Meet some local comic-book creators and vote on your favorite “death” in a local arts event hosted by Speeding Bullet Comics, 614 N Porter Ave. in Norman.

From the Speeding Bullet newsletter:

We’re issuing the ultimate challenge to Oklahoma comic creators … we’ll give you 20 minutes. Kill off a character right before our very eyes!

I’ll be attending the event as well, so stop by and say hello. (Full disclosure note – I am one of the owners of Speeding Bullet Comics.) I look forward to seeing what kinds of awesome comics are created!

- Matt Price

Pop Gun War, by Farel Dalrymple.

NORMAN — A new art gallery focusing on comic book art will launch an exhibit featuring “Omega the Unknown” artist and former Oklahoman Farel Dalrymple on Friday night.

The gallery, Milk Tree, at 1005 N Flood, Suite 108, is the brainchild of comic book artist Joey Belden.

“It’s more of a salon setting,” Belden said. “You can stand there and stare at a lot of different comic things.”

Belden hopes the gallery can open people’s eyes to what goes on behind the scenes in the creation of a comic book.

“You have a lot of fans of the people who work in the medium,” he said. “But not that many people have ever seen original art and understand the difference between digital inks, pencils, all that kind of stuff.”

Belden said one of the challenges in getting people to fully appreciate comic book art is getting them to understand how each page works as part of a narrative.

“It’s part of a story — and obviously a lot of the stories are not fully represented,” he said. “But you still get to talk about how compositions work, how a certain page flows.”

Belden has pages on display from some of comics’ most-respected artists, including Seth and Jordan Crane.

The gallery opened at the end of October, and the Dalrymple show is the first major showing for Milk Tree. Dalrymple works in both mainstream and alternative comics, and was called “one of the field’s most gifted storytellers” by former “Thor” artist Walt Simonson.

Dalrymple, who grew up in Tulsa, is an illustrator and comic book creator who won a Xeric grant for his comic book “Pop Gun War.” He was the artist on “Omega the Unknown” with writer Jonathan Lethem and “Bizarro World” with writer Dylan Horrocks. Dalrymple lives in Oregon. His art will also be featured in the upcoming “Fantastic Four” No. 600 from Marvel, set for a Nov. 22 release.

Belden will have original pages on hand from the recent DC Comics title “The Unexpected,” as well as pages from “Omega the Unknown” and “The Wrenchies.” He’s hoping getting an up-close view at the behind-the-scenes artwork will enhance people’s passion for the medium.

“I just want people to love comics as much as I do,” Belden said.

Milk Tree is open from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays, 1 to 8 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call 313-1158.

- By Matthew Price
WORD BALLOONS
From Friday’s The Oklahoman

The Comics Reporter provides more details about artist Steve Rude’s recent arrest following an altercation with neighbors.  Fans who want to provide support can buy prints, art and other items from Rude’s ebay page.  Books and more are available at www.steverudeart.com.  Rude is the co-creator with Mike Baron of the comic book series “Nexus,” and has illustrated Thor, the X-Men and more.

- Matt Price

Mark Ruffalo’s Hulk, Chris Hemsworth’s Thor and the agents of SHIELD were revealed in promotional art from Marvel at Comic-Con International.   Along with Captain America, Iron Man, Hawkeye and the Black Widow, they’ll be the focus of “The Avengers,” being directed by Joss Whedon for a 2012 release.

TBS talk show host Conan O’Brien made his first-ever appearance at Comic-Con International on Friday. Appearing at the “Green Lantern: The Animated Series” panel in Room 6BCF, Conan O’Brien unveiled the trailer to “The Flaming C,” a character created by O’Brien and Bruce Timm.

Tulsa-based artist Dustin Evans is among the artists providing art for the Flaming C gallery at Comic-Con. Check out the gallery online here.

- Matt Price
Click past the cut for Conan O’Brien promotional art.

The Joplin, Mo.-based artist recently signed an exclusive contract with Top Cow, to take over as the artist of “The Darkness.”

“The Darkness” series stars mob hit man Jackie Estacado. On Estacado’s 21st birthday, the terrible powers of the Darkness awaken within him and put him in the midst of a supernatural war.

The character was created by Marc Silvestri, Garth Ennis, and David Wohl, and first appeared in 1996.

“‘The Darkness’ is one of my favorite properties that we’ve ever created at Top Cow,” Silvestri told The Oklahoman in a 2006 interview. “Not only just in concept, but quite frankly to draw. … Jackie’s kind of an alter ego for me and a lot of other guys. We get to act out our frustrations through this guy; it’s a lot of fun.”

Haun, 35, who previously has drawn “Detective Comics” for DC Comics and “Civil War: Iron Man/Captain America” for Marvel, is hoping for a long run on the antihero.

“It looks like with issue 96 I’m going to come on, and I’m going to stick around basically until they kick me off the book,” he said.

An upcoming "Artifacts" cover with art by Jeremy Haun

He said part of what makes Jackie Estacado interesting is that dark inner conflict.

“It’s a good character, it’s had a lot of good iterations,” he said. “He’s a great antihero. He’s basically the essence of chaos in a lot of ways. I think it’s very cool seeing a character that in any other story would be a villain, but he does have his own moral sense. We all have a dark side within us, and seeing someone who rides that line as close as Jackie does is pretty interesting.”

Top Cow Publisher Filip Sablik said it’s a joy to sign up Haun, both for his experience and talent, and his friendship. “This is one of those rare, fortunate incidents where the stars align,” Sablik said in a news release. “Jeremy and I have been friends for years and working together has always been a blast. When I brought up the possibility of having Jeremy work for Top Cow exclusively, Marc Silvestri, Matt Hawkins and I all immediately thought he would make an ideal regular artist for ‘The Darkness.’”

The Darkness will also be the star of Top Cow’s Free Comic Book Day book for 2011. A prequel comic to the new “Darkness” video game will feature the origin of Jackie Estacado and the saga of The Darkness video game to date.

The Free Comic Book Day issue will be written by Sablik and illustrated by Michael Broussard, with a cover by Matt Timson. It’s based on a story by Matt Hawkins and Sablik and will be released on Free Comic Book Day, May 7.

Before starting on “The Darkness,” Haun will draw the third arc of Top Cow’s crossover series, “Artifacts.”

“Artifacts” will bring together the 13 mystical artifacts that guide the fate of mankind in the Top Cow Universe.

“‘Artifacts’ is a series that I as a reader was excited about,” Haun said. “Whenever we talked about the possibility of me coming over and working as an exclusive artist for Top Cow, eventually the conversation went to ‘Artifacts.’”

Haun will begin on “Artifacts” with issue No. 9.

Comic book artist Greg Horn will provide artwork for the Broadway show “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark,” creating high-end illustrations for the play’s line of merchandise and imagery for the official program guide, according to a news release.

