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Check out the show 8:30pm-9:30 EST at www.prolifick.com. Tonight learn what God says about anxiety. Plus worship and an interview with Christian Manga creator Buzz Dixon!

For more info visit: http://weaponpress.com/GS.html

The Secret to Doing Clear Storytelling

I learned this from another comic book artist named Rick Buckler, and never forgot it. It's something called the "action axis", and they use it in movies all the time, but it also applies to comic book storytelling too.

The basic idea is this, never cross the action axis, and your storytelling will be much clearer. The best way to think of of it is, as a stage in a theatre. You can move your camera anywhere you want in the audience , but never behind the stage. So an actor on stage who appears (from the audience point of view), to be on the left of the stage, will always be in the left of the stage no matter where you move the camera. 

If you have two people talking from frame to frame, and suddenly you move that camera to behind the stage, they will have appeared to have magically switched positions. This will disorient and confuse the reader. (a no-no to clear storytelling). 

Move in for extreme close ups, pull back for long wide shots, but stay in the audience section, somewhere. Never go behind the stage and actors.

Follow this rule and you will see your storytelling flow from panel to panel with a fluidity that is clear and easy to follow.

Here's some links that will explain it further. 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/180_degree_rule

https://film110.pbworks.com/w/page/12610163/Axis%20of%20Action

Beyond that, there are some general rules, like, an airplane flying from east to west will move from right to left in the panel. Or a wagon train going out west, will appear to be moving right to left. But an airplane flying to Europe will appear in the panel as moving left to right in the panel.

You can see what I'm getting at here, things appear and make sense in a certain way, and understanding that can make your storytelling all the more easy to follow. 

Don't give your readers problems and obstacles that aren't necessary. The challenge should be in the Christian message you are trying to get across, not in the communication of those Christian ideas.

Best,

Dan

www.ORANGEPEEL3.com

Try Mirror Testing Your Art

If you really want to see the flaws in your drawing, try holding it up to a mirror (or if in Photoshop, flip the image horizontally) and check out the reverse image. You'll instantly see flaws you couldn't see before. I don't know why this works, but man, does it ever!

You can find this experience shocking and even disheartening, but if we want to get better, we have to see our mistakes. Sometimes I almost dread doing this, because after laboring on something for a long while, you see how way off it is, and that you may have to totally redraw a something.

Think of the mirror as just one more tool at your disposal. A vital one at that!

Best,

Dan

www.ORANGEPEEL3.com

Now that comics are colored on the computer, you can use unlimited array of colors.  However, just because you can, doesn't mean you should. With computer coloring there's a strong temptation to over render your comics, and therefore mute your colors. 

This is why the comics in general look so much darker and more somber looking than comic books of the past. Now, if this is your intension that's fine, but if not, here's a few rules that will help you keep your colors popping off the page.

1. Adding white or black to a color instantly grey's it down. When sculpting a face with color, try using a color (like orange), instead of black. When looking for a highlight, try a warm yellow instead of white. 

2. Know your color wheel and it's complimentary colors. Keep in mind when you add two complimentary colors they neutralize each other and you get grey. So if you are sculpting a yellow object, you should try to use orange-yellow or yellow green. It's OK to use the complimentary color for the shadows, but on the lighted side using the complimentary color with mute your color.

3. Think color into your character ahead of time. If your character is going to be set in a cool colored environment, you might want to give them a warm colored costume (this was the case with my Orange Peel 3 character), to contrast it against the backgrounds. If your character exists in a warm colored place like a desert. you could choose a cool colored costume. Of course you may not want the character to contrast against the background. The point is, think about what you want the color to do beforehand.

Here's two examples of effects that show what I'm talkng about in these rules.

First is a typical modern computer colored comic. Squint your eyes at this and it looks like a mishmash of confusion. I didn't even notice the Loki right away. Everything is muted and blends together. It's hard to make out the Goblin's features from the character behind him. Spider-man is still visible because he's a warm red against the cool background colors. Although this piece is skillfully rendered, it would disappear on the shelf with all the other muted comics. Although there is some warm and cool color separation, there's still too much white and black added to the colors and it grey's them.

