Portland Comics

02/08-02/22 Frank Reade: Adventures in the Age of Invention

2012-01-26T07:30:00.000-08:00

---PRESS RELEASE----

Book Launch Event:

The Land, Sea, and Air Tour

Frank Reade: Adventures in the Age of Invention

BY PAUL GUINAN AND ANINA BENNETT

Before Jules Verne’s flying machines and H. G. Wells’s spaceships, there was Frank Reade, globe-trotting inventor and original steampunk hero. Starting in the nineteenth century, Frank Reade magazines were the world’s first science fiction periodicals. Now Frank Reade and his progeny are back in a new book: Frank Reade: Adventures in the Age of Invention! To celebrate the launch of this stunningly designed book, authors Paul Guinan and Anina Bennett—of Boilerplate fame—are hosting a series of events that any Reade family member would be proud to attend.

The events will be held on three consecutive Wednesdays in February, at three Portland comic book stores. Each will have a different theme—Land, Sea, and Air—the three realms Frank Reade explores in his electric vehicles. The authors will also display each of the three model vehicles Guinan himself built for the Frank Reade book, which are rarely shown in public. Attendees will have the chance to talk with the authors and get books signed, as well as meet local steampunks (Land), pirates (Sea), and superheroes (Air).

The Frank Reade Land, Sea, and Air Tour

When: Feb. 8, 6-9 pm: LAND

Location: Floating World Comics

400 NW Couch St., Portland, OR 97209

Guests: Rose City Steampunks, Local 23

Vehicle: Frank Reade Jr.’s Valiant, an electric battle-wagon

When: Feb. 15, 6-9 pm: SEA

Location: Bridge City Comics

3725 N Mississippi Ave., Portland, OR 97227

Guests: PDXYAR

Vehicle: Frank Reade Sr. & Jr.’s Centennial, an electric ironclad gunboat

Bonus: A mock battle between pirates and author Paul Guinan as Frank Reade Jr.!

Feb. 22, 7-10 pm: AIR

When: Feb. 22, 7-10 pm: AIR

Location: Things From Another World

4133 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland, OR 97214

Guests: Alter Egos Society

Vehicle: “Wild” Kate Reade’s Aegis, a helicopter airship

BONUS: There’s a prize at the grand finale event! The first ten attendees who make it to all three events and get their “Land, Sea, and Air” passports stamped will receive a print of an original Frank Reade engraving signed by both authors, plus custom-stamped Frank Reade chocolate “gold coins” (which will also be available for purchase).

Publishers Weekly predicts Frank Reade will “satisfy even the hardest to please of readers” and praises it as “a stunning multimedia confection of the highest order that creates a detailed and delightful world.”

About the Authors:

Paul Guinan and Anina Bennett have been collaborating as storytellers since 1989, on works such as their Eisner Award–nominated science fiction comic book series Heartbreakers and their critically acclaimed book Boilerplate: History's Mechanical Marvel. They live in Portland, Oregon.

For more information about Frank Reade, visit www.FrankReade.com or join the Facebook group:

By Paul Guinan and Anina Bennett

Abrams Image / February 2012

U.S. $24.95 / Can. $27.95

Hardcover, 176 pages / 8½" x 11"

100 full-color and 200 black-and-white illustrations

02/09 Frank Santoro’s Comic Book Layout Workshop @ FWC

2012-01-26T07:13:00.000-08:00

-- Press Release ---

Why do some comics read easier than others? Is it the story, the cartooning or the page design? Frank Santoro will demonstrate how some cartoonists such as Hal Foster and Herge used visual harmonies and structures in their page designs much like classical oil painters. Discover the similarities between visual and musical harmonies and how some of the great cartoonists used dynamic symmetry like a map to organize their stories.

Also, after the talk, Frank will lead an informal FREE workshop focusing on formats available for the comic book maker in 2012. Everyone is welcome. Come see what Frank Santoro’s Correspondence Course is all about – or come on down just to argue with Frank – maybe even buy a book and get it signed.

LISTING INFORMATION:
WHO: Frank Santoro
WHAT: Frank Santoro’s Comic Book Layout Workshop
WHEN: Thursday Feb. 9th, 6-8pm

WHERE: Floating World Comics, 400 NW Couch St.

Frank Santoro is the artist behind the acclaimed comic books Storeyville and Cold Heat. His work has also appeared in Kramers Ergot. He has exhibited his drawings and paintings internationally. Based in Pittsburgh, Santoro is well known for his visionary colors and evocative sense of place.

http://franksantoro.tumblr.com/

http://www.tcj.com/layout-workbook/

02/02 Emi Lenox, Natalie Nourigat @ FWC

2012-01-20T08:49:00.001-08:00

--press release

This February, Floating World is proud to exhibit original artwork by local artists, Emi Lenox and Natalie Nourigat. Each artist will display pages from their two new books, EmiTown Vol. 2 and Between Gears, which will be released later in the month by Image Comics.

Emi and Natalie have each created a brand new archival print which will also be available at the show.

LISTING INFORMATION:

WHO: Emi Lenox, Natalie Nourigat
WHAT: Art exhibit and print release
WHEN: Thursday Feb. 2nd, 6-10pm
WHERE: Floating World Comics, 400 NW Couch St.

Art on display until Feb. 29

BIO INFORMATION:

Based out of Portland, Oregon, Emi Lenox is a comic creator widely known for EmiTown which was released into a printed collection by Image in Dec. ’10. She has also had work in Mike Allred’s Madman and Jeff Lemire’s Sweet Tooth. She has just finished working on the second collection of EmiTown. Basically, she’s just a nutty girl with a case of the munchies and a deep fond love for comics, cats, bassets, and iPods.

http://emitown.blogspot.com/

Natalie ‘Tally’ Nourigat, is a sequential artist living in Portland, Oregon. Natalie graduated from the University of Oregon’s Clark Honors College in 2010. Her first book, Between Gears, is about to be published by Image Comics. She is currently working on a new graphic novel and a children’s book series. She appeared in Image Comics’ anthology ‘This Is A Souvenir’ in 2009 and is a member of Periscope Studios.

http://natalienourigat.com/

Portland Questions 48: Conley Smith

2012-01-14T16:30:00.000-08:00

I met Conley Smith at the Portland Comic Book show. She is an aspiring illustrator here in Portland and she was displaying her and Dan Tabayoyon's new comic, Lady Red. She is a member of the weekly sketch group over at Sketchery. She also made an appearance as a guest artist at this year's Women of Wonder Day.

This is her portfolio and you can checkout her blog ConleysDoodles

Doug Dorr: What projects are you working on currently?

Conley Smith: I'm currently getting ready to begin working on a short comic project with Terry Blas, which should be a lot of fun! Besides that, just working on a couple little projects for myself, to keep busy.

DD: What is your artistic Process?

I tend to draw inspiration from my own life experiences, as well as things that I enjoy! I prefer to draw and ink things on paper, then scan them and color in Photoshop. However I am in a tiny apartment, and recently had to get rid of both my art desk and my scanner, so I've been doing a lot more things completely in Photoshop lately. I've been trying to do some watercolors lately too. It's a lot of fun, but I miss ctrl+z a little bit, haha.

DD: Illustrating, it is said is essentially storytelling. Have you thought of writing a story?

Several years ago I used to write stories all the time. These days though I've been much more focused on drawing... I'm pretty out of practice at writing! Hence working with other writers (Terry, Dan Tabayoyon.) I'm definitely trying to get back into it, though.

DD: What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?

As far as comics that are currently coming out, I've really been loving Batwoman. On a completely different note, I think one of my favorite things I read this last year was Asterios Polyp. Upon finishing reading it, I immediately turned to the beginning and read it again, and have re-read it a few times since.

What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?

It really depends what they are into! When I started getting back into comics though, one of the first things I started reading was Fables.

What skill would you like to learn?

I would love to learn to animate. Many of my biggest influences are animated films, and I would love to work in that industry. Besides that, I'm really trying to get better at inking. I have basically the world's shakiest hands... it's getting better though.

What's the most important thing you've learned?

To draw constantly, and continue to strive for improvement! I know I still have a lot to learn, and am doing my best to get there.

Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?

Comic collection? Or just general nerd-ery? I have both. Too many collections, really! We have two large bookshelves in our tiny apartment that are completely full with comics, art books, collectibles and the like, and a giant list of prints still in need of framing. Comics-wise, I covet my Hellboy library editions. General stuff-wise, at Comic Con this year we got one of the Rusty Venture lunchboxes, and had it signed by the show's creators... it's awesome. And for art, a sketch of Bigby and Snow that I got from James Jean in 2007.

What is your favorite genre of Comics?

I enjoy some of pretty much anything, but lately I've been really back into superhero comics. The first comics I read were old Spiderman and X-men comics when I was in elementary school. However, watching Batman the Animated Series when I was younger has probably had the biggest influence on my current comic reading tendencies. Besides superhero comics, I enjoy autobiographical comics, some horror comics... really I'll try reading just about anything.

Do you have an Ipad? If so what do use it for the most.

Ha! I wish! Someday.

What is your favorite TV show/ movie?

My favorite TV show is definitely The Venture Bros. Its still at least a year though until the next season! Bummer! I also recently watched all of Mad Men on Netflix, which was great. As far as movies, my favorite movie of all time is Jurassic Park.

How does the Portland comics culture shape your work?

It seems like comic creators are everywhere in Portland! Having so many awesome creative people around, and going to events such as Stumptown, etc. is always hugely motivational in inspiring me to try and do new and better work.

What was your first comic convention?

The first I attended was San Diego Comic Con in 2007. So overwhelming! I went again this year, and fun as it was, that really tires you out. As far as actually having a table, my first was Stumptown of this last year. I also just shared a table at the Portland Comic Book Show with Emi Lenox! Lots of fun.

What is your favorite part of comic conventions?

Probably meeting different artists who I really admire. It's always great to talk to them, and I've met some ridiculously nice people at conventions!

If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

I would really love to work in animation some day, perhaps doing story boards or concept art. Making video games would be fun too! Basically... something art related.

Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

When I feel like getting a little fancy, I love Nostrana, which is an easy walking distance from my apartment. The butterscotch budino is AMAZING.

How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?

I've been here for a little over five years now. I originally moved here to go to college, ended up not being able to pay for it at the time, but stayed anyway due to loving the city, and meeting so many great people.

What is your favorite part of Portland?

I grew up in several much smaller towns, so I love the variety of things to do. Most of all, I love the variety of FOOD. There are so many great restaurants! I could probably never go back to a small town for that reason alone.

Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

I'm not sure of any Portland places I'd really like to go to but haven't yet. In Oregon, I've never been to the Newport Aquarium, and hope to change that soon.

Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? Is there another character from popular culture you would like illustrate, for example, Sookie Stackhouse, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?

I enjoy drawing fanart! I think it would be really fun to do a Star Wars comic aimed a little more at younger girls. I also enjoyed the older "Gotham Girls" shorts and comics that were spun off of Batman the Animated Series, and would love to do something like that.

02/12 Walking Dead is back at the Hollywood Theater

2012-01-14T14:54:00.000-08:00

Starting again on Sunday, February 12th at 9:00pm. Doors at 8:30pm

Sunday nights, Things From Another World is sponsoring free screenings of AMC’s The Walking Dead Season 2 at the Hollywood Theatre, hosted by local luminaries Cort & Fatboy.

Doors open at 8:00pm, and the show starts at 9:00pm. This is a 21+ event, and admission is FREE.

Door prizes at the premiere provided by Skybound, the Image Comics imprint behind The Walking Dead!

1/6 Screening of WARREN ELLIS: CAPTURED GHOSTS with Q/A @ FWC

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

--Press Release --- From Jason @ Floating World Comics

LISTING INFORMATION:
WHO: Matt Fraction & Kelly Sue DeConnick Q&A after the film
WHAT: Free screening of WARREN ELLIS: CAPTURED GHOSTS
WHEN: Friday Jan. 6th, 7-9pm
WHERE: Floating World Comics, 400 NW Couch St.

Join us(Floating World) and special guests, Matt Fraction and Kelly Sue DeConnick (close friends of Warren who are featured in the film) for an exclusive screening of the new documentary by Patrick Meaney, WARREN ELLIS: CAPTURED GHOSTS. We will have DVD copies of Meaney’s previous film for sale, GRANT MORRISON: TALKING WITH GODS.

The film features the most extensive interview Ellis has ever given, and spans his life, from his first memory watching the moon landing as a child, to his recent cross-media success with the film adaptation of Red. Along the way, Ellis’s acerbic wit and core belief in humanity comes across like never before.

Complimenting Ellis’s own words are interviews with his artistic collaborators, friends and admirers from across all media, including actress Helen Mirren, Director Joss Whedon (Buffy The Vampire Slayer), comedian Patton Oswalt, Adult Film Star Stoya, Musician Claudio Sanchez (of Coheed and Cambria), comics writers Matt Fraction, Kelly Sue DeConnick, and Antony Johnston, and futurist Jamais Cascio. Ellis’s comics collaborators like Marvel Comics CCO Joe Quesada, artists Darick Robertson, Ben Templesmith and Phil Jimenez also provide insight into Ellis’s mind and creative workings. The film features numerous ambient interludes that spotlight Ellis’s prose and writing from both his online columns and his comics.

Warren Ellis sees the future. He is a comic book writer and cyberpunk philosopher living on the edge of tomorrow. He speaks to a cult audience of artists, journalists, scientists and fans who hail him as INTERNET JESUS.
The film was shot over the course of 2010 and 2011 in England, San Diego and New York. It was completed in Fall 2011 and will premiere at the Napa Valley Film Festival in November 2011, before a worldwide theatrical and special engagement run. DVD release will follow in February 2011.
The film was directed by Patrick Meaney, shot by Jordan Rennert, and produced by Respect Films and Sequart, as a followup to the critically acclaimed Grant Morrison: Talking With Gods.

Contact: Jason Leivian,

Tel.: 503-241-0227

Email: jason@floatingworldcomics.com

Skyrim in real life

2011-12-13T17:26:00.001-08:00

12/18 Publication Fair

2011-12-13T07:16:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Publication Fair returns to the The Cleaners at Ace Hotel (SW Stark & 10th) on Sunday, December 18, 2011.
Presented by Publication Studio and the Ace Hotel, from 11am until 7pm local publishers, printers, and producers will be on hand with all of their printed matter for sale.
Participants include:
Pinball Publishing
Reading Frenzy
Nudity in Groups
Cumbersome Multiples
Veneer Magazine
Octopus Books
Peaches and Bats/Airfoil/c_L/Abandoned Bike
IPRC
Poor Claudia
Dill Pickle Club
Monograph Bookwerks
Cooley Gallery
Ampersand
Plazm
Gobshite Quarterly
Orlo and the Bear Deluxe
Eberhardt Press
Division Leap
Publication Studio
And more!
Entrance if free. For more information visit the Publication Studio.

My Precious

2011-12-08T17:11:00.001-08:00

12/10 Steve Duin and Shannon Wheeler @ I like Comics

2011-12-05T09:10:00.001-08:00

Pulitzer Prize winning writer Steve Duin and acclaimed artist/illustrator Shannon Wheeler (Too Much Coffee Man, Daddy Won't Wake Up)

A book signing for their collaborative effort "Oil & Water"
a graphic novel from Fantagraphics Press

Saturday December 10th
1PM through 4PM

Location:
I Like Comics
2101 E. 4th Plain Blvd
Vancouver, WA 98661

12/03 - Read Local, Buy Local @ Hollywood Library

2011-12-02T06:41:00.001-08:00

You can get you copy of Babymouse or (Squish) from Matthew Holm

Read Local, Buy Local

Join us for an afternoon of book selling, signing and socializing with your favorite local authors. Get a jump on your holiday shopping while supporting your community. Refreshments will be served and free gift wrapping will be provided by SCRAP.

Saturday, December 3, 1-4 p.m.

Hollywood Library

Portland Questions 47: Nico Hitori De

2011-12-01T15:30:00.000-08:00

Nicolas Hitori de has been a freelance illustrator since 2002, trained infine arts workshops in the city of Paris, following parallel courses inanimation studios, he published his first drawings and cartoons in severalfanzines and participated in numerous exhibitions and festivals since 1989.

His recent work has illustrated websites, apparel,advertisements, flyers and newspapers for children. Participating in variousanimated shorts, he worked for several years with the magazine release fromDisney-Hachette Witch. He isdone several illustrations for CD covers and posters for a band called Virgin Princesse. He is currentlyworking with Jamie S. Rich and Joelle Jones on Spell Checkers.

Currently he is over in Portland on an extend stay workon Spell Checkers. He is teachingcomics in and was asked to be anartist-in-residence for years 2012-13.

Catch up with him on his blog or on twitter

Doug Dorr:   What projects are you working on currently?
Right now, I'm working on the third volume of Spell Checkers, and sometimes I still draw commissioned artwork for Disney. I’m also involved in a musical stage project for a friend from France’s. They are called Virgin Princesse. We plan to project animation during the play, and I’m really excited about it.

DD:   What is your artistic Process?
Kind of unusual. My work is both traditional and digital. I do thumbnails from Jamie’s script and then pencils on paperm but I’m inking and toning on computer. I’m really interested in digital drawing and I’ll probably switch to it sooner or later.

DD:   Illustrating, it is said to be essentially storytelling. Have you thought of writing a story?
I started writing a semi-autobio comic before working with Jamie and Joëlle. It's a very personal project about when I came back from Paris to my hometown after a break-up. I hope to finish writing it and start drawing pages soon. Maybe after volume 3.

DD:   How did you become involved with Witch magazine?
A friend saw my work at a comic convention and it happened that he sometimes wrote articles for Disney magazines in France. He recommended me to them, and when I g0t my first commission, I couldn't believed I was working for Disney. It’s been more than 10 years now that I’ve I worked for them, and it’s still great.

