MoCCA’s Spring Comics and Cartoon Classes Start February 28th!
NEW YORK (February 6, 2011) – The Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art – MoCCA – is proud to announce the spring offerings from its Adult Education Department, organized and headed by Senior Vice-President of Education, Danny Fingeroth:
The classes:
OBSTACLE COURSE: MAKE COMICS USING CREATIVE CONSTRAINTS
with MATT MADDEN
and
MINICOMICS WORKSHOP
with ROBYN CHAPMAN
and
HOW TO WRITE COMICS & GRAPHIC NOVELS
with DANNY FINGEROTH
and
OUTSIDE THE BOX: EXPANDING YOUR COMICS VISION
with PETER KUPER
and
MASTER CLASS SERIES with top comics and animation professionals:
• LARRY HAMA (March1)
• DAVID STEVEN COHEN (March 28)
• J.M. DeMATTEIS (May 17)
About the classes:
OBSTACLE COURSE: MAKE COMICS USING CREATIVE CONSTRAINTS
Instructor: MATT MADDEN
4 sessions
MONDAYS Feb 28; March 7, 14, 21
6:30-9:00 pm
$245 tuition/$225 for MoCCA members
Do you think you could make a comic where each panel could only show an extreme close-up of a hand? Or where each panel zooms in closer to a single object? A comic that you can read in more than one direction? Many great works of art begin from these kinds of rules or constraints—and often willfully perverse ones. In the Obstacle Course, prominent cartoonist and teacher, MATT MADDEN, will challenge students with a series of such oddball rules and in wrestling with them you will find that they will take your work—as well as your ideas about creativity—n new directions.
We'll do a bunch of short assignments and then choose a constraint as the basis of a final comic. Along the way we'll discuss examples of creative constraint in film, literature, fine art, and music.
This class assumes you have a working knowledge of making comics and have at least a few pages of comics under your belt, whether published or not. Please bring copy paper, pencils, and pens (any kind) to the first class.
You can see examples of the kind of work we will be doing here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/47953102@N04/sets/72157625288273661/
http://mattmadden.blogspot.com/2010/12/roygbiv-one-page-comic-challenge.html
http://mattmadden.blogspot.com/2010/12/tic-tac-toe-jam-new-jam-comic.html
http://www.tomhart.net/oubapo/
MATT MADDEN (NYC 1968) lives in Brooklyn, New York with his wife, Jessica Abel, and their two children. He is a cartoonist who also teaches comics and drawing at the School of Visual Arts. His recent work includes 99 Ways to Tell a Story: Exercises in Style (Penguin), a collection of his comics adaptation of Raymond Queneau's Exercises in Style, a translation from the French of Aristophane's The Zabîme Sisters (First Second), and Drawing Words & Writing Pictures (First Second), a comics textbook written in collaboration with his wife. The couple is also series editors for The Best American Comics from Houghton-Mifflin Harcourt. You'll find recent news at www.mattmadden.com.
MINICOMICS WORKSHOP
Instructor: ROBYN CHAPMAN
4 sessions
TUESDAYS March 8, 15, 22, 29
6:30-9:00 pm
$245 tuition/$225 for MoCCA members
***HAVE YOUR MINICOMIC READY FOR MoCCAFEST!*** [MoCCAfest is April 9th & 10th in NYC.]
Minicomics (self-published, hand-made comics) are a great way to get your work seen. In the Minicomics Workshop, cutting-edge cartoonist and editor ROBYN CHAPMAN will demystify the self-publishing process and give an overview of cartooning principals and materials. Topics such as page composition, layout, book craft, print technologies and computer applications will be covered. Students will be given the choice to workshop their own minicomic project, or participate in a class anthology. Cartoonists of all skill levels and experience are welcome.
Each session will offer a studio period devoted to student work. Homework will be assigned.
Independent Projects
Students who wish to workshop a minicomic project are encouraged to come to the first session with a project in mind. The instructor will work with students one-on-one to insure the projects are attainable and publishable. Independent projects will be brought to a dummy book or master sheet stage by the last day of class.
Group Anthology Project
Students may choose to participate in a class anthology. This is anthology will be titled Wish You Were Here, and it will consist of comic pages inspired by actual postcard correspondence. The anthology will be published on the last day of class.
Required Supplies and Expenses:
• $10 (minimum) copy budget for final production.
• A notebook (or sketchbook, or binder) for note taking. Pens or pencils for writing.
· Art supplies necessary to produce pages of black and white comics. (Feel free to use supplies you are most comfortable with. Options will be discussed in class.)
ROBYN CHAPMAN is an adjunct faculty member at The Center for Cartoon Studies, one of America’s premiere cartooning colleges. She specializes in the history, design, and production of minicomics and zines. As an editor, her self-published titles include Hey, 4-Eyes! and Make: Comics About an Intimate Act. Her solo titles include Sourpuss and Theater of the Meek (a Xeric Grant winner). Robyn’s comics have been featured in several anthologies and publications, including Scheherazade, Stuck in the Middle, and the NY Metro. In addition to MoCCA, she has taught cartooning at the 92nd Street Y and The New School.
HOW TO WRITE COMICS & GRAPHIC NOVELS
Instructor: DANNY FINGEROTH
4 sessions, MONDAYS May 2, 9, 16, 23
6:30-9:00 pm
$245 tuition | $225 for MoCCA members
DANNY FINGEROTH will lead a hands-on workshop in writing comics and graphic novels, suitable for novices as well as experienced writers. Combining lectures, assignments in class and at home, and roundtable critiquing, the class will cover writing for all kinds of comics, including autobiographical, historical, “indy” and superheroes.
Note: Please come to the first session with three “springboards” (short ideas for stories). We will choose one to be your project for the course.
DANNY FINGEROTH was the longtime group editor of Marvel's Spider-Man line and the writer of comics including Darkhawk and Deadly Foes of Spider-Man. He has taught comics writing at NYU, The New School, and Media Bistro. Danny created and edited Write Now magazine, the only how-to publication dedicated to comics writing and writers. He is the author of The Rough Guide to Graphic Novels and co-author (with artist Mike Manley) of How to Create Comics from Script to Print. He's also written the books Superman on the Couch and Disguised as Clark Kent. His book, The Stan Lee Universe, co-edited with Roy Thomas, will be on sale in the summer of 2011. Danny serves on MoCCA's board of advisors and on the board of directors of the Institute for Comics Studies.
OUTSIDE THE BOX: EXPANDING YOUR COMICS VISION
Instructor: PETER KUPER
3 sessions: TUESDAYS May 3, 10, 24 [no class May 17]
6:30-9:00 pm
$185 tuition / $165 for MoCCA members
Join visionary comics artist PETER KUPER and explore the medium of sequential art and learn how to find outlets for publishing your own self-generated comics and illustration projects. There will be weekly assignments with in-class crit sessions along with visual presentations and demonstrations by the instructor that will expand your familiarity with the history and vast potential of sequential art. Students should have some experience creating comics and should bring one example of their comics work to the first class. [No art supplies will be necessary in class.]
PETER KUPER is the co-founder of World War 3 Illustrated and has remained on its editorial board for over 30 years. His illustrations and comics have appeared in Time, The New York Times and MAD, where he has written and illustrated SPY vs. SPY every month since 1997. He has produced over twenty books and graphic novels including The System, Sticks and Stones, Speechless and Stop Forgetting To Remember. Peter has also adapted Upton Sinclair's The Jungle and many of Franz Kafka's works into comics. His adaptation of The Metamorphosis has been translated around the world and is in high school and college curriculums nation-wide. He won the 2010 Society of Illustrators gold medal for sequential art and appears in 2010’s Best American Comics anthology. Peter lived in Oaxaca, Mexico from 2006-2008 during a major teachers’ strike and his work about that time can be seen in his latest book, Diario de Oaxaca. More of his work can be ound at www.peterkuper.com
MoCCA MASTER CLASS SERIES:
These extraordinarily accomplished creators each brings a distinct and strong point of view to the work they do. This is a rare opportunity to hear these top names in their respective fields speak about what makes for great work.
Individual sessions: $40 | $35 for MoCCA members
Pay for all three in advance: $100 | $90 for MoCCA members
MASTER CLASS: PRINCIPLES OF GRAPHIC STORYTELLNG FOR COMICS
Instructor: LARRY HAMA
Tuesday March 1
7:00-9:00 PM
Admission $40 | $35 for MoCCA Members
Explores the process of getting the narrative onto the page clearly in a self-evident sequence of pictures. Main visual points of reference will be “Wally Wood’s 22 Panels” and GI Joe: A Real American Hero #21, “Silent Interlude.” There will be a frame-by-frame deconstruction and analysis of “Silent Interlude,” an exploration of techniques, and a Q & A.
"Graphic Narrative/Comic Book Storytelling is much more than a series of pictures. With a career as writer, artist, and editor in every storytelling medium, there is none better qualified to provide both the novice and the professional with the successful basics and applications of both the art and the craft than Larry Hama.”—Michael Golden.
LARRY HAMA is a writer/cartoonist/illustrator/actor/musician who has worked in comics, TV, and film. He is best known as the writer of Marvel’s GI Joe comics in the ‘80s, and as the writer of Marvel’s Wolverine in the ‘90s. He is currently writing Barack the Barbarian for Devil’s Due Comics and GI Joe: Origins for IDW as well as various animation and video game projects.
He has written, edited or drawn for such comics titles as Avengers, Blaze, Nth Man, The Nam, Conan, Batman, Wonder Woman, Bizarre Adventures, X-Men, Spider-Man, Daredevil, and dozens more. His illustrations and cartoons have appeared in National Lampoon, Esquire, New York, Rolling Stone and various Children’s Television Workshop publications.
He has worked in TV development on mini-series for David L. Wolper (Project X), and in animation and Internet gaming for Curious Pictures (Out of Your Mind, Jacabee Code). He has written episodes of Robot Boy (TV animation) for Alphanim, interstitials for PBS Kids, and direct-to-DVD material for Flickerlab (Aaron & Emily). He created the Marvel Comic Mort the Dead Teenager that was optioned and developed by DreamWorks. (He co-wrote the screenplay with director John Payson.) He co-wrote “All Ages Night” a feature film about teens in a rock band, which will be seen on STARZ.
MASTER CLASS: ANIMATION WRITING: HOW TO WRITE SCRIPTS THAT WILL MAKE YOU A KEY MEMBER OF THE CREATIVE TEAM
Instructor: DAVID STEVEN COHEN
Monday March 28
7:00-9:00 PM
Admission $40 | $35 for MoCCA Members
Learn the skills and secrets to writing great animation. Inspire the rest of the creative team to be brilliant – and grateful to see your name on script after script!
Animation is collaboration by conveyor belt, and it starts with your script. Award-winning writer/executive producer DAVID STEVEN COHEN (Courage the Cowardly Dog, Arthur, Pee-wee’s Playhouse, Steven Spielberg’s Balto) will show you techniques for crafting indelible characters, solid stories and great scripts that are more than blueprints – scripts that inspire the director, storyboard artist, editor and musical director. Cohen will demonstrate how you can maximize a show's basic concept (while avoiding common mistakes) and create a script that moves visually, rhythmically, emotionally, and comedically - one that communicates vividly without collapsing under the weight of words. Underscoring it all is flexible thinking and the collaborative process: the agony and ecstasy of sharing creative vision. Focus will be on writing character-driven animated comedy for television, with some forays into features.
DAVID STEVEN COHEN was the head writer on all four seasons of Cartoon Network's Courage the Cowardly Dog and has written for many other series, including Arthur, Viva Piñata and ALF Tales, of which he was co-creator and executive producer. As executive producer of Nickelodeon's The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss, David was nominated for two Emmys and won a Writers Guild Award for Outstanding Children's Script. He co-wrote the animated feature Balto and has also written many songs for animation, collaborating recently with Jody Gray on the song-score for Clifford's Really Big Movie. David's live-action work includes Phil of the Future, Living Single, Strangers with Candy, Parker Lewis Can't Lose, ALF and Pee-wee's Playhouse. First introduced to opera by a certain Oscar-winning rabbit, David wrote the libretto for the opera Lilith, which premiered at Lincoln Center in 2001.