The “Spider-Man” Broadway show, conceived by Julie Taymor, has songs by Bono and The Edge of U2.

“I’ve worked on some mind-blowing jobs over the past 10 years, but this one might just take the cake,” Horn said in a news release. “It’s a biggie! They were nice enough to fly me up last month to see the show in person, and that really helped me get a grasp of the show’s scope and look. I’ve never seen anything like it…a visual spectacle!”

Horn is well-known for his Marvel Comics covers including “Ms. Marvel” and “Black Widow.”

“My goal with any project – whether we’re talking advertising, video game, or comic book art – is to create the highest quality of illustration,” Horn said.  “In the case of ‘Turn Off the Dark,’ the bar is set pretty high by the rest of the production. By focusing on the best qualities of the characters and freeze-framing the action in the perfect place, I can create a marketable image that is epic and inspiring. I’m extremely pleased with the way things are turning out so far with Spidey!”

More info and art:  http://www.greghornjudge.com

- Matt Price

Considered one of the world’s fastest cartoonists, Sergio Aragones and his team had plenty to choose from for his entry in the book series “Mad’s Greatest Artists.” “Sergio Aragones: Five Decades of His Finest Works” features cartoons from throughout the Mad Magazine artist’s career, dating back to the early 1960s.

“It was almost impossible to start choosing,” Aragones said in a recent phone interview. “I would have published it all … ‘The Complete Works,’ but since I’m still working for the magazine, that cannot be done.”

The 272-page book, published in late 2010, features cartoon stories such as “A Mad Look at the Olympics,” “A Mad Pictorial Look at the United States,” and “A Mad Look at UFOs.” The ongoing series “The Shadow Knows” featured characters whose true thoughts were revealed by the actions of their shadows.

“It was very interesting seeing the progress and the changes,” Aragones said, who was hired by the magazine at age 24, and continues to work there today.

Aragones is well-known for his wordless “marginals,” cartoons that run down the side of the magazine’s pages.

From “Sergio Aragones: Five Decades of His Finest Works”

It wasn’t common to see wordless cartoons in the United States at that time, but Aragones convinced the powers that be at Mad to give him a shot drawing the marginal cartoons, replacing topical jokes that once were on the page borders.

“They said, ‘Let’s run him until he runs out of ideas,’” he said. “That was it. I’m still coming up with them.”

Aragones, who lives and works in Ojai, Calif., also co-created the barbarian parody “Groo, the Wanderer” with writer Mark Evanier. The character has appeared in more than 100 comic books and plans are in the works for more.

“I’m still doing it,” Aragones said. “I’m working right now on one issue of a crossover with Conan and Groo, and I’m … also doing ‘The Simpsons.’”

When Mad went bimonthly, Aragones said he received a lot of calls about taking on new projects.

“Right now I’m very busy,” Aragones said.

Aragones said he still enjoys the process of creating cartoons, and at age 73, has no plans to retire.

“Every day, I think jokes and ideas. And that’s part of my life, the sitting there to create, to try to make people laugh,” Aragones said. “And then the other part is sitting and drawing it, which is very comfortable … and time just flies. You’re doing something you like, and time flies.”

“Sergio Aragones: Five Decades of His Finest Works,” published by Running Press, has a suggested retail price of $29.95.

- By Matthew Price
WORD BALLOONS
From Friday’s The Oklahoman

Paul Levitz with his book, "75 Years of DC Comics."

WORD BALLOONS

With Black Friday upon us, those with comic book fans in their lives might be considering what items relating to the hobby would make good holiday gifts. There are several items, from archival reprints to art books and histories, that might make good selections.

2010 marks the 75th anniversary of DC Comics, so several items are available celebrating that landmark. Paul Levitz has written the enormous “75 Years of DC Comics: The Art of Modern Mythmaking” ($200) from Taschen, recounting the company’s history with lots of beautifully presented art. The hardcover book “DC Comics Year by Year: A Visual Chronicle” ($50) takes fans on a chronological tour through important events in DC Comics’ publishing history.

For those who may be fans primarily of DC Comics’ artwork, “DC Comics: The 75th Anniversary Poster Book” ($40) provides a look at some of DC’s greatest covers, which can be pulled out as posters if desired.

Another DC Comics-related book of interest is “Icons: The DC Comics & Wildstorm Art of Jim Lee” ($39.95), which recounts the post-Marvel comics art of the DC Comics co-publisher, who has drawn story lines including “Superman: For Tomorrow” and “Batman: Hush.” Fans of classic comics may want to try out “Shazam!: The Golden Age of the World’s Mightiest Mortal” ($35), which looks back at the phenomenon of Captain Marvel from comics’ Golden Age.

Aspiring comic book artists might be interested in “Stan Lee’s How to Draw Comics” ($24.99), which covers essential elements in comic book creating, or “Bryan Hitch’s Ultimate Comics Studio” ($24.99), which shows the techniques of the popular comic book penciller.

If your comic fan’s taste runs more toward the indie, Oni Press has released a complete box set of all of the “Scott Pilgrim” graphic novels. Called “Scott Pilgrim’s Precious Little Box Set” ($72), this slipcased collection contains all six of Bryan Lee O’Malley’s “Pilgrim” graphic novels, in which a slacker must defeat all of his new girlfriend’s evil exes.

Marvel Comics fans may enjoy “Marvel Avengers: The Ultimate Character Guide” ($16.99), which gives a rundown on the various characters that were part of “The Avengers” over the years.

- Matt Price
From Friday’s The Oklahoman

From Heritage:

DALLAS, TX – The original art of Page #1, Issue #1 of The Watchmen, the very beginning of one of the most acclaimed comic sagas ever – and one of Time Magazine’s All-Time 100 Greatest Novels in 2005 – will be auctioned by Heritage Auctions, without reserve, on 19 Nov., as part of its Signature® Comic and Comic Art Auction.

The art work, which was purchased for £85.00 (roughly U.S. $150) in 1987 is expected to bring $15,000+.

The page, featuring the introduction of the blood-stained “happy face” badge, Rorschach’s journal and even the first un-costumed appearance of Rorschach himself, comes to auction from the collection of notorious British hard rock designer, musician, DJ and TV host Stephen “Krusher” Joule, long known for his artwork for such rock gods as Iron Maiden, Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath, Motley Crue, AC/DC, Deep Purple, Robert Plant and Motorhead – including some punk luminaries like The Sex Pistols and Blondie – as well as for his longtime tenure as Art Director at Kerrang! Magazine, a longtime bible of Heavy Metal music.