Here's another example of coloring using an old comic book. Try squinting at this one. You'll see the figures are still plainly visible. There is no white or black added to the colors, so they scream off the page.

This doesn't necessarily mean one comic is colored better than the other, it's just knowing what you want your comic to do on the shelf, and how to handle the colors to get your desired effect. Do you want to have your colors pop or not, or do you want something in-between?  

Remember there's a ton of comics out their and you have to do something that will get yours noticed. The best plan is to go to a comic book shop or convention, and see what catches your eye, analyze why it does, and then incorporate those elements into your own art.

Best,

Dan

www.ORANGEPEEL3.com

Internet radio show: The God Scene airs live  tomorrow, Tuesday 8:30pm-9:30pm EST on prolifick.com. CCAS member Justin Martin of R-Squared Comicz will be interviewed. Check it out! For more on the show visit http://weaponpress.com/GS.html

Bryan Hibbs, long time retailer, analyzes the comic book numbers for 2011.

http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=36900

If you want to get an idea of numbers for books - as in how much you might be able to make off them - so you can understand what kind of costs need to be considered to make them.

Consider the following: Average Sale Per Title: 488 (copies) Average $ Per title: $7,334.91

To me this tells me - you might be able to get 500 people to buy your book. And you have to make your book for dramatically less than $7000/book to make any money.

THIS IS A VERY SIMPLISTIC RUDIMENTARY UNDERSTANDING EXTRAPOLATION of how this really works (this is the average across 750 titles so will not be reflective of individual titles and that includes comic books, graphic novels, and other comic related items).

But, taking those average numbers, and seeing that's what the market is doing - sales of 488 copies/title and approx $7000 in earnings per title is what you might expect if you get your title out there. (With proper promotion, word of mouth and other things).

IF 7K per book is all that is being earned, then oh boy. It might just cost 7K to get a print run done. Yerk.

NOW - if the Lord directs you to work hard and give your stuff away, or to use it in other ways outside of the "Traditional Market System" GO DO IT - just let this be a sobering slap upside the head as to what this means. I know for me it was. 

SO - takeaway from this:

1. FOCUS your product on a select demographic, and find as many alternative places to sell or promote your stuff. GO GLOBAL.

2. If you feel your comics are MORE MINISTRY TOOLS than a traditional to market product - then gauge your approach accordingly. Analyze and consider how you want to reach the people with the message, and who you are trying to reach and where. Remember, sometimes our "cool idea" might be great to us as individuals, or to a select North American audience, but the kid in India may not relate to it in any way. Consider alternative ways of telling stories to other audiences (if it's relevant to do so).

3. Consider all the cost factors that might be applied - printing, distribution, production - and consider how many people you think you can reach. There are many options available to save money and figure out how to get your costs down - such as Print On Demand (select the right people), Minimal digital print runs, go digital first...amongst others.

DISTRIBUTION CAN BE AN ISSUE. Especially for the small publisher. To deliver a book might cost more than the book itself. IF a book costs $3 for purchase, but to buy it from you and it costs $7 to have it shipped, that might be an issue. So if you can offer more than one book, or additional value added with the book - it might cost the same to ship for one as it is for two or three. So scrutinize all avenues and options for yourself and your end user so you don't get stuck on this.

p.s. There is nothing worse than doing a traditional print run of 1000+ books that costs 3K+ and you can't get rid of your books. (Note - Arbitrary numbers and will differ according to a variety of factors and is not taking into consideration any production costs)

Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart. (Proverbs 21:2) Superheroes are typically defined by their commitment to use their incredible powers to do the right thing. Supervillains do just the opposite. And sin tempts us to do the opposite as well. We so often want to define what is right according to our own rights. While most superheroes just seem to know what is right, we need God's word to show us the way. Only He “weighs the heart”. And only through the cross of Christ can our hearts be crafted for commitment to God's cause. May we be heroes who regularly pray, “Not as I will, but as you will.”

Hey CCAS family; Our website has been redone and is now up and running. Will continue to add new content so be sure to check back in. www.samsonthenazirite.com. Also if you'd like to promote your project contact me about being added to the community projects page.

Samson the Nazirite # 1is ow up on Graphicly! You can read the first 10 pages in the preview! (A 10 page preview, what that's crazy!:) I recommend reading it with the 'View Mode' option. It's very cool. With View Mode selected when you click on 'Next' it will move you intuitively to the correct panels and text.
http://graphicly.com/rising-phoenix/samson-the-nazirite/1

It was revealed today that the courts have supported Marvel's denial any sort of creator rights or compensation to Gary Friedrich (who created the character for Marvel back in 1972).

But in addition, the courts also ruled in Marvel/Disney's favor in their counter-suite to get back money earned by Friedrich over the years promoting his creation at conventions and selling pictures, prints and artwork of the character to the tune of $17,000! Read about the whole situation and rulings, at:
http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/22111.html#.TzROCDP99oY.facebook
For those of you who know or have met Gary, this borders on the absurd, since he has very little to begin with and selling these items over the years at conventions that welcomed him as a guest, helped him financially stay afloat. It also once again demonstrates Marvel's corporate pettiness and traditional disregard for the creators who helped establish them as an industry leader and corporate Juggernaut.
As an indy creator this really gets me mad and I think the only way I (and other like-minded comic creators and comic lovers) can voice our displeasure and make it something tangible to both Marvel and Disney....is to boycott the ironically premiering Ghost Rider 2 movie, which opens next Friday (here in the USA) at 12:01Am!
Our Mission statement:
"We will not help Marvel earn any further money on the Ghost Rider property by boycotting the new Ghost Rider Movie and by boycotting the purchase of ANY new Ghostrider comics...until Marvel/Disney, (at the very least), announces publicly that they will immediately renounce the judgement rendered in their favor, which stipulates that Gary Friedrich (The writer who created the character in 1972 for Marvel) must pay them $17,000 and additionally, that they immediately begin a dialog with Friedrich, ( that short of granting him ownership rights to the character or royalties from the properties), at least grants him a creators credit and ability to earn independently from the character."
I ask that you join me in this and DO NOT SEE THIS MOVIE or BUY ANY GHOST RIDER COMICS ...and make sure to let your locate theaters and comic shops know why you are doing this! Think about some of the things that the power of FB has made come to pass over the past year...overthrowing entire governments for gosh sakes!! WE CAN DO THIS TO SUPPORT A BROTHER CREATOR in dire need!
And also, please share this with as many people as you can here on Facebook, on Twitter, on other networking sites, on your personal blogs and even by sending press releases to media of all sizes in your sphere's of influence! Let's take this thing viral my brother and sisters lovers of comics!
And FYI....for you friends in other countries....and I know you're out there, this applies to you also. Just time it (and market it) whenever the movies scheduled to open in your country!

I need a colorist to color in my character. Im paying too!

Thoughts:

How many times have you gotten caught up in work, school, family, business, hobbies or any of life’s ‘extracurricular’ activites and one day looked up only to feel that you have drifted far away from God? What about when you go through the phases of looking at your bible in sheer obligation, where you know you need to read it but just can’t bring yourself to? So many other pressing obligations seem to shadow spending time with God. Have you opened your eyes one day to realize that you’ve stopped praying, stopped listening, and stopped spending time with God? To be honest, I have. It was like one of those many ‘new years resolutions’ that you make, to read and study and spend more time with God and then… life gets in the way.

Nothing can separate us from the love of God

First we must remember that the times we wake up feeling miles away from God, that nothing can separate us from His love. This means we can never wander away far enough to where God cannot reach out to us. So if nothing can separate us…then why do we feel distant? It is because WE separate ourselves. We let our lives get in the way of our relationship, and wind up unintentionally putting God on a back burner. Or, we find ourselves so deep in sin we become to ashamed to turn back to the God who so faithfully brought us out before. In the midst of these pitfalls we could fall into the doubt that God would still love us after all that we have done.

We must remember that nothing in this world can separate us from the love of God, and as long as we are alive, it is never too late to get right back up and get back on track. When we take one step towards God, God takes a huge step towards us and fills the gap.