MASTER CLASS: OH, THE HUMANITY: WRITING SUCCESSFULLY ACROSS GENRES AND MEDIA
Instructor: J.M. DeMATTEIS
Tuesday May 17
7:00-9:00 PM
Admission $40 | $35 for MoCCA Members
While it's not unusual to see comics writers also work on animation or prose in similar genres to their comics work, relatively few work in different genres and media at the same time. J.M. DeMATTEIS is one of the handful of authors who have worked simultaneously and successfully on popular corporate franchise characters, surreal tales of fantasy, hilariously funny satire, and intensely personal dramatic material, in comics, and also in animation, novels (the non-graphic kind), and screenplays. In this rare teaching appearance, DeMatteis (with kibitzing and inappropriate comments by his longtime editor, DANNY FINGEROTH), explains what stories in all genres and media have in common: universal human characters and situations (also known as “heart”), and how you can use that fact to be more than a “one-trick-pony” writer.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, J. M. DeMATTEIS was a professional musician and rock music journalist before entering the comic book field. Although he's written almost all of the major DC and Marvel icons—including memorable runs on Spider-Man and Justice League—DeMatteis's greatest acclaim has come for his more personal work. The autobiographical Brooklyn Dreams was picked by the American Library Association as one of the Ten Best Graphic Novels, and Booklist, in a starred review, called it “as graphically distinguished and creatively novelistic a graphic novel as has ever been...a classic of the form.” It was also selected as one of the Top Ten Graphic Novels in Danny Fingeroth's Rough Guide to Graphic Novels. The groundbreaking Moonshadow was chosen (along with Brooklyn Dreams, the children's fantasy, Abadazad, and other DeMatteis works) for inclusion in Gene Kannenberg, Jr's 2008 book 500 Essential Graphic Novels, where it was hailed as one of the finest examples of the fantasy genre in comics. DeMatteis's latest projects include the fantasy novel Imaginalis, published in July 2010 by HarperCollins, and a variety of television and comic book projects. DeMatteis and his family live in upstate New York.
Unless otherwise indicated, all classes will be held at:
MoCCA
594 Broadway (between Houston and Prince Streets)
Suite 401
New York, NY 10012
For more information and to register, call 212-254-3511 or go to www.moccany.org.
The Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art - MoCCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts education organization dedicated to the preservation, study and display of all forms of comic and cartoon art. The museum promotes greater understanding and appreciation of the artistic, cultural and historical significance of comic and cartoon art through a variety of events, exhibitions, and educational programs. The museum is located at 594 Broadway (between Houston and Prince Streets) in New York City. MoCCA is open to the public Tuesdays through Sundays from 12:00-5:00 pm. Suggested donation to the museum is $5 but free for MoCCA Members as well as for children 12 and under (when accompanied by a paying adult). For more information about the museum and MoCCA events, exhibitions and programs, visit the museum's Website (www.moccany.org).
Sunday, February 06, 2011
Saturday, February 05, 2011
WHILE WITCHBLADE'S AWAY...
A 2 Issue Story Arc Starring Witchblade's Partner and Guest Artist Matthew Dow Smith
Berkeley, CA - February 4, 2011 -
Image Comics has announced that Top Cow Productions' WITCHBLADE is taking a break from recent events for a special two-part part story. Guest artist Matthew Dow Smith joins writer Ron Marz for a supernatural crime story that, for once, doesn't star the Witchblade!
This two issue story arc in issue 142 and 143 focuses on special investigator Patrick Gleason, who is usually seen by the side of his partner, Sara Pezzini, bearer of the Witchblade. When Patrick travels to upstate New York to visit an old friend, he ends up helping a local rookie police officer transport a deadly mob assassin back to New York City. The killer, Vincent "No Prints" Petramale, claims to have never killed anyone, but when circumstances go horribly wrong, Gleason has to figure out who the real threat is, and fast!
The prolific veteran writer Ron Marz (whose credits include ARTIFACTS, ANGELUS, and Green Lantern) said, "These issues seemed like a perfect chance to put the spotlight on Sara's partner, Patrick Gleason, and explore his character a little more fully than we've been able to in a while. I think people will come away from these issues with a little different perspective on Gleason. And, of course, the chance to work with my buddy Matt Smith again is great, while Stjepan Šejić skipped ahead to work on #144 and #145."
Artist Matthew Dow Smith (DOCTOR WHO) added, "I had a lot of fun working on these two issues. While it's always great to draw WITCHBLADE herself, I think this was an interesting addition to the series."
WITCHBLADE #142, a 32 page full-color comic book, is in stores now. WITCHBLADE #143 will be for sale in stores March 9, 2011.
A 2 Issue Story Arc Starring Witchblade's Partner and Guest Artist Matthew Dow Smith
Berkeley, CA - February 4, 2011 -
Image Comics has announced that Top Cow Productions' WITCHBLADE is taking a break from recent events for a special two-part part story. Guest artist Matthew Dow Smith joins writer Ron Marz for a supernatural crime story that, for once, doesn't star the Witchblade!
This two issue story arc in issue 142 and 143 focuses on special investigator Patrick Gleason, who is usually seen by the side of his partner, Sara Pezzini, bearer of the Witchblade. When Patrick travels to upstate New York to visit an old friend, he ends up helping a local rookie police officer transport a deadly mob assassin back to New York City. The killer, Vincent "No Prints" Petramale, claims to have never killed anyone, but when circumstances go horribly wrong, Gleason has to figure out who the real threat is, and fast!
The prolific veteran writer Ron Marz (whose credits include ARTIFACTS, ANGELUS, and Green Lantern) said, "These issues seemed like a perfect chance to put the spotlight on Sara's partner, Patrick Gleason, and explore his character a little more fully than we've been able to in a while. I think people will come away from these issues with a little different perspective on Gleason. And, of course, the chance to work with my buddy Matt Smith again is great, while Stjepan Šejić skipped ahead to work on #144 and #145."
Artist Matthew Dow Smith (DOCTOR WHO) added, "I had a lot of fun working on these two issues. While it's always great to draw WITCHBLADE herself, I think this was an interesting addition to the series."
WITCHBLADE #142, a 32 page full-color comic book, is in stores now. WITCHBLADE #143 will be for sale in stores March 9, 2011.
Friday, February 04, 2011
WHAT DOESN'T KILL YOU
MAKES YOU STRONGER!
ENTER THE
STRANGE TWISTED SCI-FI WORLD OF
MALIGNANT MAN
A BRAND NEW ORIGINAL SERIES
BY BOOM! STUDIOS
COMING THIS APRIL!
The hospital sent cancer patient Alan Gates home to die.
Instead, his tumor transformed him into something
more than human...
February 3, 2011 – Los Angeles, CA - This April enter the twisted sci-fi action epic MALIGNANT MAN, where a doomed cancer patient discovers the sickness thought to kill him will transform him into something more powerful than he could ever imagine! Written by James Wan, fan-favorite author Michael Alan Nelson (28 DAYS LATER, DINGO) and art by international sensation Piotr Kowalski, MALIGNANT MAN is sure to be the most exciting original sci-fi series on comic book stands this April!
“MALIGNANT MAN will shock and awe!” says BOOM! Studios Marketing Director Chip Mosher. “If you're looking for an epic adventure that's action packed, pulse-pounding sci-fi at its very best, you can do no better than BOOM! Studios' newest series MALIGNANT MAN!”
MALIGNANT MAN tells the story of Alan Gates, a cancer patient with a terminal diagnosis, who's resigned to his fate...until he discovers that his tumor is actually a mysterious parasite! Granted a second lease on life and incredible, otherworldly powers, Alan must fight against an evil army buried beneath society's skin, all the while unlocking the secrets of his forgotten past. Dark, twisted, and unlike anything else on the stands, MALIGNANT MAN is a sci-fi thriller that can't be missed!
MALIGNANT MAN is written by James Wan and Michael Alan Nelson (28 DAYS LATER, DINGO) with art by Piotr Kowalski. This title ships in April with A and B covers in a 50/50 split by Trevor Hairsine and Rael Lyra respectively and carries a Diamond Code of FEB110851.
About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios (www.boom-studios.com)2009 “Best Publisher,” of the year, generates a wide-ranging catalog of multiple Eisner and Harvey Award-nominated comic books and graphic novels featuring some of the industry’s top talent, including Philip K. Dick’s DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP?, 20th Century Fox’s 28 DAYS LATER and DIE HARD, The Henson Company’s FARSCAPE, and the original Mark Waid series IRREDEEMABLE. This past fall saw BOOM! teaming up with the legendary Stan Lee, creator of Marvel Comics’ characters Spider-Man, The Hulk, and The X-Men for a line of original superhero series, the legend’s first new superhero creations in nearly 20 years. BOOM!’s youth imprint, BOOM Kids!, is an undisputed industry leader publishing Disney/Pixar’s THE INCREDIBLES, CARS, and TOY STORY, as well as Disney’s THE MUPPETS, DONALD DUCK, UNCLE SCROOGE and WALT DISNEY’S COMICS AND STORIES. This year, BOOM! Studios celebrates its sixth anniversary.
MAKES YOU STRONGER!
ENTER THE
STRANGE TWISTED SCI-FI WORLD OF
MALIGNANT MAN
A BRAND NEW ORIGINAL SERIES
BY BOOM! STUDIOS
COMING THIS APRIL!
The hospital sent cancer patient Alan Gates home to die.
Instead, his tumor transformed him into something
more than human...
February 3, 2011 – Los Angeles, CA - This April enter the twisted sci-fi action epic MALIGNANT MAN, where a doomed cancer patient discovers the sickness thought to kill him will transform him into something more powerful than he could ever imagine! Written by James Wan, fan-favorite author Michael Alan Nelson (28 DAYS LATER, DINGO) and art by international sensation Piotr Kowalski, MALIGNANT MAN is sure to be the most exciting original sci-fi series on comic book stands this April!
“MALIGNANT MAN will shock and awe!” says BOOM! Studios Marketing Director Chip Mosher. “If you're looking for an epic adventure that's action packed, pulse-pounding sci-fi at its very best, you can do no better than BOOM! Studios' newest series MALIGNANT MAN!”
MALIGNANT MAN tells the story of Alan Gates, a cancer patient with a terminal diagnosis, who's resigned to his fate...until he discovers that his tumor is actually a mysterious parasite! Granted a second lease on life and incredible, otherworldly powers, Alan must fight against an evil army buried beneath society's skin, all the while unlocking the secrets of his forgotten past. Dark, twisted, and unlike anything else on the stands, MALIGNANT MAN is a sci-fi thriller that can't be missed!
MALIGNANT MAN is written by James Wan and Michael Alan Nelson (28 DAYS LATER, DINGO) with art by Piotr Kowalski. This title ships in April with A and B covers in a 50/50 split by Trevor Hairsine and Rael Lyra respectively and carries a Diamond Code of FEB110851.
About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios (www.boom-studios.com)2009 “Best Publisher,” of the year, generates a wide-ranging catalog of multiple Eisner and Harvey Award-nominated comic books and graphic novels featuring some of the industry’s top talent, including Philip K. Dick’s DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP?, 20th Century Fox’s 28 DAYS LATER and DIE HARD, The Henson Company’s FARSCAPE, and the original Mark Waid series IRREDEEMABLE. This past fall saw BOOM! teaming up with the legendary Stan Lee, creator of Marvel Comics’ characters Spider-Man, The Hulk, and The X-Men for a line of original superhero series, the legend’s first new superhero creations in nearly 20 years. BOOM!’s youth imprint, BOOM Kids!, is an undisputed industry leader publishing Disney/Pixar’s THE INCREDIBLES, CARS, and TOY STORY, as well as Disney’s THE MUPPETS, DONALD DUCK, UNCLE SCROOGE and WALT DISNEY’S COMICS AND STORIES. This year, BOOM! Studios celebrates its sixth anniversary.
CREATE A SUPERHERO CHARACTER FOR THE STAN LEE FOUNDATION!
Receive Global Recognition And An Award For Your Superhero Character
The legendary Stan Lee, Image Comic partner and Spawn creator Todd McFarlane are currently hosting an online contest for illustrators to "Design a Superhero Character for the Stan Lee Foundation."
http://www.talenthouse.com/stan-lee-foundation-create-a-superhero
The winner will get to spend the day at Todd McFarlane's studio in Tempe, AZ with Mr. McFarlane!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7r2cBGXhwkQ
The contest ends Monday, Feb 7th. Don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Receive Global Recognition And An Award For Your Superhero Character
The legendary Stan Lee, Image Comic partner and Spawn creator Todd McFarlane are currently hosting an online contest for illustrators to "Design a Superhero Character for the Stan Lee Foundation."
http://www.talenthouse.com/stan-lee-foundation-create-a-superhero
The winner will get to spend the day at Todd McFarlane's studio in Tempe, AZ with Mr. McFarlane!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7r2cBGXhwkQ
The contest ends Monday, Feb 7th. Don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Thursday, February 03, 2011
For Immediate Release: After 12 years of producing Paradigm Shift as both an online serialized graphic novel and three collected and printed volumes, creator Dirk Tiede announced the sale of his 5000th book. The landmark sale occurred at Ohayocon in Columbus, OH the weekend of January 28 through 30, 2011.
Dirk, pioneer cartoonist and illustrator, accomplished this amazing feat through a variety of different methods but most notably via his convention schedule. Dirk travels the country attending conventions as far and as large as San Diego Comic Con, several of which he has been invited as a Featured Artist or even Guest of Honor. In 2011 alone, Dirk is scheduled for a dozen convention appearances, three of which are Guest of Honor and Featured Artist titles. Dirk also successfully raised the funds needed for his entire run for Paradigm Shift: Emergence, his third book through presales.