“Sometime in late 1987 I was walking off an absolutely horrendous hangover on my way to work at Kerrang!, which meant that I was stumbling, mumbling and tumbling through Covent Garden,” said Joule. “As I was passing the shop where I had originally bought my Watchmen comics, I saw a poster proclaiming ‘ORIGINAL WATCHMEN ARTWORK FOR SALE.’ My hangover cure was immediate. This was the moment that I’d been waiting for all my life.”

Striding up to the door like a man on a mission, Joule asked “Where’s the Watchmen pages?”

The owner pointed to a person at the back of the shop who was picking up a portfolio.

“That man down there is looking at them,” Joule recalls being told. “I was like a greyhound out of a trap, followed closely by the owner, who was asking me ‘Is there any particular page you’re interested in?’ No sooner than the words were out of his mouth, and the man with the portfolio had just finished unzipping it, did I see a vision of beauty, the Holy Grail, Page #1, issue #1. I pointed to it and said, ‘Yes! That one!”

Even the most hardcore and irascible denizens of Metal eventually need a break from the rock and roll life, and want to be closer to their aging parents, which has led Joule to sell of this singular and important piece after more than 23 years of ownership.

“After 33 years of living in my council flat on the 15th floor of what I lovingly refer to as ‘Terror Tower,’” he said, “I want to get out of London and be closer to Ma Krusher. This should help facilitate that.”

In collector circles, original Watchmen art from the 1980s is very highly sought-after. It is, in fact, among the small handful of most important titles from the entire history of the medium. Appearances of original Watchmen art are very rare indeed, let alone the very first page of the very first book.

“Watchmen pages have proven very scarce on the open market,” said Todd Hignite, Consignment Director for Heritage, “and do not change hands very often. In fact, this is the first one Heritage has ever offered – so we couldn’t be more excited that it’s the page that kicks off the entire Alan Moore/Dave Gibbons saga. Many people who’ve never read any other comic books have read Watchmen, and given that mass appeal, we expect very strong demand for this lot.”

In fact, Joule began to realize the importance of this very page many years ago when he attended an Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons signing, where he brought this page to get the signatures of the Watchmen creators.

“When I asked (Gibbons) to sign this page he was more than willing,” said Joule, “but when he saw that it was Page #1, Issue #1, he said, ‘Bloody hell, I told the wife not to sell that one!’ Sadly for him, it was a little too late.”

Click past the cut for the color guide to Watchmen #1, page 1.

Mike Grell, the famed comic-book writer/artist, will speak at noon at Austin Comic-Con as part of the “Wizard Art School” series of panels.

According to a release from Wizard, Grell will discuss his art style as well as his take on the industry.

Grell is known for his independent comic hits “Jon Sable: Freelance” and “Starslayer,” as well as classic runs on DC Comics’ “Green Arrow” and “Legion of Super-Heroes.”  Grell created the hero “Warlord” for DC Comics, which ran for 13 years and inspired a toy line.

- Matt Price

Jerry Robinson with the original art for the covers of Detective Comics 69 and Superman 14

Comic Connect revealed that the original art from “Detective Comics” #69, by Jerry Robinson, and “Superman” #14, by Fred Ray, will be auctioned.   The patriotic Superman cover is one of the iconic images of the Golden Age of comics.  Robinson, often considered the creator or co-creator of the Joker, is the artist of “Detective Comics” #69, which includes one of his most famous images of the character.  Click past the cut for the full release.

- Matt Price

http://www.comicconnect.com/data/Image/site/jerry_robinson.html

Thanks to this year’s record-breaking, million dollar comic book sales, we all know how valuable vintage comics have become. But did you ever ponder the value of something infinitely rarer: the original artwork behind those coveted collectibles?

The year is 1942. A 20-year old Jerry Robinson, one of the living legends of the comic book world, member of the original Batman team and creator of the Joker, became a witness to the creation of a work of art that hit him like a proverbial thunderbolt. The masterpiece was the cover art to the Superman 14 issue, illustrated by fellow DC artist Fred Ray. Today, this pivotal and patriotic piece is widely considered to be the cornerstone artwork that defined Superman as the defender of “Truth, Justice and the American Way,” and solidified his status as a 20th Century American icon. It is by far the single-most valuable piece of original comic book artwork still in existence.

In the 1940′s, original comic art would be routinely destroyed by the engravers hours after the printing presses finished a comic’s print run. Jerry Robinson went to great lengths to make sure that this did not happen with the Superman 14 cover. And that cover has remained in the collection of the now 88-year old Jerry Robinson ever since. The value in 1942 – $0. The value in 2010 – to be determined.

“Thank goodness for Jerry Robinson,” says Steven Fishler, whose comic book auction house, ComicConnect.com, will launch the auction of the Superman Patriotic Shield cover on November 10. “He was one of the few pros of the era with the foresight to save these artifacts.”

Also up for auction for the very first time is Jerry Robinson’s mythic 1942 “Double Guns” Detective Comics #69 cover art, featuring Batman and a huge image of the Joker. It’s easily one of the great works of American comic art in existence. “To be able to offer at auction what may be the best Joker cover, drawn by the creator of the Joker, is certainly a tremendous honor,” says Vincent Zurzolo, COO of ComicConnect.com.

Robinson dreamed up the Joker character as a young artist in the DC bullpen. A student of literature, he realized that “great characters have an internal contradiction, like a villain with a sense of humor.” (The image of a joker sprang from his family’s love of playing cards.) This year marks the Joker’s 70th anniversary, as well as a newly-released biography, Jerry Robinson: Ambassador of Comics, published by Abrams and written by N.C. Christopher Couch.

Like fine art, the market for collectible comic book art has skyrocketed. It has been estimated that between 10,000 and 15,000 collectors worldwide furiously compete to own these black and white artifacts of pop culture history. According to Fishler, a comic page that sold for $2,000 a decade ago now typically sells for $15,000 or more. The original art of the first Spiderman story from 1962, with a value of upwards of a million dollars, was recently donated to the Library of Congress.

“It’s exciting to see the flood of new, aggressive collectors pouring into the market day in and day out,” Fishler notes. “To a great extent, people are only beginning to appreciate the history and importance of American comic book art.”

However, because there is nothing comparable to Superman 14 and Detective Comics 69, there is no way of knowing where this cliffhanger will end when the auction closes on December l. It is, as they say in the comics…

To Be Continued.

Jordan Crane "The Walking Dead" print

The Secret Headquarters is offering four limited-edition prints to celebrate the premiere of “The Walking Dead,” based on the Image Comic by Robert Kirkman.

The four prints were designed by Jordan Crane and hand-printed by Jordan Rae; each was illustrated by a different accomplished artist (Lisa Hanawalt, Jon Vermilyea, Johnny Ryan and Jordan Crane).

The archival-quality prints measure 23 x 35 inches on acid-free 70lb. paper. Each print is limited to a run of 100 copies and will be signed by both the artist and Kirkman; single prints are $40 and the set of four is $150.