DD:   I understand you had an internship at Disney Accademia in Milan, how did you change after the experience?
I learned a lot of drawing techniques there and working every day with such talented comics artists was really inspiring. They asked me to stay after, but that would have meant changing my art style to the Disney house style. It was a real tough decision to make but I turned it down. I prefer being independent.

DD:   What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?
I'm a big fan of Vanyda's The Building Opposite. She’s a friend and a great inspiration for me. In terms of Portland artists, I can’t wait for Emi Lenox’s Emitown 2 and Natalie Nourigat’s first graphic novel Between Gears. Image is publishing both of them in February, 2012.

DD:   What skill would you like to learn?
Painting, especially digitally. I'm so bad at it. I also wish I could draw faster. Drawing all of the clothes and background details takes me many, many hours…

DD:   What's the most important thing you've learned?
I think skill is not the most important in comics. I’m more impressed by storytelling and personal art styles that technical demonstration. I’m also amazed by the indie comics scene in the US. Publishers like Oni are way more curious and open minded than French ones.

DD:   Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?
I'm not really into collecting, but my favorite items are probably Gorillaz's Rise of the Ogre, Atsushi Okubo’s Soul Eater Soul Art, and the Furi-Kuri concept design book. I’m also a proud owner of some Joëlle Jones original artwork.

DD:   What is your favorite TV show/ movie?
There are too many of them! I love all kind of movies, especially old musicals, ‘70s Italian horror, arthouse, animation... I'm also a huge fan of John Hughes but maybe my all time favorite is Wong Kar-Wai's Chungking Express. I’m not really into TV show but I can watch Twin Peaks, Spaced, and Freaks & Geeks anytime.

DD:   Has the Portland comics culture shaped your work?

Totally. First in the way I work : being here makes everything easier, especially in terms of working with Jamie S. Rich and Joëlle Jones. As I set the book in Portland, it really helps to feel the mood of the city. Meeting local artists is also a great inspiration.

DD:   What was your first comic convention?
I was at Stumptown in 2010. I met a lot of my favorite comics artists all on the same day and I have great memories about it. I also was in San Diego and New-York the same year and it was totally crazy. It was awesome to sign books and talk with readers.

DD:   If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?
I'm really into photography. I actually took some classes about it when I was younger but I chose comics instead. I sometimes still hang out with my camera, but comics take up too much time. Same with music, my guitar is kinda dusty now…

DD:   Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

It's been only two months since I arrived here so I usually follow my friends. Maybe you can recommend me some?

DD: What is your favorite part of Portland?
I actually love the city. I enjoyed being in NE and hanging out downtown and Old Town. It’s probably because it’s the first part of the city I saw, but I have a special affection for NW sights.

DD: Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?
I already visited Mount Hood this last Sunday, and it was gorgeous. I may sound a little geeky but I went to Astoria this week because I wanted see the Goonies sets. I’d love to see the coast now.

DD: Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media that you haven't yet done? Is there a character from popular culture you would like illustrate, for example, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?
I already did two drawings for Jim Henson's Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. I'd love to work on something with Jamie Hewlett. Right now, I'm trying to explore more sketchy inking like Jim Mahfood and experiencing things like speed painting. I'm also interested in the Superflat artistic movement.

12/03 Cumbersome Multiples Studio Sale

2011-11-30T20:59:00.001-08:00

reminder from: Daniel Duford

"A reminder to stop by the CUMBERSOME MULTIPLES STUDIO SALE this Saturday.

Tracy's been working non-stop printing, trimming and packing. I'll have prints and books. Kevin Tienhaara will have pickled and preserved deliciousness.

Hope to see you there!

Daniel

When: Saturday December 3, 10AM -4PM
Where: 3144 NE Seventh Avenue, Portland
Just two blocks south of Fremont next to Irving Park tennis court.

Here's a tiny preview:

Earlier in the year, Tracy and I found these old blocks in while in London. Tracy's been working those and some newly acquired old wooden type."

12/03 Andy Owens @ I LIKE COMICS

2011-11-29T22:11:00.001-08:00

I LIKE COMICS
Invites you to meet:

ANDY OWENS
Artist for Buffy The Vampire Slayer (Season 8), Nightwing, Batman Confidential, Superman, Trinity and more!!

1PM – 3PM
December 3rd, 2011

I Like Comics
2101 E. 4th Plain Blvd.
Vancouver, WA
360-852-8890

2101 E 4th Plain Blvd,98661

12/14 Brandon Seifert signing @ tfaw

2011-11-20T23:01:00.001-08:00

--- Press Release---
THE WITCH DOCTOR IS IN! TFAW HOSTS SIGNING WITH BRANDON SEIFERT & LUKAS KETNER

What: Witch Doctor TPB Volume 1 Signing With Brandon Seifert and Lukas Ketner
Where: Hollywood TFAW - 4133 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland, OR 97214
When: Wednesday, December 14 from 7-10 pm.

November 16, 2011, Portland OR--It's time for a house call from Witch Doctor! Things From Another World (TFAW) is pleased to announce a signing for the Witch Doctor TPB Volume 1, the first collection from Robert Kirkman's (The Walking Dead) Skybound imprint, with local creators Brandon Seifert and Lukas Ketner. Fans can stop by, meet the creators, and purchase copies of the book from 7 to 10 p.m. December 14 at TFAW's "Hollywood" Portland location, while enjoying complimentary food and beer (21+, with valid ID).

Meet Vincent Morrow, a doctor looking for a vaccine . . . for the apocalypse! In this debut series from Robert Kirkman's Skybound imprint at Image Comics, Dr. Morrow encounters medical horrors that include demonic possession, an infestation of Cuckoo Faeries, an epidemic that's turning people into fish-people, and . . . a magical malpractice hearing?!?

"There are a lot of great horror comics out there today, but Witch Doctor's mixture of horrific gore and smart humor makes it something special," said TFAW Marketing Manager Elisabeth Forsythe. "We're excited to have Brandon and Lukas in the store for this event."

Make sure to stop by the Hollywood TFAW December 14 to pick up your copy of Witch Doctor TPB Volume 1, described by Fangoria magazine as "Loaded with fresh wit and originality" and named "my favorite miniseries of the year" by Ain't It Cool News.

About Things From Another World:
Founded in 1979, Things From Another World is the premier retailer of comic books, toys, collectibles, and pop-culture geek goodness, both in Portland, Oregon and online at http://www.TFAW.com.

Portland Questions 46: Joshua Williamson

2011-11-11T17:45:00.000-08:00

Joshua Williamson writes comics, kids books in Portland OR.     His career as a comics writer kicked off the ground in 2007,
Since then he has been published by DC Comics, Marvel, Oni Press, Image, Desperado, Kick Start and some others soon to be announced.

Some of his all age books are Dear Dracula and Sketch Monsters Book 1.   He has written for Superman/Batman, Justice League, Yo Gabba Gabba and Hulk.    Recently he has written a story for Dark Horse's Savage Sword of Conan and new series video-game adventure Uncharted and sci-fi mystery XenoHolics. Some of his other OGN are John Monster, Mirror, Mirror, Overlook and Endangered

His previous series Necessary Evil was picked up by Cartoon Network as a live-action series and another comic series, Dear Dracula was also recently optioned.

Joshua Williamson is my favorite up and coming writer. He's the future of comics-- you dummies just haven't realized it yet!"- John Layman (Chew)

IGN's 2011 "8 Comic Scribes to put on your radar."

Doug Dorr: What projects are you working on currently?

Joshua Williamson: A lot. XenoHolics, which is a new ongoing series with Image Comics. Sketch Monsters is a new all ages line of graphic novels with ONI Press, and I’m working on Uncharted, based on the Playstation 3 game, a 6 issue mini series for DC Comics, There are a few other things with ONI, and two other Image mini series I can’t talk about yet. I recently had a short story in Dark Horse’s Savage Sword #3 and am working to do another one.

Lots of pitches and outlines as well.

Doug Dorr: What is your artistic Process?

Mostly I work out of extensive notebooks and my laptop. For the most part I come up with ideas and try to get them down on paper first. Eventually I start to type it all up.

Often, because of time and deadlines, I have to skip the notebooks and hit the laptop first. If I had my way I’d hand write out all my dialogue, that always seems to produce the smoothest sounding words.

Doug Dorr: When you are writing, what is your process working with the artist?

Ale Garza

With a lot of the larger publishers I just turn the script in, I don’t talk with the artists as much. With my creator owned work, I try to get them involved as early as possible to brainstorm, go back and forth on story, and gather notes. There’s two things I always ask first: “What do you like to draw?” and “What do you hate to draw?” I want to have an artist be interested and invested in the work, and have a say in its outcome.

Then once I hand over the script I really try to get roughs. I like to do the most nitpicking on the roughs. Really nail down the layouts and the overall packing.

After the artist and I agree on the roughs, I let them ride on the pencils and inks.

I really try to get the artist as involved as possible. If they have any ideas or notes, I don’t want to hear “Oh, I thought of that…” a year or so later. I want them to share now.

Doug Dorr: What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?

That’s a tough question as I read and like a lot… Scalped, American Vampire, Sixth Gun, Criminal, Northlanders, DMZ, Daredevil, Punisher, Thunderbolts, Unwritten, Chew.

I just started reading Locke and Key and love it.

What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?

That would depend on the person. If it was a kid, I would recommend a shorter graphic novel, honestly something like Dear Dracula. But if they were older, teenaged and up I’d say ONI’s Sixth Gun. It’s self contained, there are two trades out, and you don’t have to know years of history to get into it. If they really wanted to get into super hero books, I’d say Batman Year One.

What skill would you like to learn?

I wish I had a better understanding of coloring comics. I went to school for graphic design, but color was always my weakness. I can see something and tell you if I like it or not, but I could never do it myself.

Alejandro Aragon

Non-Comics related I’d love to learn how to cook.

What's the most important thing you've learned?

To be patient and understanding.

To be compassionate and understanding of the creators and editors around me.

Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?

I used to have a HUGE comic collection. Over 80 long boxes full of comics. And that’s not even counting the trades. When I moved from California to Portland I sold my whole collection and cut my trades down to about 1/8th what I had. In some ways it was heart breaking but also liberating. Selling everything helped me move to Portland and transition into a freelance career.

I still have a nice collection of trades and hard covers, I have some art pieces, a really nice green arrow toy and statue collection. It’s like a shrine to Oliver Queen in my office. I have a run of Detective Comics and Batman dating back over 30 years. I still have my green lantern power battery… but the original ink cover to my book, Necessary Evil #1, by Dustin Nguyen is something that I’m very proud to have up in my office.

What is your favorite genre of Comics?

Is Vertigo a genre? How about just “Good comics?” Really, I like books that are with normal people thrown into extraordinary circumstances, with super natural elements. Honestly, I like it all: crime, super heroes, western, horror, romance, action, adventure, whatever. It’s funny I think genre’s can be hard to define in comics because there are some many mixes of things. Crime+horror is a great one.

Do you have an Ipad? If so what do use it for the most.

Whenever I can get it away from my Wife playing words with friends…

For reading comics, emails, do art changes or notes and some thumb nails for cover and page layouts. Play games. But really… probably reading comics.

What is your favorite TV show/ movie?

My favorite movie of all time is “ROCKY.” Favorite TV is a much harder question, but I’ll go with Dexter for now.

How does the Portland comics culture shapes your work?

For the most part just being around so many people working in comics has changed my style, my workload, and the projects I’ve moved forward with. The three biggest advantages to living in Portland for my work has been: Making friends with a lot of very generous creators who give me great advice and help; the closeness to Publishers to talk with, and taking Bendis’ class at PSU last year.

Really having some much great comic energy in the same place has been very helpful in shaping my work.

DD: What was your first comic convention?

I’ve been going to conventions since I was a kid, but my first was San Diego Comic Con when I was thirteen and I’ve been going every year since.

DD: What is your favorite part of comic conventions?

Hanging out with friends that I only see on the road, and meeting with other fans of comics. Not just fans of my work, but people who love comics just as much as I do.

DD: If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

Digging graves… no really probably working in graphic design or as a psychologist. But really I’ve wanted to work in comics since I was very young, and can’t imagine doing anything else. Maybe a film and tv director.

Keith Giffen once said “You act like I had a choice.”

DD: Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

I like to eat at the Bagdad Theater and Pub. Or 5 Guys Burgers. Or Big Burger in Molalla.

Doug Dorr: How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?

I’ve been here for a bit over 3 and half years. We moved in March of 2008. After living in California my whole life I just started to get sick of it and wanted to try something else. My wife and I looked at a lot of cities, but really it was an article from Rick Remender on CBR about the Portland comics community that really made us look at Portland. After I took a quick road trip up here in 2007, we decided to make the move.

Doug Dorr: What is your favorite part of Portland?

The comics community and the weather. There wasn’t much of both in San Diego, so the move here has been awesome. I can’t stand hot weather, so the colder, rainy weather works best for me. Rainy weather is perfect for staying indoors to write.

Doug Dorr: Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

At this point I’ve seen most of what I’ve wanted to check out. But I love going to Mount Hood. It’s a great vacation place.

Doug Dorr: Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? Or write a character from another media, for example, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?

Not really. For the most part I just want to write comics. Occasionally, ideas with writing TV shows come up which might be something I’d like to do. I wouldn’t mind being a show runner and producer to hire other great tv writers to shape my plots into some entertaining boob tube. I have more pop culture sensibilities, so I’d probably look more at TV than anything.

Robotech, Chuck, Castle, Dexter are a few shows/ characters I’d like to take a swing at. Writing Uncharted has been a lot of fun and I would write that book forever if I could.

Portland Questions 45 - Grace Allison

2011-11-05T09:08:00.000-07:00

Grace (Gracifer ) Allison like Captain Kirk, born and raised in Iowa. She graduated from SCAD in 2011, majoring in sequential art. Studied abroad in Japan and France. She has worked on projects for IDW, Dark Horse, and Oni Press.

Doug Dorr: What projects are you working on currently?

I'm currently penciling and inking a one-shot by Justin Zimmerman for Bricker-Down Productions, as well as coloring two projects: Memorial, an new IDW series by Chris Roberson and Rich Ellis, and Johnny Zombie, a webcomic created by Karl Kesel.

DD: What is your artistic Process?

I start at my computer desk, which has a dual monitor set-up. I track down any reference material I need and keep it on one screen while I digitally lay things out on the other. I keep things very loose at this point, and fuss around with it until I feel like I've found the best solution for the page or illustration.   Then, I either finish the piece with digital inking and colors, or I print out my layout on bond paper. Printed layouts get taped under a sheet of Bristol board, and I use my lightbox (which is attached under a glass drafting table) to draw over it.  Illustrating, it is said is essentially storytelling.

DD: Have you  thought of writing a story?

I've actually been writing stories for longer than I've been drawing. I have pages from a few of my personal projects on my website, but I don't prefer to write for my own comics. I'm a perfectionist, and having to worry about every aspect of a comic is exhausting!  

DD: What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?

I've recently been enjoying All Nighter by David Hahn. It's a five issue series about Kit, a 20 year old art student who is struggling with a dark past and starting to take on the responsibilities of adulthood. While the premise obviously applies directly to my life (except for the dark past part), I think anybody could appreciate the compelling story and slick art.  

DD: What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?

I like to start people off with something that is 1.) based off their taste in movies and books, and 2.) relatively short and self-contained. Banana Sunday by Paul Tobin (under the nom de plume Root Nibot) and Colleen Coover tends to be a good choice. It's a funny and well-executed short series about a high school girl trying to fit in at a new school in spite of being charged with the care of three very unique talking monkeys.

DD: What skill would you like to learn?

I'd like to learn to digitally paint. It'd open up a lot of job opportunities in concept design, which is definitely an interest of mine.  

DD: What's the most important thing you've learned?

A strong work ethic is the most important factor in being successful.  

DD: Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're  most proud of?

I don't actively think of it as a collection, but I have a bookshelf stuffed with manga, trade paperbacks, a few pieces of original art, and two boxes of late 90s X-Men issues.

My most precious item is probably a 9x12 original drawing of a fire-breathing stegosaurus by Mark Schultz. Other than being wicked cool, it's special to me because I watched him create it as a demo while I was studying in Tokyo.   

DD: What is your favorite genre of Comics?

My favorite comics mix genres, but I especially enjoy elements of fantasy, romance, and historical fiction.  

DD: Do you have an Ipad? If so what do use it for the most.

Sadly no, but I do have an iPod touch. I use it to check e-mail and play Plants vs. Zombies.  

DD: What is your favorite TV show/ movie?

My favorite show on the air right now is Downton Abbey. It's an exceptionally well-made period drama set in the late Edwardian era, and it has Maggie Smith. That's all I've ever wanted in a TV show.  

DD: How does the Portland comics culture shapes your work?

I'm greatly influenced by the work of the members of Periscope Studio. I interned for them the summer before my senior year of college, and was fortunate enough to be given dozens of useful tutorials and tips, as well as some very honest critiques. They've also helped me find some of my first freelance work, which made it possible for me to start my art career right out of school! .

DD: What was your first comic convention?

My mom took me to Wizard World Chicago when I was about twelve. I met Chris Claremont and Leinil Yu, and very cheekily told them I was going to take their jobs some day.  

DD: What is your favorite part of comic conventions?

Getting a chance to meet people in person! My work can be isolating, so it's great to talk with other creators, fans, or just people with similar nerdy interests face to face.

DD: If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

I would've been extremely happy as a critic or editor. I became a freelancer to spare the world from my rampant criticism.

DD: Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

I really like Paddy's, an Irish bar and grill in downtown Portland. You can watch soccer games while enjoying some delicious food. I recommend the mac n' cheese and, if you're into cocktails, their Lemon Drop.  

DD: How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?

Just three months so far. I decided on Portland after interning with Periscope Studio. It was already in my top three potential places to move after graduation, and after experiencing the supportive network of comic artists, the nerdy and fun-loving culture, and the food carts on 5th Avenue, I knew it was the place for me.  

DD: What is your favorite part of Portland?