Paradigm Shift, currently in its fourth chapter, focuses on smart-ass detectives Kate McAllister and Mike Stuart who are propelled into the paranormal while investigating a strange back alley mauling. Kate was one of the best detectives in Chicago, until she developed a bad case of lycanthropy. Now she and her partner Mike are on the run to find the truth. This serialized graphic novel is a police procedural punctuated by explosive gunfights, sardonic humor, and supernatural horror set in a gritty and authentic Chicago backdrop.
Dirk I. Tiede was born in California, grew up in the Midwest, and cut his teeth as a graphic artist in Chicago. He holds a BFA in commercial art from Millikin University, but has been drawing comics for as long as he can remember. He began Paradigm Shift as an online comic in 1999, and is a founding contributor to premiere comic portal Modern Tales. His artwork is showcased in the books Toon Art: The Graphic Art of Digital Cartooning and Webcomics, appears the documentary Adventures in Digital Comics, and was featured in Season 3 of NBC’s Heroes. In 2008, Dirk relocated to Boston’s North Shore with his wife, where he continues to work as a professional cartoonist and freelance illustrator.
For more information on Paradigm Shift, Dirk Tiede or to view his full convention schedule, visit his website at http://www.paradigmshiftmanga.com.
Dirk, pioneer cartoonist and illustrator, accomplished this amazing feat through a variety of different methods but most notably via his convention schedule. Dirk travels the country attending conventions as far and as large as San Diego Comic Con, several of which he has been invited as a Featured Artist or even Guest of Honor. In 2011 alone, Dirk is scheduled for a dozen convention appearances, three of which are Guest of Honor and Featured Artist titles. Dirk also successfully raised the funds needed for his entire run for Paradigm Shift: Emergence, his third book through presales.
Paradigm Shift, currently in its fourth chapter, focuses on smart-ass detectives Kate McAllister and Mike Stuart who are propelled into the paranormal while investigating a strange back alley mauling. Kate was one of the best detectives in Chicago, until she developed a bad case of lycanthropy. Now she and her partner Mike are on the run to find the truth. This serialized graphic novel is a police procedural punctuated by explosive gunfights, sardonic humor, and supernatural horror set in a gritty and authentic Chicago backdrop.
Dirk I. Tiede was born in California, grew up in the Midwest, and cut his teeth as a graphic artist in Chicago. He holds a BFA in commercial art from Millikin University, but has been drawing comics for as long as he can remember. He began Paradigm Shift as an online comic in 1999, and is a founding contributor to premiere comic portal Modern Tales. His artwork is showcased in the books Toon Art: The Graphic Art of Digital Cartooning and Webcomics, appears the documentary Adventures in Digital Comics, and was featured in Season 3 of NBC’s Heroes. In 2008, Dirk relocated to Boston’s North Shore with his wife, where he continues to work as a professional cartoonist and freelance illustrator.
For more information on Paradigm Shift, Dirk Tiede or to view his full convention schedule, visit his website at http://www.paradigmshiftmanga.com.
For Immediate Release: One year ago, DarkBrain.com launched an innovative and edgy new website. Since that launch, publisher Andrew Zar and dozens of artists have worked very hard to produce and publish online over 400 pages of serialized graphic novels featuring voice over narration from some of the most renowned adult film stars and rock musicians. To celebrate their first birthday in the world of web comics, DarkBrain.com is excited to announce their entry into the world of mobile comics and even print comics.
Beginning in February 2011, DarkBrain will introduce their existing and all upcoming issues of their comics in a movie (MP4) format so that it is easily viewable on mobile devices such as iPads, iPhones, Androids and PSPs among others. In addition to the existing series CHURCH OF ONE, MIRROR, MIRROR, THE BUTCHER and SORTAN-VALTA, stories slated for 2011 that will be available in this new format include LOCKED OUT, GRACE COMES HOME, RASHIDA'S ASCENSION (members-only), GENESIS OF AURORA and HAZMAT. Most titles will be delivered in a bimonthly format on the site so readers get plenty of action as the story builds to the conclusion. As in their existing Flash comics, these mobile comics will have a PG-13 version available for free and an uncensored version for members. The release schedule that DarkBrain has announced is as follows:
· Feb. 1 – LOCKED OUT: EYE OPENER GN available for download to members.
· Feb. 9 – RASHIDA’S ASCENSION #2 featuring Raylene in a bone-chilling performance.
· Feb. 14 – MIRROR, MIRROR #5 starring Tabitha Stevens as Brenna in her final appearance.
· Feb. 23 – CHURCH OF ONE #2 with Tabitha Stevens returning as Pastor Holly.
· Mar. 2 – GENESIS OF AURORA #2, the second chapter in our first creator-owned series.
The milestone month of February also brings the completion of two of DarkBrain’s most popular titles: LOCKED OUT and MIRROR, MIRROR. To commemorate their completion, DarkBrain is taking steps into unknown territory. For LOCKED OUT, besides making the four issue story into the mobile comic format, the web comic publisher has also made a digital download version of the complete graphic novel. To view and download this full graphic novel, readers must possess a paid membership to DarkBrain.com. Memberships are available for 3 month increments for only $20. For members, both the graphic novel and the mobile comics for all series feature completely uncensored content designed for the mature reader.
DarkBrain’s 2nd popular title, MIRROR, MIRROR is truly going where DarkBrain has never gone before – print. With the story coming to a shocking end, all five issues of MIRROR, MIRROR have been collected and will be available in an actual printed graphic novel, featuring uncensored content and a foreword written by legendary adult film star Tabitha Stevens, who also plays the role of Brenna, the cursed dominatrix in MIRROR, MIRROR. MIRROR, MIRROR: FORGIVENESS is currently in pre-order through DarkBrain.com and will be sold through IndyPlanet.com and for retail distribution through ComicsMonkey.com. MIRROR, MIRROR: FORGIVENESS is due for release on February 14, 2011 in conjunction with the web release and mobile comic release of the fifth and final installment to the series. As an incentive to pre-order, DarkBrain also announced that the initial print run will be autographed by Tabitha Stevens.
Beginning in February 2011, DarkBrain will introduce their existing and all upcoming issues of their comics in a movie (MP4) format so that it is easily viewable on mobile devices such as iPads, iPhones, Androids and PSPs among others. In addition to the existing series CHURCH OF ONE, MIRROR, MIRROR, THE BUTCHER and SORTAN-VALTA, stories slated for 2011 that will be available in this new format include LOCKED OUT, GRACE COMES HOME, RASHIDA'S ASCENSION (members-only), GENESIS OF AURORA and HAZMAT. Most titles will be delivered in a bimonthly format on the site so readers get plenty of action as the story builds to the conclusion. As in their existing Flash comics, these mobile comics will have a PG-13 version available for free and an uncensored version for members. The release schedule that DarkBrain has announced is as follows:
· Feb. 1 – LOCKED OUT: EYE OPENER GN available for download to members.
· Feb. 9 – RASHIDA’S ASCENSION #2 featuring Raylene in a bone-chilling performance.
· Feb. 14 – MIRROR, MIRROR #5 starring Tabitha Stevens as Brenna in her final appearance.
· Feb. 23 – CHURCH OF ONE #2 with Tabitha Stevens returning as Pastor Holly.
· Mar. 2 – GENESIS OF AURORA #2, the second chapter in our first creator-owned series.
The milestone month of February also brings the completion of two of DarkBrain’s most popular titles: LOCKED OUT and MIRROR, MIRROR. To commemorate their completion, DarkBrain is taking steps into unknown territory. For LOCKED OUT, besides making the four issue story into the mobile comic format, the web comic publisher has also made a digital download version of the complete graphic novel. To view and download this full graphic novel, readers must possess a paid membership to DarkBrain.com. Memberships are available for 3 month increments for only $20. For members, both the graphic novel and the mobile comics for all series feature completely uncensored content designed for the mature reader.
DarkBrain’s 2nd popular title, MIRROR, MIRROR is truly going where DarkBrain has never gone before – print. With the story coming to a shocking end, all five issues of MIRROR, MIRROR have been collected and will be available in an actual printed graphic novel, featuring uncensored content and a foreword written by legendary adult film star Tabitha Stevens, who also plays the role of Brenna, the cursed dominatrix in MIRROR, MIRROR. MIRROR, MIRROR: FORGIVENESS is currently in pre-order through DarkBrain.com and will be sold through IndyPlanet.com and for retail distribution through ComicsMonkey.com. MIRROR, MIRROR: FORGIVENESS is due for release on February 14, 2011 in conjunction with the web release and mobile comic release of the fifth and final installment to the series. As an incentive to pre-order, DarkBrain also announced that the initial print run will be autographed by Tabitha Stevens.
For Immediate Release: One year ago, DarkBrain.com launched an innovative and edgy new website. Since that launch, publisher Andrew Zar and dozens of artists have worked very hard to produce and publish online over 400 pages of serialized graphic novels featuring voice over narration from some of the most renowned adult film stars and rock musicians. To celebrate their first birthday in the world of web comics, DarkBrain.com is excited to announce their entry into the world of mobile comics and even print comics.
Beginning in February 2011, DarkBrain will introduce their existing and all upcoming issues of their comics in a movie (MP4) format so that it is easily viewable on mobile devices such as iPads, iPhones, Androids and PSPs among others. In addition to the existing series CHURCH OF ONE, MIRROR, MIRROR, THE BUTCHER and SORTAN-VALTA, stories slated for 2011 that will be available in this new format include LOCKED OUT, GRACE COMES HOME, RASHIDA'S ASCENSION (members-only), GENESIS OF AURORA and HAZMAT. Most titles will be delivered in a bimonthly format on the site so readers get plenty of action as the story builds to the conclusion. As in their existing Flash comics, these mobile comics will have a PG-13 version available for free and an uncensored version for members. The release schedule that DarkBrain has announced is as follows:
· Feb. 1 – LOCKED OUT: EYE OPENER GN available for download to members.
· Feb. 9 – RASHIDA’S ASCENSION #2 featuring Raylene in a bone-chilling performance.
· Feb. 14 – MIRROR, MIRROR #5 starring Tabitha Stevens as Brenna in her final appearance.
· Feb. 23 – CHURCH OF ONE #2 with Tabitha Stevens returning as Pastor Holly.
· Mar. 2 – GENESIS OF AURORA #2, the second chapter in our first creator-owned series.
The milestone month of February also brings the completion of two of DarkBrain’s most popular titles: LOCKED OUT and MIRROR, MIRROR. To commemorate their completion, DarkBrain is taking steps into unknown territory. For LOCKED OUT, besides making the four issue story into the mobile comic format, the web comic publisher has also made a digital download version of the complete graphic novel. To view and download this full graphic novel, readers must possess a paid membership to DarkBrain.com. Memberships are available for 3 month increments for only $20. For members, both the graphic novel and the mobile comics for all series feature completely uncensored content designed for the mature reader.
DarkBrain’s 2nd popular title, MIRROR, MIRROR is truly going where DarkBrain has never gone before – print. With the story coming to a shocking end, all five issues of MIRROR, MIRROR have been collected and will be available in an actual printed graphic novel, featuring uncensored content and a foreword written by legendary adult film star Tabitha Stevens, who also plays the role of Brenna, the cursed dominatrix in MIRROR, MIRROR. MIRROR, MIRROR: FORGIVENESS is currently in pre-order through DarkBrain.com and will be sold through IndyPlanet.com and for retail distribution through ComicsMonkey.com. MIRROR, MIRROR: FORGIVENESS is due for release on February 14, 2011 in conjunction with the web release and mobile comic release of the fifth and final installment to the series. As an incentive to pre-order, DarkBrain also announced that the initial print run will be autographed by Tabitha Stevens.
Beginning in February 2011, DarkBrain will introduce their existing and all upcoming issues of their comics in a movie (MP4) format so that it is easily viewable on mobile devices such as iPads, iPhones, Androids and PSPs among others. In addition to the existing series CHURCH OF ONE, MIRROR, MIRROR, THE BUTCHER and SORTAN-VALTA, stories slated for 2011 that will be available in this new format include LOCKED OUT, GRACE COMES HOME, RASHIDA'S ASCENSION (members-only), GENESIS OF AURORA and HAZMAT. Most titles will be delivered in a bimonthly format on the site so readers get plenty of action as the story builds to the conclusion. As in their existing Flash comics, these mobile comics will have a PG-13 version available for free and an uncensored version for members. The release schedule that DarkBrain has announced is as follows:
· Feb. 1 – LOCKED OUT: EYE OPENER GN available for download to members.
· Feb. 9 – RASHIDA’S ASCENSION #2 featuring Raylene in a bone-chilling performance.