“I’m astounded by the talent involved and couldn’t be happier with how this turned out,” said Robert Kirkman, creator and writer of The Walking Dead, in a news release. “I think people are going to love these prints and I hope it brings people into The Secret Headquarters in droves because it’s a great store.”

The prints are available at The Secret Headquarters (3817 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles / 323.666.2228) or via walkingdeadprints.com.

- Matt Price
Click past the cut for all four images.

Win art!

Allposters.com is giving a NewsOK Comics Podcast watcher the chance to win this framed art –just comment on the video with your favorite Marvel character, and we’ll draw a winner.

X-Men Arcade game coming to consoles

An image of "Amazing Spider-Man" #50 from allposters.com.

According to Marvel.com, Konami Digital Entertainment will release the classic “X-Men” arcade game originally released in 1992 for the very first time outside of arcades.  The game will be available on Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network in Fall 2010.

Spider-Man casting news

Sony has announced that Rhys Ifans (“Notting Hill”) has joined the cast of the “Spider-Man” movie reboot. He’ll play the villain in the new movie, but Sony didn’t reveal who that would be.   The Wrap reported that Ifans will play The Lizard, but that hasn’t been confirmed.

Batman and Wolverine updates

Deadline reports Tom Hardy has been selected for a lead role in “Batman 3,” and Darren Aronofsky is likely clearing his plate to take a stab at directing “Wolverine 2.”

Matt Price and Kyle Roberts review Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne #5, X-Men #4, and Bruce Wayne: The Road Home one-shots — Batman and Robin, Red Robin, Batgirl and Outsiders.

Nexus Space Opera TPB

Artist Steve Rude, co-creator of “Nexus” and “The Moth” and one of the most acclaimed comic-book creators of the 1980s, announced via his Facebook page that he’s facing financial difficulties, and he could really stand to have his current set of ebay auctions, featuring pages from “The Next Nexus” miniseries, go well.   There are also sketchbooks, comic books and trade paperbacks available.   You can also get artwork and merchandise at Steve Rude Art.

- Matt Price

Abrams has a nice line-up of panels and signings promoting its current and upcoming offerings.  I for one am very much looking forward to the “Shazam” book this fall!

From Abrams:

Abrams ComicArts Signings

Booth #1216

Thursday, July 22

1–2:00 pm Ethen Beavers N.E.R.D.S. Book Two: M Is for Mama’s Boy

2–3:00 pm Chip Kidd Shazam! The Golden Age of the World’s Mightiest Mortal

Friday, July 23

11–12:00 noon Brian and Wendy Froud The Heart of Faerie Oracle

3–4:00 pm Jaime Hernandez and Todd Hignite The Art of Jaime Hernandez: The Secrets of Life and Death

Saturday, July 24

10–11:00 am Jaime Hernandez and Todd Hignite The Art of Jaime Hernandez: The Secrets of Life and Death

2:30–3:30 pm Lela Lee – Angry Little Girls, Angry Little Girls in Love

4–5:00 pm Brian and Wendy Froud The Heart of Faerie Oracle

Sunday, July 25

2–3:00 pm Jason Shiga – Meanwhile

Abrams ComicArts Panels

Friday, July 23

1:30–2:30 pm Spotlight on Jerry Robinson Room 9

One of the true legends of comics, Comic-Con special guest Jerry Robinson is a writer, artist, historian, curator, and creator rights activist. Jerry discusses his seventy years in comics––from his contributions to the Batman mythos to the creation of the Joker and development of Robin, Alfred, Penguin, Scarecrow, and Two-Face. Jerry is interviewed by Michael Uslan, the executive producer of the Batman movies, comics historian, and author of upcoming Archie Marries… (Abrams ComicArts). In their discussion, Robinson and Uslan will take the audience from behind the scenes of the Golden Age of comics to the filming of The Dark Knight and Jerry’s latest book projects including the upcoming Jerry Robinson: Ambassador of Comics (Abrams ComicArts).

4–5:00 pm Krazy Kat’s 100th Anniversary Celebration! Room 4

An exclusive multimedia show of unpublished strips, drawings, and paintings presented by Craig Yoe, author of Krazy + Ignatz in Tiger Tea (IDW) and the upcoming Krazy Kat & the Art of George Herriman: A Celebration (Abrams ComicArts). The panel will explore a century of Krazy-ness, with Greg Goldstein (IDW), R. C. Harvey (The Art of the Funnies), Charles Kochman (executive editor, Abrams ComicArts), Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics), and Peter Maresca, (editor/publisher, Sunday Press Books). Plus a thrilling bonus: a never-before-seen home movie of Krazy’s creator, George Herriman.

Saturday, July 24

11:30–12:30 pm Shazam! The Golden Age of the World’s Mightiest Mortal Room 9

Author/designer Chip Kidd (Mythology, Bat-Manga, Rough Justice), author/producer Michael Uslan (Archie Marries…), and Charles Kochman (executive editor, Abrams ComicArts) celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Big Red Cheese in this panel and slideshow discussion celebrating Kidd’s upcoming fall release from Abrams ComicArts, Shazam! The Golden Age of the World’s Mightiest Mortal.

Steve Rude, co-creator of “Nexus” and artist of comics including “Captain America: What Price Glory” and “Superman vs. Hulk” will be on-hand with multiple appearances at this week’s Comic-Con: International in San Diego.

From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Rude will paint a realistic portrait in a Comic-Con How-To Session in Room 18.

Rude will sign from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at either the Sails Pavillion or in Artists Alley.

From 2:30-3:30 p.m. Friday, the Spotlight on Steve Rude panel will take an overview of Rude’s career in Room 9.

The premiere of the Rude Dude Documentary Trailer will be shown at the end of the panel.

Rude will sign from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Friday in the Autograph area of the Sails Pavillion.

- Matt Price

“There are a number of others that came through the ranks during the 1960s, but I would vote that in a boiled-down list, these mattered most,” Ross (“Marvels,” “Kingdom Come”) said in the release.
The prints will be available in canvas and paper editions and measure 45 ¼” by 20.”  There are 100 available of the canvas edition and 250 in paper.  “Assemble”  is set to debut at Comic-Con International, July 22-25 in San Diego.  “Assemble” will be on display at the Marvel ArtWorks booth, #4713, and online at MarvelArtWorks.com.

The Comics Reporter has a great remembrance of the life and career of Al Williamson, who died June 12.   Williamson’s art – from Flash Gordon to Star Wars to Secret Agent X-9 to a host of Marvel Comics inking assignments – was fantastic throughout his long career.   He was 79.

