator/cartoonists is interviewed -

Guy Billout - Cartoonist/Artist Survey #208
David Paccia
David-Wasting-Paper blog February 2, 2011

- check him out. I read the Atlantic JUST to see his work.

Nick Galifianakis book tour reports

Nick Galifianakis (whom I interviewed for the City Paper) is reporting about the West Coast leg of his book tour in tiny increments on Facebook. With his permission, here's some of his photographs and comments from the tour. But first, here's a video from a book launch party.

Kate Michael, aka kstreetkate has a YouTube interview with him up, of which she says, "Nick Galifianakis' funniest topics to cartoon and comment upon are human relationships. At a book launch party for his latest "If You Loved Me, You'd Think This Was Cute," hosted at the home of the Washington Post's Katherine Weymouth, Galifiankis dishes on what interactions he finds the most humorous - and why men might want to read up on his subjects!" She's got an earlier interview video with him online in The District Dish too.

And now, here's Nick!


"Seattle! Open, warm and wet - JUST the way I like my book signings!"


"Powell's rocked! Great crowd. Thank you Portland - I was even inspired get a tattoo. And pierced."


"Thank you, San Fran! I got some practice in."


"In honor of my Book Signing in LA, I present the first cartoon I drew when I moved there."


"LA highlights (in any order): meeting devoted fans, hanging with my cuz...and Helena Bonham Carter helping me set up."

Former local comics scholar A David Lewis interviewed

Fanboy Radio #578 - Religion in Comics with A. David Lewis & G. Willow Wilson
31 January 2011
http://fanboyradio.libsyn.com/fanboy-radio-578-religion-in-comics-with-a-david-lewis-g-willow-wilson
http://traffic.libsyn.com/fanboyradio/fbr578.mp3

Politics and Prose rescheduled book group meeting

From: Adam Waterreus

Due to the snow interfering with our meeting last week, I think we'll postpone our discussion of City of Glass to the 4^th Wednesday of this month (February 23^rd). I think it's a book worth chatting about, and I didn't want to miss the opportunity to do so. Stay warm, and see you all in a few weeks!

Adam

SOMEBODY in DC owns a Peanuts sketch and is nervous about it

Treasures: Should this sketch by Charles M. Schulz be insured?
 By HELAINE FENDELMAN and JOE ROSSON, Scripps Howard News Service 01/31/2011
http://www.scrippsnews.com/content/treasures-should-sketch-charles-m-schulz-be-insured