· Feb. 14 – MIRROR, MIRROR #5 starring Tabitha Stevens as Brenna in her final appearance.
· Feb. 23 – CHURCH OF ONE #2 with Tabitha Stevens returning as Pastor Holly.
· Mar. 2 – GENESIS OF AURORA #2, the second chapter in our first creator-owned series.
The milestone month of February also brings the completion of two of DarkBrain’s most popular titles: LOCKED OUT and MIRROR, MIRROR. To commemorate their completion, DarkBrain is taking steps into unknown territory. For LOCKED OUT, besides making the four issue story into the mobile comic format, the web comic publisher has also made a digital download version of the complete graphic novel. To view and download this full graphic novel, readers must possess a paid membership to DarkBrain.com. Memberships are available for 3 month increments for only $20. For members, both the graphic novel and the mobile comics for all series feature completely uncensored content designed for the mature reader.
DarkBrain’s 2nd popular title, MIRROR, MIRROR is truly going where DarkBrain has never gone before – print. With the story coming to a shocking end, all five issues of MIRROR, MIRROR have been collected and will be available in an actual printed graphic novel, featuring uncensored content and a foreword written by legendary adult film star Tabitha Stevens, who also plays the role of Brenna, the cursed dominatrix in MIRROR, MIRROR. MIRROR, MIRROR: FORGIVENESS is currently in pre-order through DarkBrain.com and will be sold through IndyPlanet.com and for retail distribution through ComicsMonkey.com. MIRROR, MIRROR: FORGIVENESS is due for release on February 14, 2011 in conjunction with the web release and mobile comic release of the fifth and final installment to the series. As an incentive to pre-order, DarkBrain also announced that the initial print run will be autographed by Tabitha Stevens.
IMAGE COMICS RELEASES ZIGGY MARLEY'S MARIJUANAMAN; IN STORES APRIL 20th
A Hero For A New Generation
Berkeley, CA - 3 February 2011 -
He's a Grammy Award-winning musician, an irrefutable Reggae star, and staunch environmental and social activist. In April, ZIGGY MARLEY steps into another creative arena with the release of MARIJUANAMAN from Image Comics.
Based on a character conceived of by Ziggy Marley, written by Man of Action Studios JOE CASEY (GØDLAND, BUTCHER BAKER) and illustrated by JIM MAHFOOD (KICK DRUM COMIX, MIX TAPE), MARIJUANAMAN promises to shatter all expectations -- this is not the comic you think it is! The oversized deluxe hardcover graphic novel tells the tale of a noble extraterrestrial champion, who has arrived on Earth to deliver an important message and at the same time save his own planet.
"MARIJUANAMAN represents the hope of the future... the hope that we will utilize all of the power that the universe has given us to save our planet," Marley explained.
Casey spoke of being part of the creative trio, "Mahfood and I have been friends for over a decade and I've been a big fan of his for even longer. This was the perfect project for us to collaborate on because Ziggy's given us a great concept to go nuts with. This book goes beyond just being a comic... this book is an experience."
Mahfood added, “It’s been a really unique and thrilling project for me to work on. Ziggy Marley is a visionary and MARIJUANAMAN is his, so he's involved in every step, but he's also been cool enough to let Joe and I cut loose and really spread our artistic wings on this project. Through our collaboration, we are creating something that has a unique flavor and feeling. MARIJUANAMAN is not going to be what people except it to be.”
Discover a new hero for our times with MARIJUANAMAN, a 48-page oversized full-color hardcover by Ziggy Marley, Joe Casey, and Jim Mahfood. The book will be in stores April 20, 2011, for $24.99.
ABOUT ZIGGY MARLEY
A five-time Grammy winner and Reggae icon, Ziggy Marley has had a fruitful career, in which he has released twelve albums to much critical acclaim. His early immersion in music came at age ten when he sat in on recording sessions with his father, Bob Marley. As front man to Ziggy Marley and The Melody Makers, Ziggy released eight best-selling albums that garnered three Grammys, with such chart-topping hits as "Tomorrow People" and "Tumbling Down." Ziggy's first solo album, DRAGONFLY (RCA Records), was released in 2003. His second solo release, LOVE IS MY RELIGION (Tuff Gong Worldwide), won a Grammy in 2006 for Best Reggae Album. His third solo album, FAMILY TIME (Tuff Gong Worldwide), scored him a 5th Grammy award. Ziggy continues his creative path this year with a new album entitled WILD AND FREE, which will be released alongside MARIJUANAMAN this Spring. For more information, visit www.ziggymarley.com and www.marjuanamancomic.com.
ABOUT JIM MAHFOOD
Jim Mahfood single-handedly introduced Live Art to the American comic book scene. Food has worked for every major comic book publisher and his list of comics credits include Clerks (with filmmaker Kevin Smith), Grrl Scouts, Stupid Comics, Felt, Bad Ideas, various Spider-Man books for Marvel, One Page Filler Man, Kick Drum Comix, Carl, the Cat That Makes Peanut Butter Sandwiches, and more. His illustrations have appeared in magazines like Playboy, MAD Magazine, Star Wars Gamer, URB, BadAzz, Mofo, BPM, and so on. He's painted murals in such locations as the Spike TV building, Munky King toys, IGN.com, and the Sarah Silverman Program on Comedy Central. For more information, visit www.jimmahfood.com
ABOUT JOE CASEY
Joe Casey is a founding partner of Man of Action Studios, a creative development company formed in 2000 by graphic novelists Joe Casey, Joe Kelly, Duncan Rouleau and Steven T. Seagle. Based in Los Angeles and New York, Man Of Action Studios created the popular BEN 10 TV franchise as well as the new series Generator Rex. Currently they are supervising producers/story editors on the upcoming Ultimate Spider-Man animated series premiering in 2012 on Disney/XD. Man of Action wrote the X-Men and Superman comic book series and currently publish their original creations through Image Comics. They wrote the best-selling video games X-Men: Legends for Activision, and Darksiders: Wrath of War for THQ. For more information, visit www.manofaction.tv.
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of four major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
A Hero For A New Generation
Berkeley, CA - 3 February 2011 -
He's a Grammy Award-winning musician, an irrefutable Reggae star, and staunch environmental and social activist. In April, ZIGGY MARLEY steps into another creative arena with the release of MARIJUANAMAN from Image Comics.
Based on a character conceived of by Ziggy Marley, written by Man of Action Studios JOE CASEY (GØDLAND, BUTCHER BAKER) and illustrated by JIM MAHFOOD (KICK DRUM COMIX, MIX TAPE), MARIJUANAMAN promises to shatter all expectations -- this is not the comic you think it is! The oversized deluxe hardcover graphic novel tells the tale of a noble extraterrestrial champion, who has arrived on Earth to deliver an important message and at the same time save his own planet.
"MARIJUANAMAN represents the hope of the future... the hope that we will utilize all of the power that the universe has given us to save our planet," Marley explained.
Casey spoke of being part of the creative trio, "Mahfood and I have been friends for over a decade and I've been a big fan of his for even longer. This was the perfect project for us to collaborate on because Ziggy's given us a great concept to go nuts with. This book goes beyond just being a comic... this book is an experience."
Mahfood added, “It’s been a really unique and thrilling project for me to work on. Ziggy Marley is a visionary and MARIJUANAMAN is his, so he's involved in every step, but he's also been cool enough to let Joe and I cut loose and really spread our artistic wings on this project. Through our collaboration, we are creating something that has a unique flavor and feeling. MARIJUANAMAN is not going to be what people except it to be.”
Discover a new hero for our times with MARIJUANAMAN, a 48-page oversized full-color hardcover by Ziggy Marley, Joe Casey, and Jim Mahfood. The book will be in stores April 20, 2011, for $24.99.
ABOUT ZIGGY MARLEY
A five-time Grammy winner and Reggae icon, Ziggy Marley has had a fruitful career, in which he has released twelve albums to much critical acclaim. His early immersion in music came at age ten when he sat in on recording sessions with his father, Bob Marley. As front man to Ziggy Marley and The Melody Makers, Ziggy released eight best-selling albums that garnered three Grammys, with such chart-topping hits as "Tomorrow People" and "Tumbling Down." Ziggy's first solo album, DRAGONFLY (RCA Records), was released in 2003. His second solo release, LOVE IS MY RELIGION (Tuff Gong Worldwide), won a Grammy in 2006 for Best Reggae Album. His third solo album, FAMILY TIME (Tuff Gong Worldwide), scored him a 5th Grammy award. Ziggy continues his creative path this year with a new album entitled WILD AND FREE, which will be released alongside MARIJUANAMAN this Spring. For more information, visit www.ziggymarley.com and www.marjuanamancomic.com.
ABOUT JIM MAHFOOD
Jim Mahfood single-handedly introduced Live Art to the American comic book scene. Food has worked for every major comic book publisher and his list of comics credits include Clerks (with filmmaker Kevin Smith), Grrl Scouts, Stupid Comics, Felt, Bad Ideas, various Spider-Man books for Marvel, One Page Filler Man, Kick Drum Comix, Carl, the Cat That Makes Peanut Butter Sandwiches, and more. His illustrations have appeared in magazines like Playboy, MAD Magazine, Star Wars Gamer, URB, BadAzz, Mofo, BPM, and so on. He's painted murals in such locations as the Spike TV building, Munky King toys, IGN.com, and the Sarah Silverman Program on Comedy Central. For more information, visit www.jimmahfood.com
ABOUT JOE CASEY
Joe Casey is a founding partner of Man of Action Studios, a creative development company formed in 2000 by graphic novelists Joe Casey, Joe Kelly, Duncan Rouleau and Steven T. Seagle. Based in Los Angeles and New York, Man Of Action Studios created the popular BEN 10 TV franchise as well as the new series Generator Rex. Currently they are supervising producers/story editors on the upcoming Ultimate Spider-Man animated series premiering in 2012 on Disney/XD. Man of Action wrote the X-Men and Superman comic book series and currently publish their original creations through Image Comics. They wrote the best-selling video games X-Men: Legends for Activision, and Darksiders: Wrath of War for THQ. For more information, visit www.manofaction.tv.
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of four major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
2011 HARVEY NOMINATION BALLOTS AVAILABLE!
SCOTT KURTZ TO HOST HARVEY AWARDS!
BALTIMORE, MD (February 3, 2011) -- The Executive Committees of the Harvey Awards and the Baltimore Comic-Con are proud to present the official Nomination Ballot for this year's Harvey Awards. Named in honor of the late Harvey Kurtzman, one of the industry's most innovative talents, the Harvey Awards recognize outstanding work in comics and sequential art.
Ballots can be downloaded from HarveyAwards.org and completed forms can be e-mailed to harveyballots@hotmail.com. Ballots are due for submission by Monday, March 28, 2011. In addition to being available on the website, ballots will be sent to all major publishers and distributed at comic conventions. We look forward to your participation and input in this process, and we look forward to seeing you at the Baltimore Comic-Con and the Harvey Awards.
Returning for his third consecutive Harvey Awards, Scott Kurtz will be the Master of Ceremonies for the awards banquet, to be held Saturday, August 20, 2011 as part of the Baltimore Comic-Con. "We are thrilled that Scott agreed to come back to Baltimore and help to make the Harvey Awards ceremony as fun and exciting as the last few years have been!" said Marc Nathan, promoter of the Baltimore Comic-Con.
Scott Kurtz has been creating his own comic strips since he got hooked on Garfield in the 4th grade. In 1998, his comic strip, PvP, debuted on the world wide web (pvponline.com) with 700 daily readers. Over the last 10 years, PvP has grown into a genuine Internet phenomenon, growing in readership to an estimated 150,000 readers per day, a monthly title from Image comics, winning a Harvey Award in 2010 for Best Online Comics Work, and winning the Eisner Award for best digital comic in 2006. Scott co-wrote the book "How To Make Webcomics" and co-founded webcomics.com to help assist others in forging their own creative destinies.
Nominations for the Harvey Awards are selected exclusively by creators - those who write, draw, ink, letter, color, design, edit or are otherwise involved in a creative capacity in the comics field. The Harvey Awards are the only industry awards both nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals.
This year's Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 20-21, 2011. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. The ceremony and banquet for the Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, August 20. Additional details about the Harvey Awards and the awards ceremony will be released over the next few months.
About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 6 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org
About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 12th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 20-21, 2011. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.
SCOTT KURTZ TO HOST HARVEY AWARDS!
BALTIMORE, MD (February 3, 2011) -- The Executive Committees of the Harvey Awards and the Baltimore Comic-Con are proud to present the official Nomination Ballot for this year's Harvey Awards. Named in honor of the late Harvey Kurtzman, one of the industry's most innovative talents, the Harvey Awards recognize outstanding work in comics and sequential art.