My first exposure to Williamson was his art on the “Return of the Jedi” adaptation from Marvel Comics.  It was also either my first or nearly my first exposure to Archie Goodwin, the writer, who was from Oklahoma.  I read and re-read those comics throughout the summer of 1984, and by summer’s end, I was not only a “Star Wars” fan, but also a fan of Archie Goodwin and Al Williamson.  (And the Bill Sienkiewicz covers were pretty good, too.)  While I don’t believe the “Return of the Jedi” comics are available online, fans can see Williamson’s art from the “Empire Strikes Back” adaptation, which many fans prefer,  online at StarWars.com.

I’ve read many Al Williamson stories since, and even owned a bit of his original art, and am always amazed at the mastery of the craft that he had.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in the cartoonist’s memory be made to either The Joe Kubert School, 37 Myrtle Avenue, Dover, NJ 07801, Attn: Al Williamson Scholarship Fund; or Yesteryears Day Program, 2801 Wayne Street, Endwell, NY 13760.

- Matt Price

Heritage Auctions reports that the original artwork for the cover of 1955′s “Weird Science-Fantasy” #29, drawn by Frank Frazetta, has been sold for $380,000.  Heritage believes this to be a record sale for a single piece of original American comic book art.

The artwork was purchased by to Heritage Co-Chairman and Co-Founder Jim Halperin.

“Knowing I’m a huge Frazetta fan, and a rabid EC collector, Stephen Ferzoco and Rob Pistella, the agents for the family, approached me as soon as they asked them to sell this piece,” said Halperin in a news release. “I was thrilled to pay their asking price, which, although it set a new record by a wide margin, actually seemed quite fair for the ultimate EC cover.”

This cover is one of the first pieces of Frazetta art to be sold since the artist’s death on May 10.   The cover is Frazetta’s only solo cover for EC; he also inked the “Weird Fantasy” #21 cover over Al Williamson.

“Frazetta did a total of 42 comic book covers, many of which are no longer thought to exist as original art,” said Halperin in the release, “though WSF #29 is by far his most famous.”

For more info about the cover, and about the record, click past the cut for Heritage’s full news release.

- Matt Price

DALLAS, TX – Frank Frazetta’s original 1955 artwork for Weird Science-Fantasy #29, considered by many comic art fans to be the finest comic book cover of all time, has been sold in a private treaty sale for $380,000 – almost certainly the most ever paid for a single piece of original American comic book art – to Heritage Co-Chairman and Co-Founder Jim Halperin, a collector known to own one of the finest comic book and original comic art collections in the world. It was an outright purchase for immediate payment, with no trade-ins involved.

“Knowing I’m a huge Frazetta fan, and a rabid EC collector, Stephen Ferzoco and Rob Pistella, the agents for the family, approached me as soon as they asked them to sell this piece,” said Halperin. “I was thrilled to pay their asking price, which, although it set a new record by a wide margin, actually seemed quite fair for the ultimate EC cover.”

This amazing cover is also the first major piece of Frazetta art to come up for sale since his death on May 10 of this year. His original art, already valued at a premium, is almost certain to continue drawing record prices when truly iconic pieces like this one are released for private sale and public auction.

Weird Science-Fantasy #29 (EC 1955) Is Frazetta’s only solo cover for EC, though he also inked the Al Williamson-penciled Weird Fantasy #21 cover, which is also among the dozens of original EC covers by Wally Wood, Johnny Craig, Graham Ingels, Al Feldstein, Jack Davis and other comic art legends in Halperin’s personal collection.

“Frazetta did a total of 42 comic book covers, many of which are no longer thought to exist as original art,” said Halperin, “though WSF #29 is by far his most famous.”

Originally conceived as a Buck Rogers cover for Famous Funnies, and drawn in 1954, this cover was never published by Eastern Color. Instead it was later used by Bill Gaines’ EC Comics in 1955 in a slightly altered form – helmet replaced by blond hair, and one of the attackers was given more hair. It is almost universally regarded as the most iconic Atomic Age (late 1940s through mid-to-late 1950s) comic cover, and was called “the most outstanding cover ever put on a comic book,” by acknowledged EC authority Russ Cochran.

The previous record for a single piece of American comic book art is believed to be the Wally Wood cover to EC’s Weird Science #16, which Heritage sold via private treaty in April 2008 for $200,000. Some might argue that the cover to MAD #30, which Heritage sold for $203,150 the following November, broke the Weird Science #16 record. That, however, was two pieces – front and back covers – and it was really a painted Magazine cover, which is not technically comic book art.

“I want to thank Stephen Ferzoco and Rob Pistella for offering me first shot, and also Heritage comic art experts Ed Jaster and Todd Hignite for advising me on the transaction,” added Halperin. “I have no plans to resell it anytime soon.”

Heritage Auctions, founded by Steve Ivy and Jim Halperin, is the world’s third largest auction house and by far the largest collectibles auctioneer, with annual sales more than $600 million, and 500,000+ registered online bidder members. For more information about Heritage Auctions, and to join and gain access to a complete record of prices realized, along with full-color, enlargeable photos of each lot, please visit HA.com.

Heritage Auctions, based in Dallas, has announced the results of their latest comic auction, which drew m0re than $3.2 million dollars.

Highlighting the auction was the original art for a Frank Miller Daredevil, which brought in  $101,575.  The cover, from “Daredevil” #188, features Daredevil and Black Widow.

That’s believed to be a public auction record for a piece of original art from the 1980s, auction officials said in a news release.

“This is a world record public auction price for a piece of 1980s comic art,” said Todd Hignite, Consignment Director for Original Comic and Illustration Art at Heritage Auctions, “and it’s one of the handful of highest prices that Heritage has ever seen paid for a piece of comic art, period. It’s in very rarefied company.”

Also in the auction, bound volumes of “Action Comics” 1-24 went for $143,000; the most ever paid for a bound volume of comics.  And original R. Crumb art from “Help!” went for $35,850.

- Matt Price

Click past the cut for the full release.

From Heritage Auctions:

DALLAS, TX – The original Frank Miller cover art from Daredevil #188 (1982) – a high point from near the end of Miller’s legendary run of the title and a piece that shows the full range of his peak-period mastery – sold for a world record price of $101,575 on Friday, May 21, as part of Heritage Auctions’ $3.2+ million Signature® Comics & Comic Art Auction. All prices include 19.5% Buyer’s Premium.

“This is a world record public auction price for a piece of 1980s comic art,” said Todd Hignite, Consignment Director for Original Comic and Illustration Art at Heritage Auctions, “and it’s one of the handful of highest prices that Heritage has ever seen paid for a piece of comic art, period. It’s in very rarefied company.”

When Miller’s run on Marvel’s Daredevil (#158 to #191) began in the early 1980s, “DD” was a second tier title in a market dominated by Spider-Man and the X-Men. By the time he finished the story arc, Daredevil was one of the most popular in the whole of the Marvel Universe. In this amazing and haunting cover the Black Widow has a desperate grasp on a struggling Matt Murdock. The image is at once menacing and intricately beautiful, with Miller spinning a fascinating design of intricate lacing white line work juxtaposed against stark black shapes.