PR: Art Whino's LIVE FAST

Cartoonists in here -

	PRESS RELEASE: "LIVE FAST" Harley Davidson Inspired Art Group Show Harley-Davidsons evoke different emotions for different people. That's because Harleys are the snowflakes of self-expression; no two Harleys are alike because no two riders are the same. From custom paint to chrome and exhaust, Harleys express their owners' personalities. More than any other mechanical object, Harleys are moving art. "Live Fast" is an exhibit that will take this idea one step further by displaying art which is inspired by the gasoline, oil, and freedom that power these uniquely American machines. Pieces will include custom Harley tanks painted especially for this show as well as other pieces this hand-picked stable of artists created for this one-of-a-kind event.   The artist Dave "Letterfly" will also show us a traditional form of motorcycle expression- pinstriping.  This art form was made popular in the 50's Custom Culture and its influence on contemporary customs is still observed today.  Please join us as we celebrate Harleys through the eyes of these artists and show you many different takes on what makes these motorcycles great.   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Opening Reception Saturday, February 26th, from 5pm – 8pm With special guest appearance by the infamous artist "Letterfly" who will demonstrate traditional "old school" pinstriping. The event is FREE but RSVP required for entrance RSVP to Livefast@artwhino.com Open to the public exhibit Sunday, February 27th, from 11am – 5pm Patriot University Seminar "Rolling Art-tips and tricks from the artist himself" with Letterfly Sunday, February 27th, at 1 PM at Patriot H-D This seminar is free but limited space is available.  Please sign up by emailing university@patriothd.com Location: Patriot Harley-Davidson 9739 Fairfax Blvd Fairfax VA 22031 Show end date: February 27th Alan Defibaugh Born in Washington D.C., Alan has spent a majority of his life living in the outlying metropolitan area. With the exception of school (4 years in mysterious Savannah Georgia), and his brand new home in Austin, Texas! Alan has been drawing since 1984 and has been getting paid for it since 2005. His personal style focuses on bold colors, 2-dimensional design, and a sense of humor that's perhaps a little off. He specializes in artwork suitable for digital media, print and any other surface you can think of! He loves David Bowie and the color pink. Caia Koopman From the land of surf and sea, Caia Koopman has emerged as one of lowbrow's preeminent female artists. With a well-rounded background from her years spent obtaining her BA in Fine arts from UC Santa Cruz, to her time spent in the skateboarding and snowboarding scenes, Caia's environment has both molded and provided an eclectic background that makes her paintings come to life. With her fine detail for beauty, inclinations toward nature, and collectiveness of the female spirit, Caia has quickly become one of the quintessential artists fully encompassing the elegance, strengths, and vulnerabilities of femininity. Casey Weldon From the land of surf and sea, Caia Koopman has emerged as one of lowbrow's preeminent female artists. With a well-rounded background from her years spent obtaining her BA in Fine arts from UC Santa Cruz, to her time spent in the skateboarding and snowboarding scenes, Caia's environment has both molded and provided an eclectic background that makes her paintings come to life. With her fine detail for beauty, inclinations toward nature, and collectiveness of the female spirit, Caia has quickly become one of the quintessential artists fully encompassing the elegance, strengths, and vulnerabilities of femininity. Drew Storm Graham When I was 11 years old I moved to Madrid where I immediately fell in love with graffiti visually and conceptually. Graffiti embodies a bold, impetuous attitude rooted in controversy and rebellion. This spark of controversy that lies at the very soul of graffiti is what attracted my attention to the art form. It demands a reaction whether of affirmation or rejection because the viewer is an inescapable victim of its presence. Conflict is a necessary element that enhances the meaning of graffiti. A majority of this message rests solely in the action of creating it, defying the constraints imposed by society. JeanPaul Mallozzi JeanPaul Mallozzi was born and raised in Queens NYC, and received a scholarship to attend the Rhode Island School Of Design (RISD). He graduated with B.F.A in Illustration and Fine Arts. He currently resides in Miami FL, trying daily to avoid the sun and stay pastey white. I like to combine urban scenery with old world story telling. A city is a fun stage to play out fantastical scenarios with spirits and humans, weather phenomena and love. The world looks mundane at certain times of the day, but there are other times where magic can happen in a split second. The eternal kid in me believes that". Jim Mahfood Jim Mahfood aka Food One is an illustrator/comic book artist/ muralist/ live art rocker residing in LA. He is the creator of the art style known as Visual Funk: a hybrid mix of comix art, graffiti, manga, street art, and funk culture. Jim single-handedly introduced Live Art to the American comic book scene. Food has worked for every major comic book publisher and his list of comics credits include Clerks (with filmmaker Kevin Smith), Grrl Scouts, Stupid Comics, Felt, Bad Ideas, various Spider-Man books for Marvel, One Page Filler Man, Kick Drum Comix, Carl -The Cat That Makes Peanut Butter Sandwiches, and more. His illustrations have appeared in magazines like Playboy, MAD Magazine, Star Wars Gamer, URB, BadAzz Mofo, BPM, the Hollywood Reporter, and so on. Mr. Christopher Born and bred in the Midwest, Mr. Christopher has developed a unique style and ethic for someone residing in the Bible Belt. Dropping out of artschool at the age of 19, he decided that the academic world did not have much to offer him. At that time he was still a very active graffiti writer and preferred developing painting techniques on his own. Film, sexuality, politics and street art were all key in what was to become Mr. Christopher's style and content. Although he says he is retired from graffiti, he still manages to catch a few tags and paint a few trains. The allure of painting whatever you want, wherever you want is an addictive quality and that addiction has carried over into his other work as well. He can't go a day without painting, drawing, taking pictures, making music or shooting 8mm film. If creating were cocaine or heroin, then he'd be River Phoenix. Nick Morris I was born in Ballarat, just over an hour out of Melbourne. At the age of six I knew I wanted to be an artist and, at a similar time, discovered surfing and my passion for the coast had begun. When I was at secondary school, one of my teachers had said only two per cent of living artists make a living off their art, so I decided to become a graphic designer. In many ways it was a positive result for eventually becoming an artist. I went to Chisholm Institute in Caufield where I met fellow designer Dave Bowers and, over time, we hit it off. After working in Melbourne for a few years after college I moved to the west coast of Victoria and, in 1990, Dave and I started a clothing label called Umgawa. It was incredibly successful but our inexperience caught up with us and from there I went on to become the art director at Quiksiver in Torquay, which had been something I had always aspired to. To be living down the coast working in an industry that moulded in around surfing was a dream come true. A few years later I bean my own freelance graphics company called Anyhow, servicing the surf streetwear industry working for the