Ballots can be downloaded from HarveyAwards.org and completed forms can be e-mailed to harveyballots@hotmail.com. Ballots are due for submission by Monday, March 28, 2011. In addition to being available on the website, ballots will be sent to all major publishers and distributed at comic conventions. We look forward to your participation and input in this process, and we look forward to seeing you at the Baltimore Comic-Con and the Harvey Awards.
Returning for his third consecutive Harvey Awards, Scott Kurtz will be the Master of Ceremonies for the awards banquet, to be held Saturday, August 20, 2011 as part of the Baltimore Comic-Con. "We are thrilled that Scott agreed to come back to Baltimore and help to make the Harvey Awards ceremony as fun and exciting as the last few years have been!" said Marc Nathan, promoter of the Baltimore Comic-Con.
Scott Kurtz has been creating his own comic strips since he got hooked on Garfield in the 4th grade. In 1998, his comic strip, PvP, debuted on the world wide web (pvponline.com) with 700 daily readers. Over the last 10 years, PvP has grown into a genuine Internet phenomenon, growing in readership to an estimated 150,000 readers per day, a monthly title from Image comics, winning a Harvey Award in 2010 for Best Online Comics Work, and winning the Eisner Award for best digital comic in 2006. Scott co-wrote the book "How To Make Webcomics" and co-founded webcomics.com to help assist others in forging their own creative destinies.
Nominations for the Harvey Awards are selected exclusively by creators - those who write, draw, ink, letter, color, design, edit or are otherwise involved in a creative capacity in the comics field. The Harvey Awards are the only industry awards both nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals.
This year's Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 20-21, 2011. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. The ceremony and banquet for the Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, August 20. Additional details about the Harvey Awards and the awards ceremony will be released over the next few months.
About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 6 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org
About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 12th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 20-21, 2011. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
SEATTLE, PREPARE TO GET KICKED
Skullkickers
Vol 1 ECCC Exclusive HC Announced
Berkeley, CA - 2 February 2011 –
Image Comics and Emerald City Comic Con announced that an exclusive hardcover edition of the SKULLKICKERS, VOL. 1 TP will be available at the upcoming Emerald City Comic Con in Seattle. Writer Jim Zubkavich and artist Edwin Huang have been handily bashing the heads of readers with their own brand of dark comedic violence and high fantasy adventure in each issue of SKULLKICKERS, leading up to this collection of the series' incredible first arc.
"We're ecstatic to be launching the first SKULLKICKERS trade at the Emerald City show and wanted to make it extra special for people in attendance," explained Zubkavich. He also added a piece of advice for the fans, "This limited run hardcover edition is a beauty and solid enough to work well as a monster bludgeoning device in a pinch. Don't leave Seattle without it!"
Emerald City Comic Con takes place March 4-6 this year in Seattle, Washington. For more information about the show and all the Image creators that will be attending, visit www.emeraldcitycomicon.com.
SKULLKICKERS, VOL. 1, a rowdy 144-page full color trade paperback collecting issues 1-5, will be on sale in stores on March 9 at the low introductory price of $9.99. The hardcover edition will be available exclusively at ECCC for $25. Find out more about the world of SKULLKICKERS at www.skullkickers.com.
Skullkickers
Vol 1 ECCC Exclusive HC AnnouncedBerkeley, CA - 2 February 2011 –
Image Comics and Emerald City Comic Con announced that an exclusive hardcover edition of the SKULLKICKERS, VOL. 1 TP will be available at the upcoming Emerald City Comic Con in Seattle. Writer Jim Zubkavich and artist Edwin Huang have been handily bashing the heads of readers with their own brand of dark comedic violence and high fantasy adventure in each issue of SKULLKICKERS, leading up to this collection of the series' incredible first arc.
"We're ecstatic to be launching the first SKULLKICKERS trade at the Emerald City show and wanted to make it extra special for people in attendance," explained Zubkavich. He also added a piece of advice for the fans, "This limited run hardcover edition is a beauty and solid enough to work well as a monster bludgeoning device in a pinch. Don't leave Seattle without it!"
Emerald City Comic Con takes place March 4-6 this year in Seattle, Washington. For more information about the show and all the Image creators that will be attending, visit www.emeraldcitycomicon.com.
SKULLKICKERS, VOL. 1, a rowdy 144-page full color trade paperback collecting issues 1-5, will be on sale in stores on March 9 at the low introductory price of $9.99. The hardcover edition will be available exclusively at ECCC for $25. Find out more about the world of SKULLKICKERS at www.skullkickers.com.
ASYLUM PRESS RELEASES APRIL 2011 SOLICITATIONS
Feb. 2, 2010 (Los Angeles) Frank Forte, publisher of Asylum Press, announces the release of previews for the company's April solicitations (Featured in Diamond Comics' Feb. Previews). Black Powder, written and illustrated by Dwayne Harris, is a very exciting action adventure series that takes place during the catastrophic New Madrid earthquake of 1812. Each issue will be double-sized at 56 pages and retail for $7.95. The book will be published quarterly. Also released is the collected WARLASH:DARK NOIR signed pack. This three-issue mini series features the creators Frank Forte (Zombie Terrors), Szymon Kudranski (Spawn), Royal McGraw (Batman: Commissioner Gordon, Steve Mannion (Fearless Dawn), Nenad Gucunja (Undead Evil) and more. This is a great way for collectors to get the full series. Comes bagged and boarded with a signed print.
BLACK POWDER #1 (OF 3)
56 Pages (Double-sized) FC $7.95 perfect bound General Readers
Written and Illustrated by Dwayne Harris
Cover by Dwayne Harris
ISBN13: 978-1-61724-024-9
Synopsis: DOUBLE SIZED FIRST ISSUE!--A Bloody Frontier Adventure!--Set during the catastrophic New Madrid earthquake of 1812. Black Powder is the story of Robert Young, a former captain in the Barbary Wars, and his river journey on America's first steamboat to rescue the woman he loves from a gang of river pirates led by his cutthroat nemesis and former commander, Samuel Mason. On the way he encounters hostile Indians, swashbuckling battles, and several historical figures, all set against the backdrop of an earthquake that sinks islands, reverses the flow of the Mississippi river and wrenchingly exposes the fractures of a new nation itself.
Preview can be seen here:
http://www.asylumpress.com/Black_Powder_preview.html
Official site:
http://www.blackpowdercomic.com
___________________________________________
WARLASH: DARK NOIR SIGNED PACK
Title: WARLASH:DARK NOIR SIGNED PACK
Issue Number:1,2,3
Includes signed print WARLASH vs. ZOMBIE
Comes bagged and boarded
Writers’ and Artists’ Names: Frank Forte, Szymon Kudranski, Robert S. Rhine, Royal McGraw, Nenad Gucunja, Steve Mannion, J.C. Wong
Cover Artists: Bruno Werneck, Aly Fell
Intended Audience: Mature Readers
ISBN13: 978-1-61724-041-6
Synopsis:
Features a collection of Warlash:Dark Noir #1-3 ALL signed by creator Frank Forte. Also included is a Warlash Vs. Zombie print signed by Frank Forte. Warlash, armored warrior of the apocalyptic future, is back. These issues reintroduce Warlash with eight tales of hard boiled crime noir terror. In “Phlegm Fatale” Warlash battles a biogenic beast in the sewers below Pittsburgh. By Frank Forte “Grubbs” introduces Warlash to the seedy underside of the city he is sworn to protect. Art by Steve Mannion. In Wormwar part 1, a secret formula is stolen from an underground lab and Warlash must find out who by Szymon Kudranski. In “The Demon”, Warlash is confronted with a satanic rite and hell spawned beast they have released. Other creators feature Royal McGraw, Nenad Gucunja and J.C. Wong. Covers by Bruno Werneck and Aly Fell. Comes bagged and boarded.
Preview can be seen here:
http://www.warlash_DN_Home.html/
Official site:
http://www.warlash.com/
ABOUT ASYLUM PRESS:
Founded in 1999 by Frank Forte, Asylum Press is a unique publishing house specializing in high profile projects from some of the industry's biggest names. Publishing action/adventure comics with Warlash, Black Powder, Fearless Dawn and DTOX. Also, continuing their tradition of horror with Undead Evil, Satan’s 3-Ring Circus of Hell, Asylum of Horrors, Zombie Terrors, EEEK! and Beyond Lovecraft, venturing into dark humor with Billy Boy The Sick Little Fat Kid and The Cletus and Floyd Show, Asylum Press continues to be on the cutting edge of comic and graphic novel publishing. Asylum Press is distributed to the comics trade by Diamond Comics, Haven Distributors and Tony Shenton and to the booktrade by SCB Distributors, Ingram, Baker and Taylor and Turnaround U.K.
www.asylumpress.com
Feb. 2, 2010 (Los Angeles) Frank Forte, publisher of Asylum Press, announces the release of previews for the company's April solicitations (Featured in Diamond Comics' Feb. Previews). Black Powder, written and illustrated by Dwayne Harris, is a very exciting action adventure series that takes place during the catastrophic New Madrid earthquake of 1812. Each issue will be double-sized at 56 pages and retail for $7.95. The book will be published quarterly. Also released is the collected WARLASH:DARK NOIR signed pack. This three-issue mini series features the creators Frank Forte (Zombie Terrors), Szymon Kudranski (Spawn), Royal McGraw (Batman: Commissioner Gordon, Steve Mannion (Fearless Dawn), Nenad Gucunja (Undead Evil) and more. This is a great way for collectors to get the full series. Comes bagged and boarded with a signed print.
BLACK POWDER #1 (OF 3)
56 Pages (Double-sized) FC $7.95 perfect bound General Readers
Written and Illustrated by Dwayne Harris
Cover by Dwayne Harris
ISBN13: 978-1-61724-024-9
Synopsis: DOUBLE SIZED FIRST ISSUE!--A Bloody Frontier Adventure!--Set during the catastrophic New Madrid earthquake of 1812. Black Powder is the story of Robert Young, a former captain in the Barbary Wars, and his river journey on America's first steamboat to rescue the woman he loves from a gang of river pirates led by his cutthroat nemesis and former commander, Samuel Mason. On the way he encounters hostile Indians, swashbuckling battles, and several historical figures, all set against the backdrop of an earthquake that sinks islands, reverses the flow of the Mississippi river and wrenchingly exposes the fractures of a new nation itself.
Preview can be seen here:
http://www.asylumpress.com/Black_Powder_preview.html
Official site:
http://www.blackpowdercomic.com
___________________________________________
WARLASH: DARK NOIR SIGNED PACK
Title: WARLASH:DARK NOIR SIGNED PACK
Issue Number:1,2,3
Includes signed print WARLASH vs. ZOMBIE
Comes bagged and boarded
Writers’ and Artists’ Names: Frank Forte, Szymon Kudranski, Robert S. Rhine, Royal McGraw, Nenad Gucunja, Steve Mannion, J.C. Wong
Cover Artists: Bruno Werneck, Aly Fell
Intended Audience: Mature Readers
ISBN13: 978-1-61724-041-6
Synopsis:
Features a collection of Warlash:Dark Noir #1-3 ALL signed by creator Frank Forte. Also included is a Warlash Vs. Zombie print signed by Frank Forte. Warlash, armored warrior of the apocalyptic future, is back. These issues reintroduce Warlash with eight tales of hard boiled crime noir terror. In “Phlegm Fatale” Warlash battles a biogenic beast in the sewers below Pittsburgh. By Frank Forte “Grubbs” introduces Warlash to the seedy underside of the city he is sworn to protect. Art by Steve Mannion. In Wormwar part 1, a secret formula is stolen from an underground lab and Warlash must find out who by Szymon Kudranski. In “The Demon”, Warlash is confronted with a satanic rite and hell spawned beast they have released. Other creators feature Royal McGraw, Nenad Gucunja and J.C. Wong. Covers by Bruno Werneck and Aly Fell. Comes bagged and boarded.
Preview can be seen here:
http://www.warlash_DN_Home.html/
Official site:
http://www.warlash.com/
ABOUT ASYLUM PRESS:
Founded in 1999 by Frank Forte, Asylum Press is a unique publishing house specializing in high profile projects from some of the industry's biggest names. Publishing action/adventure comics with Warlash, Black Powder, Fearless Dawn and DTOX. Also, continuing their tradition of horror with Undead Evil, Satan’s 3-Ring Circus of Hell, Asylum of Horrors, Zombie Terrors, EEEK! and Beyond Lovecraft, venturing into dark humor with Billy Boy The Sick Little Fat Kid and The Cletus and Floyd Show, Asylum Press continues to be on the cutting edge of comic and graphic novel publishing. Asylum Press is distributed to the comics trade by Diamond Comics, Haven Distributors and Tony Shenton and to the booktrade by SCB Distributors, Ingram, Baker and Taylor and Turnaround U.K.
www.asylumpress.com
27-29 MAY – EXCEL LONDON – ROYAL VICTORIA DOCK
Nominations Open for Eagle Awards 2011 & Joint Ownership Announcement
What was your favourite comic of 2010? Which artists and writers really grabbed your attention? Nominations open on Friday 4 February and run until 7 March for the world-famous Eagle Awards, so head on over to www.eagleawards.co.uk to make your voice heard!