Life... our lives are filled with dreams and desires, goals that we tend to spend a lot of time and effort trying to bring to life. Sometimes we spend more time trying to make our goals a reality, then spending time doing God's work. But what does God say about this?
We have read the above scripture more than once…but have we really took time to understand what it means? It is God telling us that if we just get into His word, pray to Him and focus on Him, that He will simply GIVE us all the things we are spending our time trying to give to ourselves. That GIVE God our time and attention, and He will GIVE us our desires. Now who but our wonderful loving God would make a trade like that?

PRAYER:
Dear Lord, let us turn our attention back on You, and put the time and effort we have carelessly used elsewhere to furthering Your Kingdom. And Lord, should we have fallen short, please forgive us of all our sins and remove our guilt and shame. Let us remember that no matter what You love Your children, and wait with open arms for us to return. Amen.


~~~~~~~~~~~~
Till Next Time
God Bless
Amanda of AstriaLegends

A WEEKEND OF CREATIVE PANELS AT IMAGE EXPO

IMAGE EXPO ANNOUNCES PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE

Opening with a keynote address from Image Comics Publisher Eric Stephenson on Friday night that will include some exclusive announcements, the programming at the upcoming Image Expo on February 24-26 in Oakland, California features some of comics’ most creative personalities discussing the industry’s hottest topics, as well as talking about their own work.

CCAS members who are involved with the event, please notify me and we'll feature you here as well.

The programming ranges from large event panels, like those with Saga creators Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples and The Walking Dead superstar Robert Kirkman, to small, intimate workshops with the Image Comics founders that will require advance registration to attend. Panels on topics such as women in comics, writing and art, and comics on TV will offer cogent conversation; and workshops on retailing, combating censorship, writing, and design will engage with attendees’ creativity and passion for comics. And, of course, there will be an Image Comics 20th Anniversary panel that will reunite seven of Image Comics’ founders to talk about the future of comics and reminisce about their decision to leave work-for-hire behind for independent creator ownership.

Image Expo is the premier Northern California comics convention in 2012. The three-day event takes place at the Oakland Convention Center February 24, 25 and 26. Celebrating the creative spirit of independence, Image Expo commemorates the twentieth anniversary of the formation of Image Comics. But more than just looking to the past, the event showcases the evolving the comic market by spotlighting the future of independent publishing. For more info, see www.imagecomics.com.

Headline guests include Image Comics Founders & Partners Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Rob Liefeld, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri, and Jim Valentino. Special guests for Image Comic Expo include Brian K. Vaughan, Fiona Staples, Blair Butler, Ed Brubaker, Joe Casey, John Layman, Jonathan Hickman, and many more.

FRIDAY

6 p.m.
Keynote Address
Image Comics Publisher Eric Stephenson welcomes you to Image Expo, the comics convention that celebrates independent creativity. Expect some incisive commentary as only Stephenson can provide, plus some exclusive announcements.

SATURDAY

11 a.m
Womanthology: What Zeitgeist?
It's no secret that diversity in comics takes up a large part of the critical discussion of the medium online. How does gender relate to who is telling a story, what story they're choosing to tell, and how that story is perceived by an audience? Womanthology started as an online discussion, then quickly blossomed into a full-fledged idea. And from there it went on to be one of the most successful comics projects on Kickstarter. Join some of the contributors and editors to discuss the experience of making Womanthology, the role of women in comics, as well the need for more anthologies that feature new creators from a variety of backgrounds. Plus, jokes about giant crab attacks and superheroes wearing underwear.
Panelists: Bonnie Butler, Mariah Huehner, Trina Robbins, Nicole Sixx, Fiona Staples
Moderator: Blair Butler

12 p.m.
Stories and Scripts: Writing Comics
How do comics readers get their vision from their minds, to script, to the drawn page? What do you need to know about successful collaboration with artists? Some of comics’ best writers will talk about the challenges, triumphs, and idiosyncrasies of the comics creative process. Find out how comics like Fatale, Haunt, Chew, Morning Glories and Saga are conceived, written, and brought to the printed page from the writers who knew them from “PAGE ONE, PANEL ONE.”