Guardian Games. Aside from being a great store, it's also run by people who care about the gaming community and like to organize events for people to get together and play.

DD: Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

I'd love to visit Ashland for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

DD: Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? Is there a character from popular culture you would like illustrate, for example,  Sookie Stackhouse, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?

I always enjoying doing fan art of properties I like… I've been meaning to draw something for the Guild and Avatar: The Last Airbender.

If I could work with another media, though, I'd most like to adapt young adult novels into comics. Specifically, series by Tamora Pierce and Patricia Wrede that have fantasy settings, adventurous storylines, and strong female characters. I think books like this would have a wide appeal and be a step in the right direction regarding the portrayal of women in comics. 

11/21 - Floating World Animation Fest presents DMTV2 at Hollywood Theater

2011-11-04T23:05:00.000-07:00

"FLOATING WORLD COMICS and HOLLYWOOD THEATER present:

DMTV2

DMTV2 is a collection of experimental and psychedelic animation from around the world. The emphasis is on non-commercial, personal work. We seek pure vision. Some of the films push visual noise and glitch to the limit while others reach a peak of ambient degaussed bliss.

Highlights include David O’Reilly’s latest award winning film, The External World, and new films from James Mercer, Jacob Ciocci, Yoshi Sodeoka and Mirai Mizue. This year’s program includes films by comics artists from around the world: Michael DeForge, Jesse McManus, King Terry and Amy Lockhart. We are also proud to collaborate with artists like Alexandra Gorczynski, Duncan Malashock, and local artist Brenna Murphy for the first time.
View the DMTV2 trailer here: http://vimeo.com/31415702
Opening act, Good Night Billygoat, is a live music trio that performs in front of a projected backdrop of gorgeous, handmade, stop motion animation. They will perform their two recent compositions, “Golden Age” and “Sophia” as well as the first 10 minutes of their new film “Lyric”.
Here are some videos that explain/show the process of their work."
http://vimeo.com/18288759
http://vimeo.com/21901679
http://vimeo.com/5774947

11/17 Comics Underground @ Jack London

2011-11-04T23:03:00.000-07:00

November’s Comics Underground Lineup:
• Artist and writer Dylan Meconis is known for Bite Me! and Family Man, two books that take place in ye olden times but also feature vampires and werewolves!
• Artists and pals Ron Chan and Sean Kelley’s webcomic, Roy’s Boys, is about Roy Kwong and Shane Conway, two pals who lead suspiciously similar lives to Mssrs. Chan and Kelley. When they aren’t making Roy’s Boys, Chan and Kelley do other comics and videogame-related work.
• Artist and writer Mike Russell is best known for his comic Sabertooth Vampire, about a saber-toothed vampire who can’t catch a break. He’s also written and drawn Mr. Do & Mr. Don’t, written the Star Wars spoof Jaxxon’s 11, and created decidedly un-family friendly holiday fable Santa’s Little Gimp.
• Ryan Alexander-Tanner teaches kids how to make comics! (Also, you know that picture of Dave on Dave’s Killer Bread? He drew that.) He’ll be bringing some of his students’ best work to show off.

WHAT: Comics Underground, a live comics reading
WHERE: Jack London Bar, 529 SW 4th (located in the basement of the Rialto—21+)
WHEN: Thursday, November 17, 8 pm (venue opens at 5 pm for food and booze)
WHO: Guests include artist and writer Dylan Meconis; artists and writers Ron Chan and Sean Kelley; artist and writer Mike Russell; and artist and comics teacher Ryan Alexander-Tanner
COST: free

11/9 BIG PLANS 5 signing @ FWC

2011-11-04T22:44:00.000-07:00

--Press Release --

WHO: Aron Nels Steinke
WHAT: BIG PLANS 5 book release and signing
WHEN: Wednesday Nov. 9th, 6-8pm
WHERE: Floating World Comics, 400 NW Couch St.

"Join us on Wednesday, November 9th for a special book release and signing with local artist/author, Aron Nels Steinke. We will be celebrating the release of the latest issue of Big Plans. Big Plans 5 is an autobiographical comic about a mall shooting, ageism, employment, fighting traffic, and alcohol dependence.

Aron Nels Steinke has been self-publishing comics since 2006 when he received a grant from the Xeric Foundation. Since then he’s published five issues of his autobiographical comic Big Plans. He’s also had two children’s books published along with his graphic novel, Neptune, which was co-published by Sparkplug Comic Books and Tugboat Press. His work can also be seen in the Portland-based Papercutter Anthology. He lives in SE Portland with his wife."

Sabertooth Vampire by Mike Russell

2011-11-04T06:37:00.000-07:00

I am a big fan of art-nouveaux. I then saw this Sabertooth Vampire fan art by from Sara Machajewski (@sandpuppeteer on Twitter). She is about to launch her own webcomic, "Stark City Limits."

Check out the other fan art at CulturePulp

11/12 Swashbuckler's Ball @ Melody Ballroom

2011-11-01T15:44:00.000-07:00

The Swashbuckler's Ball returns for its second year! This year's event will be a benefit for the Oregon Humane Society. Save the date: Saturday, November 12 2011 at the Melody Ballroom in Portland, Oregon.

Date: Saturday, November 12 at 7:00pm - November 13 at 1:00am

Location: The Melody Ballroom

615 SE Alder Street

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW AT BROWNPAPERTICKETS.COM!
Featuring...

The Pirates Charles
Chervona
Bilgerats & Pyrettes
The Chancers
... plus more TBA!

For this year's event, we're excited to introduce a completely revamped 'Belowdecks Bar', which will serve as a showcase for the sultry performers of Critical Hit Burlesque as they present "Pirates of the High Tease".

Purchase your tickets in advance and save! Advance single tickets are available for $15. Or, you can choose from one of our glorious VIP ticket packages...

~ Preferred Mooring Slip ~
Stake your claim in the premiere spot in the Ball to see and be seen! You and your crew will have a reserved table with perfect access to the main stage, dancing, grub & grog!

Includes:
- 8 tickets to The Swashbuckler's Ball.
- A reserved table on the main ballroom floor.
- 16 food & drink tickets.
- 16 raffle tickets.

~ Belowdecks Berth ~
For those scallywags seeking a quieter and more intimate experience. You and your mates will have a reserved table in the Belowdecks Bar, with an Admiral's view of the sultry performers from Critical Hit Burlesque.

Includes:
- 4 tickets to The Swashbuckler's Ball.
- A reserved table in the downstairs 'Belowdecks Bar'.
- 8 food & drink tickets
- 8 raffle tickets

If you are traveling to Portland from out of town, be sure check out these gloriously discounted accommodations, courtesy of our mates at the Jupiter Hotel!
https://reservations.ihotelier.com/crs/g_reservation.cfm?groupID=659168&hotelID=5753

All proceeds from The Swashbuckler's Ball admission and raffle sales will go to benefit the Oregon Humane Society.

11/12 Alter Ego Society Costumed Fundraiser

2011-11-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

--Press Release--

"ALTER EGOS SOCIETY'S COSTUMED FUNDRAISER FOR HOMELESS YOUTH RETURNS FOR FIFTH YEAR

Details: November 12, 2011, 8pm-1am Ella St. Social Club, 714 SW 20th Place
Tickets start at $10

More info at http://www.alteregossociety.com/events/herovillain-ceasefire-2011

The Alter Egos Society’s Hero/Villain Ceasefire is soon to return for a fifth year. On November 12 at 8pm, heroes, villains, sidekicks, minions, and ambivalent masterminds alike will set aside their weaponized superpowers and their moral differences for a single night of drinking, dancing, and superpowered high-fives. Our annual Ceasefire event is half party, half charity fundraiser for our favorite non-profit group, p:ear.

At this year’s Hero/Villain Ceasefire event you’ll be serenaded by nerdy and saucy sister act The Doubleclicks, and the autonomous android duo Robot Uprise will bring the dance tunes. Don your best spandex and tights for the chance to win one of several Costume Contest categories, or toughen up your trigger finger for a few rounds of appropriately themed classic console games provided by Ground Kontrol. And pick up a string of raffle tickets while you’re there... our raffle prizes often exceed $100 retail value per prize, and contain goodies like comic books, board games, and gift certificates. Full bar and food menu provided by our hosts Ella St. Social Club.

If you plan on attending the Ceasefire, we request that you attend costumed as a superhero or super villain of your own creation. It’s okay if you don’t have a solid origin story or your mask is a little loose, we won’t judge! But creative costuming is at the core of the Alter Egos Society; after all “wearing tights and capes, having fun for a better world” is our motto! And remember: it’s for the children.

Tickets are available online, and we offer a variety of event packages as incentive to help us raise even more money for p:ear. Admission start at $10 and goes on to include Alter Egos Society tshirts and dvds, sponsor swag, and even a professional photoshoot! You can purchase tickets online at alteregossociety.com/buy-ceasefire-tickets. Proceeds from the evening--including ticket sales, raffle entries, DVDs of our original short film, Archives of the Fantastic, and more--will be donated to the Alter Egos Society’s favorite organization, p:ear.

The Alter Egos Society Hero/Villain Ceasefire is limited to ages 21+ due to the nature of the event.

p:ear builds positive relationships with homeless and transitional youth, ages 15 to 24, through education, art and recreation to affirm personal worth and create more meaningful and healthier lives. Each year their programs serve almost 900 homeless and transitional young people. The Alter Egos Society has been proud to make regular donations to their cause, as it’s the best way we can think of to help our community and strengthen our future.

The Alter Egos Society is on a mission to explore the various mythos of superhero genres through costume making, role playing, film making and other forms of storytelling. The Alter Egos Society is also dedicated to having fun... which it believes does not have to exclude helping others or giving back to the community. In no way does the Alter Egos Society condone donning costumes to engage in anonymous vigilante activities. To learn more please visit www.alteregossociety.com."

11/18 Make it sew - Captain Picard Day!! @ FWC

2011-11-01T15:21:00.000-07:00

--Press Release --
"An art contest to honor the greatest captain to ever command the Enterprise... Jean Luc Picard!

View the inspiration here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JiKwAS1qaCk

Here is the idea... a bunch of people gather at Floating World Comics with some awesome Captain Picard themed art that they made. Captain Picard paintings. Captain Picard scultpures. Captain Picard interpretive dances. Then we stand around saying holy crap, this is great, what a wonderful world I live in that there is this much Captain Picard themed art. Then some prizes are awarded:

First Prize: $75 gift certificate to Floating World Comics, $25 gift certificate to Guardian Games, $10 gift certificate to Ground Kontrol
Second Prize: $50 gift certificate to Floating World Comics, $15 gift certificate to Guardian Games
Third Prize: $25 gift certificate to Floating World Comics, $10 gift certificate to Guardian Games
As well as four honorable mentions each receiving a comics prize pack.

Afterwards, the winners will be invited to have their works of art put on display (and if they want, sale) at Floating World Comics.

Captain Picard Day! November 18th at Floating World Comics! 6p doors, 730p judging! Make it so!"

BETRAYAL OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

2011-11-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

From Declan Shalvey

"Next week #1 of BETRAYAL OF THE PLANET OF THE APES comes out from BOOM! Studios. It's written by Corinna Sara Bechko and Gabriel Hardman, illustrated by Gabe, with colours by (blog regular) Jordie Bellaire. I've seen Jordie work on all the pages and can honestly say it looks fantastic. Can't wait for everyone to see it. Make sure you get a copy!

Also, I'm doing the alternate covers for issues 2-4. The above image is the variant cover for #2, by myself and Jordie."

Aquaman's freak, the freak out

2011-10-24T10:36:00.000-07:00

I was set home on Saturday morning with my boys. We saw the end of Young Justice. Then came on a Brave and the Bold. We have watched that before fun Batman stories. This one featured Captain Atom and the Justice League. Captain Atom acted like Booster Gold of the 90’s. Blah, Blah, Blah, things happened, Captain Atom acted like jerk. Then he lost his powers.

But don’t worry cape crusaders!!! Aquaman turns things around with….a full-blown musical number he calls "Aquaman's Rousing Song of Heroism". Leaving my family slightly stunned and on edge. I would have really preferred Batman hitting Captain Atom in the face.

The Doctor’s Eleven by Magmakensuke

2011-10-24T08:27:00.000-07:00

Dr Who

10/30 - Wonder Woman Day

2011-10-23T10:22:00.000-07:00

Natalie Nourigat

Wonder Woman Day approaches. This is an amazing event where artwork from around the world is gathered together at Excalibur Comics. It is stunning to see the artwork cover every surface of your Local Comic Shop (LCS). This is occurring in NJ and Texas as well.(check the website for info)

This year Justin Zimmerman will be filming the whole thing. See related kickstarter.

Come meet the artists:

Kelly Sue Deconnick (12-6)

Joelle Jones (12-6)

Matt Grigsby (12-6)

Terry Blas (12-6)

Conley Smith (12-6)

Ron Chan (3-6)

Cat Farris (3-6)

Patric Reynolds (3-6)

STEVE DORRIS (1-6, on-site caricatures of YOU as a super-hero!)

Location: Excalibur Comics, 2444 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, Oregon

Date: Sunday, October 30, 2011 - noon-6pm, FREE

"In October 2006-2010, five annual Wonder Woman Day events raised over $110,000 for Domestic Violence programs in Portland, Oregon and Flemington, NJ. The five-year combination of auctions of over 1,100 original art pieces, plus collectibles, autograph signings, and photo opportunities garnered spectacular turnouts and four Portland Mayoral Proclamations!"

"This year, the event will take on a new name and an expanded mission! On October 30, 2011, the new Women of Wonder Day - again as a part of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month - will take place, returning to Excalibur Books in Portland, Oregon, and Comic Fusion in Flemington, New Jersey, as well as at Heroes and Fantasies in San Antonio, Texas!"

"This year's contributions for auction include not only artwork featuring heroines from the world of comics - Wonder Woman, She-Hulk, Storm, Michonne from Walking Dead, Leetah from ElfQuest - but also from the world of media as well, including Lisbeth Salander, Buffy the Vampire Slayer ,

Hermione Granger, and others! Plus, TV series such as Glee, Nikita, Big Bang Theory, Castle, and others have donated special items as well! And the all-ages events will include artists and writers signing autographs at each event, as well as costumed characters with whom you can take photos! And in Portland, white-hot writer Brian Michael Bendis is auctioning off a role in one of his upcoming comics! "

The website is WomenOfWonderDay.com

Brian Michael Bendis - Dan Parent - David Lloyd - Gilbert Hernandez - Nicola Scott - Wendy Pini - Yldiray Cinar - David Mack - Ethan Van Sciver - Jamal Igle - Katie Cook - Michael Golden - Neil Vokes - Terry Moore - Ben Dunn - Billy Tucci - Bob Layton - Charlie Adlard - Don Kramer - Doug Mahnke - Humberto Ramos - Jeff Moy - Joe Benitez - Phil Hester - Scott McDaniel - Stephane Roux - the cast of GLEE - the cast of BIG BANG THEORY - the cast of CHUCK - the cast of NIKITA - the cast of CASTLE - Patton Oswalt - Robin Williams - Rick Riordan - Lynda Carter - and many, many more!

11/12 Valve From Left 4 Dead Signing @ TFAW

2011-10-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

-- Press Release --
Valve Presents Signing: Comics From Left 4 Dead & More

Date: Saturday, November 12 · 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Hollywood Things From Another World
4133 NE Sandy Blvd.
Portland, Oregon

Things From Another World in Portland welcomes creators from video game giant Valve Games November 12 from 7-10 p.m. Join Michael Avon Oeming (Powers), Andrea Wicklund, Ted Kosmatka, and Bay Raitt as they debut Valve Presents: The Sacrifice and Other Steam-Powered Stories from Dark Horse Comics, and purchase your copy before the official release date of November 16.

Not only will you enjoy complimentary food and beer (with valid ID), but also FREE in-store console and PC gaming courtesy of Ground Kontrol, Old Town Computers, and Valve. You might even win an original piece of Oeming's artwork from the book!

For 15 years, Valve has defined the cutting edge of video games. Now Valve joins Dark Horse Comics to bring three critically acclaimed, fan-favorite series to print in a hardcover collection of comics based on Left 4 Dead, Team Fortress, and Portal. With more than 200 pages of story, Valve Presents: The Sacrifice and Other Steam-Powered Stories is a must-read for fans looking to further explore the games they love, or comics readers interested in dipping their toes into new mythos!

Be sure to pick up your copy of Valve Presents: The Sacrifice and Other Steam-Powered Stories before it's available anywhere else! Meet the creators behind some of the most exciting games--and comics--in the world at TFAW in Portland November 12 from 7-10 p.m., and play games like Left 4 Dead, Team Fortress, and Portal 2

10/20 - Jonathan Case @ Powells

2011-10-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

Date: Thursday, October 20th @ 7:30PM
Location: Powell's Books on Hawthorne
"In Jonathan Case's graphic novel Dear Creature (Tor), a creature named Grue broods deep beneath the waves. He no longer wants to eat lusty beachgoers, no matter how their hormones call to him. A chorus of crabs urges him to reconsider. After all, people are delicious! But this monster has changed. Grue found Shakespeare's plays in cola bottles and, through them, a new heart. Now he yearns to join the world above. "

10/21 - Kelley Sue and Bendis @ Powells Signing

2011-10-18T12:35:00.000-07:00

Date: Friday, October 21, 2011 07:30 PM

Locations: Powell's City of Books on Burnside, Portland, OR

"Fans of the TV show Castle rejoice! For the first time anywhere, Castle's titular hero, Derrick Storm, comes to life in the pages of Brian Michael Bendis and Kelly Sue DeConnick's all-new, wall-to-wall, gritty, witty, globe-hopping, detective-thrill-ride of a graphic novel, Castle: Richard Castle's Deadly Storm (Marvel)."