The top five nominations in each section will then be verified and voting gets underway on 14 March – let us know who you want to see honoured on the big night of 27 May at the London MCM Expo by picking your favourites of 2010.
Once again the awards ceremony will be streamed LIVE to the world over the internet via www.mcmbuzz.com which proved extremely popular in 2010.
Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry’s most prestigious fan-selected awards, giving the entire comics community the opportunity to vote for the finest publications and brightest talent of the past year, with categories covering the whole world of comics, including manga, movies and webcomics.
MCM Expo Group managing director Paul Miley and the Eagle Awards’ Cassandra Conroy are delighted to announce that going forward the Eagle Awards will be co-owned and organised equally by both parties.
Last October the Eagles moved to their new home at London MCM Expo, London’s Comic Con - www.londonexpo.com - and 2011 sees the awards return to Excel once again – this time back in their traditional May slot.
“All nominees will be invited to the Awards Ceremony at May’s London MCM Expo and the winners will be offered the opportunity to give an acceptance speech,” said Cassandra Conroy. “The full list of Award Winners will be released to the world 27 May.”
To buy tickets to the London MCM Expo at Excel London on 27-29 May, please visit: www.mcmexpogroup.com/store
ABOUT THE EAGLE AWARDS:
Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry’s longest established awards. Acknowledged as the pre-eminent international prizes, they have been featured on the covers of leading US and UK titles across the last 28 years ranging from Uncanny X-Men and Swamp Thing to MAD and 2000 AD.
Unique in the comics industry in that they reflect both the professional and the reader’s choice, the Eagle Awards comprise of two distinct stages:
(i) A Nominations Form allows the entire comics community to choose their favourites.
(ii) The top five nominations then appear on the voting form for the readers and fans to choose from, thus focusing the fans with no wasted votes.
ABOUT THE MCM EXPO GROUP:
London MCM Expo is organized by the MCM Expo Group as one of a number of pop culture events in their portfolio. London’s Comic Con, it is supported by major media companies such as Universal, Twentieth Century Fox, Wizards of the Coast, Manga Entertainment, SFX and NEO to name but a few.
Taking place each May and October at London’s massive Excel exhibition centre, the London MCM Expo is now the main focus and must-be event for UK fans and industry to attend to promote new releases and forthcoming productions whether comics, movies, videogames, DVDs or books.
Over the last decade, the London MCM Expo has grown into the one UK show that is not to be missed. To find out more, visit: www.londonexpo.com
Nominations Open for Eagle Awards 2011 & Joint Ownership Announcement
What was your favourite comic of 2010? Which artists and writers really grabbed your attention? Nominations open on Friday 4 February and run until 7 March for the world-famous Eagle Awards, so head on over to www.eagleawards.co.uk to make your voice heard!
The top five nominations in each section will then be verified and voting gets underway on 14 March – let us know who you want to see honoured on the big night of 27 May at the London MCM Expo by picking your favourites of 2010.
Once again the awards ceremony will be streamed LIVE to the world over the internet via www.mcmbuzz.com which proved extremely popular in 2010.
Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry’s most prestigious fan-selected awards, giving the entire comics community the opportunity to vote for the finest publications and brightest talent of the past year, with categories covering the whole world of comics, including manga, movies and webcomics.
MCM Expo Group managing director Paul Miley and the Eagle Awards’ Cassandra Conroy are delighted to announce that going forward the Eagle Awards will be co-owned and organised equally by both parties.
Last October the Eagles moved to their new home at London MCM Expo, London’s Comic Con - www.londonexpo.com - and 2011 sees the awards return to Excel once again – this time back in their traditional May slot.
“All nominees will be invited to the Awards Ceremony at May’s London MCM Expo and the winners will be offered the opportunity to give an acceptance speech,” said Cassandra Conroy. “The full list of Award Winners will be released to the world 27 May.”
To buy tickets to the London MCM Expo at Excel London on 27-29 May, please visit: www.mcmexpogroup.com/store
ABOUT THE EAGLE AWARDS:
Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry’s longest established awards. Acknowledged as the pre-eminent international prizes, they have been featured on the covers of leading US and UK titles across the last 28 years ranging from Uncanny X-Men and Swamp Thing to MAD and 2000 AD.
Unique in the comics industry in that they reflect both the professional and the reader’s choice, the Eagle Awards comprise of two distinct stages:
(i) A Nominations Form allows the entire comics community to choose their favourites.
(ii) The top five nominations then appear on the voting form for the readers and fans to choose from, thus focusing the fans with no wasted votes.
ABOUT THE MCM EXPO GROUP:
London MCM Expo is organized by the MCM Expo Group as one of a number of pop culture events in their portfolio. London’s Comic Con, it is supported by major media companies such as Universal, Twentieth Century Fox, Wizards of the Coast, Manga Entertainment, SFX and NEO to name but a few.
Taking place each May and October at London’s massive Excel exhibition centre, the London MCM Expo is now the main focus and must-be event for UK fans and industry to attend to promote new releases and forthcoming productions whether comics, movies, videogames, DVDs or books.
Over the last decade, the London MCM Expo has grown into the one UK show that is not to be missed. To find out more, visit: www.londonexpo.com
TOP-NOTCH POP CULTURE CREATORS HEADLINE
GNOMON'S ONLINE MASTER CLASSES 2011 LINEUP
Renowned Artists From All Aspects of the Entertainment Industry
Share Their Expertise in Specialized Courses Accessible Worldwide
HOLLYWOOD, CA - Feb. 2, 2010 - Gnomon School of Visual Effects - the leading training facility in digital and entertainment arts - will digitally connect artists with esteemed professionals from the entertainment and visual effects industries with its Master Classes 2011. From February 11-25, in a private online community, participants will interact with and learn from some of the VFX leaders behind blockbuster projects including "Avatar," "District 9" and "Transformers 2" in a comprehensive instruction block that covers nearly every aspect in the digital arts production pipeline.
Including more than 30 hours of lectures, community interaction across private forums and direct contact with the creative leads from legendary production houses like Dreamworks and conceptual design hubs like the Weta Workshop, Gnomon's Master Classes 2011 will provide highly-specialized and in-depth education in the industry's most critical realms. Whether getting feedback from "Avatar" art director and motion graphics supervisor Neil Huxley or drawing on the endless expertise of Gnomon's founder Alex Alvarez, students will learn precisely how to apply their newly learned skills to the growing and lucrative industry of entertainment arts.
"Whether it's experienced in a museum, blockbuster film or an immersive game, imaginative, inspiring art conveys and strengthens stories in ways that no other medium can achieve," said Alex Alvarez, founder and CEO of the Gnomon School of Visual Effects. "Simply put, the instructors we've brought together for this year's online Master Classes are the best in the industry at that-creating art that fascinates and inspires like nothing else can."
Master Classes 2011 ticket holders will be able access twelve specialized sets of instruction covering everything from motion graphics and lifelike character-design to prop fabrication and environment lighting. Focused software instruction will cover essential VFX tools like Maya, ZBrush and Photoshop, and explore their professional applications. Artists of all levels-from aspiring young artists to seasoned VFX professionals-will receive detailed feedback from instructors coupled with high definition, on-demand courses accessible at any time during the two-week period.
"Ever a faithful resource for those looking to further their careers, hone their artistic eye, or stay on top of the latest software toolsets, the Master Classes put artists in a convenient digital environment where they can learn from the best so they can achieve their best," mentioned Alvarez.
Users can purchase digital tickets to the entire suite of 12 classes for $295 and get more information at http://www.gnomonschool.com/master/2011/. The complete course offerings are listed below.
Course listings include:
3D Design for Production
Instructor: Vitaly Bulgarov, 3D Cinematic Artist
Motion Graphics for Feature Film
Instructor: Neil Huxley, Motion Graphics Director for "Avatar"
A Pungent Character: Getting Grit into Imaginary Faces
Instructor: David Meng, Lead Creature Designer for "District 9"
Digital Character Physiology
Instructor: Rick Grandy, Digital Character and Pipeline Supervisor
Independent Dystopia
Instructor: Grzegorz Jonkajtys, Director of "The 3rd Letter" and "ARK"
The Making of 'Dirge'
Instructor: Alex Alvarez, CEO and Founder of Gnomon School of Visual Effects
Three Hour 3D Figure Study
Instructor: Jeremy Engleman, 3D Painter at Dreamworks Animation
Creating Realistic Skin with Mari
Instructor: Gareth Jensen, Texture Artist at Double Negative
ZBrush to Photoshop - Character Design Tutorial
Instructor: Scott Spencer, Digital Sculptor at Weta Workshop
Character Design for Illustration
Instructor: Paul Tobin, Concept Designer at Weta Workshop
Film and Prop Fabrication
Instructor: Rick Hilgner, Concept Designer at Creative Concepts Enterprises
Environment Lighting & Progressive Rendering
Instructor: Alex Sandri, Freelance 3D Artist
For more information or to schedule an interview with Eric Miller, Managing Director of the Gnomon Workshop at the Gnomon School of Visual Effects, please call Nick Parker at 310-694-3138.
About Gnomon School of Visual Effects
Located in Hollywood, Gnomon School of Visual Effects is an innovative training facility that stresses the importance of creativity in digital entertainment production. The school believes that while technology offers new tools to create impressive computer-generated characters and worlds, it is not the technology that drives results, but the artist. Gnomon instructors are industry professionals that bring their experience and connections into the classroom to give the next generation of production artists an outstanding start to their careers. The results speak for themselves, as the flagship Digital Entertainment Production program boasts a 90% job placement rate. Many graduates go on to work on blockbuster movies and games.
About Gnomon Workshop
Since 2000, The Gnomon Workshop has provided artists and students with the educational resources they need to succeed as artists in the entertainment industries. Whether they're interested in design, modeling, effects, animation, storytelling or matte painting, these DVDs provide a valuable educational resource for students around the world. The Gnomon Workshop is the sister company of the Gnomon School of Visual Effects, which provides professional caliber visual effects instruction to students and professionals in Los Angeles, California.
GNOMON'S ONLINE MASTER CLASSES 2011 LINEUP
Renowned Artists From All Aspects of the Entertainment Industry
Share Their Expertise in Specialized Courses Accessible Worldwide
HOLLYWOOD, CA - Feb. 2, 2010 - Gnomon School of Visual Effects - the leading training facility in digital and entertainment arts - will digitally connect artists with esteemed professionals from the entertainment and visual effects industries with its Master Classes 2011. From February 11-25, in a private online community, participants will interact with and learn from some of the VFX leaders behind blockbuster projects including "Avatar," "District 9" and "Transformers 2" in a comprehensive instruction block that covers nearly every aspect in the digital arts production pipeline.
Including more than 30 hours of lectures, community interaction across private forums and direct contact with the creative leads from legendary production houses like Dreamworks and conceptual design hubs like the Weta Workshop, Gnomon's Master Classes 2011 will provide highly-specialized and in-depth education in the industry's most critical realms. Whether getting feedback from "Avatar" art director and motion graphics supervisor Neil Huxley or drawing on the endless expertise of Gnomon's founder Alex Alvarez, students will learn precisely how to apply their newly learned skills to the growing and lucrative industry of entertainment arts.
"Whether it's experienced in a museum, blockbuster film or an immersive game, imaginative, inspiring art conveys and strengthens stories in ways that no other medium can achieve," said Alex Alvarez, founder and CEO of the Gnomon School of Visual Effects. "Simply put, the instructors we've brought together for this year's online Master Classes are the best in the industry at that-creating art that fascinates and inspires like nothing else can."
Master Classes 2011 ticket holders will be able access twelve specialized sets of instruction covering everything from motion graphics and lifelike character-design to prop fabrication and environment lighting. Focused software instruction will cover essential VFX tools like Maya, ZBrush and Photoshop, and explore their professional applications. Artists of all levels-from aspiring young artists to seasoned VFX professionals-will receive detailed feedback from instructors coupled with high definition, on-demand courses accessible at any time during the two-week period.
"Ever a faithful resource for those looking to further their careers, hone their artistic eye, or stay on top of the latest software toolsets, the Master Classes put artists in a convenient digital environment where they can learn from the best so they can achieve their best," mentioned Alvarez.
Users can purchase digital tickets to the entire suite of 12 classes for $295 and get more information at http://www.gnomonschool.com/master/2011/. The complete course offerings are listed below.