The Heritage Comics & Comic Art Auction overall saw more than 1900 bidders competing for more than 1200 lots. The $3.2 million+ total represents an astounding 99.35% sell-through rate by total lots.

Superman has been much in the new lately for record setting copies of his early adventures, and the May 21 auction added to that recent run as two bound volumes of Action Comics #1-24 (1938-1940) sold for the most ever paid for a bound volume lot when it brought $143,400.

“Think about how much it would cost to try and assemble a collection like this today,” said Ed Jaster, Vice President of Heritage Auctions. “Even if you could find copies of all these books individually, you’d never find them in condition this good, and forget about the prices. At $143,400, this represents a very smart buy for a sharp collector.”

Original Robert Crumb artwork showed its considerable sustained strength in the auction, led by his Help! #22 “Fritz Comes On Strong” Page 2 Original Art (Warren, 1965), which realized a very healthy $35,850 final price.

This artwork is from the first piece that Crumb had published when he began his professional career at age 21, with a two-page story published in Harvey Kurtzman’s Help! Magazine. The story features a cartoon version of the Crumb family pet cat, Fritz, as he brings home a kitty girlfriend and proceeds to gleefully strip off all her clothing.

“This is a truly great and historic page from one of the most important American artists of the last 50 years,” said Jaster. “Crumb had been drawing the adventures of Fritz in his homemade comics since childhood, but this was the first time the public was exposed to this randy feline, and it certainly wouldn’t be the last.”

Crumb also figure prominently in another record setting lot in the auction, as a Zap Comix #1 First Printing – Plymell Edition (Apex Novelties, 1967) CGC NM 9.4 – the highest graded copy of the issue known – set a new record price for an underground comic with a total of $26,290. It also precisely doubled the previous record set by a different copy of Zap 1 sold by Heritage last year.

The demand for rare original comic art continued with more record prices when Gary Larson’s The Far Side Daily Comic Strip Original Art dated 2-12-83 (Chronicle Features, 1983) realized $20,315 for a comic in which the artist pays a sly tribute to Walt Disney’s classic animated feature Pinocchio in this clever panel, featuring a very special, top hat-wearing “field cricket” preserved in alcohol.

“It’s a rare treat to see Far Side originals as they certainly don’t come into the market often,” said Jaster. “Larson has preferred to hang onto most of his artwork. This particular example is a true gem, and one of the best Heritage has had the opportunity to offer; it’s no surprise that it brought such a premium.”

Comic Book Resources reports the death of fantasy artist Frank Frazetta, well-known for his depictions of Conan and the Death Dealer.   He also worked on well-known comics and comic strips including Lil Abner, Flash Gordon and more.

image via

- Matt Price

Los Angeles publisher Every Picture Tells a Story have created a new line of upscale fine art prints, including some signed by Marvel Comics Chairman Emeritus Stan Lee.

“I don’t know the definition of fine art,” Lee said in a news release, “but I always felt what we were creating was art. It’s fantastic to see it represented this way.”

Included in the latest release are images from Steve Ditko’s Amazing Spider-Man 19; Gil Kane’s Iron Man 47; Jim Lee’s X-Men 1 and Alex Ross’s Earth X.

- Matt Price

Click past the cut for the full release.

“This was meant to be!” exclaimed Marvel Comics Chairman Emeritus Stan Lee. He was commenting on the unveiling of the new Marvel ArtWorks fine art prints created by Los Angeles-based publisher Every Picture Tells A Story.

The co-creator of Spider-Man, Iron Man, the Fantastic Four and so many other classic characters was pleased to be signing the new, limited edition reproductions of artwork by his longtime associates Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko. “I don’t know the definition of fine art,” Lee continued, “but I always felt what we were creating was art. It’s fantastic to see it represented this way.”

Ranging from classic Spider-Man covers to dramatic contemporary portrayals of Iron Man and the X-Men, Every Picture Tells A Story has introduced a series of eye-popping giclée prints that offer collectors and fans an opportunity to see comic book art as it has never been viewed before. In addition to icons Kirby and Ditko, among the artists represented are Jim Lee, Alex Ross, Todd McFarlane and Gil Kane.

The exclusive art series grew out of a mutual passion shared by Every Picture Tells A Story’s Lee Cohen and executives at Marvel Comics. “We were representing the art of special effects master Ray Harryhausen, Tim Burton, Greg Hildebrandt and others. It was always our dream to produce giant-sized reproductions of the Marvel classics,” says Cohen. “Coincidentally, Marvel saw our exhibit at the San Diego Comic Con and mentioned they were interested in creating fine art editions of their characters. They opened their archives of 70 years of art to us.”

Included in Marvel ArtWorks’ newest release are classic Marvel images like Steve Ditko’s Amazing Spider-Man 19, Gil Kane’s Iron Man 47; art from newer illustrators like Gabrielle Dell’Otto and Simone Bianchi; and modern favorites like Jim Lee’s X-Men 1 and Alex Ross’s Earth X.

Over 30 galleries, gift shops and comic book stores have signed on to carry the Marvel ArtWorks series of prints — including the Disney Theme Parks (owned by Marvel’s new parent company).

Always looking forward, the 86 year old Stan Lee was pleased to come on board, adding his signature to the characters and comics he had helped to bring into the world. Admiring the gallery of Marvel art displayed before him, he stated enthusiastically, “I can’t wait to see more!”

Every Picture Tells A Story… is located at 1311-C Montana Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90403, by phone at (310) 451-2700 and online at everypicture.com. Marvel ArtWorks can also be viewed at marvelartworks.com.

The 2nd Friday Circuit of Art in Norman, Oklahoma takes place Friday, March 12, from 6 to 10 p.m., and this month, ties in with the Norman Public Library’s Big Read: The Maltese Falcon.

Three locations along the arts loop will be key Maltese Falcon tie-ins: The Depot/Performing Arts Studio is the Big Read headquarters for the evening. Guests can get a free copy of the novel by Dashiell Hammet, sign up for programs and book discussions, and enjoy refreshments, beverages and live music by Off Boyd Jazz.

At the Crucible Foundry and Gallery, artist Jeff Littlejohn will display the falcon series of sculptures commissioned for the Big Read.  The D and will discuss the vision and the processes behind the works of art. And, Norman’s well-known The Diner will be open from 6-8:00 pm for a rare late-night meal created for the occasion: Sam Spade Spam and Eggs.