biggest labels in the world. The business peaked around 2004 when we were invited to speak at Semi Permanent graphics conference in Sydney and then later at Agideas with a host of international designers. Nils Westergard Nils Westergard started stenciling at age 13 when a friend introduced him to the world of street art. Now 18, he is a high school senior with plans to attend VCUarts to study film in the fall. His work with stencils and sculpture focuses on the conflict and legitimacy of street art as well as the nature of authority and rebellion. Aside from painting Nils works with film, sculpture, and set design where he takes his influence from a variety of sources ranging from Carl Sagan to the Cold War. When he's not creating art Nils enjoys nature, film, friends, history and science. Patrick Haemerlein A native of Kinderhook, NY, Patrick Haemmerlein is a freelance designer and artist living in Los Angeles. After receiving his BFA from Savanna College of Art and Design in 2000, Patrick took the long road trip across country and settled down in LA. Here he began to obsessively photograph the city and its components. This gradually moved into new art form as he started to combine and create with images he was collecting. Reflecting on the issues of the day, Patrick explores themes of nature Vs. industry and how they can coexist of clash. The buildings and cityscapes are from Los Angeles while the animal and farm photos were mostly taken around his hometown area in upstate NY. They are not only a juxtaposition of nature and industry, but a combination of imagery from his two homes- one rural and one urban. Ruben Ubiera Ruben Ubiera is a Dominican neo figurative artist, known for his strong use of the line, who has been drawing and painting ever since he had use of reason. Ruben paints and draws in a style considered by many as Pop-surrealism, but he prefers to call it urban-pop, since he has lived most of his life in the urban, populated areas and most of his inspiration is derived from the interactivity  between man and his urban environment. Scotch! SCOTCH! is a stencil artist. Definition:noun;to cut. He is known for knee slapping memorable street art such as tricycle girl, the crotch-grabbing famous trooper, & the pantless laurel & hardy. The stencilist had a huge success with his first solo show, leading to other gallery showings from New York to L.A., Portland thru Miami to name a few. San Antonios Current paper gave Scotch! credit for Best Anonymous Public Art 2 years in a row. He utilized a questionable-legal public art installation coordinated and executed by a group calling itself Uniting Artists through Crime. the project quickly caught the eyes of lowbrow/street art magazine called juxtapoz. Scotch!continues to push for new  stencil techniques/ideas that people of all ages & genres can enjoy. Thom Glick Thom Glick floated up from the bottom of the sea. After scientists cleaned the barnacles and seaweed from his sponge-like body, and equipped him with a magic salt water chest cavity breathing implant, he was secretly allowed to join the population of land dwelling humans. Now living among us, Thom is slowly documenting life on the surface with his abstracted visual interpretations and nonsensical babble writing. To maintain an appearance of normalness, Thom lives with his cute surface dweller girlfriend, Zuz, and their fuzzy teeth monster, Pilot. Also on exhibit will be 13 Full size Harley gas tanks that local artists were given to create unique 3 Dimensional Artistic Expressions. The artist coming from all walks of lives and genres will work with the iconic element of the bike and the lifestyles associate with them to create their interpretations of "Living Fast" Gas Tank Artists Brandon Hill Daniel Barojas Decoy Don Patron Elstabo James Walker Jazirock Jessica Zadlo Juan Pineda Keith Brooks Mike O'Brien Peter Krsko Rodger Schultz Tim Conlon Ultra Asad Walker Special Guest Appearance, Demonstration, and Patriot University Seminar by "Letterfly"  Dave "Letterfly" Knoderer is an honored guest each year at our Ride of the Patriots event every Memorial Day Weekend. He sets up shop and creates countless works of art on bikes, helmets, and anything else with a surface that needs personalization. We are thrilled to have him join us February 26 & 27 to be part of our "Live Fast" Art Exhibit and to host his own Seminar, "Rolling Art- tips and tricks from the artist himself" "The smartest thing I ever did was join the circus!" states the clearly unique "Letterfly". This decision launched a teenager into an unusual career, first as a show drummer accenting the efforts of the aerialists and artistes as well as plying his skill with paint and brush to decorate the circus fleet using his emerging style. Being part of this distinct entertainment experience provided skills that he says "have morphed into the relentless venture of creativity" that clearly continues to this day. Letterfly is an old school/renaissance man. As an apprentice in the sign painting trade, he learned design layout formulas, letterforms, pinstriping and wet-blended pictorial painting as his skills with the brush developed. With a penchant for adventure, the young artist soon began painting theatrical sets, amusement park and fairground décor, antique fire engine gilding, along with creating conventional, hand lettered signage and award winning storefront décor. Today "Letterfly" travels the country visiting Harley-Davidson dealerships as well as Biker and RV events to create quality artwork on motorcycles, motor homes, hot rods and other modes of go-fast. Traditional brush painted pinstripe designs, pin-up girls, pictorials, inscriptions, pets, portraits and custom images of all kinds are produced on the spot in various locations across the nation and at his home/studio in Florida. Letterfly now joins Patriot Harley-Davidson for an exhibition that goes beyond the bikes! A collection of hand painted artwork, photographs, posters, signs, cartoons and painted panels with intricate pinline designs showcase the varied and interesting career of the artist/entertainer and will be on display during our first ever "Live Fast" art exhibit. We will also be treated to a demonstration of his traditional "old school" pinstriping. The delicate nature of the hand painted pinline design is the result of years of practice and developed finesse with the ungainly, specialized brush. Come see how it is really done at the opening on the 26th. Patriot University Seminar: Sunday, February 27 at 1pm PHD is proud to host another in our series of Unique seminars: "Rolling Art- tips and tricks from the artist himself" This seminar is free but limited space is available.  Please sign up by emailing university@patriothd.com You will see many examples of Old School pinstripe work and see how it is done and learn many of the artists tricks. No one should expect to leave this seminar with the ability to "Von Dutch" their Harley but you will see how a pro does it- the types of brushes required, ways to maintain symmetry, color selection and more. "Letterfly" will discuss his background and his experience in the industry, the history of pinstriping, and how a simple hand lettered inscription can communicate a statement and provoke an emotion. Letterfly will also discuss his process of creating a custom image for an individual bike starting with the interview, exploring concepts, initial sketches, image development, and finally the paint medium. An especially informative portion of the talk will involve discussing the steps, materials and components that go into the creation of spectacular custom paint jobs with an opportunity for questions from any one interested in the technical aspects of this interesting facet of the biker culture.