Course listings include:
3D Design for Production
Instructor: Vitaly Bulgarov, 3D Cinematic Artist
Motion Graphics for Feature Film
Instructor: Neil Huxley, Motion Graphics Director for "Avatar"
A Pungent Character: Getting Grit into Imaginary Faces
Instructor: David Meng, Lead Creature Designer for "District 9"
Digital Character Physiology
Instructor: Rick Grandy, Digital Character and Pipeline Supervisor
Independent Dystopia
Instructor: Grzegorz Jonkajtys, Director of "The 3rd Letter" and "ARK"
The Making of 'Dirge'
Instructor: Alex Alvarez, CEO and Founder of Gnomon School of Visual Effects
Three Hour 3D Figure Study
Instructor: Jeremy Engleman, 3D Painter at Dreamworks Animation
Creating Realistic Skin with Mari
Instructor: Gareth Jensen, Texture Artist at Double Negative
ZBrush to Photoshop - Character Design Tutorial
Instructor: Scott Spencer, Digital Sculptor at Weta Workshop
Character Design for Illustration
Instructor: Paul Tobin, Concept Designer at Weta Workshop
Film and Prop Fabrication
Instructor: Rick Hilgner, Concept Designer at Creative Concepts Enterprises
Environment Lighting & Progressive Rendering
Instructor: Alex Sandri, Freelance 3D Artist
For more information or to schedule an interview with Eric Miller, Managing Director of the Gnomon Workshop at the Gnomon School of Visual Effects, please call Nick Parker at 310-694-3138.
About Gnomon School of Visual Effects
Located in Hollywood, Gnomon School of Visual Effects is an innovative training facility that stresses the importance of creativity in digital entertainment production. The school believes that while technology offers new tools to create impressive computer-generated characters and worlds, it is not the technology that drives results, but the artist. Gnomon instructors are industry professionals that bring their experience and connections into the classroom to give the next generation of production artists an outstanding start to their careers. The results speak for themselves, as the flagship Digital Entertainment Production program boasts a 90% job placement rate. Many graduates go on to work on blockbuster movies and games.
About Gnomon Workshop
Since 2000, The Gnomon Workshop has provided artists and students with the educational resources they need to succeed as artists in the entertainment industries. Whether they're interested in design, modeling, effects, animation, storytelling or matte painting, these DVDs provide a valuable educational resource for students around the world. The Gnomon Workshop is the sister company of the Gnomon School of Visual Effects, which provides professional caliber visual effects instruction to students and professionals in Los Angeles, California.
MAD SCIENTISTS ARE A GIRL'S WORST ENEMY
New Title The Intrepids Arrives in March
Berkeley, CA - 2 February 2011 – Mad scientists are a disease and this March, fans will meet the cure: THE INTREPIDS! Image Comics continues to promote the best new talent by introducing this six-issue miniseries by the up and coming creative team of writer Kurtis Wiebe and artist Scott Kowalchuk.
THE INTREPIDS are a collection of runaway homeless teenagers that have been taken in and cared for by an aging inventor named Dante. Applying his brilliance, he crafts marvelous technological contraptions and with his vision and help, the motley crew he has assembled agree to use his gadgets for the betterment of mankind. Together, they combat tyranny and stop madmen from bringing harm to the world!
"THE INTREPIDS is a James Bond-style action-adventure that takes mad science to new heights. It'll be wild, it'll be action packed and it'll have sexy dames with rocket packs!" says Wiebe. “It's really our best case scenario to be publishing this book with Image. They've been producing some of the most engaging work in comics."
"Kurtis and I have had a lot of fun developing this book," adds Kowalchuk. "That fun will shine through. We're extremely proud of the series, and we hope the fans will have as good a time with it as we do!”
Originally announced with the title of RAT BASTARDS, THE INTREPIDS reverted to the series’ original name to avoid a trademark conflict with a previously published title.
THE INTREPIDS #1 (JAN110555), a 24-page full-color comic book for $2.99, will be in stores on March 2, 2011. Meet the INTREPIDS at www.theintrepids.com.
New Title The Intrepids Arrives in March
Berkeley, CA - 2 February 2011 – Mad scientists are a disease and this March, fans will meet the cure: THE INTREPIDS! Image Comics continues to promote the best new talent by introducing this six-issue miniseries by the up and coming creative team of writer Kurtis Wiebe and artist Scott Kowalchuk.
THE INTREPIDS are a collection of runaway homeless teenagers that have been taken in and cared for by an aging inventor named Dante. Applying his brilliance, he crafts marvelous technological contraptions and with his vision and help, the motley crew he has assembled agree to use his gadgets for the betterment of mankind. Together, they combat tyranny and stop madmen from bringing harm to the world!
"THE INTREPIDS is a James Bond-style action-adventure that takes mad science to new heights. It'll be wild, it'll be action packed and it'll have sexy dames with rocket packs!" says Wiebe. “It's really our best case scenario to be publishing this book with Image. They've been producing some of the most engaging work in comics."
"Kurtis and I have had a lot of fun developing this book," adds Kowalchuk. "That fun will shine through. We're extremely proud of the series, and we hope the fans will have as good a time with it as we do!”
Originally announced with the title of RAT BASTARDS, THE INTREPIDS reverted to the series’ original name to avoid a trademark conflict with a previously published title.
THE INTREPIDS #1 (JAN110555), a 24-page full-color comic book for $2.99, will be in stores on March 2, 2011. Meet the INTREPIDS at www.theintrepids.com.
BANTAM BOOKS AND DYNAMITE ANNOUNCE COMIC ADAPTATION OF GEORGE R.R. MARTIN’S A SONG OF ICE AND FIRE
NEW YORK, NY – February 2, 2011 – Bantam Books, an imprint of the Random House Publishing Group, announced today the acquisition of the comic book and graphic novel rights to the worldwide bestselling A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin. The series will be illustrated by Tommy Patterson and adapted by Daniel Abraham, the award-winning and bestselling author of The Long Price Quartet. The first issue of the monthly comic—which will be published by Dynamite Entertainment—is planned to release in late spring 2011, with compilations of the comics in graphic novel form to follow under the Bantam imprint. With the television adaptation of A Game of Thrones scheduled to air on HBO starting in April 2011, the comics and graphic novels will further expand the Song of Ice and Fire series into a new medium, creating opportunities for readers old and new to immerse themselves in this bestselling world.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
GEORGE R. R. MARTIN sold his first story in 1971 and hasn't stopped. As a writer-producer, he worked on The Twilight Zone, Beauty and the Beast, and various feature films and pilots that were never made. In the mid-90s he returned to prose and began work on A Song of Ice and Fire. He has been in the Seven Kingdoms ever since. He lives with the lovely Parris.
DANIEL ABRAHAM is the author of ten books and more than thirty short stories. He has been nominated for the Hugo, the Nebula, and the World Fantasy awards, and won the International Horror Guild Award. He has written the graphic novel adaptations of George R. R. Martin's novel Fevre Dream and novella "Skin Trade," and original scripts for Wild Cards: The Hard Call. He also writes as MLN Hanover and James S. A. Corey. He lives with his family in the American southwest.
Artist TOMMY PATTERSON’S credits include Farscape for Boom! Studios, the movie adaptation The Warriors for Dynamite Entertainment, and Tales From Wonderland the White Knight, Red Rose and Stingers from Zenescope Entertainment. He has a BS in Studio Art and also works as a graphic designer. Patterson lives in Western Kentucky with his wife and daughter.
ABOUT THE SERIES:
Long ago, in a time long forgotten, a mysterious event threw the seasons of the world out of balance. Now the kingdom is blessed by golden summers that go on for years, and cursed by cruel winters that can last a generation. In the cool north of this kingdom is a royal family ruled by Eddard Stark. The symbol of the royal house of the Starks is a direwolf; their motto is “Winter is coming.” As indeed, it is. For the Iron Throne of Westeros is once more under contention. With Eddard’s help, Robert Baratheon won it away from the corrupt Targaryens, who had ruled Westeros for generations. But when Eddard is summoned south to help an aging king hold the throne they both won, he finds himself enmeshed in a web of treachery and lies, as faction after faction plays that most dangerous game of all: the game of thrones.
ABOUT BANTAM BOOKS:
BANTAM BOOKS, established in 1945, is one of the most successful publishers of adult fiction and nonfiction. In addition to being the nation’s largest mass market paperback publisher, Bantam publishes a select yet diverse hardcover list, which includes the bestselling novelists Dean Koontz, Lisa Gardner, George R.R. Martin, and Louis L’Amour, one of the bestselling writers of all time. Bantam is also the proud publisher of some of the landmark nonfiction books published in the last two decades including Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman, Dr. Christiane Northrup’s Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom, and the #1 bestseller Flags of Our Fathers by James Bradley with Ron Powers, as well as notable bestselling memoirs, such as Iacocca by Lee Iacocca and William Novak; It Doesn’t Take A Hero by General Norman Schwarzkopf with Peter Petre, and John Glenn: A Memoir by John Glenn and Nick Taylor.
ABOUT DYNAMITE:
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT, the publishing division of DYNAMIC FORCES, INC., was founded in 2004 and is home to several best-selling comic book titles and properties, including The Boys, Green Hornet, Vampirella, Warlord of Mars, Project Superpowers, Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time and more!
In addition to their critically-acclaimed titles and best selling comics, Dynamite works with some of the most high profile creators in comics and entertainment, including Alex Ross, John Cassaday, Garth Ennis, Michael Avon Oeming, Mel Rubi, Marc Guggenheim, Stephen Sadowski, Mike Carey, Jim Krueger, Greg Pak, Brett Matthews, Matt Wagner and a host of up and coming new talent!
DYNAMITE is consistently ranked in the upper tiers of comic book publishers and several of their titles - including Alex Ross and Jim Krueger's PROJECT SUPERPOWERS - have debuted in the Top Ten lists produced by Diamond Comics Distributors. In 2005 Diamond awarded the company a GEM award for Best New Publisher and another GEM in 2006 for Comics Publisher of the Year (under 5%). The company has also been nominated for several industry awards, including the prestigious Eisner Award.
NEW YORK, NY – February 2, 2011 – Bantam Books, an imprint of the Random House Publishing Group, announced today the acquisition of the comic book and graphic novel rights to the worldwide bestselling A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin. The series will be illustrated by Tommy Patterson and adapted by Daniel Abraham, the award-winning and bestselling author of The Long Price Quartet. The first issue of the monthly comic—which will be published by Dynamite Entertainment—is planned to release in late spring 2011, with compilations of the comics in graphic novel form to follow under the Bantam imprint. With the television adaptation of A Game of Thrones scheduled to air on HBO starting in April 2011, the comics and graphic novels will further expand the Song of Ice and Fire series into a new medium, creating opportunities for readers old and new to immerse themselves in this bestselling world.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
GEORGE R. R. MARTIN sold his first story in 1971 and hasn't stopped. As a writer-producer, he worked on The Twilight Zone, Beauty and the Beast, and various feature films and pilots that were never made. In the mid-90s he returned to prose and began work on A Song of Ice and Fire. He has been in the Seven Kingdoms ever since. He lives with the lovely Parris.
DANIEL ABRAHAM is the author of ten books and more than thirty short stories. He has been nominated for the Hugo, the Nebula, and the World Fantasy awards, and won the International Horror Guild Award. He has written the graphic novel adaptations of George R. R. Martin's novel Fevre Dream and novella "Skin Trade," and original scripts for Wild Cards: The Hard Call. He also writes as MLN Hanover and James S. A. Corey. He lives with his family in the American southwest.
Artist TOMMY PATTERSON’S credits include Farscape for Boom! Studios, the movie adaptation The Warriors for Dynamite Entertainment, and Tales From Wonderland the White Knight, Red Rose and Stingers from Zenescope Entertainment. He has a BS in Studio Art and also works as a graphic designer. Patterson lives in Western Kentucky with his wife and daughter.
ABOUT THE SERIES:
Long ago, in a time long forgotten, a mysterious event threw the seasons of the world out of balance. Now the kingdom is blessed by golden summers that go on for years, and cursed by cruel winters that can last a generation. In the cool north of this kingdom is a royal family ruled by Eddard Stark. The symbol of the royal house of the Starks is a direwolf; their motto is “Winter is coming.” As indeed, it is. For the Iron Throne of Westeros is once more under contention. With Eddard’s help, Robert Baratheon won it away from the corrupt Targaryens, who had ruled Westeros for generations. But when Eddard is summoned south to help an aging king hold the throne they both won, he finds himself enmeshed in a web of treachery and lies, as faction after faction plays that most dangerous game of all: the game of thrones.
ABOUT BANTAM BOOKS:
BANTAM BOOKS, established in 1945, is one of the most successful publishers of adult fiction and nonfiction. In addition to being the nation’s largest mass market paperback publisher, Bantam publishes a select yet diverse hardcover list, which includes the bestselling novelists Dean Koontz, Lisa Gardner, George R.R. Martin, and Louis L’Amour, one of the bestselling writers of all time. Bantam is also the proud publisher of some of the landmark nonfiction books published in the last two decades including Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman, Dr. Christiane Northrup’s Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom, and the #1 bestseller Flags of Our Fathers by James Bradley with Ron Powers, as well as notable bestselling memoirs, such as Iacocca by Lee Iacocca and William Novak; It Doesn’t Take A Hero by General Norman Schwarzkopf with Peter Petre, and John Glenn: A Memoir by John Glenn and Nick Taylor.