Panelists: Ed Brubaker, Steve Seagle, Joe Casey, Jonathan Hickman, John Layman, Nick Spencer, and Brian K. Vaughan
Moderator: Richard Starkings

1 p.m
Twenty Years of Independence: The Image Comics 20th Anniversary Panel
Twenty years ago, a group of young artists left their work-for-hire jobs to forge their own path in comics. The result was Image Comics, a publisher dedicated to creators’ individual visions and a champion of creative ownership. The Image Comics partners and some of the original founders now come together to talk about that momentous meeting of minds and talent.
Panelists: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Rob Liefeld, Todd McFarlane, Whilce Portacio, Marc Silvestri, and Jim Valentino
Moderator: Eric Stephenson

2 p.m.
Saga: A Conversation with Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples
One of the most-anticipated new comics of 2012 is Saga, by best-selling writer Brian K. Vaughan (Y: The Last Man, Pride of Baghdad) and the amazing artist Fiona Staples (Northlanders, Jonah Hex). The sweep of the series is epic, but its emotions are intimate: a forbidden romance and a young family on the run, set against the backdrop of galactic war and racial hatred. Vaughan and Staples will talk about the conception of their gorgeous new comic, the creative process, and the overwhelming response that it has gotten from the media months before its first issue even hits stores.
Panelists: Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples

3 p.m.
From Page to Screen: Comics on TV
How do producers go about translating comics for the small screen? How does working in comics compare to working in television? A panel of comics creators who have worked in television — whether as producers like Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead) and Brian K. Vaughan (Lost), writers like Jay Faerber (Ringer), creators like Joe Casey (Ben 10) and Todd McFarlane (Spawn), or a little bit of everything like Blair Butler — will assemble to talk about the ins and outs of the industry.
Panelists: Blair Butler, Joe Casey, Jay Faerber, Robert Kirkman, Todd McFarlane, and Brian K. Vaughan

4 p.m.
The Talking Dead Live
Is watching the recap talk show The Talking Dead after every episode of The Walking Dead part of your weekly viewing ritual? Then you won’t want to miss this panel! Chris Hardwick sits down with creator of The Walking Dead comic and executive producer of the hit AMC television series Robert Kirkman and actor Steven Yeun, who plays the fan-favorite character Glenn, for a lively conversation with The Talking Dead host Chris Hardwick about the latest shocking plot twists and what it’s like working on a show that has taken the world by storm.
Panelists: Robert Kirkman and Steven Yeun
Moderator: Chris Hardwick

5 p.m.
Spotlight on Chew
How does it feel for your comic book about an FDA agent who gathers clues by eating things — including people — to sell out, become a critical darling, win multiple awards, and appear on a New York Times bestseller list? Wait, how do you even come up with the idea for a comic about a cibopathic police-officer-turned-food-plant-inspector? You have questions about Chew. Creators Rob Guillory and John Layman just might be the right guys to answer them.
Panelists: Rob Guillory and John Layman

6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
CAPTURED GHOSTS Screening
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 new film Captured Ghosts features the most extensive interview Ellis has ever given, covering 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' acerbic wit and core belief in humanity come across like never before. Complimenting Ellis' own words are interviews with his artistic collaborators, friends and admirers from across all media. Ellis' comic book collaborators also provide insight into Ellis' mind and creative workings. The film features numerous ambient interludes that spotlight Ellis' prose and writing from both his online columns and his comics.


SUNDAY

Instructions for Workshops
Admission to workshop panels is limited and attendees will require tickets for entry. Tickets for each panel may be picked up at the Image Comics booth no sooner than one hour before the workshop begins. Tickets are given out on a first-come, first-served basis and quantities are limited.

11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
MAN OF ACTION: Ben 10 and Explosive Creativity
Join two of animation’s most influential creators as they talk about their creation - Ben 10 - the story of a shape-shifting boy that burst on to Cartoon Network and now boasts hit television series, movies, and video games all over the world. What’s in store for MAN OF ACTION? Founding members Joe Casey & Steven T. Seagle talk Ben 10, Generator Rex, their upcoming TV shows and the Image Comics projects all rolling out of their action-filled creative development company!
MAIN ROOM
Panelists: Joe Casey and Steven Seagle

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Pro Tips with Todd McFarlane
In a world of comic book icons, comic superstar Todd McFarlane and his creation Spawn have clearly stood the test of time. Now McFarlane himself is inviting aspiring creators and fans to an extended workshop where he'll share behind-the-scenes tips and tricks about his creative process. Armed with a Wacom and more than 20 years of experience as one of the most successful pros in the business, McFarlane will show fans how to unleash their own creative beast within!
WORKSHOP ROOM A

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Putting Words in Their Mouths: The Art of Lettering
With over 150 fonts in his Comicraft library, chances are you’ve read a comic lettered with a font designed by Richard Starkings. Join him, Chew co-creator and letterer John Layman, and letterer J.G. Roshell for a workshop on creating professional, pleasing lettering.
Panelists: Richard Starkings, John Layman and J.G. Roshell
WORKSHOP ROOM B

12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Image Introduces...
Some of Image Comics’ most exciting new creators assemble to talk about their new work and life as independent comics creators. Join the creators of Moriarty, Li’l Depressed Boy, Hell Yeah!, Witch Doctor, Peter Panzerfaust, and Skullkickers for an eye-opening conversation about what it’s really like to work in comics.
Panelists: Daniel Corey, Sina Grace, Joe Keatinge, Brandon Seifert, Kurtis Wiebe, Steven Struble, and Jim Zubkavich
MAIN ROOM

12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Retailing the New Generation of Comics
With creator-owned hits like The Walking Dead, Morning Glories, and Chew grabbing their places on the sales charts and bringing in new readers to comic shops, the comics industry is excited about new titles and new ideas. What are the best retailers in comics doing to strengthen and support the creator-owned comic revolution while competing with faceless online outlets or big box bookstores? If you're a comic creator, retailer or fan, we'll help you understand how to stay on top of the next wave of hidden gems.
PANELISTS: Brian Hibbs (Comix Experience), Steve (Third Eye), James Sime (Isotope), Todd Martinez (Image Comics), Jim Zub (Skullkickers)
WORKSHOP ROOM B

1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Crossing the Line: Twenty Years of Shadowline
Join Jim Valentino and some Shadowline superstars for a rollicking question-and-answer session about Shadowline Comics past, present and future — plus dancing bears and a few surprises. Well, maybe not the bears (but we'll try).
Panelists: Jim Valentino, Jimmie Robinson, Kurtis Wiebe, Tyler Jenkins, Joshua Williamson and Jade Dodge
MAIN ROOM

1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Portfolio Reviews with Erik Larsen (a.k.a. Larsen Tears You a New One)
Image Comics partner and Savage Dragon creator Erik Larsen, will be imparting artistic wisdom via no-holds-barred portfolio reviews... for those that have the guts! A random drawing will be done during the workshop to determine which aspiring artists in attendance will be chosen to have the brutal light of truth shine upon their work. Larsen's ready to tell you what he really thinks! Can you handle it?
WORKSHOP ROOM A

1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Design Workshop with Jonathan Hickman
The creator of The Nightly News, Pax Romana, A Red Mass for Mars, and the upcoming Secret and The Manhattan Projects will address the basics of making your work stand out: cover design, book design, design strategies, personal branding, and understanding what appeals to your market.
WORKSHOP ROOM B

2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Top Cow Panel
Top Cow: We Create... REBIRTH
2012 is the best time EVER to jump into the Top Cow Universe with Rebirth. Get the scoop on what's changed, what remains the same, and where things are headed for the rest of the year. Get behind-the-scenes information on the making of The Darkness II video game and be the first to hear about what exciting new projects Top Cow has lined up for their 20th anniversary! Plus special surprise guests and a free giveaway for every attendee. Moo!
Panelists: Marc Silvestri, Matt Hawkins, Filip Sablik, and Joshua Hale Fialkov
MAIN ROOM

2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Jim Valentino Workshop
Shadowline publisher and Image co-founder Jim Valentino discusses what he's looking for in new projects, the founding of Image, and his work with the Hero Initiative. He will be doing portfolio reviews with a donation to the Hero Initiative ONLY. We will have a donation jar in the room.
WORKSHOP ROOM A

2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
CBLDF: The History (and Future) of Comics Censorship
Learn the shocking history of comics censorship and how even today comics and the people who make, sell and read them are still threatened.  CBLDF Executive Director Charles Brownstein tells the sordid tale, from the public book burnings and Senate hearings that led to the Comics Code Authority in the 1950s through the attacks on retailers in the 1980s, artists in the 1990s, and readers today that the CBLDF is working to combat!
WORKSHOP ROOM B

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Portfolio Reviews with Whilce Portacio
Whilce Portacio, creator of Wetworks and current artist on Incredible Hulk, will offer thoughtful tips and critiques for artists looking to break into the comic book industry. A random drawing will determine which lucky artists will get a personal review during the workshop. Bring your portfolio for an hour of a guidance from a master of the medium!
WORKSHOP ROOM A

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Writing Workshop with John Layman
The writer of the best-selling comic Chew (drawn by Rob Guillory) will talk about the fundamentals of crafting a story, drafting a script, and effectively communicating your intentions to artists.
WORKSHOP ROOM B

3 p.m. 4 p.m.
Take to the Sky: Skybound and the Next Generation of Independence
Things continue to look up for Skybound, Robert Kirkman's imprint at Image Comics. The premiere original Witch Doctor has sold out nationwide, the all-ages hit Super Dinosaur  continues to soar, and And Kirkman’s first-ever writer’s room-driven crime drama, Thief of Thieves, is a critical success… what’s next? Join Robert Kirkman as he discusses the future of the imprint with his stable of creators, including the creative teams behind Witch Doctor, Thief of Thieves, and more! Expect only AWESOMENESS.
Panlists: Robert Kirkman, Brandon Seifert, and Nick Spencer
MAIN ROOM

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Robert Kirkman Q&A
Kirkman, one of the most successful writers in comics today, best known for his work on The Walking Dead, Invincible, and Haunt, will offer fans some insight into the genius behind their favorite hit comics. After becoming an Image Comics partner in 2009, introducing the internationally renowned hit TV show based on the comic, The Walking Dead on AMC, and recently announcing an upcoming video game adaptation of the same series from TellTale Games, he has proven to be an unstoppable creative force.
MAIN ROOM

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Covers and an Eye for Talent: Marc Silvestri Workshop
Join Top Cow founder, Image partner, and top industry artist Marc Silvestri as he takes a look at two facets that have helped define his career. Silvestri is best known in the industry as a highly-sought cover artist and as an incredible mentor for young artists who have come through his studio system at Top Cow. In this intimate workshop, Marc will present his thoughts on what makes a dynamic, memorable cover using his own pieces as examples and also tell young, aspiring artists what he looks for in undiscovered talent. Find out what draws the eye of the man who discovered Michael Turner, David Finch, Joe Benitez, Francis Manapul, Mike Choi, and many, many others!
WORKSHOP ROOM A

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Creating Living Legend: Eric Shanower and Age of Bronze
Relive the Trojan War in Age of Bronze, Eric Shanower’s award-winning comics version of the world's greatest story. With words and pictures, Shanower will detail his creative process from initial idea, through research into literary sources and archaeological remains, to writing and drawing comics pages and coloring for the digital edition.
WORKSHOP ROOM B

...From a previous DC Editor who happened to write a thesis on this topic. READ.

http://dcwomenkickingass.tumblr.com/post/16823331908/jasselin

My artwork has gotten a lot of attention lately (mostly DeviantArt) with the messages I have put in. Mostly positive. So lately I've been thinking of going into a new project: exposing False Teachers/Preachers, founders of cults, con men/women, etc.

I would try draw a picture of one each week, sometimes in a comical way, which shows what they are known for, kind of like a title card and include links to videos and articles to prove that what they have said, wrote and done is true and shows that they are false. Now I know that some people that I plan to expose would offend people. With the claims of "How dare you criticize him! He's a great man of God! Don't judge God's annoited!" Are they sure? Do they know about things they taught? Things they wrote in their books? How well do they know their Bible?

Of course, I thought some of those preachers were harmless until I did the research and found that they really didn't teach like a man/woman of God should. Everyone should keep an open mind to them according to what Paul wrote:

2 Timothy 4:3-4 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables."

Jesus also warned us: Matthew 7:15-16 "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheeps clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits."

Also Peter: 2 Peter: 2:1-3 "But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber."