---

Comic Riffs checks in with Spiegelman

ART SPIEGELMAN reacts to winning grand prize at Angoulême
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog January 31 2011

Julian "Ants" Lytle interview online at City Paper

Meet a Local Cartoonist: A Chat with Julian Lytle
by Mike Rhode on Jan. 31, 2011
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/general/2011/01/31/meet-a-local-cartoonist-a-chat-with-julian-lytle/

 

Greg McElhatton remembers SPX's Jeff Alexander

Greg McElhatton remembers SPX's Jeff Alexander

Spurgeon interviews Baltimore's Tim Kreider

Kreider has a new book coming out! Until last year, his cartoons appeared regularly in the Baltimore City Paper.

CR Sunday Interview: Tim Kreider
Tom Spurgeon
Comics Reporter January 30, 2011

Zadzooks on Red movie adaptation

Zadzooks: Red on Blu-ray
Action is fast and funny in Willis' 'Red'
By Joseph Szadkowski
The Washington Times January 23, 2011
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/jan/23/zadzooks-red-blu-ray/

Jeff Alexander, Small Press Expo organizer, has died

Reports are appearing on Facebook that Jeff Alexander, past Small Press Expo organizer, has died overnight, apparently of a heart attack. The information has been confirmed by Warren Bernard, this year's Executive Director (and SPX now has an online memorial). I didn't know Jeff very well, but we were friendly when we ran into each other, and I'm very sorry to hear this news. Jeff spoke to me last year about SPX before show, and I found another interview with him on Readers Voice as well. Like many comic cons, SPX is reliant on volunteers to make everything happen, and Jeff made much of the success of recent years happen.

I had planned to do a followup article at the City Paper after 2010's SPX, but time got away from me and it would have been stale. Here's the questions that Jeff answered about the con, in memory of Jeff and for history's sake.

Mike Rhode: How successful was your convention this year (2010)?

Jeff Alexander: I would say it was very successful.

Our attendance was up 10% for the third year in a row despite the sluggish economy.

Also, the inaugural year of the Animation Showcase exceeded our expectations and regularly had to turn people away when the room was full.

Mike Rhode: What will be changing for next year? Staying the same?

Jeff Alexander: I can't say for sure. I am stepping down as the Executive Director to have time to pursue other interests.

I am sure there will be some tweaking of the Animation Showcase based on what we learned this year, but fundamentally the show will remain the same.

Warren Bernard will be taking over next year and I'm sure he has a few plans up his sleeve for the future of SPX.

Mike Rhode: Do you have a favorite moment? Least favorite?

Jeff Alexander: My favorite moment came shortly after the show when local filmmaker Steven Greenstreet uploaded a two minute video from footage he shot at SPX.

It's hard to believe that SPX has the power to inspire such creativity.

The least favorite moment was not having a sign language interpreter available for two attendees.

This was their first SPX and were very excited about coming to the show. Having an interpreter there would have made their experience just that much more enjoyable.

Mike Rhode: What could have been done better? What did you 'hit out of the park'?

Jeff Alexander: If we had the time and resources to dedicate to it, I would have preferred to have done some cross-over events with Intervention.

We are competing conventions, but we share similar goals for promoting comics.

What we "hit out of the park" was in asking Paul Nadjmabadi and Angela Ottinger to head the Animation Showcase.

They assembled a first class committee and put on a phenomenal show.

Mike Rhode: Did you buy anything or meet anyone that's special for you personally?

Jeff Alexander: It was great to finally meet Kate Beaton and to see James Sturm, Keith Knight, and John & Sandra from Metaphrog again. Unfortunately, the job of Executive Director didn't leave me as much time to chat with them as I'd have liked.

I did find the time to pick up a copy of "Tigerbuttah" by Becky Dreistadt & Frank Gibson. It's an all ages book done in the style of the Golden Books from the 1950s and 1960s, but it's Becky's illustrations that make "Tigerbuttah" a must have book!

Eric Shansby covers Post Magazine

Eric Shansby usually draws cartoons for Gene Weingarten's column in the Post. Today his art covers the Post Magazine for Weingarten's story on the Volt car, with another large piece inside at the beginning of the story.

Local student does stop-motion animation

Mount Airy teen building a future in film, brick by brick
With webcam and Dell laptop, Koford brings old toys to life in stop-action animation
by Angie Cochrun
[Maryland] Gazette Jan. 29, 2011
http://www.gazette.net/stories/01292011/frednew100539_32549.php

Steve Artley interviewed by David Paccia

I'm about to go read this now -

Steve Artley - Cartoonist Survey #207
David-Wasting-Paper blog January 29, 2011
http://david-wasting-paper.blogspot.com/2011/01/steve-artley-cartoonist-survey-207.html

OT PR: Stargazer, my all-ages graphic novel

Von Allan, although Canadian, has attended SPX and was an early supporter of ComicsDC. Here's his note about a new comic he has out.

I have new graphic novel that just arrived in comic shops and some bookstores.  Very quickly, it's an all-ages fantasy story focusing on a young girl named Marni who is dealing with the recent death of her grandmother.  As Marni struggles to place this loss, her life takes an abrupt and strange turn. Her grandmother bequeathed her a mysterious "Artifact" and, while on a backyard camping trip, the object suddenly takes on a life of its own.  Marni and her two best friends are transported to a strange and distant world. After summoning their courage, Marni, Sophie and Elora venture out to explore their alien surroundings, where they find a surreal world containing a robot, a mysterious far-off tower, and an illusive yet terrifying monster. Scared, yet buoyed by the stories and songs that they've heard while growing up, the three girls gather their meagre supplies and head out into the wilderness, determined to find a way home. A magical tale with the most unlikeliest of heroes, "Stargazer" is an exploration of friendship, loss, and hope. By turns terrifying, poignant, and humorous, "Stargazer" is part fairytale, part science fiction, and part adventure story.  The main website for my graphic novel is at http://stargazer.vonallan.com

Why is this story special?  Well, I think there are a number of reasons.  First, it's an all-ages story that features three girls as protagonists, which is still fairly rare in comics.  Marni, Sophie and Elora are strong and independent characters.  While they are young, they are not weak and I think that's very important and something that both girls and boys can identify with.  Secondly, I'm both the writer and the artist of "Stargazer" and that, too, is uncommon in comics, which are generally created by teams of writers and artists sharing the work.  Thirdly, "Stargazer" is self-published, but I've managed to secure world-wide distribution through a number of distributors, including Diamond Comic Distributors, Follett Library Resources, Brodart Company and Ingram Book Company.  Publishing is certainly challenging in this day and age, but distribution and accessibility are critically important aspects that absolutely cannot be overlooked.

"Stargazer" is also getting some very positive reviews and I'd like to quickly share two brief ones with you.  The first is from the Midwest Book Review (http://www.midwestbookreview.com/ibw/jul_10.htm#Comix/GraphicNovel):

"Stargazer Volume One is a black-and-white graphic novel following three girls stranded on a faraway alien world. Young Marni has recently lost her grandmother, with whom she was very close. Her grandmother had also bequeathed a mysterious "Artifact" upon her - and it is this object that transports Marni and her friends, Sophie and Elora, far away from any home they have ever known. The three girls must pool their courage and resources to learn more about this unreal new world, and the strange things within it - a robot, a faraway tower, and an unknown monster hidden in shadows. Stargazer is a story of wonder, exploration, determination, and inward as well as outward challenge, and is highly recommended for readers of all ages."

Ms. Kat Kan, a librarian working in Florida, passed a copy of "Stargazer" to her elementary school book club; I received perhaps one of the best reviews I've ever gotten for my work from one of her students, a young third-grade girl.  With Ms. Kan's permission, I wanted to share it with you (I've left all of her grammar intact):

"Your book Stargazer. I'm reading it...I like adventure books, and this book so far has a lot of adventure already. It was pretty cool that Marni and her friends travelled into this other world. It was weird when they heard this roaring sound and I would be pretty freaked out if I was running for my life then I tripped like Marni did. I just absolutely love the book! I hope your happy about that. It was funny when she said "STUPID LACES, OH COME ON!" It was weird when that robot showed Marni all the different things in the fire. It was also funny when Sophie said "I had to go pee and I realized you weren't in bed." It was said with her having all those flashbacks with her and her grandmother. Because if you just imagine your grandma die you will cry just as Marni did when she figured out her grandma died. It was funny when Marni had that sword and said "en garde." I liked the extras. You told me how you write, concept art, brainstorming...I liked the pictures at the end, this book was amazing. I wish I could keep it and read it again, again and again, but I have to return it in five days so I probably can't but I just love Stargazer."

As you know, it's always a challenge to try to build awareness for a new book from a relatively unknown creator.  If you don't mind spreading the word, please do!  And, of course, don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or comments.

Thank you very much!

--
Von Allan

Quote: "Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better." (Beckett)

Stargazer, my all-ages graphic novel, is now available in all channels. It has a Diamond Item Code of NOV101057 and an ISBN of 978-0-9781237-2-7. More information about Stargazer can be found at http://stargazer.vonallan.com

the road to god knows... (ISBN: 978-0-9781237-0-3) is also available through book trade channels. Information about road can be found at http://trtgk.vonallan.com

Von Allan Studio
P.O. Box 20520, 390 Rideau Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. K1N 1A3
Phone: 613-236-9957
Email: von@vonallan.com
Web: http://www.vonallan.com
Blog: http://vonandmoggy.livejournal.com

Patton Oswalt memoir reviewed in Post

The review refers to the book as 'part graphic novel' -

Patton Oswalt's memoir 'Zombie Spaceship Wasteland'
Reviewed by Mike Sacks
Special to The Washington Post January 28, 2011.

Team Cul de Sac contributor updates

On Facebook, Chris Sparks identified two new Team Cul de Sac artist volunteers - Costa K and Thin Guy.

A noted cartoonist also made a $1,000 donation.

Thanks to all!

Nick Galifianakis book tour starts today in Seattle

Nick Galifianakis' first book tour schedule is online now.

He's in Seattle today, Portland tomorrow and California the next day.

In Washington, he'll be at Politics and Prose on Friday, February 11th - and his book is a perfect Valentine's gift.

New Flugennock cartoon online

On the State of the Union speech -

http://sinkers.org/stage/?p=747

Today's Nate Beeler cartoon tribute to Jules Feiffer

Nate Beeler's Editorial Cartoons Digest

- Interpretive Snow Dance

Click through to see Nate Beeler's tribute to Jules Feiffer (who had a birthday this week).

Weldon on the death of the Comics Code Authority

Censors and Sensibility: RIP, Comics Code Authority Seal Of Approval, 1954 - 2011
by Glen Weldon
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog January 27, 2011
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/01/27/133253953/censors-and-sensibility-rip-comics-code-authority-seal-1954-2011

Liza Donnelly's women's comedy in 6 1/2 minutes

Liza Donnelly's talk in December to TEDWomen here in DC is online now.

So, if you see a truck downtown with a giant cartoon head playing on the side of it...

...the explanation is here:

Cartoon of former Google CEO Schmidt's 'creepy' lines hits D.C. streets
-- David Sarno
Los Angeles Times Technology blog January 26, 2011
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2011/01/animation-of-google-ex-ceo-schmidts-creepy-lines-hits-dc-streets.html

Sal Buscema turns 75 today

Comics Reporter caught that Marvel Comics artist Sal Buscema turned 75 today. I grew up on a lot of Buscema comics. Sal, not John (although I bought John's Conan).

Illustrators Club exhibit information

Joe Azar sent in this tip -

9th ANNUAL IC MEMBERS SHOW – runs through February 12, 2011

WHERE AiW Gallery, 1820 N. Fort Myer Drive, Arlington, VA 22209
METRO Rosslyn (across street from rear entrance)
PARKING at meters: Free after 6:00pm.
GALLERY HOURS M-Th 9am-8pm, F 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm
CONTACT Marie Dauenheimer, Show Coordinator:
dauenheimer@erols.com or 703-648-9038


Check out the Photo Gallery:
http://www.illustratorsclub.org/events/photogallery3.php

Politics and Prose book group cancelled tonight

due to the snow.

Truitt on latest comic book stunt plotting

The Fantastic Four lose one of their own
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 25 2011

Yeah, yeah, yeah, whatever. Marvel even allowed retailers to sell it a day early (ie today).

Team Cul de Sac gets a cheerleader

Richard Thompson's drawn this illustration for Team Cul de Sac, and you can click through the link to donate cold hard... credit! But we know you're good for it.

If you're an artist, and you're on the fence about participating... the real money will probably be raised by the art auction, so please! draw Richard's characters for him.

Tom Toles picks cartoon contest winner

State of the Union Cartoon Caption Contest winner,  by Tom Toles says he got 2,000 entries. Wow!

Robot 6 notes Donna Lewis' new strip

There's nothing here we haven't linked to before, but Comic Book Resources is a big site that I read often, so I'm glad to note that they mentioned Donna's strip.

2 Beeler cartoons in today's Examiner

In addition to the regular cartoon on page 2, Nate Beeler's got a second one tucked into the paper on page 24, illustrating 'who owns the Democratic Party' as the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.