Questions 44 Jeremy Barlow

2011-10-17T15:03:00.000-07:00

Jeremy Barlow is a writer and freelance editor based in Portland, Oregon. We worked at Dark Horse Comics as an associate editor from 2001 to 2008. He is currently working on Kult, Dethlok and recently wrote a short story for Savage Sword of Conan. He has written several Star Wars and Star Wars the Clone Wars books. Also, Barlow wrote a number of stories under the pseudonym "Thomas Andrews".

Check out some of his online work:

The Stain with Ben Bates -

They will bury you where you stand – Dustin Weaver

Doug Dorr: What projects are you working on currently?

Right now I have several original, creator-owned projects in varying states of progress -- a 1950s horror story; a heady '60s super spy adventure; a 70s sci-fi sex comedy; and a complex, Metabaron-esque science-fiction epic about the end of the universe. And I have Western kicking around in there somewhere, too.

As for paying work, I just finished writing a four-issue horror series called KULT for Dark Horse Comics, and I'm chronicling the continuing adventures of The Sonora Kid, an obscure Western character in Robert E. Howard's Savage Sword anthology. Also for Dark Horse.

DD: What is your artistic Process?

In the past, I'd start with my theme -- find whatever specific statement I wanted to make about whatever character or situation I was dealt -- and build out from there. I'd try to boil it all down to a sentence or two, something like "that which you fear the most becomes the only thing that can save your life," and then I'd take a long walk and figure out how to put my characters through an ordeal that expressed that idea in a way that clearly drove it home.

It's based on the way you're taught to construct a thesis argument in college, which worked very well for me in school, but I'm learning that that method doesn't always make for good storytelling. Having a solid, clearly defined theme is great for building your story's roadmap, which then helps you plan out all of the twists and to know exactly how everything's going to end up (which is important), but it also stifles the spontaneity.

Once a story starts rolling it often takes on a life of its own, pulling in directions you don't anticipate. If that happens when you're nailed down to a theme-specific, detailed outline, you have to yank the reins, which denies yourself -- and your characters -- the freedom to breath and let your world develop organically. Drama needs structure, but structure isn't drama.

I'm only recently coming to grips with this, after so many years of pounding my fist on the desk and declaring theme trumps all! Though, with few exceptions, I find my work to date to be generally unsatisfying and failing in areas where I know I'm strong, so I'm reexamining the way I approach my craft. Taking it apart and putting it back together in a way that better showcases my personality and perspective.

So I don't know what my process entails right now, or where this path is leading me, other than it feels like I'm on a better road now. Theme and structure are still important, but not if they're strangling a story's emotional honesty. And I've been very guilty of doing that.

DD: When you are writing, what is your process working with the artist?

It depends on the project. On most work-for-hire gigs, I have almost zero contact with the artist -- I write my scripts and either see the finished pages as a courtesy just as they're going to the printer, or I see the story for the first time when the book hits the rack. Some editors are good about showing me pages in the thumbnail and pencil stage and letting me have some feedback, and I really appreciate that. It'd be nice to change or move or rewrite dialogue after the pages are done, but with production schedules being as tight as they are, that's an unaffordable luxury.

Lately I've been paired with artists for whom English is not their primary language, and that's presented some interesting challenges. In those instances I have to be careful not to include American vernacular or idioms, and to be very clear and literal in what I'm describing. Which is fine, but my natural writing style is more relaxed and conversational, and I prefer to have a dialogue with my collaborators rather than issue marching orders, and I'll catch myself slipping.

Original, creator-owned material is a whole different ballgame. I'm fortunate to share a studio with my most recent collaborators -- Dustin Weaver and Ben Bates. Dustin and I produced a short western story for Image Comics' Outlaw Territory anthology which was released earlier this year. That started with "let's do a western together" and the process was very organic -- we both came in with ideas and characters and situations we wanted to use, and over the course of several, beer-fueled meetings we crafted our world. From there, I just had to write it all down and make it flow into our allotted page-count. By my usual standards that script was sparse; it was shorthand for a story we both knew by heart.

Ben Bates and I recently did a short story together called "The Stain", which was a script I'd written before I met Ben. Even though the story was already laid-out in type, Ben and I talked extensively about its execution and he brought a lot of himself to it and really elevated the final work.

Ben and I are working together on a few different things right now, using the same method as I described doing with Dustin above, and I much prefer that process to just scripting and hoping for the best.

DD: When you were editing what was your process working with the Creative team?

My experience was almost exclusively with licensed projects. It always came down to finding people I wanted to work with, or finding the earnest young talent out there and helping them break in. I have no patience for big egos, prima donna behavior, or lack of professionalism of any kind, especially not when there are so many gifted writers, artists, and colorists out there straining to get a foothold, so the process often began with me liking someone's published work and then tracking them down either online or at a convention to see if they were interested in doing something.

Once we were rolling, I viewed my role as project manager and creative facilitator. My job was to help the team find their story and then get out of the way and let them do it. I tried to assemble teams of like-minded people whose skills complimented each other, and then encourage an open collaboration. I like to think it worked…most of the time. I had a great relationship with almost everyone I worked with, though, and when I announced that I was leaving editing to write full time a lot of people asked me to reconsider, which was flattering.

DD: What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?

Everyone should read Alejandro Jodorowski and Juan Gimenez's The Saga of the Metabarons; and The White Lama, also by Jodorowski and George Bess. Both of those books changed my life. Locke & Key by Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez is consistently amazing. I also try to put the first issue of Darwyn Cooke's The New Frontier into as many hands as I can. Can you beat The Losers on Dinosaur Island? No. You can't.

DD: What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?

I can't answer that without first getting to know the person and learning what interests them. The New Frontier could thrill one person and leave another cold. Better to understand your audience and adjust accordingly.

DD: What skill would you like to learn?

I really, REALLY wish I could draw. It would make my professional life SO much easier. I love collaborating with other people, but my lack of artistic ability is a barrier to cranking out the stuff I want to do. No, actually, my reluctance to ask others for help is the true barrier. But still, if I could draw, I'd be set.

The funny thing is -- and do you ever notice when someone says something's "funny" like that, it usually isn't? -- my teenage dream was to be a comic book artist. I used to draw all the time, but I was cocky. I thought I was too talented to need any kind of training or to learn the "boring crap" like understanding perspective or how light sources work. I just wanted to draw characters shooting lightning at each other.

When I was nineteen I repeatedly submitted to a company in Salt Lake City that specialized in publishing amateur genre comics -- and I was rejected every time, always on the basis of my sub-par art skills. The editors were gracious, sending me detailed, sometimes panel by panel critiques, and encouraged me to keep sending stuff in. They also praised my writing and suggested I partner with another artist. I took that as a sign and moved my focus to writing. Alas.

DD: What's the most important thing you've learned?

To be honest with who am I and what I have to say, to trust my own process and path, and to not fall into the trap of comparing myself to others.

DD: Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?

A comics collection? No. I have a closet full of short boxes and several shelves piling up with trade paperbacks, but I don't view that as collecting so much as compiling. There are a few comics runs I'm glad I own -- Grimjack, Starman, an almost complete set of Weird Western/Jonah Hex/Hex/ect., but everything else is just the pamphlets I've accumulated over the years that I can't get myself to recycle in case I'll need them for reference someday. I look forward to the day when I can have all of that material on a hard drive.

That said, I do collect obscure Italian Western DVDs, and I'm proud of that library. I don't care much for American westerns, but I LOVE what the Europeans did with the genre in the '60s and '70s, taking a uniquely American mythology and running through their cultural filters and producing something else entirely. Fortunately there are a few small companies out there devoted to recovering, restoring, and releasing these obscure films in short runs on DVD, and my library is up to around 60-70 movies. There's been a fantastic wave of Asian Westerns lately, too. I can't get enough.

DD: What is your favorite genre of Comics?

I like a little bit of everything. As long as its character-driven and shows me a unique world or a fresh perspective, I'm happy. I long to find a bizarre, well-executed, straight-up western, though. None of this genre mash-up, cowboys and zombies stuff you see all the time, but where the horror instead comes from the twisted characters and the surreal settings. Solid westerns are few and far between, though…so I'll have to do it myself.

DD: Do you have an Ipad? If so what do use it for the most.

I do have an iPad, and it's used primarily for reading comics. Digital is the future of comics, and I embrace it wholeheartedly.

DD: What is your favorite TV show/ movie?

I discovered The Prisoner at age fourteen and it changed my life. It's still my absolute favorite, but I also enjoy The Twilight Zone, and I'm loving Justified right now. We'll see if it holds up. There's almost too much good television right now -- right now I have Mad Men, Breaking Bad, Sons of Anarchy, Firefly, and Dr. Who (none of which I've seen) and an anime series based on the manga Monster all queued up for Netflix instant streaming…and I have no idea when I'll find the time to watch them all.

My favorite movie is The Fall.

DD: How does the Portland comics culture shapes your work?

It's exhilarating. Nowhere else in the country can you be surrounded by so many others chasing the same dream, who challenge you to do your best work, but also support you and want to see you succeed. It's no exaggeration to say that joining Periscope Studio saved me -- my first couple of years freelancing were rough, I wasn't used to the isolation, got lost in my own head, and almost had a crisis of faith in whether I was meant to do what I wanted to do. Joining Periscope and surrounding myself with talented, good people who were struggling up the same mountain turned everything around.

DD: What was your first comic convention?

Comic-Con International in San Diego, 1995. A group of friends and I pooled our resources and shared a cheap hotel room, all intent on 'breaking in' into the industry, but not doing much more to achieve those ends than partying all night and raising hell on the convention floor all day. From there it took me about a decade to get serious.

DD: What is your favorite part of comic conventions?

Hanging out with the long-distance friends and colleagues that I otherwise only speak with via email.

It's also always gratifying to meet people who've read and connected with your work. Writing is a solitary exercise and it's easy to lose connection with the outside world, so it's nice to be reminded that you're not just working in a void.

DD: If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

Do you mean if I wasn't writing? If I weren't doing comics, I'd be working in another medium—ideally novels, but probably video games. If I weren't writing professionally, I'd be trying to make it as a musician. Or still working at an auto quick-lube. Or both.

DD: Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

I'm a simple guy, and if my metabolism could handle it I'd eat at Buster's Barbeque five days a week. Beau Thai and Swagat Indian Cuisine on NW 23rd are both pretty great, too.

DD: How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?

My wife and I moved out here from Spokane, Washington in 2001, just after getting married. She had a job offer and I knew I'd eventually be working from a laptop, so the 'where' didn't matter. Once we decided on Portland, I landed a job at Dark Horse Comics and everything unfolded from there.

DD: What is your favorite part of Portland?

So many great things here -- the food, the people, the music, the creative community. I love it all. I hate the wet and dreary winters, though. Hate them. I grew up in a high desert climate with extreme seasons and the sun practically year round, and these constant dark skies kill me. If I could lift all of Portland and move it to Arizona or southern Utah (shaking off the hipsters along the way, of course), it'd be paradise. I'll have to settle for it being just plain awesome instead.

DD: Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

I can't believe I haven't been to Crater Lake yet. I need to do something about that. I'd like to hit Ashland's Shakespeare Festival sometime, too.

DD: Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? Or write a character from another media, for example, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?

I'm much more interested in creating new material than I am in extending someone else's properties. Yes, I understand the irony in making my living doing work-for-hire on existing licenses, but that's the nature of the industry right now. Discovering new music or reading a great book for the first time are wonderful feelings, and that's what I strive to deliver. Too much of contemporary popular culture, with its endless remakes and reboots, is focused on keeping a chokehold on one's childhood, and that baffles me. I loved Star Wars as much anyone, but what's next? My generation is experiencing some seriously stunted development.

That said, I'd write a Mad Max comic in a heartbeat.

10/26 - Star Wars: Crimson Empire Signing with Mike Richardson @ TFAW

2011-10-11T00:38:00.000-07:00

--Press Release--

TFAW HOSTS STAR WARS: CRIMSON EMPIRE SIGNING WITH MIKE RICHARDSON & PAUL GULACY

What: Star Wars: Crimson Empire III-Empire Lost #1 Signing With Mike Richardson, Paul Gulacy, and Randy Stradley
Where: Hollywood TFAW - 4133 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland, OR 97214
When: Wednesday, October 26 from 7- 10 pm.

After more than a decade of anticipation, Star Wars: Crimson Empire returns with the original creative team! October 26, meet writer and Dark Horse President Mike Richardson, artist Paul Gulacy, and editor Randy Stradley at the Hollywood Things From Another World (TFAW) from 7:00-10:00 pm and celebrate the release of Star Wars: Crimson Empire III-Empire Lost #1 from Dark Horse Comics. Complimentary food and beer (with valid ID) will be provided.

The reach of the New Republic is expanding, but the days of fighting for the galaxy have not ended. A threat against Princess Leia and Han Solo's family disrupts usual business on Coruscant--and Luke Skywalker's Jedi training on Yavin 4!

"Star Wars: Crimson Empire has always held a special place in our hearts," said TFAW Marketing Manager Elisabeth Forsythe. "Its return will let fans catch up with a lot of beloved characters!"

Mike Richardson, who founded Dark Horse Comics in 1986, is no stranger to writing comics, having scripted the first Crimson Empire series as well as the original horror graphic novels Cut and The Secret. Eagle Award-winning artist Paul Gulacy has been a mainstay of the comics industry for nearly four decades, lending his talents to The Terminator, Batman, and more. Senior Editor Randy Stradley, in addition to being a founding employee of Dark Horse Comics, has been the editor for the publisher's entire Star Wars line for more than a decade.

Meet the creators, purchase your copy of Star Wars: Crimson Empire III-Empire Lost #1 and get it signed (including the Paul Gulacy variant-cover edition), pose in front of our green screen, and enjoy free beer (21+, with valid ID) and food October 26. Plus, stay tuned for more announcements at Twitter.com/TFAW!

About Things From Another World:
Founded in 1979, Things From Another World is the premier retailer of comic books, toys, collectibles, and pop-culture geek goodness, both in Portland, Oregon and online at http://www.TFAW.com.

About Dark Horse Comics:
Since 1986, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent like Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Gerard Way and comics legend Will Eisner, Dark Horse has developed such successful characters as The Mask, Timecop, and SpyBoy. Additionally, their highly successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Emily the Strange, Tim Burton, Trigun, Serenity and Domo. Today, Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic-book publisher in the U.S. and is recognized as one of the world's leading publishers of licensed comics material.

10/16 - Walking Dead Season 2 Screening and Pre-Party @ TFAW

2011-10-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

What: AMC's The Walking Dead Season 2
Where: Hollywood Theatre - 4122 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland, OR 97214
When: Premieres October 16; doors at 8:30 pm, show starts at 9:00 pm
Admission: Free, 21 and over

Following Cort and Fatboys incredibly popular screenings of The Walking Dead Season 1, they are proud to announce that we are sponsoring free screenings of The Walking Dead Season 2 at the Hollywood Theatre, hosted by local luminaries Cort & Fatboy, beginning October 16.

Need more excitement? Come to our pre-party across the street at the Hollywood TFAW at 4133 NE Sandy Blvd., from 7:00-8:30 pm for snacks, zombie trivia, and prizes from SKYBOUND, the Image Comics imprint behind The Walking Dead.

Even better: the Hollywood Theatre is now serving beer to patrons who are 21 and older, with valid ID. Pre-party and door prizes are courtesy of SKYBOUND! For the full screening schedule, stay tuned to this Facebook page!

10/21 Sabertooth Vampire' & 'La Brujeria' Unleashed @ Bridge City

2011-10-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

--- PRESS RELEASE ----
We're No. 2!
Sabertooth Vampire' & 'La Brujeria'second issues at Bridge City Comics signing party Oct. 21

DATE/TIME: Friday, Oct. 21 from 6 to 9 p.m.
LOCATION: Bridge City Comics (3725 N. Mississippi Ave., Portland, OR)

On Friday, Oct. 21 from 6 to 9 p.m., MIKE RUSSELL ("Sabertooth Vampire") joins forces with AARON DURAN and JAMES SINCLAIR ("La Brujeria") for a blowout Issue 2 release party at Bridge City Comics.

The creators are teaming up to roll out the second issues of their comics -- "The Sabertooth Vampire" and "La Brujeria."

Writer Aaron Duran and artist James Sinclair (a colorist on "Hellboy" and "The Flash"), joined by editor/letterer Jennifer Alvin, will sign Issue #2 of "La Brujeria" -- their supernatural comedy about Althalia, a "gifted" temp who gets a job at a pawn shop that's actually a front for a team of supernatural investigators. In the new issue, Golden Bought Pawn takes a job under Portland's streets as mystical powers rise to shake the city to its foundations. See why Mark L. Miller of Ain't It Cool News said "LA BRUJERIA is definitely something I want to read more of."

Meanwhile, Mike Russell signs "Sabertooth Vampire Unleashed," which collects Season Two of Russell's webcomic about a tiny vampire hampered by his oversized fangs. Will he pull his teeth out of the ground long enough to actually bite someone? Probably not. Over 56 pages, Season Two frequently contradicts itself as Russell dives into the Saber-Vamp's personal life -- his awkward teenage years, his stints as King Arthur and a caveman, his solo dance parties, and his awkward trip around the world after someone mistakes him for a garden gnome. Lauren Davis of io9.com called the comic "an amazing bit of silliness.... Yes, it's a one-note joke, but damn if Russell doesn't milk it for all it's worth."

10/14 - Dear Creature Release Party w/ Jonathan Case!

2011-10-03T10:24:00.000-07:00

Go check out Jonathan Case's new book Dear Creature at Bridge City Comics.
---Press Release ---

Time: Friday, October 14 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Location
Bridge City Comics
3725 N Mississippi Ave
Portland, Oregon

Bridge City Comics is proud to announce our Dear Creature Release Party with Jonathan Case on Friday, October 14, 2011 from 6pm – 9pm! This event is free to the public. Jonathan will be in attendance to sign autographs but offering sketches will be at his discretion.

Join us to celebrate the release of TWO great books from local artist Jonathan Case! Jonathan illustrated Dark Horse Comics critically-acclaimed Green River Killer: A True Detective Story (released August 2011) and we’re also celebrating the release of the book he wrote and illustrated, Dear Creature from Tor Books!

Bridge City Comics will have copies of Dear Creature ($15.99) and Green River Killer: A True Detective Story ($24.99) on hand for purchase during the event, as well as a special, limited event-only print created by Jonathan Case!

About Dear Creature:
Grue has found Shakespeare's plays in cola bottles and, through them, a new heart. Now he yearns to join the world above. When he finds love in the arms of Giulietta, a woman trapped in her own world, he believes his prayers are answered. But people have gone missing and Giulietta's nephew is the prime suspect. With his past catching up to him, Grue must decide if becoming a new man means ignoring the monster he was. Rising from a brine of drive-in pulp and gentle poetry, Dear Creature is the love story you never imagined!

About Green River Killer:
Throughout the 1980s, the highest priority of Seattle-area police was the apprehension of the Green River Killer, the man responsible for the murders of dozens of women. In 1990, with the body count numbering at least forty-eight, the case was put in the hands of a single detective, Tom Jensen. After twenty years, when the killer was finally captured with the help of DNA technology, Jensen spent 180 days interviewing Gary Leon Ridgway in an effort to learn his most closely held secrets--an epic confrontation with evil that proved as disturbing and surreal as can be imagined. Written by Jensen's own son, acclaimed entertainment writer Jeff Jensen, Green River Killer: A True Detective Story presents the ultimate insider's account of America's most prolific serial killer.

10/05 Rick Geary signing @ Bridge City Comics

2011-09-28T22:13:00.000-07:00

Portland, OR Comics Store Bridge City Comics will have Rick Geary appear Wed. Oct. 5th from 6 to 8PM signing all his Treasury of Murder books as well as others.

Rick does few appearances outside of APE which he’ll be at and San Diego, so Portlanders! Here’s your chance to meet him!

Ron Randall's Trekker has been released on the web

2011-09-27T14:52:00.000-07:00

Ron Randall has been an illustrator and storyteller for over 20years. He has worked for most major publishers Marvel Comics, DCComics, Dark Horse, Virgin, and Image Comics, and manyothers.

In 1986 Dark Horse came to Ron Randall to create his own series. He set out to create a strong, compellingfemale lead, a sci-fi setting that would blend the romance of Flash Gordon withthe grit of BladeRunner. This becameTrekker. It is about Mercy St. Clairbounty hunter living in the violent future of 2226.

Ron has decided to continue the adventures of Mercy St.Clair. He will start with reprints andthen the new stories. These will beopen and fully accessible to readers at www.trekkercomic.combeginning on Monday, September 26.

Ron’s webpage is at ronrandall.com.

===PRESS RELEASE===

Trekkercomic.Com Launches With The Return of Ron Randall’s ClassicSci-Fi Adventure Strip “TREKKER”

PORTLAND, Oregon--This Monday, September 26, 2011 marks thelaunch of www.trekkercomic.com,a new site which will feature weekly postings from the pages of RonRandall’s classic, acclaimed sci-fi comic Trekker.

Randall, who is both writer and artist for the series, firstcreated Trekker and its protagonist,Mercy St.Clair, for Dark Horse Comics during the rise of the independentpublishing. Now he will also assume web publishing duties, beginning withthe 8-page chapter that first introduced Trekker to thecomics world.

Each Monday will mark the posting of an installment from theTrekker archives,in chronological order of their original publication. Once all existingstories have posted, Randall will go on to post completely new, ongoing Trekker tales chronicling the lifeand times of Mercy St. Clair.

Trekker firstcame on the scene in 1986, when Dark Horse approached Randall to create anew series for their catalogue. He was given complete creative freedomto determine the content and look of the series, as well as full ownershipof the property. “It was virtually an unheard-of opportunity at the time,and, of course, I could not resist,”says Randall. He went about puttingtogether the visual and story elements that most appealed to him, and Trekker was born. Randall hassince enjoyed a long and diverse career, but he notes that “Trekker has alwaysinspired the very best of my efforts, and to this day it remains the mostpersonal work I’ve produced.”

Trekker is thestory of Mercy Ct. Clair, a brash, extraordinarily gifted young femalebounty hunter living in the violent future of 2226. The stripfollows Mercy’s life and personal “arc” as she pursues the hardenedcriminals that operate beyond the reach of an over-taxed law force. Theexisting stories open on the gritty, crumbling streets of New Gelaph, andgradually follow Mercy as she pursues the criminal element into the ruinedlands beyond city lines. Ultimately Mercy’s journey will lead her outinto the stars, where a restless humanity is striving for new hope.Randall hints that it’s on this grand stage that Mercy will discover herown surprising destiny.

Until recently, the existing Trekkerstories have only been fitfully collected for print—short storiesin Dark Horse Presents, the original Dark Horse series, and in various“Special” single issues, and for years fans have clamored for a complete,accessible collection of Mercy’s adventures. Trekkercomic.com aims to beexactly that definitive repository. Luckily for fans, Randall “clungfaithfully onto every page of the original Trekker stories,”and so www.trekkercomic.comwill feature fully-restored, high-quality images of the entire series.

Stories that originally appeared in black and white willremain faithful to the original, but later color stories will becompletely re-colored to take advantage of recent refinements in digitalcoloring technique.

The site will also contain an exclusive “making of” imagegallery containing never-before-seen Trekker-relateddesigns, sketches and drawings.

Randall reports that every convention has brought questionsfrom fans eager for the return of Trekker. Hisstandard reply was that he had the entire series planned, and was only waitingfor the appropriate venue to come along. He notes that “with www.trekkercomic.com, it’sfinally the right time.”

The continuing adventures of Mercy St. Clair will be openand fully accessible to readers at www.trekkercomic.combeginning on Monday, September 26.

10/05 - Angel Punk @ TFAW

2011-09-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

Press Release from TFAW

ANGEL PUNK #1 RELEASE PARTY AT TFAW: WIN A ROLE AS A FEATURED EXTRA IN A PORTLAND FILM
What: Angel Punk #1 Release Party with Devon Lyon, Kevin Curry, Val Mayerik, and Tom Orzechowski
Where: Hollywood TFAW - 4133 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland, OR 97214
When: Wednesday, October 5 from 7- 10 pm.

September 20, 2011, Portland OR--Things From Another World (TFAW) is happy to announce a signing and release party for Angel Punk #1 from local publisher Relium Media on Wednesday, October 5 at their Portland, OR store from 7-10 pm! Enjoy complimentary food and beer (with valid ID), meet creators Devon Lyon, Kevin Curry, Val Mayerik, and Tom Orzechowski, and enter to win a special Angel Punk prize package or a role as a featured extra in the upcoming Angel Punk movie, to be filmed in Portland.

The Angel Punk saga follows Mara Layil on a journey of discovery, as she’s thrust into a millennia-old struggle between supernatural dynasties. This hidden world of ancient wonders and dark secrets forces the orphaned teen to accept her own power and confront her family’s mysterious past. Angel Punk is written by Devon Lyon, Kevin Curry, and Scott Nelson, with art by Val Mayerik, the co-creator of Howard the Duck, and lettering by industry legend Tom Orzechowski. "The Angel Punk series is a lot of fun, and so are the creators behind it," said TFAW Marketing Manager Elisabeth Forsythe. "We're looking forward to a great event with a cool local publisher." Plus: all attendees of the Angel Punk Release Party will receive raffle tickets that will enter them in a contest to win a role as a featured extra in the upcoming Angel Punk movie, which will be filmed in Portland January 16 through March 2, or win an Angel Punk prize package filled with a t-shirt, posters, and an autographed set of Angel Punk issues #0, #1/2, and #1.

About Things From Another World:
Founded in 1979, Things From Another World is the premier retailer of comic books, toys, collectibles, and pop-culture geek goodness, both in Portland, Oregon and online at http://www.TFAW.com.

About Relium Media

Relium Media tells big stories across multiple platforms. Angel Punk is told over four distinct mediums: comics; a novel; a feature film; and the fan-engagement website www.AngelPunk.co. Learn more at http://www.ReliumMedia.com

09/30 - Spell Checkers Vol. 2 Release Party @ Bridge City Comics

2011-09-25T14:17:00.000-07:00

Press Release from BRIDGE CITY COMICS

BRIDGE CITY COMICS is proud to present Spell Checkers Vol. 2 Release Party with Jaime Rich, Joelle Jones and Nico Hitori De

WHAT: Spell Checkers Vol. 2 Release Party with Jaime Rich, Joelle Jones and Nico Hitori De

WHEN: Friday, September 30 from 6pm - 8pm

WHERE: 3725 N. Mississippi Ave.

Bridge City Comics is proud to announce our Spell Checkers Vol. 2 Release Party on Friday, September 30, 2011 from 6pm - 8pm! This event is free to the public.

In attendance will be the creative team of Portland locals Jamie Rich, Joelle Jones and Nico Hitori De! They will be signing copies of Spell Checkers Vol. 2 but sketches will be left to the discretion of the artists. Come join us for a night of fun, comics, try to stump Jamie Rich at 80's music trivia!

Bridge City Comics will have copies of Spell Checkers Vol. 2 on hand for purchase during the event, as well as a copies of Spell Checkers Vol. 1 and assorted other titles from the creative team.

Bridge City Comics is located at 3725 N. Mississippi Ave in North Portland. Please call 503-282-5484 or e-mail info@bridgecitycomics.com for more information.

About Spell Checkers Vol. 2:There are two new kids at school. Twin brothers--one straight-laced and buttoned-up, the other a rebel in a leather jacket--and they've transferred in with trouble for the Spell Checkers. Jesse finds romance, but for Cynthia, it's rivalry. She and the good brother compete for student body president, while Kimmie tries to find out who murdered the last one. Dark magic is afoot, as well as dark humor, in the second mystical volume of Oni's latest hit series.

08-09 Wordstock @ Oregon Convention

2011-09-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

Date: October 8th and 9th
Location: Oregon Convention
777 NE MLK Jr. Blvd.

Wordstock is dedicated to celebrating writing in the community and writing in the classroom. It stages the city of Portland's annual book and literary festival, the largest celebration of books and writers in the Northwest. Wordstock 2011 will be held October 8th and 9th at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland, Oregon. The Wordstock Book Fair will feature over 200 writers and over 20 panels on several stages over two days with hundreds of exhibits, food, performances and more.

This is the schedule

Wordstock, through its Wordstock for Teachers program, also works to improve the writing/literacy skills of elementary and middle school students by raising the standard of writing instruction. Since 1997, over 1,300 teachers have participated in our program, benefitting tens of thousands of students in Oregon, Washington, and Califorrnia.

Portland Questions 43- Shannon Wheeler

2011-09-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

Art By Paul Guinan

Shannon Wheeler was born August 13, 1966 and grew up inBerkeley, California and graduated from the University of California, Berkeleywith a degree in architecture in 1989. Hestarted cartooning while at UCBerkeley publishing his daily cartoons"Calaboose" and then "Tooth and Justice" in The DailyCalifornian. He later moved to Austin, Texas, whose cafe culture originated thecreation of Too Much Coffee Man, becoming a weekly comic strip in 1990,eventually winning Wheeler an Eisner Award.

Wheeler continued to use this character in self-publishedzines, comic books, magazines and webcomics for a number of years, culminatingin 2006 with the Too Much Coffee Man Opera and followed by Too Much Coffee Man Opera, TheRefill (in two acts) in 2008. From 2004until 2008, Shannon contributed to many of the Idiot's Guide books. Shannon'sweekly strip Postage Stamp Funnies appeared in the The Onion newspaper until2009, when he began contributing to The New Yorker magazine. In 2010, Wheeler published a collection of hiscartoons rejected by The New Yorker called I Thought You Would Be Funnier,which won the 2011 Will Eisner Comics Industry Award for Best HumorPublication.

He is having a One man show at PCPA on first Thursday Oct 6,2011. At PCPA, 111 SW Broadway, Portland Oregon

He posts a new cartoon every day to his blog at www.tmcm.com.

Doug Dorr: What projects are you working on currently?

Shannon Wheeler: Right now I'm preparing for my one-man show that opens at the PCPA on Oct 6th. I'm also working on a new Too Much Coffee Man story for Dark Horse Presents and something for the CBLDF. It's a busy month.

DD: What is your artistic Process?

A lot of over-thinking. It's best when I space out and stories unfold in front of me. I like it when my brain just starts coughing up ideas and images and I transcribe them. I have to be in a good mental place for that - balanced and relaxed. Something I have to force it - and write/draw even when I don't feel like it. Not as much fun. I do a lot of revision - look at every line and ask myself if it's needed.

DD: As the artist what is your interactions with the writer?

Working with Steve was great. He has so much knowledge about comics that he knew exactly what he wanted. I had ideas for images and dialog but his script was so rich and complete that much of the time I was just complimenting something already realized.

Simon had the script and we'd get together over the roughs and brainstorm extra ideas. Like when the kids were using a candle to wake up their grandpa (who, at this point, is dressed as a Nazi), at first it was a normal candle, then a roman candle, but making it a Chanukah candle was real inspiration. That came from us cranked on coffee just riffing ideas and making each other laugh.

DD: What Comic/ Trade/Book would you recommend?

Some of the under exposed books; Cowboy Wally, Freak Brothers, anything by Joe Sacco (not under rated, but great stuff), War is Boring, anything by Ted Rall... it's a golden age of books right now. Surprisingly, I like the new Planet of the Apes books from BOOM!.

DD: What Comic/ Trade/Book would you recommend to someone new to comics?

Comics cover such a wide range of genre that I'd tailor it to the audience. Watchmen is so dependent on comic history I'd be more hesitant to give it to someone. Essex County has a gentle story telling that's a nice intro. Walking Dead is great horror. Too Much Coffee Man - of course.

DD: What skill would you like to learn?

I'd love to play more music. I play guitar but I'm terrible. I love it - but I suck.

DD: What's the most important thing you've learned?

Don't be afraid to work hard. Redraw pages until they're right. I'm redrawing 100 comics for my art show. I want the paper to match.

DD: Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?

I have weird collections. I love 1950 novelty playing cards - especially the dirty ones.

DD: What is your favorite genre of Comics?

Ones that are well done. I like the straight forward story of Y the Last Man but Chris Ware pushes the medium.

Some of my favorite stuff are the old comics that Sunday Press is putting out; Krazy Kat, Little Nemo, Gasoline Alley... very inspirational to read.

DD: Do you have an Ipad? If so what do use it for the most.

Not yet... I'm dying to get one. I want to read Ed Brubaker's run on Captain America. Seems like an Ipad is the way to go for long runs of comics. I can't afford graphic novels any more and I'm not on Marvel's Comp list.

DD: What is your favorite TV show/ movie?

Raising Arizona, Tampopo, the Wire, Breaking Bad, Rome, Boogie Nights, anything by Herzog...

DD: How does the Portland comics culture shapes your work?

It makes me feel like drawing comics is normal.

DD: Do you go to comics conventions. if so what was your first convention?

Larry Langford used to put on the Dallas Fantasy Fair and he'd give a bunch of us loser comic people a hotel room and a table - which is one of the most generous encouraging things any promoter has ever done. My friends and I would go every year. It was a blast.

I usually hit San Diego, APE, Wordstock and Stumptown. Baltimore had me out this year and I had a blast (great show!). I'd like to do more East Coast shows but I can't afford to fly out so I'd have to be a guest.

DD: If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

Film. Maybe animation.

DD: Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

Portland has become a food haven. I'm loving a sandwich shop on Hawthorne - I think it's East Side Deli...

DD: How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?

I've been here about 13 years. Dark Horse is a great publisher and they're here. I had no idea it would become the center of the comic book universe.

DD: What is your favorite part of Portland?

I really like Hawthorne. Bagdad with cheap movies and beer, Powell's with some of the best people around, multiple coffee shops like Albina, Peets, Fresh Pot...

DD: Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

I really want to ride the tram. It's an air gondola that goes from the waterside up to a medical center in the Portland hills. I'm sure it has an amazing view.

DD: Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? Or write a character from another media,

I really want to write some mainstream marvel (or DC) comics.

for example, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?

Dr Who would be fun. I'd love to write a Son of Satan story. There are some Star Wars stories that would be fun. I maintain that Firefly is a Han Solo Star Wars prequel.

09/22 - Comics Underground

2011-09-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

When: Thursday, September 22 · 8:00pm - 10:30pm

The Jack London Bar

For the second installment of our live! comics! reading! extravaganza!, Comics Underground welcomes another seemingly random but actually exquisitely curated selection of local comics talent.

On deck:

Spellcheckers creative team Jamie S Rich, Joelle Jones, and Nicolas Hitori De

Writer Kelly Sue DeConnick (Osborn, Supergirl)

Artist Natalie Nourigat (Between Gears, Over the Surface)

Writer Greg Rucka (Stumptown, Whiteout, Queen & Country)

They promise to entertain you*, we promise to plug the appropriate cords into the appropriate projectors, and the bar promises to have some booze in it.

Hope to see you there!

(*okay, no one actually PROMISED to entertain, but we have high hopes for this crew.)

Jedi Lieber

2011-09-16T12:12:00.000-07:00

From Ben Dewey

09/28 - SAVAGE SWORD RELEASE PARTY @ TFAW

2011-09-15T20:26:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Elisabeth Forsythe
Things From Another World
503-905-2348 elisabethf@tfaw.com
http://www.tfaw.com

TFAW HOSTS ROBERT E. HOWARD'S SAVAGE SWORD SIGNING 9/28 WITH FOUR LOCAL CREATORS
What: By Crom: A Savage Sword #3 Release Party with Jeremy Barlow, Paul Tobin, Joshua Williamson, and Patric Reynolds
Where: Hollywood TFAW - 4133 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland, OR 97214
When: Wednesday, September 28 from 7- 10 pm.