The arts loop is a monthly Cleveland Area Rapid Transit route that connects the Downtown Arts District with outlying galleries; performance halls and Campus Corner to accompany an art walk the second Friday of each month.  For 50 cents per ride or $2 for the whole evening, visitors can get on the CART trolley at Republic Bank & Trust on the corner of Main Street and University Boulevard, or any other stop on the route, and visit participating art galleries and organizations from 6 to 10 p.m.

A complete list of each participating gallery and art walk events, as well as a CART map for the evening and instructions for riding, is available online at www.2ndfridaynorman.com.

For more information, visit www.normanarts.org or call 360.1162.

Another Big Read activity takes place at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 13 at the University of Oklahoma Law School. Moderator, David Draper Clark, and crime novel enthusiasts Jim Davis, Bill Hagen, and David Kipen will take a closer look at the crime classic The Maltese Falcon. This Keynote Panel Discussion, “The Maltese Falcon: The Plot Thickens” is free.

For more information about other Big Read events, visit www.bigreadok.com.   If you’d like to know more about the film based on the book, check out my post here.

- Matt Price

The national comic-book event 24 Hour Comics Day is set for October 3. It’s an annual challenge in which creators attempt to produce a 24-page comic book in 24 consecutive hours.

ComicsPRO, the comic book specialty retailer trade organization, heads up the event. Interested parties can find out more about the event, and nearby locations, at www.24hourcomics.day.com.

Norah Curry, promotions director of the Laughing Ogre Comics comic-book chain, is heading up promotion for this year’s 24 Hour Comics Day. She said the event is intended to expose people to the process of comic-book creation.

“24 Hour Comics Day is intended to let anyone, at any skill level, who is interested in creating their own comic create one,” Curry said. “(It’s) an event to get people excited about the creative energy of creating a comic in a day.”

Curry is committee leader of ComicsPRO’s 24 Hour Comics Day Committee.

“ComicsPRO is the national sponsor for the event,” Curry said. “We are here to make sure that the groundwork is laid for anyone who wants to sponsor a site. We also work with national sponsors to make sure that the participants and host sites have everything that they need to make the event a successful one.”

Curry said all are welcome, from professional artists to complete novices. The camaraderie of the day is one of the most memorable parts of the event.

“I have seen some great artwork, innovative stories and artists getting know each other,” Curry said. “Most entertaining are the waning hours of the event as everyone gets their second wind of frenetic energy to complete the challenge.”

With a few weeks to go until the event, there’s still time for new locations to sign up.

“If your local store is not listed as a host site, ask them,” Curry said. “If you don’t have a local store, ask your local library! You never know who will want to be involved.”

- by Matthew Price

Artist Cliff Chiang — who drew a great Prince-inspired Batgirl a while back — has created a Titans-themed tribute to director John Hughes.  Go to his site to see the full-size version, and to read his Breakfast-Club-inspired take on the Titans.

- Matt Price

Gene Triplett, Heather Warlick-Moore, Matt Price and George Lang discuss some of this week’s hot entertainment topics, including Joaquin Phoenix’s meltdown, Michael Jackson’s comeback; big spring events in Oklahoma; and the best and worst film remakes.

 The artistic team of Sal Velluto and Bob Almond create a new “Archer & Armstrong” story for the hardcover “First Impressions,” which will collect the earliest stories of the odd couple of adventurers from the Valiant Comics line.  Earlier this summer, the artists talked to The Oklahoman about the characters, Valiant Comics, and their artistic collaboration.  They also hint about a possible future collaboration reuniting their “Black Panther” team.

Matt Price: What’s most appealing to you about the characters of Archer and Armstrong?  What interested you most about drawing a new tale featuring these characters?

SAL: In the past I’ve had the chance to work on other characters from the Valiant Universe, such as X-O Manowar (#2-3, 1992), Rai (#3, 5-6, 1992) as well as the revamp of Bloodshot for Acclaim (#1-16, 1997-1998). Archer and Armstrong represents both a return to my own personal “Valiant Era” of comics and a re-discovery of some beloved characters and stories. Working again with Jim Shooter is absolutely a treat, as it is joining forces – again – with my long time art partner, Bob Almond. It is interesting to note that Bob and I started our 10 year plus collaboration on an historic issue of Bloodshot vs. X-O Manowar.

BOB:  Indeed, on Acclaim’s Bloodshot #8 back in 1997. Regrettably, I didn’t get a crack at those original era characters like Sal did…until now! It’s such a hoot for us to further add to the tapestry of the Valiant Universe and history as it’s still so well beloved by the diehard fans after all these years. Plus, some of my first and favorite comics were Jim Shooter’s stories at Marvel from the ‘70s, like the Avengers.

Matt Price: What do you think about the resurgence of Valiant Comics? Why is Valiant still important to people?

SAL:  Since its first inception, Valiant Comics has been a character and story driven publisher. In the old days, as well as today, when you work for Valiant you have to leave at the door a big part of your ego and your temptations to “show off”. This might be a little uncomfortable to admit, for an illustrator such as myself, but it deserves to be recognized. This is a company who could have used the famous Shakespeare motto: “The story is the thing!” I believe the readers have enjoyed and will enjoy Valiant Comics for that very reason: “The story is the thing.”

BOB:  Yes, this challenges an artist’s storytelling chops over the flashy approach. We can do flashy, and have, but Sal is so good when it comes down to the basic foundations of telling a story that he seems like such a good fit for the new Valiant.

With all the publishers that have come and gone, Valiant was among the best when it came to planning, execution, and quality by an all-star line-up of greats who created modern legends. Try to recall those other publishers and their titles and characters. While some are still remembered, like CrossGen and Malibu, most are fading memories to the fans.  But it’s a testament to Valiant and its groundbreaking production of art and stories that fans are still fond of the past and eagerly rabid for more new stories.

Matt Price: What can “Archer & Armstrong” fans expect in the new story? 

SAL: I’ve had a lot of fun illustrating this story and really appreciated the great amount of research Jim Shooter has put into it. Luckily, I was quite familiar with most of the historical and geographical settings, since I grew up not too far from where the story takes place and have touched with hand many archeological artifacts of that time period. I think Jim did a wonderful job taking some pre-existing elements from Archer & Armstrong published stories and creating a plausible and interesting prologue. If the fans enjoy it half as much as I did, I think we’ll all be in great shape.

BOB:  I don’t have the same global background and experience as “Indiana” Velluto here, but I could tell that Jim still has a fondness to these characters when I read the script.  He’s still writing epics without having to tell multi-chapter, cross-title ‘events’ like other publishers are doing.

Matt Price: The two of you are best-known as a team for your work on “Black Panther.”  Tell me about working together on that series. 