Toles played music over the weekend

Another 'for the record' blogpost -

Reporters rock the National Press Club
By: Nikki Schwab and Katy Adams
Washington Examiner January 24 2011

- someday you'll thank me.

Comic Book Legal Defense Fund profile

Anyone who's serious about comics should be a member of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.

Meet the CBLDF, the people who make sure you aren't arrested for reading comic books
By Cyriaque Lamar
January 24 2011
http://io9.com/5742147/meet-the-cbdlf-the-people-who-make-sure-you-arent-arrested-for-reading-comic-books

Long 2003 Carla Speed McNeil interview posted

Carla Speed McNeil
Jenni Scott
FA the Comic Zine January 2011
http://comiczine-fa.com/interviews/carla-speed-mcneil/

Ok, this one's 5 years old and just dragged out, but it's really long, but with God as my witness, I'll get Carla on the phone soon for a City Paper interview!

Hat-tip to Tom Spurgeon's Comic Reporter for catching this.

Front Royal's Ben Hatke

Randy T notes about Front Royal's Ben Hatke, "Not quite a local, but close enough: http://www.househatke.com/"

He's got a book coming out from First Second - http://firstsecondbooks.typepad.com/mainblog/2011/01/first-second-is-turning-5-this-year.html

- and note that Richard Thompson's got a story in a nursery rhyme anthology from them too.

Sequential artist RM Rhodes begins writing on French comics

Here's his first column, and I like his anecdote and his conclusion -

Heavy Metal Magazine: A Brief Introduction

Posted on 01.23.11 by R.M. Rhodes
http://www.needcoffee.com/2011/01/23/heavy-metal-magazine/

I interviewed him for the City Paper in 2010 and we're planning on having a follow-up as to the nature of sequential art and how cartooning is just one variety of it.

Disney's Kingdom Hearts game reviewed in Examiner

For the record, Disney's Kingdom Hearts Re:coded videogame is reviewed today's Washington Examiner.

Steve Conley interview online at City Paper

Meet a Local Cartoonist: A Chat With Steve Conley
by Mike Rhode on Jan. 24, 2011

http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/books/2011/01/24/meet-a-local-cartoonist-a-chat-with-steve-conley/

 

Contributing to Team Cul de Sac, if you're not a cartoonist

For the non-cartoonists who want to support Team Cul de Sac, you can choose to contribute money directly online.

The Fox Foundation's website for Team Cul de Sac is somewhat confusing, but click on that link, and then select the big orange button that says DONATE NOW. You can select amounts to be charged to a credit card. If you want to join TCdS, there's another button for that, but there's a $50 fee, and I'm not sure what benefit there is to that.

Mason Mastroianni of B.C. is the latest artist to join.

1 more day in Toles cartoon contest

The Post has joined the caption-writing contest world...

Readers will have a chance at writing a cartoon caption with The Washington Post's caption-writing contest with Tom Toles.

WashPost editorial Cartoonist Tom Toles sketched a State of the Union cartoon here, but there's no caption: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/tomtoles/2011/01/state_of_the_union_cartoon_cap.html

Readers can post their suggested caption(s) in the comments section until 11:59 p.m. ET Monday, Jan. 24. The winner gets a print of the cartoon, with their suggested caption, signed by Tom Toles. The winner will be announced before Obama begins his State of the Union address that Tuesday evening.

For official rules, go here: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/tomtoles/tom-toles-cartoon-caption-cont.html

Steve Brodner caricatures in Sunday's Post UPDATED

Steve Brodner illustrated Dana Milbank's column I'm declaring February a Palin-free month. Join me! in today's Washington Post but the excellent drawings aren't online at the Post site, but Mr. Brodner has them at his site.

Benita Epstein claims Richard Thompson is favorite artist

On a cold Sunday afternoon, I'm working my way backwards through David Paccia's excellent blog of interviews - here's one where Richard Thompson is cited as a favorite artist:

Benita Epstein - Cartoonist Survey #66
February 7, 2010
http://david-wasting-paper.blogspot.com/2010/02/cartoonist-survey-66.html

Cul de Sac up for vote at Post-Standard

Help choose a new comic for the pages of The Post-Standard
The Post-Standard  January 23, 2011
http://blog.syracuse.com/entertainment/2011/01/help_choose_our_new_comic.html

1/25: Tom Inge speaks on Charles Schulz in Fredericksburg

Good ol' 'Charlie Brown' Schulz
by Thomas Inge
Fredericksburg Free Lance-Star 1/23/2011
http://fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2011/012011/01232011/595935

Ton says, "This leads to an article I wrote that appears in today's Fredericksburg FREE LANCE-STAR newspaper, in anticipation of my lecture on Charles Schulz in the "Great Lives" series next Tuesday at 7:30 in Dodd Auditorium at the University of Mary Washington."