September 9, 2011, Portland OR--By CROM! Things From Another World (TFAW) is honoring Robert E. Howard's Savage Sword #3, the anthology comic by Dark Horse Comics, with local creators Jeremy Barlow (Kult, Dethklok), Paul Tobin (Spider Island: Spider-Girl, Gingerbread Girl), Joshua Williamson (Uncharted, XenoHolics), and Patric Reynolds (Let Me In, Serenity: Float Out) Wednesday, September 28 at their Portland, OR store from 7-10 pm!

Hoist a tankard of FREE beer and enjoy a feast fit for a BARBARIAN! TFAW will be giving away some cool Howard-themed prizes from Dark Horse Comics, and guests can pose in front of a green screen with Conan-themed props and see the resulting photos at Facebook.com/ThingsFromAnotherWorld!

"I personally am a huge Conan and Robert E. Howard fan, so you'd better believe this will be an excellent celebration," said TFAW's Senior Director of Retail Operations, Andrew McIntire. "Plus, this group of creators is just awesome--they're great guys and incredibly talented. This is going to be fun."

Come to the Hollywood TFAW Wednesday, September 28 from 7-10 pm to purchase your copy of Robert E. Howard's Savage Sword #3, meet some amazing local creators, and socialize with the local comics community! Note: you must present a valid ID and be 21+ for beer.

About Dark Horse Comics:
Since 1986, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent like Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Gerard Way and comics legend Will Eisner, Dark Horse has developed such successful characters as The Mask, Timecop, and SpyBoy. Additionally, their highly successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Emily the Strange, Tim Burton, Trigun, Serenity and Domo. Today, Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic-book publisher in the U.S. and is recognized as one of the world's leading publishers of licensed comics material.

Portland Questions 42- Jesse Hamm

2011-08-31T20:01:00.000-07:00

Jesse Hamm has been publishing his own comics since his teens. His background includes evreything from illustrations, storyboards, and design work for textbooks to commercials, theatrical productions, and magazines. He has also had an occasional teaching assignments and assistant work on numerous comic books. He is a member of Periscope studios.

Jesse's first credited mainstream comics work is Good As Lily, a graphic novel written by Derek Kirk Kim. Good as Lily was showcased online by New York Magazine as an example of "the best the exploding comics world has to offer."

Also, check out his art blog for a variety of illustrations.

What projects are you working on currently?

My current paying assignments are boring and/or NDA, but on the side I just began a sketch blog called "Cartoon Redheads," featuring drawings that I plan to collect into a photocopied sketchbook. The selection is limited to characters who are red-headed, female, and have appeared mainly in animated media. I'm trying to include characters from as many different studios as possible, so that everyone will have a chance to sue me when I release the book.

What is your artistic Process?
For stand-alone pictures, I think up an image that represents a mood I want to communicate, then I hunt around for photos of the featured objects, seen from approximately the same angles I envisioned. Then I collage the photos together in Photoshop according to my rough idea, flip the image upside down (to objectify it as a collection of abstract shapes), and adjust and crop everything until it meshes into a composition I like. Then I flip it right-side-up and sketch the scene once or twice or more, for practice, until I feel like I've absorbed the relevant imagery. Then I put the photo reference away and draw the scene "for real," relying on memory and my sketches to keep it fresh. I continue to refine the lines until I'm happy with all the shapes and how they intersect, and with the characters' expressions, etc. This drawing will end up really messy, so I then trace it cleanly onto another sheet of paper, using a lightbox. I scan the resulting drawing, increase the contrast to sharpen the lines and eliminate smudges, and add tones or color as needed. My process for comics panels is similar, though I spend less time on each step, and there's a stage where I plan out the action and how it will lead from panel to panel.

As the artist what is your interactions with the writer?
I read the script, thumbnail it, and approach the writer with any resulting questions. (Often, contradictions or obscurities will crop up during the thumbnail stage. How does the spy answer his cell phone if he's holding a gun and a whiskey? Etc.) Once those are answered, I proceed with the art.

What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?
IDW's Winterworld is a recent one-shot trade that didn't garner the attention it deserves. It's like a snowy version of Road Warrior -- good, solid adventure material of a caliber sometimes seen in movies and almost never seen in comics. Zaffino's ability to bring alive a fictional world through pictures is unsurpassed. I think the tone and the genre were too "Eighties" to land the book on bloggers' hotlists, but any serious fan of the medium should check it out.

What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?

Batman: Year One is a good bet. It's self-contained and told in a simple, straight-forward fashion, the story is engaging and the art can't be beat.

What skill would you like to learn?
Milt Kahl is a hero of mine, so I'd like to learn some hand-drawn animation. I've started toying with animated gifs; we'll see where that leads.

What's the most important thing you've learned?
In art? I've learned that you have to settle on one crucial thing in an image -- a mood or object or event or whatever it happens to be -- and then position everything else in a way that supports that one thing. That process of identifying the crucial thing, and then sublimating everything else, seems to be the secret of good picture-making. I guess that goes for life, too.

Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?

I have a comic collection, but it's nothing fancy. Some of my "bootlegged" Xeroxes are hard to find. A few hundred pages of Alvar Mayor, for example.

What is your favorite genre of Comics?

I'll read anything, but I prefer comics that could not have functioned without imagery. Arzach, for instance, wouldn't survive a transition to prose or radio. To be effective in those media it would have to become a different animal, even with the plot intact. Whereas you could convert something like Locas to prose without losing the heart of it. Comics that carry most of their weight on their verbal side don't attract me as much.

Do you have an Ipad?

Nope.

What is your favorite TV show/ movie?
Watership Down is my current favorite film. It strikes a strong balance between naturalism and myth. I also like the broad spectrum of morality in its characters, from heroic to wicked and all points in between. Most other films seem to either divide everyone into Good Guys and Bad Guys, or lump everyone into a grey middle ground that ignores the reality of heroes and villains. It's hard to acknowledge those extremes without oversimplifying.

TV-wise, I like the '70s seasons of All Creatures Great & Small. The show's '80s relaunch was schmaltzy, but the original seasons struck a perfect balance between cool naturalism and warm sentiment. Like the best of John Ford.

How does the Portland comics culture shapes your work
I get tips and feedback from others at Periscope Studio, which is nice, and local stores & libraries give me access to a wide variety of interesting art.

What was your first comic convention?
My first con was at a little hotel in some rural town. They charged two dollars admission, and the dealers' room was smaller than most people's living rooms, with about ten tables crammed in there like a refugee camp. That kind of set the tone for most of my subsequent dealings with the industry. Later, when I was 14, I attended the Wonder-Con and the San Diego Con, and those were a lot more impressive.

What is your favorite part of comic conventions?

I like perusing Artists' Alley, thumbing through originals and small-press sketchbooks, meeting artists and watching them sketch. That's the only remaining convention experience that the internet hasn't co-opted, aside from pricey snack-bar food. One July a couple of years ago, I tried "attending" the San Diego Con online, just by following people's online updates and such. Between Amazon, Etsy, YouTube and Twitter, it's practically the same as actually going. Chat with cartoonists, ogle costumes, listen to panel discussions, buy sketches and rare books -- all without leaving your bedroom!

If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

Sleep.

Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

No. I like sprawling restaurants with big cushy seats and mezzanines and a nice view, but Portland restaurants are all cramped, like you're eating in someone's foyer. That said, if you're ordering in, I recommend Lonesome's Pizza.

How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?

I've been here for six years. My wife and I liked the climate and the culture.

What is your favorite part of Portland?

I love browsing Powell's Books and the downtown library, and I enjoy touring the nearby Columbia River Gorge.

Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

Haven't been to the zoo, yet. That's next on my list.

Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? Or write a character from another media, for example, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?

I'd love to write a remake of the Star Wars prequels. If George Lucas is reading this: trust me, George -- I can fix them for you.

Sparkplug Sale to help Dylan Williams @ FWC

2011-08-27T09:15:00.000-07:00

Dylan is a great guy, sadly he is ill. We can help by buying some the amazing Sparkplug comics that are coming out. Floating World is putting on a sale August 29th – 30th. There will be art show at FWC to help pay for Dylan's medical care.

--Press Release --

Dylan Williams would never ask any of his friends to do a benefit like this. Not his style. Sorry Dylan, I know you said no gifts, but your friends love you too much and you’re just going to have to accept this present.

A few days ago Tom Spurgeon and others sent out a call for people to support Dylan by buying Sparkplug Comic Books. When I heard how serious the situation was I felt shock and sadness. Felt a little helpless, then I think yesterday we all got the same idea at the same time. Gotta do something to help our friend. Jim Rugg emailed me last night about putting together an art fundraiser show which
I’ll start organizing this weekend and I’ll have more info on Monday.
In the meantime we’re going to have a benefit sale at Floating World next Monday and Tuesday, August 29th – 30th.

We’re going to donate 100% of our proceeds from those two days to Dylan’s medical care. We’ll have a special section of Sparkplug books for you to check out but the sale includes everything you buy on Monday and Tuesday.

09/01 - CASANOVA Art Show and Floating world Grand OpeningSigning @FWC

2011-08-26T21:55:00.000-07:00

Note the dates on this changed the art exhibit and Grand opening are on Sept 1 and the Matt Fraction signing is on Sept 14.

(Press Release)

FLOATING WORLD COMICS PRESENTS:

Floating World Comics reboot. It was like Flashpoint with ladders for about three days while we moved from one side of the Goldsmith building to the other. Now the dust has settled. Some of it is still there.

Recently voted “Favorite Comic Shop” in the 2011 Portland Mercury Reader’s Poll, we’ve expanded into a bigger and better location. Same building; we’ve moved just a block away to the corner of NW 4th and Couch (400 NW Couch St).

Grass Hut will be joining them and gaining a lot more square footage. Previously known as “the record store of comics stores” because of the way we sold books, we will finally be selling actual records. Paul Anson (from Discourage Records) is selling new and used vinyl as Landfill Rescue Unit.

To celebrate, they are proud to host a book release party and art exhibit with multiple Eisner award winner, Matt Fraction. Casanova: Avaritia is the long anticipated third volume in Matt Fraction’s acclaimed creator owned series. The world’s sexiest and savviest superspy is back, killing his way from dimension to dimension in a high-stakes, action-packed adventure. The true identity of megasuperdupervillain NEWMAN XENO is now known to Casanova Quinn and E.M.P.I.R.E. – which means our man Casanova is now a pan-dimensional killer with one target hiding in an infinitely complex sprawl of realities.

Original art from the Casanova series by Gabriel Bá and Fabio Moon will be on display until Sept. 30th.

LISTING INFORMATION:

WHO: Art show with work by Gabriel Bá and Fabio Moon (not in attendance)

WHAT: Floating World Grand Opening and art exhibit

WHEN: Thursday, September 1st, 6-10PM

WHO: Matt Fraction, artwork by Gabriel Bá and Fabio Moon (not in attendance)

WHAT: Casanova book release and art exhibit

WHEN: Thursday, September 14th, 6-10PM

WHERE: Floating World Comics

400 NW Couch St.

Portland, OR 97209

(503)241-0227

Bio info:

Matt Fraction – Matt Fraction is a recent PDX implant that, aside from CASANOVA, writes FEAR ITSELF, THE MIGHTY THOR, and the Eisner-Award winning INVINCIBLE IRON MAN.

09/14 - Buffy Season 9 Q&A and Signing With Georges Jeanty @ TFAW

2011-08-19T17:27:00.000-07:00

Date: September 14 · 7:00pm - 10:00pm

Hollywood Things From Another World

4133 NE Sandy Blvd.

Portland, Oregon

-- Press Release --

August 19, 2011, Portland OR--Things From Another World (TFAW) is celebrating the premiere of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9 series from Dark Horse Comics with artist Georges Jeanty and editor Scott Allie. Come to the Hollywood Things From Another World at 4133 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland, OR, September 14 from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. for a no-holds-barred Q & A and signing. Guests will receive a free Buffy swag bag from Dark Horse with the purchase of Buffy Season 9 #1 (while supplies last) and enjoy free beer (with valid ID) from Columbia River Brewing Company, with food from Clean Plate Catering.

"Georges is phenomenally talented, and we were thrilled when he announced he would continue as series artist for Buffy Season 9," said TFAW Marketing Manager Elisabeth Forsythe. "Plus, he's just a lot of fun to hang out with."

What's in store for Buffy Season 9 and Angel & Faith? Get your questions ready for a Q & A with Jeanty and Dark Horse Senior Managing Editor Scott Allie at 7:00 p.m. sharp, followed by a signing with complimentary food and beer.

"We wanted to offer something special to our Buffy fans at this signing," said Dark Horse Events and Community Manager Kari Yadro. "The swag bags we'll be giving out include exclusive goodies that are usually only available at conventions, including the ultra-popular Buffy paper dolls!"

Georges Jeanty is the acclaimed series artist for Dark Horse Comics' incredibly popular Buffy Season 8 and 9 comics, the official continuation of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer television series overseen by Joss Whedon himself! Don't miss this special event Wednesday, September 14 at the Hollywood TFAW.

About Things From Another World:
Founded in 1979, Things From Another World is the premier retailer of comics, toys, collectibles, and pop-culture geek goodness, both in Portland, Oregon and online at http://www.TFAW.com.

About Dark Horse Comics:
Since 1986, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent like Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Gerard Way and comics legend Will Eisner, Dark Horse has developed such successful characters as The Mask, Timecop, and SpyBoy. Additionally, their highly successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Emily the Strange, Tim Burton, Trigun, Serenity and Domo. Today, Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic-book publisher in the U.S. and is recognized as one of the world's leading publisher of licensed comics material.

Facebook Event

10/07 - Habibi Release Party with Craig Thompson @ Bridge City Comics

2011-08-19T17:06:00.000-07:00

---PRESS RELEASE---

WHAT: Habibi Release Party with Craig Thompson

WHEN: Friday, October 7 from 6pm - 9pm

WHERE: 3725 N. Mississippi Ave.

Bridge City Comics is proud to announce our Night with Craig Thompson and Habibi on Friday, October 7, 2011 from 6pm - 9pm! This event is free to the public. Craig will be in attendance to sign autographs but offering sketches will be at his discretion.

Come help us celebrate the long-awaited release of Craig Thompson's long-form masterpiece, Habibi! Craig took the world by storm with his 2003 592-page semi-autobiographical graphic novel, Blankets. And now he's outdone himself with Habibi, a 672-page story of two children bound together by chance, who grow together, then apart, as they struggle to find a place for themselves in the world.

Bridge City Comics will have copies of Habibi on hand for purchase during the event ($35), as well as a special, limited event-only sale on Craig's Blankets graphic novel ($15 during the event, regularly $30 while supplies last).

Bridge City Comics is located at 3725 N. Mississippi Ave in North Portland. Please call 503-282-5484 or e-mail info@bridgecitycomics.com for more information.

About Habibi: Sprawling across an epic landscape of deserts, harems, and modern industrial clutter, Habibi tells the tale of Dodola and Zam, refugee child slaves bound to each other by chance, by circumstance, and by the love that grows between them. We follow them as their lives unfold together and apart; as they struggle to make a place for themselves in a world (not unlike our own) fueled by fear, lust, and greed; and as they discover the extraordinary depth--and frailty--of their connection. At once contemporary and timeless, Habibi gives us a love story of astounding resonance: a parable about our relationship to the natural world, the cultural divide between the first and third worlds, the common heritage of Christianity and Islam, and, most potently, the magic of storytelling.

Spiderwoman by Sho Murase

2011-08-19T10:08:00.000-07:00

Spiderwoman by Sho Murase

Please check out Sho Murase. She has some amazing work on her site.

Kids Comics Club @ Cosmic Monkey

2011-08-19T06:26:00.000-07:00

Cosmic Monkey's Kids Comics Club!

Every Saturday 3 to 5PM!

All Kids Ages 8+!

1st Hour is the Comics Reading Club!

2nd Hour is the Comics Art Class!

Sessions are structured flexibly to accommodate both new and returning students each week!

Taught by Ryan Alexander-Tanner!

08/27 - I Like Comics End Of Summer Hullabaloo!

2011-08-18T22:02:00.000-07:00

I Like Comics End Of Summer Hullabaloo!

Saturday, August 27th 10 AM to 7PM

   I Like Comics
   2101 E. 4th Plain Blvd
   Vancouver, WA 98661
   360-852-8890

2101 E. 4th Plain Blvd.,98661 google map | yahoo map

Special guests:
Jeff Parker (X-Men: First Class, Thunderbolts, Fall Of the Hulks and MORE)
Karl Kesel (Superboy, Captain America, Marvel Apes and MUCH MORE)
Up and coming inker Dan Prado!!!
(More expected to be added as well)
Bar-B-Que! Meet & greet! Signings!
And of course, AWESOME one-day sales!

Jet City Comic Con

2011-08-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

I will be at the Jet City Comic Con. It sounds like a ton of fun.

08/19 Deco Distilling - SIP AND SHOP

2011-08-16T21:44:00.000-07:00

Deco Distilling

7th Ave

SIP AND SHOP

August 19 4-7pm

This FRIDAY Deco Distilling, Pacific Pie and Vie de Boheme are partnering to welcome WestCoast JuJu by hosting a Sip and Shop from 4-7pm.

Please come visit us and enjoy a special cocktail in honor of our new neighbor, discounts on pies from Pacific Pie and a Trunk show at the beautiful Vie de Boheme featuring WestCoast JuJu skirts and jewlery by Linda Drew Designs.

Come down and enjoy free samples, special discounts and Deco Distilling's very own SE cocktail, featuring our coffee rum (aka "Portland in a Bottle").

08/20 CSTS Serenity Returns with Artist Patric Reynolds

2011-08-15T17:21:00.000-07:00

Serenity and Dr. Horrible’s Sing-A-Long Blog will be play at the Hollywood Theater.

Location: Hollywood Theater.

4122 N.E. Sandy Boulevard, Portland

Date: August 20th. Doors open at 7 pm.