False preachers appear to look like real Christians, but by studying the Bible and noticing what they say and do, you can easily tell who are the false ones. They twist Bible verses to change their meaning. They take verses out of context of the chapter or even the book they come from. They preach messages that have nothing to do with what the Bible teaches. They can be hypocrites. Some have become liars and tricked people just to get rich, and become con men. Some have said prophecies that have not come to pass. Some even say things so blasphomus against God or even say things that claim we are equal to Him that one wonders how they can be preachers, or how even God allows them to keep preaching. Some of these people have founded cults that completely ruin the message of salvation and can't be called Christian. Or they even deny certain things God was very clear about, such as Sin and Hell and have their own strange interpretation on them.

Sometimes we can't tell what goes on in their hearts. Only God knows them. But some have done some very wicked things that one has to wonder.

I want to wake people up and show that following those preachers is a big mistake and that we have to be careful with who's church we attend and who we choose to follow. Many Christians don't read their Bible carefully to know the true teachings.

Think it's a good idea? I would give me something to do, to keep me busy. Btw, I'll be having the first pages of the newest Modern Christians chapter very soon. Sorry to take so long with them, I had a tough time and it was hard to focus on my art. But I am just about all better now. :)

Greetings to all.  I'm curious if anyone out there has had experience publishing their independent comics online at graphicly.com, and if so, how it went.  I read a few comics from their site and I'm really impressed with their interface and the way they connect comics with reviews and fans. 

Any thoughts from those who've published with them?  Pros, cons?  Are their other sites that have worked better for self-publication? 

Thanks for sharing.

Burgh Man asks for help and gets replies that he uses a satanic symbol. Are you kidding me? Is this really a Christian site. I have helped people out of Satanic bondages from, drugs, alcohol, sex addiction, gambling and other bondages for over 25 years. Burgh Man comics set people free !!! If there is no comic book designer here to help me, then I am wasting my time. Burgh Man is the only hero I know that fights the deception of this world in person. He also wrote the book " Head Jacked " www.HeadJacked.com
Most Americans have been Head Jacked !!!

Comic Book artist wanted for amazing venture. Please visit www.BurghMan.com Call me at 412-628-4766 to discuss the vision God has given me. I am an addictions professional and use my talents to help set people free.  You can also email me at BurghMan@BurghMan.com

...full front shot at least once in your comic.

I have made a discovery - attempting to draw other peoples characters for pin-ups or for contests, or just for fun:

Artists, for some reason, don't draw their entire character - or obscure them with things blocking their legs, lower half, mid-section, or arm or position them at odd angles...

This makes the character extremely difficult to draw.

So, PLEASE!...at least in one panel somewhere - anywhere in your comic, (the earlier in the book the better) draw your character head to toe, as unobstructed as possible, and in a fairly bland pose*. If you can slip in a front shot and a back shot even better.

*Don't kill the acting to do this, but just see if it can be squeaked in.

This does a few things:

1. As a reader, it allows me to appreciate what the character fully looks like. All the details of their outfit, their hair, their look. It also firmly establishes or cements the character in my mind, so I can either accept or reject how they are portrayed through the rest of the story.

2. As an artist, it allows me to know what the character actually looks like! There's nothing worse than getting half shots, mid-shots, obstructed shots, feet only and all things things are scattered across pages - but no shot of the whole - this makes it very difficult to figure out what the character actually looks like. Is the belt here or here? How tall are they? Um...does that sleeve work like this or this?

There of course can be some educated guesses, but sometimes things to need to be more or less exact.

I think it would also be appreciated by the general audience too, because then they are assured, that their favorite character is a whole thing.

So help a brother out - and I'll keep this in mind for my own creations too.

Read this on Bleeding Cool where he lists three things in the digital space. Take a look if interested. Only done a cursory look, but it could be interesting.

http://www.bleedingcool.com/2012/01/27/digital-delights-graphicly-potential-ibook-practice-pearls-possibilities/

Graphic.ly distribution page thingy...