SAL:  When Bob and I were hired to work on “Black Panther”, the book was slated for cancellation. We started with “unlucky” issue number 13, which was coincidentally titled, “The End.” Well, with the help of the great Christopher Priest  (also a veteran of Acclaim Comics) and the critical support of a wonderful fan base, we ended up prolonging the life of the book for three more years (36 more issues) and smashing Jack Kirby’s record for the most prolific art-team on that particular title. Along with all that, there was a lot of passion and involvement with the Black Panther characters and environments, which resulted in many, many extra hours at the drawing table for me and a strange psychosomatic reaction, developed by Bob, every time he had to ink one of my pages (smiles).

BOB:  Thanks…I think.

Yeah, good times, good times; the series was ‘cancelled’ so many times while we were on it so imagine working on a series with a gun to your head, listening to the chamber and clicks, waiting for it to go off every few issues, and then suddenly three years passed and we had created some of the best work we’d ever produced and it’s still admired by the fans. Hey, that’s an unintentionally nice connection to my analysis of the Valiant books.

By the way, wouldn’t it be so cool for someone to bring back together both Acclaim alumni and award-winning Black Panther creators Priest, Sal & Bob on something in the future?

Matt Price: What other projects do you have in the works?

SAL:  I am currently one of the artists on Lee Falk’s The Phantom, which is printed by Egmont Publishing in Scandinavia and Frew Comics in Australia. Among my other projects, a summer vacation with my family.

BOB:  Vacation?!  What’s a vacation?

I am doing some work for IDW on Star Trek: Year Four – The Enterprise Experiment and I’m even doing something else with Sal that I have to keep discreet about at the moment. Outside of that and lots of commissions, I’m also kept pretty busy with my ongoing pet project and passion, The Inkwell Awards at http://www.inkwellawards.com/.

From Friday’s The Oklahoman:

By Matthew Price
Assistant Features Editor

WORD BALLOONS

Tulsa artist Dustin Evans has helped chronicle the adventures of Disney’s pirates and gargoyles. This summer, he’ll introduce comic book fans to new characters in “Imaginary Friends.”

“Imaginary Friends” is a 96-page comic book being published by Viper Comics. Evans handles the entire art process — penciling, inking and digitally coloring the story.

“This book is great for people who love ‘popcorn movies,’” Evans said in an e-mail interview. “There is a lot of action, comedy and great characters that drive the story. The plot revolves around six Imaginary Characters, being led by their fearless leader, Rex Montana, to save the world from certain doom. The question is can a clown, skeleton, pageant winner, deer-man, action hero and small child actually save the world?”

Jason M. Burns wrote the “Imaginary Friends” story. Burns is also the author of “Expendable One” and “M-Force.”

“It’s hard to sum this book up, but if I could pick a word or two to describe it, ‘roller coaster’ would be it,” Evans said.

Evans started drawing seriously in fourth grade, after getting a “How to Draw Dinosaurs” book from the library book fair.

“I drew every prehistoric animal in the book at least once or twice,” Evans said. “It wasn’t long after this when I discovered comic books. Batman, Superman and X-Men were my books of choice. I spent hours drawing and redrawing my favorite super heroes in battles only limited by my imagination.”

Evans took every art class he could from middle school to high school, then attended Oklahoma State University, majoring in illustration and graphic design. Evans graduated with a bachelor’s of fine arts degree in 2005.

But even before that, Evans was graduating into comics. A trip to Comic Con International in 2004 provided Evans’ big break.

“It was my first time on a plane, and my first time in a major state that didn’t border Oklahoma,” Evans said. “I handed out sample packets of my work to companies around the building, talked to as many people as possible, asked numerous questions and listened to all the feedback. It was the single most exciting and bizarre experience I had encountered to date. Celebrities were everywhere and artists and writers I had respected for years were looking at my work.”

A few days after returning home, Evans received a call from Disney Adventures, asking him to draw a comic strip based on the “Pirates of the Caribbean.”

Later, he provided the colors for Disney’s “Gargoyles.”

“I grew up watching the animated series, so working on the comic books was like a childhood dream come true,” he said.

Currently, Evans is working on digital colors for an upcoming book from Devil’s Due called “Serpo,” scheduled for an August release.

“‘Serpo is a three-chapter graphic novel in the sci-fi/action genre, loosely based on a true story,” Evans said. The book was written by Burns with pencils/inks by Joe Eisma, letters by Nick Deschenes and colors by me, of course.”

In his approximately four years as a comic-book artist, Evans said his upcoming “Imaginary Friends” is the work of which he’s the most proud.

“It will be the biggest project to feature my artwork alone, since I’ve started my comic book career,” Evans said. “There’s just something great about flipping through 96 pages, knowing you’re responsible for all the art from the lines to the colors throughout the story.”

Dustin Evans, artist of “Imaginary Friends” from Viper Comics, answered some additional questions for Nerdage readers.

Matt Price: Who are your main artistic influences?

Dustin Evans: I’m definitely into the more “animated” style of comics. I had no idea this style was really happening and acceptable in American comics until I discovered my main influence, Humberto Ramos, while I was in college. I just remember seeing his work, and being blown away by the energy and style of his lines. Tim Burton has also been a big influence of mine. Not just his movies, but his concept art and animated work. Tim Sale and Frank Miller both stick out in my mind as big influences as well. Their lighting and storytelling is among the best in my book.

MP: What’s your favorite comic-book story?

DE: One book sticks out in my mind, “The Dark Knight Returns”. I remember my older brother getting the book for Christmas one year, and I “borrowed” it for years to come. I probably read the story a dozen times and flipped through the artwork hundreds of times before I even really knew who Frank Miller was and what he was about as a creator.

MP: What’s your dream project?

DE: My dream project would really be a project of my own creation. I really want to get my own book out on shelves, so everyone can get a real sense of my unfiltered style and storytelling. I’m actually writing and illustrating my own side project right now call, “Old Man Claus”. It’s about who else, but Santa Claus. Santa has lost his magical powers and fallen into a dark depression. He must rise up against packs of zombies, sasquatches, and bodacious babes to save the world and reclaim his title as world’s best holiday mascot.

MP: What are the challenges of living in Oklahoma and working in the comics industry?
DE: I would say, thanks to technology, the challenges of working as a comic artist in Oklahoma are few and far in between. Everyone can FTP or Fedex their work to the desired location. I’ve started and finished big projects via email. It’s great! The hardest part was making that first break into the comic business, not knowing anyone in the business. It’s true what they say, you HAVE to go to comic cons to make connections. I’ve been able to build a great working relationship with a few people, and they’ve been kind enough to introduce me to other companies and work opportunities. Having a great work ethic is extremely important in comics.

MP: Anything else you’d like to mention?
DE: Just to give thanks, really, to my wife and my family for supporting and putting up with a comic book artist for a husband, son and relative. They’re definitely the biggest influence and support in my life. I have no doubt I would have given up far before I broke into the comic business without them.

More art from Dustin Evans: