Attending A Comic Book Convention
Annually, the comic book industry holds it convention. The goal is to present and share new products, stories, and artists. The name has even evolved and some refer to comic books as graphic novels. Regardless, these conventions have the ability to bring together people from all walks of life and age. However, the average age of a convention attendee is likely to be closer to thirty.
The comics or graphic books come in different types and they are presented at the convention for sale or simply display. The typical comic book, if there is such a thing, is historically considered the super hero comic book. Others are more dark, even mysterious thrillers set to a graphic back drop. Graphic means exactly that a picture and not the adult form of graphics. However, some artists do produce what are considered erotic comics.
The presenters use different means to display their art. Some have photo images copied and enlarged to show the caliber of workmanship. Others might allow low grade editions to be carefully perused. Still some use technology to their benefit and display the books on LED backlight screens which provide for a more enhanced color display.
A comic book convention is all about entertainment. To this end, many large and prominent producers arrange and hire actors to impersonate certain of their characters. They would dress up accordingly and act as if they were in the comics. The idea would be to lure passersby and other attendees to visit the artist’s booth. Many different mechanisms are employed. Generally, the typical story line of the more popular comics revolves around violence and/or some type of sexy female heroine or character in distress, as cliche as that might sound.
One artist, this time around, actually went as far as to put together a band. The band’s playlist was composed of the leading character’s theme song. The drummer, takamine acoustic guitar player, and singer were all dressed as part of the comic. Dancers were placed on either side of the band to grab the viewer’s attention. The cost of putting together such a show can be high, but tolerable if the publisher is able to generate the incremental sales.
As an attendee, one can only expect to have fun and, perhaps, even find inspiration. The stories usually have some good triumphing over evil sub plot. However, there are some plots that can be more diabolical or sinister, even bordering on the fetish. Others can be more light hearted and even have a soap opera feel. The intense novels tend to be a bit more intense with gore and nudity. Many of the recent publishers have story lines that are more contemporary rather then taking place in the distant future or past.
My experience as a comic book convention attendee was definitely unique. The talents of the artists and the newer publishers are quite extraordinary. However, from my understanding, becoming a well known artist or publisher can be quite a challenge. To be successful, one needs a great plot, an identifiable character, and an artistic flair. Competition amongst artists is generally fierce.
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