Truitt on GI Joe

IDW relaunches G.I. Joe titles, ignites a 'Cobra Civil War'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 20 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-01-20-CobraCivilWar_N.htm

Post reviews Dalai Lama manga

The forging of a holy man
Jeffrey Paine
Washington Post Sunday, January 23, 2011; B07
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/01/21/AR2011012106630.html

The book reviewed is

THE 14th DALAI LAMA

A Manga Biography

By Tetsu Saiwai

Penguin

Unpaginated. Paperback, $15

OT: New Jersey sports cartoonist

I was stunned and glad to see this article today - I grew up reading the Bergen (County, NJ) Evening Record, and seeing these caricatures. I'm thrilled to hear about the cartoonist and the fact that he's still doing them.

Sports Illustrator: Closter's Charlie McGill is quick on the draw
MICHELE WILSON
BERGEN.COM January 22 2011

CFP: International Comic Arts Forum 2011 (9/29-10/1)

It's not in DC anymore, but it'll always have a place in my heart...

The 15th Anniversary International Comic Arts Forum: ICAF 2011
September 29-October 1, 2011
The Center for Cartoon Studies in White River Junction, Vermont
<http://www.internationalcomicartsforum.org>

ICAF, the International Comic Arts Forum, invites scholarly paper proposals for its fifteenth anniversary meeting, to be held at the Center for Cartoon Studies in White River Junction, Vermont, from Thursday, September 29, through Saturday, October 1, 2011.

The deadline to submit proposals is March 18, 2011. (Scroll down for proposal guidelines and submission information.)

ICAF welcomes original proposals from diverse disciplines and theoretical perspectives on any aspect of comics or cartooning, particularly studies that reflect an international perspective. Studies of aesthetics, production, distribution, reception, and social, ideological, and historical significance are all equally welcome, as are studies that address larger theoretical issues linked to comics or cartooning, for example in image/text studies or new media theory. Proposals that focus on bandes dessinées or manga are encouraged.

In recognition of the fifteenth meeting of ICAF, we are hoping to schedule a special panel on larger issues pertaining to the teaching and study of comics. We are therefore particularly interested in papers that address the study of comics as an academic discipline by itself and within other disciplines. This can be focused either in terms of pedagogy (the challenges and pitfalls of how we bring the study of comics into the classroom) or scholarship (the opportunities for and liabilities of doing research in comics in the modern academy, and the concerns about methodology). There will also be a special panel on the representation of History and Alternative Histories in Comics.

The Center for Cartoon Studies <http://www.cartoonstudies.org> is served by the Lebanon NH Municipal Airport. Coach service is also available through Dartmouth Coach from New York City and Logan International Airport in Boston MA.

PROPOSAL GUIDELINES: For its refereed presentations, ICAF prefers argumentative, thesis-driven papers that are clearly linked to larger critical, artistic, or cultural issues; we strive to avoid presentations that are merely summative or survey-like in character. We can accept only original papers that have not been presented or accepted for publication elsewhere. Presenters should assume an audience versed in comics and the fundamentals of comics studies. Where possible, papers should be illustrated by relevant images. Presentations must be timed to finish within the strict limit of twenty (20) minutes. Proposals should not exceed 300 words.

REVIEW PROCESS: All proposals will be subject to blind review by the ICAF Executive Committee. The final number of papers accepted will depend on the needs of the conference program. Due to high interest in the conference, in recent years ICAF has typically been able to accept only one third to one half of the proposals it has received.

AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT: ICAF's preferred format for the display of images is MS PowerPoint. Regretfully, we cannot accommodate non-digital media such as transparencies, slides, or VHS tapes. Presenters should bring their PowerPoint or other electronic files on a USB key.

SEND ABSTRACTS (with complete contact information) by March 18, 2011, to C. W. Marshall, ICAF Academic Program Director, via email at: toph@exchange.ubc.ca

Receipt of all proposals will be acknowledged. Applicants should expect to receive confirmation of acceptance or rejection by April 18, 2011.

Matt Dembicki's Xoc finds publisher

Matt Dembicki reports on his Facebook page, "'Xoc' followers: Looks like the shark book has found a publisher. (Just gotta sign some papers.) It will have about 50 percent new content. I'm excited to get working on this again!"

Matt's been self-publishing individual issues in comic book format.

Zadzooks reviews Spider-Man videogame

Zadzooks: Ultimate Spider-Man: Total Mayhem HD, Risk and Rock Band Reloaded HD
Spidey for 'tweens; Risk makes iPad debut
By Joseph Szadkowski
Washington Times January 20, 2011
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/jan/20/zadzooks-spider-man-total-mayhem-risk-rock-band/

If Cthulhu invades Washington, DC, do I get the day off work?

Cthulu Invades Washington, D.C. Unless LORNA Can Stop Him
By Chris Arrant, Newsarama  21 January 2011
http://www.newsarama.com/comics/lorna-relic-wrangler-comic-interview-110120.html