Can’t Stop the Serenity returns for its 6th year in Portland, sponsored by the PDX Browncoats, Things from Another World, and Dark Horse Comics. Joss Whedon’s fan favorite, Serenity, will be on the big screen again, joined by another fan hit, Dr. Horrible’s Sing-A-Long Blog. This year’s screening marks the return to the Hollywood Theatre on August 20th.

The PDX Browncoats will be joined this year by special guest, Patric Reynolds, artist for the one-shot comic, Serenity: Float Out. Patric will be discussing his work, as well as taking questions submitted prior to the event via Twitter (use hashtag #CSTSPDX) and the PDX Browncoats Facebook page, and from the audience.

Can’t Stop the Serenity (CSTS) is a unique opportunity to indulge your geeky side while doing some good. Since 2006, fans have organized worldwide screenings of Joss Whedon’s Serenity to raise funds and awareness for Equality Now in their work for the protection and promotion of the human rights of women around the world. The Portland’s event will also support Raphael House and National Alliance on Mental Illness – Multnomah. A portion of the money raised at this year’s CSTS will go to supporting these organizations.

As part of this year’s screenings, the Browncoats will be collecting in-kind donations for Raphael House. There is a high need for lip and foot cares items such as lip balm, nail files and clippers, and foot creams. A complete list of all suggested donations can be found at their website under Personal Care. Your generous donations are worth up to three raffle tickets on the day of the screenings. The continued support of community donations makes their programs possible. The current state of the economy means that costs for providing food, clothing, and personal items to the survivors and their children living in shelter has risen dramatically.

Serenity and Dr. Horrible’s Sing-A-Long Blog both play at the Hollywood Theater, 4122 N.E. Sandy Boulevard, Portland on August 20th. Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets are $12 in advance, and $15 at the door. Buy your tickets now in the PDX Browncoats General Store.

Update: Guest artist is: Patric Reynolds, artist for the one-shot comic, Serenity: Float Out. Patric will be discussing his work, as well as taking questions submitted prior to the event via Twitter (use hashtag #CSTSPDX

09/17 - The BooYah Strikes Back - Geek in the City Listener Party

2011-08-12T23:45:00.000-07:00

Saturday, September 17 · 8:00pm - 11:00pm

Guardian Games

303 SE 3rd Avenue

Portland, OR

After a two year absence, the much loved and feared BooYah Awards returns with a vengeance!

Saturday, September 17 from 8pm to 11pm, Guardian Games will host the greatest damn listeners party about geeks and 3D explosions of all time!

Thrill to all-new awards like "Most Gratuitous Ass-Shot" and "Michael Bay Award of Explosion Awesomeness"!

Chill to a very special live segment of Fun With Race!!
Shake at the horrors of Pirate Games with PDXYar!!!
Contests - Beer - Scott Dally!!!!

The event is 21 and over, no cover to attend, but Guardian Games sells beer and games - So open those wallets!

Keep listening to Geek in the City Radio for more events and details.

Saturday, September 17, 2011 - The BooYah Strikes Back!

09/07 - JLI#1 Release Party With Aaron Lopresti @TFAW Beaverton

2011-08-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, September 7 · 7:00pm - 10:00pm

Beaverton Things From Another World

4390 SW Lloyd Ave.

Beaverton, Oregon

Mark your calendars--TFAW is throwing a release party for Justice League International #1--one of the highly anticipated series from DC Comics' The New 52 relaunch--with renowned artist Aaron Lopresti Wednesday, September 7 at our Beaverton location. Guests will enjoy complimentary food and beer (with valid ID) and get the chance to meet and ask questions of one of DC's legendary artists.

In Justice League International #1, Batman, Booster Gold, Guy Gardner, August General in Iron, Fire, Ice, Vixen, and Rocket Red are charged with promoting unity and trust--but can they reach that goal without killing each other first?

During his 18-year career, artist Aaron Lopresti has been in demand for both cover and interior work, due to his lush, dynamic style. His art has graced the pages of Wonder Woman, Uncanny X-Men, R.E.B.E.L.S., Justice League: Generation Lost, and many more.

This will be TFAW's first after-hours signing at our Beaverton store, which is just a short walk from TriMet's Beaverton Central MAX Station. Plan your trip at TriMet.org!

Facebook Event:

Interview With Jonathan Case about Dear Creature

2011-08-12T23:23:00.000-07:00

Jonathan Case’s graphic novel Dear Creature is coming out in October from Tor Books. It was a Staff Pick in July's Diamond Comics Previews magazine.

From product website: Deep beneath the waves, lives the creature named Grue. Grue has found Shakespeare's plays in cola bottles and, through them, a new heart. A chorus of crabs urges him to reconsider. Now he yearns to join the world above. Rising from a brine of drive-in pulp and gentle poetry, Dear Creature is the love story you never imagined!

I enjoyed this book. Jonathan Case has a really dynamic style and real talent creating expressive faces. The clean line work and fantastic compositions enhances the creature's story; of love and trying to fit in a world where you don't feel you belong.

Dear Creature is available to preorder from Jonathan’s online store (with special numbered editions), your favorite comic shop (SKU JUL111244) or any of your favorite booksellers.

Doug Dorr: Why and when did you decide to make a monster love story?

Jonathan Case: I liked the idea of elaborating on the classic monster dilemma: I'm unique and alone, and want to find love. That theme is pretty consistent in monsterdom. Everyone thinks of themselves as a monster sometimes, so it's easy to put yourself in their shoes.

DD: What made you decide to use Shakespeare as a catalyst?

JC: I grew up with an appreciation for theater. My dad loved literature and Shakespeare, and took our family to see plays every year. I ended up a theater major in college, too. My senior project was a play about a sea mutant who found unlikely love in the arms of a woman, and the whole thing was written in verse. That was the genesis of this book.

DD: Why did you set this in the 60’s?

JC: A lot of reasons... It was an era that produced a bunch of monster beach movies, and a lot of other great film that's close to my heart. Fellini, Hitchcock, and Bergman were big influences, and I liked the idea of mashing the spirit of those things up with the Z-grade monster stuff. I was also a product of my parent's culture. They grew up in that era, and since I was home-schooled most of my life, I absorbed their outlook and mannerisms way more than a normal kid.

DD: What is your favorite moment of the book?

JC: I think it's the scene where the monster takes his love interest to see a drive-in movie, and they watch West Side Story from a hilltop. That movie came out around the time the book is set, and features its own reworked Shakespeare theme, so it was kind of a perfect backdrop.

DD: Which Character in the book do you most relate to?

JC: The monster.

DD: Which Comics did you read as a kid?

JC: I read mostly the funny pages. Calvin and Hobbes and The Far Side were favorites.

DD: Who are your influences as writer and artist?

JC: Writing-wise: Shakespeare, Larry McMurtry, Bill Watterson, and a lot of movie scripts, especially older ones.

Art-wise: Bill Watterson again, Windsor McKay, Alex Toth, Auguste Rodin, and the film directors I mentioned.

DD: Is this your first book you have written?

JC: Yep! Unless you count 'Whale's Christmas', written and drawn when I was 5. Even then, I was all about the sea!

DD: Living on a boat as child must have been an influence on this book. What was it?

JC: Definitely the themes of isolation- yearning for someone or something that's similar to you (there weren't many kids around the boating community, and I was introverted anyway). And just being in the water all the time. Getting to know your local oceanic flora and fauna. I also used our boat as inspiration for the Marietta's interior.

There's a certain cross-cultural thing that happens in the boating community that really impacted me too. People from all walks of life and corners of the world intersecting in one unexpected place, and living life together. That was the richest part of growing up on the boat. I think some of that might come through in the book too, in the characters' voices.

08/13 Archie Literacy Tour @ BridgeCity

2011-08-12T06:53:00.000-07:00

BridgeCity is hosting the Archie Literacy Tour this Saturday, August 13th! Folks from Archie Comics will be on hand to give out Archie Grab Bags, talk to fans and to run a few workshops on how to make comics!

http://tinyurl.com/3h3s8wz

Writers David Rojas and Shawn Kerr will be here around 11am and will stay until everyone has gotten a grab bag! Make sure to come down, get an autograph and get some Archie Comics!

08/26 - Guapo to Close it doors

2011-08-11T19:45:00.000-07:00

After six years, one of Portland's comics shops will be closing on August 25th. Guapo Comics and Coffee, located in the Foster-Powell neighborhood, had an emphasis on zines and mini-comics in addition to mainstream monthlies and trade paperbacks. Please check out there Facebook page.

They will be hosting a closing sale and "Adios" party on Friday, August 26th. The party and sale will begin that Friday at 6PM. They would like to celebrate one last time, say goodbye, and figure out how to keep in touch. The sale will continue through August 28th and possibly later.

Article

Back from Steen's Mountain

2011-08-11T19:25:00.000-07:00

Every summer we visit Steen's Mt in Eastern Oregon. It was a fantastic break from things.

Checkout Delilah Dirk - The Turkish Lieutenant

2011-08-11T19:20:00.000-07:00

Check out Delilah Dirk - The Turkish Lieutenant an online Graphic Novel. I have love the art on this webcomic.

09/03-05 Kumoricon

2011-08-01T20:31:00.000-07:00

Kumoricon

On Labor Day weekend (September 3-5, 2011) thousands of people who lovingly refer to themselves as otaku (a Japanese word normally used to signify a nerd or geek, which has been adopted by the anime community) will gather together for a convention that will now span two hotels in downtown Vancouver, WA: The Hilton Vancouver Washington, and the Red Lion Vancouver at the Quay.

For three days there will be games, dances, panels, guests, and lots of friends getting together to talk about and celebrate one thing that connects them all—anime. Whatever your flavor, whatever your fandom, the convention is a place to join up with like-minded souls in the area and experience it all, together. We also have video games, tabletop tournaments and tons of contests with great prizes!

Location

Kumoricon 2011 takes over downtown Vancouver, spanning two prominent hotels in the area: The Hilton Vancouver Washington and the Red Lion Hotel Vancouver at the Quay. With ample meeting space and the beautiful Esther Short Park located just across the street from the main convention area, Vancouver, Washington has opened its doors and hearts to anime fans for Labor Day weekend! Our two hotels are located a short, 3- to 5-minute walk apart.

08/21 'Trek in The Park "Mirror, Mirror" with Galaxy Quest @ Bagdad

2011-08-01T17:25:00.000-07:00

Hopefully I can make this one, arrive early.

Enjoy this live performance of the Star Trek episode "Mirror, Mirror" followed by a showing of 1999's "Galaxy Quest."

Location: Bagdad Theater
3702 Southeast Hawthorne Blvd,
Phone: (503) 467-752
Date: Sunday, August 21, 2011 - 8:00 PM

Atomic Arts' Trek in The Park "Live on Stage" presentation of Mirror, Mirror
Followed by a screening of Galaxy Quest
Doors open at 7:00 pm; Performance begins at 8:00 pm
Admission: $6 per person - Click here to buy tickets online ($1.00 fee)
21 and over only

Atomic Arts Trek in The Park "Live on stage"

Trek in the Park RETURNS! For their 3rd summer show, they present the classic tale of an alternate reality Starfleet in MIRROR, MIRROR!
A bizarre transporter malfunction sends Kirk, McCoy, Uhura, and Scotty to a savage parallel universe where the peacekeeping Starfleet is replaced by an evil Empire that believes assassination and revenge are the means of command! This summer, Kirk and his crew must race against time, space and an Enterprise bent on brutality to save the final frontier in both universes!
Portland actors accompanied with live music and effects bring this classic piece of television to life!

Galaxy Quest (PG, 1999)
The sci-fi television series Galaxy Quest, which took place aboard the intergalactic spaceship NSEA Protector, starred Jason Nesmith as suave Commander Peter Quincy Taggert, Gwen DeMarco as sexy communications person Lt. Tawny Madison (a role which consisted solely of repeating what the computer stated, much to Gwen's annoyance), Shakespearean trained Sir Alexander Dane as alien Dr. Lazarus, Fred Kwan as engineer Tech Sgt. Chen, and Tommy Webber as child gunner Laredo. Seventeen years after the show last aired, it lives on in the hearts of its rabid fans. However it lives on in infamy for its stars, who have not been able to find meaningful acting work since. Their current lives revolve around cashing in on however those roles will afford, which usually entails attending fan conventions or worse, such as shopping mall openings. Only Jason seems to relish his lot in life, until he finds out that his co-stars detest him because of his superior attitude as "the Commander"...

08/6-07 11th Annual Portland Zine Symposium!

2011-07-31T14:44:00.000-07:00

The Portland Zine Symposium aims to promote greater community between diverse creators of independent publications and art. This fun and free event helps people share their work while exchanging their skills and information related to zine culture. Through workshops, panels and discussions, Portland Zine Symposium explores the role and effect of all types of zines.

Refuge

116 SE Yamhill St.

Saturday, August 6 at 10:00am - August 7 at 5:00pm

Events Leading up to it:

First day of the 2011 Portland Zine Symposium
Saturday, August 6th
10:00am-5:00pm
The Refuge
116 Southeast Yamhill Street
Free admission, free workshops, and more zines than you can shake a stick at!

Zinester Feud!
Saturday, August 6th
7:00-9:00pm
Floating World Comics
20 NW 5th Ave
Survey says! Join the PZS for our Family Feud style game show with a zine theme! Form your teams and compete for prizes by answering questions about zines.

Zinester Karaoke!
August 7
9:00pm-12:00am
Floating World Comics
20 NW 5th Ave
What better way to celebrate the 11th Portland Zine Symposium than singing songs with friends! Join us at Floating World after Zinester Feud for songs and mayhem.

Second day of the 2011 Portland Zine Symposium
Sunday, August 7th
10:00am-4:00pm
The Refuge
116 Southeast Yamhill Street
Free admission, free workshops, and more zines than you can shake a stick at!

PZS 21+ After Party 8:00pm-?
The Alibi, 4024 N Interstate
Take a sigh of relief after the weekend’s festivities at a tiki bar with fruity umbrella drinks and Karaoke.

DC New U Experiment

2011-07-30T21:13:00.000-07:00

The DCu coming with new books that are supposed to be more accessible and readable for new readers. I have a new reader, Gannon (Age 8). He is interested in the books. So I picked out selection of comics. Recently a preview book came out, so I let him pick out a few more from that. I will read them and see if they are indeed appropriate, and then we can get his feedback.

From the preview book he was most interested in:

Firestorm

Frankenstein

He also selected:

Justice League

Aquaman
All Star Western

Grifter

Swampthing

Blackhawks (He wanted to read the war comics)

And Deathstroke (I think because he just read the Ravager GN)

09/17 Hello Etsy PDX

2011-07-30T21:08:00.000-07:00

Hello Etsy PDX

A One-Day Conference on Small Business and Sustainability

I Heart Art: Portland and Etsy are proud to announce that we are teaming up to bring you the Hello Etsy PDX conference on September 17, 2011. In one loaded day, we will rock your businesses world with a conference on Small Business and Sustainability.

The conference will mimic the parent summit in Berlin, with topics falling under the umbrella of four categories: The Big Picture, The Product, The Business, and The Market.

The keynote address will be a lively conversation between Duane Sorenson of Stumptown Coffee and Rebecca Pearcy of Queen Bee Creations, moderated by the wonderful Diane Gilleland. The conversation will focus on the importance of finding a growth model that fits your business scale and your future plans.

The rest of the conference sessions will give attendees the choice between three types of workshops: Making, Learning and Discussion. Topics may include staying afloat in a fledgling economy, how to write a business manifesto, how to keep your business sustainable and much, much more.

Due to generous support from Etsy and their sponsors, tickets for this jam-packed day are only $20 (free for PNCA students and alumni and discounted for Museum of Contemporary Craft members), guaranteeing that you’ll have the most bang for your small business buck. Tickets are available through Eventbrite and are on sale now. Session details and presenters are still being determined. Please visit our dedicated Hello Etsy PDX webpage for the most up-to-date information about the conference.

Interested in leading a session? See the Bottom Right Corner (below) for details.

Buy your ticket now >
Learn more about Hello Etsy PDX >

08/05 - Midnight Movie - Indiana Jones

2011-07-27T06:54:00.000-07:00

Time: Friday, August 5 at 10:00pm - August 6 at 1:00am

Location:

McMenamins Bagdad Theater

3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd

Portland, Oregon

Created By

Bobby Roberts

"If Adventure has a name...

Sunday, January 8th, 2006: The monthly Portland late-nightstaple, The Cort and Fatboy Midnight Movie, got its accidental start as acharity screening for about 20 people at McMenamin's Kennedy School. A DVD ofRaiders of The Lost Ark was shown promptly at midnight, and maybe theresolution was a little low, maybe the colors were a little flat, but the moviedid what it always does - completely enthralled the audience sitting in frontof it. It's only the finest action movie ever made, after all. Not even the Arkitself could likely hold the pure magic Spielberg, Lucas, Kasdan and Fordmanaged to harness for that film.

Friday, August 5th, 2011: Cort and Fatboy continue tocelebrate the 5th anniversary of the Midnight Movies inexplicably surviving aslong as they have by going back to the film that started it all. And maybe the35mm print will be a little faded, a little scratched up, maybe the audio willbe a little fuzzy, but Raiders of the Lost Ark is going to do what it alwaysdoes, because it's only the finest action movie ever made, after all.

Admission is $3.00, you must be 21 or older to attend. Thedoors open at 10pm, a pre-show reel will precede the movie, and then at 11pm, ablue mountain will appear on the screen, and it will fade into a real mountain,and John Williams' music will slowly, ominously begin rising on the soundtrack,and the next two hours will be, guaranteed, the finest bit of summerblockbusting you'll get a chance to witness this year. It just so happens thatthe blockbusting you're watching is 30 years old."

Questions 41: Paul Guinan

2011-07-21T07:08:00.000-07:00

Paul Guinan is a Chicago-born multimedia author/illustrator whose projects range in size and content from business cards to wall murals. In 2000, Paul created Boilerplate, and began chronicling the Victorian robot's adventures. His first freelance gig was inking Tom Sutton on Grimjack, subsequent work includes contributions to Aliens, The Terminator, The Punisher, Justice League, Ghost, DHP, Barb Wire, Andrew Vachss' Hard Looks, and many entries in DC’s The Big Book of... series. He's drawn spot illustrations for McGraw-Hill and Adidas. He has done photography and Photoshop graphics for clients such as Oregon Public Broadcasting, the WB TV network, and national magazines.

Paul began his comic book career as a production artist at First Comics, retouching Lone Wolf and Cub art. In 1988 after noticing the absence of women in comics as lead characters, Paul and wife-to-be Anina Bennett began developing comic's first female action hero. Together they hatched the science-fiction series Heartbreakers, which has since proven its appeal to both male and female readers. Long before cloning made mainstream headlines, Heartbreakers explored the social fallout of genetic engineering. The title's latest incarnation is as a series of self-contained Heartbreakers Superdigest volumes in paperback format, with color feature stories, guest artists, and activity pages.

In 1998 Paul co-created Chronos, a monthly title from DC Comics, with writer John Francis Moore. Paul pencilled eleven issues of the series, which was the last launched by the now departed, much-missed Archie Goodwin. In his feistier moments, Paul claims that Chronos retains bragging rights to the most extensively realized background art in an American monthly comic.

In 2002, Paul joined with other DC Comics creators such as David Hahn, Steve Lieber and Terry Dodson to form Mercury Studios which later became Periscope Studios.

Doug Dorr: What projects are you working on currently?

I’m putting the finishing touches on another collaboration with my wife, Anina Bennett, called Frank Reade: Adventures in the Age of Invention. It’s a follow-up to Boilerplate: History’s Mechanical Marvel, using a similar format and premise: a fictitious protagonist taking part in real historical events. Frank Reade also showcases a lost legacy of American science fiction, with restored 19th-century dime novel illustrations and story excerpts. The title character is friends with Archie Campion, so Boilerplate makes a few cameos in the new book.

DD: What is your artistic process?

It usually starts with a visual idea that I build a story around. Boilerplate developed out of an image I had in my head, of a robot standing with Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders after the Battle of San Juan Heights.

DD: What Comic/ Trade would you recommend?

Family Man by Dylan Meconis, Underground by Parker and Lieber, and Gingerbread Girl by Tobin and Coover. OK, they’re books by my fellow members of Periscope Studio, but working on Boilerplate and Frank Reade for the last five years meant that I haven’t been able to keep up with many graphic novels. I spent a lot of time doing historical research, reading books like James Bradley’s Imperial Cruise. I can recommend a couple of heavily illustrated biographies that have similar visual sensibilities to Boilerplate. Time-Life did 130-page magazine-sized softcovers about Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin that would definitely appeal to graphic novel readers.

DD: What Comic/ Trade would you recommend to someone new to comics?

Scott McCloud’s Understanding Comics is ground zero. After that, maybe the Hernandez brothers’ Love & Rockets. First I would find out what kind of stories that reader enjoys in other media—prose, movies, etc.—then try to recommend something in line with their sensibilities.

DD: What skill would you like to learn?

I have yet to learn 3D modeling and rendering.

DD: What's the most important thing you've learned?

As an artist, the most important goal is to create work that speaks to you personally and springs from a genuine interest in your subject. Don’t try to formulate a piece that you think will be commercially successful if you don’t care about the characters, the story, the themes. Consciously or not, most people will recognize the difference between a mercenary work and one that comes from the heart.

DD: Do you have a collection? If so, what is one of the items you're most proud of?

I have a room full of action figures and 1/6th-scale figures, along with related vehicles. The collection I’m proudest of, though, would be my Frank Reade dime novels. Frank Reade was America’s first science fiction hero, and Frank Reade Library, published in the 1880s, was the first science fiction series ever. The covers and other engravings from the series are stunningly beautiful. In Frank Reade: Adventures in the Age of Invention, these images are being published for the first time in more than a century—elaborate helicopter airships, electric land vehicles and submarines, and globe-trotting adventures. I’m tremendously proud to help resurrect this lost aspect of science fiction history!

DD: What is your favorite genre of Comics?

I like a variety of comics. If I had to pick a favorite genre, I guess I’d say adventure fiction, which covers a lot of ground. In particular, I appreciate comics that take advantage of the medium to depict things that would be difficult to achieve in other media, due to budget and logistic constraints. Epic science fiction and historical dramas are my favorite examples.

DD: Do you have an Ipad? If so what do use it for the most.

Nope. As a cinephile, I don’t like watching movies or TV shows on a small screen, so I think I would mainly use an iPad for web surfing and reading.

DD: What is your favorite TV show/ movie?

I, Claudius and Deadwood are a couple of favorite TV shows. Seven Samurai, Dr. Strangelove, and Wages of Fear are some favorite movies. It’s a long list—I keep a public version on our web site at www.bigredhair.com/movies.

DD: How does the Portland comics culture shapes your work?

Portland has a unique comics culture. There are so many comic book creators here now, I’m surprised we haven’t reached critical mass and formed a small planet. Yet the scale of the city is relatively small, which makes for a more tightly knit comics community than in other urban centers with top-level published creators. At any given event or social gathering, you’re likely to run into mainstream superhero talent as well as underground/alternative creators. It’s energizing and keeps everyone on their game. In a way, I was inspired by the local talent pool to push the boundaries of the visual narrative in Boilerplate.

DD: What was your first comic convention?

It was when I was a little kid back in Chicago: the Chicago Comicon, held at the Playboy Building. Years before it moved to Rosemont, let alone before Wizard took it over.

DD: What is your favorite part of comic conventions?

Meeting the fans, that’s what it’s all about.

DD: If you weren’t doing comics what would you do?

Film or television production. I consider myself a storyteller above all. No matter what visual medium I’m working in, from illustration to photography, even my hobby of building dioramas, I always construct some kind of narrative.

DD: Do you have a favorite restaurant that you would recommend?

Portland has so many good eateries! An old favorite of mine is Il Piatto on SE Ankeny. Rustic, romantic, you can walk in wearing either a tux or motorcycle jacket and still feel appropriately dressed.

DD: How long have you lived in Portland, what made you choose Portland?

Anina came to PDX to work as an editor at Dark Horse. We moved here from Chicago in 1991, right after getting married, and wound up buying a wonderful house in a great neighborhood. Over the years we fell in love with the place, and this is our home now.

DD: What is your favorite part of Portland?

Southeast, especially the Hawthorne District. That’s why we bought a home there.

DD: Where in Portland/ Oregon would you most like to visit?

The beauty of Oregon is its wildly varied terrain. Desert and forest, mountains and plains, a coastline with beaches and cliffs, rivers and hot springs, massive obsidian flows and lava tubes—it’s got practically everything! I can’t choose just one spot, but Anina and I are overdue for a visit to the coast, so maybe a return trip to Astoria. It’s got an excellent maritime museum.

DD: Would you like to write/Illustrate for another media? or conversely, how would you feel about writing a comic of a character from a different media, for example, Dr. Who, James Bond? What would you explore?

The Boilerplate movie deal with Paramount and J.J. Abrams has given us the opportunity to pitch some of our other projects to Hollywood, which is exciting. As to other properties, only Doctor Who would interest me, since it’s about time travel and I’m such a huge history buff. I’d probably get the Doctor involved in a historical epic, or as epic as the BBC’s budget would allow!

07/29 Anders Nilsen Book signing @ FWC

2011-07-18T20:24:00.000-07:00

LISTING INFORMATION:
WHO: Anders Nilsen
WHAT: Book signing and slide show reading
WHEN: Friday, July 29th, 6-9PM
WHERE: Floating World Comics
20 NW 5th Ave #101
Portland, OR 97209
(503)241-0227

Bio info:
Anders Nilsen was born in northern New Hampshire in 1973. He was weaned on a steady diet of comics, stories and art, from Tintin and the X-Men to Raw, Weirdo, punk rock, zines, graffiti and regular trips to art museums. He currently lives with his cat in Chicago, Il.
Anders’ comics have been translated into a number of languages. He has exhibited his drawing and painting internationally and had his work anthologized in Kramer’s Ergot, Mome, The Yale Anthology of Graphic Fiction, Best American Comics and Best American Non-Required Reading, as well as The Believer, the Chicago Reader and elsewhere. Other titles by Nilsen include Dogs And Water, Don’t Go Where I Can’t Follow, Monologues for the Coming Plague, Monologues for Calculating the Density of Black Holes, and The End #1.

Anders Nilsen also received Ignatz Nominations for Outstanding Artist for Big Questions #7 & #8, Outstanding Series (Big Questions), and Outstanding Comic (Big Questions #7) at the 2006 Small Press Expo. Dogs and Water won an Ignatz for Outstanding Story in 2005, and his graphic memoir Don’t Go Where I Can’t Follow won an Ignatz for Outstanding Graphic Novel in 2007.
http://www.andersbrekhusnilsen.com/
http://themonologuist.blogspot.com/

Tron 2.0 by moebius

2011-07-18T20:20:00.001-07:00

07/21 - Art Spark

2011-07-14T16:29:00.000-07:00

What:
Another good Art Spark time!

Featuring:
PDX POP Now!

There will be a PDX POP Now! trivia game for PPN swag! plus a chance to introduce Rocky and the Proms! There will be a special performance Rocky and the Proms.

Bring a friend or two!
Event free, Food and Beverage - "No host bar"

When:
Thursday, July 21, 2011, 5pm – 7pm

Where:
Backspace, 115 NW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97209

And:
A nice time to make connections, find out about new stuff in the arts community, have fun and chill out.

- VISIT PORTLANDARTSPARK.COM -

08/04 Wuvable Oaf signing/artshow @ Floating World

2011-07-13T07:44:00.000-07:00

Join creator Ed Luce for the release of a brand new issue of Wuvable Oaf and an exhibition of art and prints, including paintings, original pages from WO #3 and his new BUNGOOL the WUVABLE OGRE story (to be seen in an upcoming issue of Elf World from Portland publisher Family Style). Ed will also be debuting a new a Wuvable Ogre print!

THE FIRST 25 ARRIVALS GET A FREE WORLD PAINTED GOTEBLÜD MINI POSTER!!!

LISTING INFORMATION:
WHO: Ed Luce
WHAT: Book signing, art exhibit, and free print giveaway
WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 4th, 6-10PM
WHERE: Floating World Comics
20 NW 5th Ave #101
Portland, OR 97209
(503)241-0227

Bio info:
Ed Luce is the creator of Wuvable Oaf, a comic “fairy” tale chronicling one big, scary looking dude’s search for romance in a city that looks suspiciously like San Francisco. The character stars in several books, as well as on an ever-expanding line of merchandise, including shirts, mugs, records, prints, posters and stickers. Whitney Matheson, writing about the Oaf for USA Today’s Pop Candy section, describes the comic as “fast-paced, funny and chock full of pop-culture references”, concluding, “whether you’re gay/straight/something in between, I think you’ll find yourself rooting for the Oaf and his quest for somebody to wuv.”
Wuvable Oaf has also made appearances in Decibel Magazine, Maximum RocknRoll, Prism’s Guide to Comics 2008-2010 editions, BEAR Magazine, Pride Magazine ’09, The San Francisco Bay Guardian, The Book of Boy Trouble 2, UK’s Gay Times and Instinct magazine.
Ed and Oaf had the very great honor of being named co-recipient of Prism Comics 2010 Queer Press Grant. They have also been nominated for a 2009 Ignatz Award in the “Promising New Talent” category.
While currently pouring his energy into the comics world, Ed leaves a lengthy trail of art debris behind him, including published features in the UK’s Bearflavoured artists’ catalog and LA gay men’s health magazine Corpus. This past February, he had the honor of participating in the “Henry & Glenn Forever” group exhibition at La Luz de Jesus Gallery in Los Angeles, (aka WACKO on Hollywood Blvd.) one of his favorite places on earth.
http://www.wuvableoaf.com/
http://bearbait.livejournal.com/

Periscope Studios

2011-07-11T07:10:00.000-07:00

Periscope is a collective of cartoonists, illustrators, writers, concept designers, graphic novelists, and storyboard artists. I was able to stop by Periscope studios and see some of this great set of artists in action. The studio is snuggled downtown in the Oregon Trail Building and sits right next to Portland’s legendary food carts. The first thing I noticed coming in was the camaraderie between the artists. Although I have met these artists before, it was great to see them working and interacting together in their natural habitat.

Periscope is an amazing place. This studio was formed by Ron Randall, Karl Kesel, Terry Dodson, Matthew Clark, Pete Woods, Rebecca Woods, David Hahn, Paul Guinan, and Steve Lieber in 2002 as Mercury Studios. It has grown to 25 people from different backgrounds in the comic book industry. Steve Lieber described it as being similar to how a bullpen was in the old days of comics; but not what it was really like but what we always thought it would be.

They all use various tools for the artistic tasks. Personally I wanted to see how the Cintiq, interactive pen displays, were used in actual practice. The Cintiq allows an artist to use a stylus on a scratch-resistant glass surface that displays what is on the computer. The stylus acts just like a pencil, you can even turn it around and use the back as an eraser. I watched Steve Lieber sketch out a couple figures in his composition. Because this is on the computer, Steve was able to circle one of the figures he sketched and resize it. He says his process is to first enter in the text for the page, then he sketches the drawings with Cintiq. He prints the pages with the sketches in blue ink and the letters black. He then will ink the page by traditional means.

Watch the amazing artists working at Periscope. Their tumblr art blog is at this link. The current members are listed below. You can read many of there interviews on this blog.

Before a Small Problem becomes a Giant Threat!!! Ben Dewey

2011-07-07T16:56:00.000-07:00

periscopestudio:

Ben Dewey offers his take on WW2 Dinosaurs. Little do the thunder-lizards know that the Mammals will be aided in their upward struggle by artillery from space!

Kelly Sue DeConnick's new Castle Book

2011-07-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

Check out this interview with Kelly Sue and MTV geek.

Game of Thrones

2011-06-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

The Game of Thrones comic will hit shelves starting in September. Dynamite will begin publishing the adaptation of Game of Thrones, the interiors will be provided by Tommy Patterson from a script by fantasy novelist Daniel Abraham (The Long Price of Quiet). Mike S. Miller (The Imaginaries, Martin's The Hedge Knight series) and Alex Ross will provide covers.
Thanks to Mtv Geek

Disneyland

2011-06-27T15:31:00.000-07:00

We just got back from disneyland. Kellan went from "Who Stich?" to "Stich Rules the world." We had a fantastic time. Disneyland is super fun. But you got to have a plan. And be prepared to be on the move.

07/14 Geek Girl Awesome: w/Marian Call & the Doubleclicks @ Bridge City Comics

2011-06-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

Who Geek Girl Awesome: w/Marian Call & the Doubleclicks

When
Thursday, July 14, 2011
7:00pm - All Ages

Where
Courtyard @ Bridge City Comics (map)
3725 North Mississippi Ave.
Portland, OR

Other Info Join us in the courtyard at Bridge City Comics for a full concert of Geek Girl Awesome by Marian Call and The Doubleclicks! Free for all ages, though a $10-15 artist donation or CD purchase is appreciated if you enjoy it and you're able.

Marian Call is a traveling geek songstress from Anchorage who sings about zombies, Firefly, BSG, and the difficulties of finding fresh produce and normal-ish men in Alaska. For more info, listen for free at Mariancall.com or meet her on Twitter @mariancall.

If you like DR Who and you like art check out

2011-06-24T01:00:00.000-07:00

Francesco Francavilla's Art Blog. After every DR Who episode; he has an amazing image up. This is one of them.

This one is from "Day of the Moon"

07/07 - Papercutter Signing @ FWC

2011-06-24T00:36:00.000-07:00

WHO: Greg Means (editor), Graham Annable, Elijah Brubaker, Lisa Eisenberg, Jonathan Hill, Sarah Oleksyk, Jesse Reklaw, Bwana Spoons, Joey Alison Sayers (not in attendance), Aron Steinke,
WHAT: Papercutter #16 book release
WHEN: Thursday, July 7th, 6-10pm
WHERE: Floating World Comics, 20 NW 5th Ave #101

BIO INFORMATION:

Papercutter #16 is the latest issue in Tugboat Press's long running anthology series dedicated to showcasing the best young, underexposed and emerging comic book artists. This issue features a darkly compelling cover story by Joey Alison Sayers (Just So You Know), that follows the life of a middle school science teacher as his noble ideals about his profession start to crumble around him. Liz Prince (I Swallowed the Key To My Heart) returns with a brief look at the inner workings of her mind and finds it's all to be pretty cool actually. Alexis Frederick-Frost (The Courtship of Miss Smith) wraps up the issue with a lush tale of a hunter who finds some of her prey to be adorable. Additional art by Nate Beaty.

09/24-25 - Retro Gaming Convention

2011-06-24T00:14:00.000-07:00

I went to this with the boys and it was a ton of fun. There was a huge free gaming area and I got to play some classic video games I played as a kid. Which I got to introduce to the boys, The boys totally love dig-dug.

This year's theme is Sega Genesis. Anyone familiar with that classic, early-90's game console will recognize the iconic package design from the Genesis clamshell game case in the flyer.

The stylized "Portland Retro Gaming Expo" at the top of the flyer is based on the logo for the side-scrolling shooter Gunstar Heroes released in 1993 for the Sega Genesis and Megadrive platform.

Look for flyers at retailers across the greater Portland metro area including Gamer's Edge, Ground Kontrol, Video Game Wizards, Billy Galaxy Vintage Toys, CD Game Exchange, Game Trader, Things From Another World and many more.

09/24 - Jet City Comic Con

2011-06-24T00:08:00.000-07:00

Saturday, September 24, 2011
at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall (on Mercer Street)