ABOUT DYNAMITE:
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT, the publishing division of DYNAMIC FORCES, INC., was founded in 2004 and is home to several best-selling comic book titles and properties, including The Boys, Green Hornet, Vampirella, Warlord of Mars, Project Superpowers, Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time and more!
In addition to their critically-acclaimed titles and best selling comics, Dynamite works with some of the most high profile creators in comics and entertainment, including Alex Ross, John Cassaday, Garth Ennis, Michael Avon Oeming, Mel Rubi, Marc Guggenheim, Stephen Sadowski, Mike Carey, Jim Krueger, Greg Pak, Brett Matthews, Matt Wagner and a host of up and coming new talent!
DYNAMITE is consistently ranked in the upper tiers of comic book publishers and several of their titles - including Alex Ross and Jim Krueger's PROJECT SUPERPOWERS - have debuted in the Top Ten lists produced by Diamond Comics Distributors. In 2005 Diamond awarded the company a GEM award for Best New Publisher and another GEM in 2006 for Comics Publisher of the Year (under 5%). The company has also been nominated for several industry awards, including the prestigious Eisner Award.
Monday, January 31, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 1/31/2011:
Sarah Oleksyk's IVY
book release party & Art Exhibit
This February, Floating World Comics in downtown Portland, OR is proud to host a release party for the Oni Press publication Sarah Oleksyk's debut graphic novel IVY.
The comic follows Ivy, a teenage girl raised by a single mother in a small coastal town in Maine, longs to leave her home and achieve her dream of becoming a painter. Unfortunately, daily life doesn’t run smoothly for someone whose anger often gets the better of her, and who makes enemies more easily than friends. But when Ivy begins a long-distance relationship with a kindred spirit, she gets a glimpse of freedom and acceptance too good to pass up. Only while trying to escape her troubles does she start to realize that while she can leave home, she can’t run away from herself.
Sarah Oleksyk is a Russ Manning award-nominated cartoonist and creator of multiple critically-acclaimed mini-comics. IVY is Sarah's first full-length graphic novel. Published by Oni Press: IVY features 218 pages in an prestige hardcover format for $19.99.
“A rare tale of adolescence as it is, not as one wishes it could be. IVY will inspire you and break your heart.” – Hope Larson (Mercury, Gray Horses)
Read the first chapter here: http://saraholeksyk.com/ivy.html
LISTING INFORMATION:
WHO: Sarah Oleksyk
WHAT: IVY Book Release Party and Art Exhibit
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 3rd 6-10PM, Artwork will be on display until Feb. 28th.
WHERE: Floating World Comics
20 NW 5th Ave #101
Portland, OR 97209
(503)241-0227
Sarah Oleksyk is a member of the Tranquility Base art studio located in Old Town, Portland. Before signing with Oni, she self-published previous chapters of Ivy to sell at conventions and on her website. Her comics have also been published in the Best American anthology series and Papercutter. IVY is Sarah’s first published work, earning her a 2010 Russ Manning nomination as Best New Cartoonist.
Oni Press Inc. is a leading publisher of independent, creator owned comic books. Founded in 1997 on the belief that comics can be used to tell any story, Oni Press has published hundreds of different comics and graphic novels. Their creator-owned comics have won numerous book, library, and comic awards. With a strong focus on character, genre, and story driver creator-owned work, Oni Press has become one of the most well respected publishers in the comic industry. www.onipress.com
Sarah Oleksyk's IVY
book release party & Art ExhibitThis February, Floating World Comics in downtown Portland, OR is proud to host a release party for the Oni Press publication Sarah Oleksyk's debut graphic novel IVY.
The comic follows Ivy, a teenage girl raised by a single mother in a small coastal town in Maine, longs to leave her home and achieve her dream of becoming a painter. Unfortunately, daily life doesn’t run smoothly for someone whose anger often gets the better of her, and who makes enemies more easily than friends. But when Ivy begins a long-distance relationship with a kindred spirit, she gets a glimpse of freedom and acceptance too good to pass up. Only while trying to escape her troubles does she start to realize that while she can leave home, she can’t run away from herself.
Sarah Oleksyk is a Russ Manning award-nominated cartoonist and creator of multiple critically-acclaimed mini-comics. IVY is Sarah's first full-length graphic novel. Published by Oni Press: IVY features 218 pages in an prestige hardcover format for $19.99.
“A rare tale of adolescence as it is, not as one wishes it could be. IVY will inspire you and break your heart.” – Hope Larson (Mercury, Gray Horses)
Read the first chapter here: http://saraholeksyk.com/ivy.html
LISTING INFORMATION:
WHO: Sarah Oleksyk
WHAT: IVY Book Release Party and Art Exhibit
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 3rd 6-10PM, Artwork will be on display until Feb. 28th.
WHERE: Floating World Comics
20 NW 5th Ave #101
Portland, OR 97209
(503)241-0227
Sarah Oleksyk is a member of the Tranquility Base art studio located in Old Town, Portland. Before signing with Oni, she self-published previous chapters of Ivy to sell at conventions and on her website. Her comics have also been published in the Best American anthology series and Papercutter. IVY is Sarah’s first published work, earning her a 2010 Russ Manning nomination as Best New Cartoonist.
Oni Press Inc. is a leading publisher of independent, creator owned comic books. Founded in 1997 on the belief that comics can be used to tell any story, Oni Press has published hundreds of different comics and graphic novels. Their creator-owned comics have won numerous book, library, and comic awards. With a strong focus on character, genre, and story driver creator-owned work, Oni Press has become one of the most well respected publishers in the comic industry. www.onipress.com
CHAD LINDBERG
GUEST-STARS ON NBC’S THE CAPE FEBRUARY 7
AND STARS IN ANCHOR BAY’S I SPIT ON YOUR GRAVE
OUT ON Blu-ray™ and DVD FEBRUARY 8
Lindberg is Best-known as Fan-favorite “Ash” from the CW’s Supernatural
and “Jesse” from The Fast and the Furious
Hollywood, CA (January 31, 2011) Chad Lindberg will guest-star as “Hicks” in an episode of NBC’s The Cape entitled “Goggles and Hicks” at 9:00 p.m. on Monday, February 7 and on Tuesday, February 8 Anchor Bay Entertainment will release the unrated grindhouse revenge film I Spit on Your Grave starring Lindberg, on Blu-ray™ and DVD, announced talent manager Beth McIntosh of Chaotik.
According to NBC’s episodic description: “GOGGLES AND HICKS”
A TEAM OF TECH SAVVY ASSASSINS DISCOVERS THE CAPE’S IDENTITY–Badly bruised and exhausted, The Cape (David Lyons) heeds advice from Max (Keith David) to take some time off to recover. Determined to finally kill The Cape, Peter Fleming (James Frain) hires a tech-savvy team, including Goggles (guest star Pruitt Taylor Vince) and Hicks (guest star Chad Lindberg), to track and destroy The Cape. Meanwhile, Orwell (Summer Glau) faces digital challenges against the team’s strong expertise and Dana (Jennifer Ferrin) becomes more involved in uncovering the truth about Vince’s case.
Also starring: Ryan Wynott (Trip), Vinnie Jones (Scales), Martin Klebba (Rollo), Dorian Missick (Marty), Anil Kumar (Ruvi) and Izabella Miko (Raia).
Lindberg, who has over 25 film and 20 TV credits to his name, is best known to audiences from his roles of “Ash” on The CW’s Supernatural and “Jesse” from the hit film The Fast and the Furious. In addition to recurring roles on Supernatural and CSI: NY, Lindberg has guest-starred on numerous hit TV shows, creating a devoted fan-following whose Twitter campaign helped resurrect the character of “Ash” who had been killed off.
Last year’s family crime-drama Once Fallen, starring Lindberg and Brian Presley along with four Oscar®-nominated actors: Ed Harris, Amy Madigan, Taraji P. Henson and Peter Weller, is now available on Blu-ray™ and DVD from First Look.
GUEST-STARS ON NBC’S THE CAPE FEBRUARY 7
AND STARS IN ANCHOR BAY’S I SPIT ON YOUR GRAVE
OUT ON Blu-ray™ and DVD FEBRUARY 8
Lindberg is Best-known as Fan-favorite “Ash” from the CW’s Supernatural
and “Jesse” from The Fast and the Furious
Hollywood, CA (January 31, 2011) Chad Lindberg will guest-star as “Hicks” in an episode of NBC’s The Cape entitled “Goggles and Hicks” at 9:00 p.m. on Monday, February 7 and on Tuesday, February 8 Anchor Bay Entertainment will release the unrated grindhouse revenge film I Spit on Your Grave starring Lindberg, on Blu-ray™ and DVD, announced talent manager Beth McIntosh of Chaotik.
According to NBC’s episodic description: “GOGGLES AND HICKS”
A TEAM OF TECH SAVVY ASSASSINS DISCOVERS THE CAPE’S IDENTITY–Badly bruised and exhausted, The Cape (David Lyons) heeds advice from Max (Keith David) to take some time off to recover. Determined to finally kill The Cape, Peter Fleming (James Frain) hires a tech-savvy team, including Goggles (guest star Pruitt Taylor Vince) and Hicks (guest star Chad Lindberg), to track and destroy The Cape. Meanwhile, Orwell (Summer Glau) faces digital challenges against the team’s strong expertise and Dana (Jennifer Ferrin) becomes more involved in uncovering the truth about Vince’s case.
Also starring: Ryan Wynott (Trip), Vinnie Jones (Scales), Martin Klebba (Rollo), Dorian Missick (Marty), Anil Kumar (Ruvi) and Izabella Miko (Raia).
Lindberg, who has over 25 film and 20 TV credits to his name, is best known to audiences from his roles of “Ash” on The CW’s Supernatural and “Jesse” from the hit film The Fast and the Furious. In addition to recurring roles on Supernatural and CSI: NY, Lindberg has guest-starred on numerous hit TV shows, creating a devoted fan-following whose Twitter campaign helped resurrect the character of “Ash” who had been killed off.
Last year’s family crime-drama Once Fallen, starring Lindberg and Brian Presley along with four Oscar®-nominated actors: Ed Harris, Amy Madigan, Taraji P. Henson and Peter Weller, is now available on Blu-ray™ and DVD from First Look.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
ACTIONOPOLIS Publishes Brand New Series DRAGONBLOOD
DRAGONBLOOD: THE AWAKENING – The First Book in the Series – - Now available!
LOS ANGELES---- ACTIONOPOLIS, LLC launches the eagerly anticipated Dragonblood: The Awakening. Christopher E. Long, author of The Blackfoot Braves Society as well as numerous comics for Marvel Entertainment, introduces readers to Dragonblood: The Awakening, a new action series based off of the original comic book. The book brings ancient Chinese mythology to life in a vivid modern-day setting and features interior illustrations from Flash Gordon artist Jim Keefe. Dragonblood simultaneously releases in downloadable e-book apps compatible on iPad, iPhone, PC, Mac, Kindle, Android and Nook readers.
DRAGONBLOOD- A Chinese mystic injects a young man with the blood of the last dragon! The mystic does so in an effort to create a warrior capable of saving mankind from an ancient evil intent on enslaving the planet. Though this warrior is now imbued with the knowledge and power of the ancients it may not be enough to stop this ancient evil from delivering darkness on Earth to all mankind.
For more information about the new line of ACTIONOPOLIS books visit http://www.actionopolis.com
ACTIONOPOLIS: When Adventure Is Your Destination!
ABOUT CHRISTOPHER E. LONG
Christopher E. Long's most recent work is Deadpool for Marvel Comics. He has worked in the comics field for years having had one of his comics optioned as a feature film by Warner Bros. and his previous novel for young adults was critically praised. He is currently writing a new young adult novel and other unannounced projects.
ABOUT JIM KEEFE
Jim Keefe went to the Joe Kubert School of Cartoon and Graphic Art in Dover. After his graduation, he got a job as a colorist at King Features. At King Features, Keefe also started doing illustration work, most notably as the artist on Flash Gordon.
ABOUT ACTIONOPOLIS
Actionopolis is the brainchild of publisher Shannon Eric Denton, who has years of experience with companies such as Cartoon Network, Warner Brothers, Disney, Sony, ToyBiz, Marvel Entertainment, FoxKids, DC Comics, and Nickelodeon. He and his Komikwerks co-founder Patrick Coyle have been publishing comics online and in print through their publishing company Komikwerks since 2000.
ABOUT KOMIKWERKS
Komikwerks has been partnered with Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment to publish a line of premiere Internet comics called Stan Lee's Sunday Comics on Komikwerks.com. Komikwerks also provided exclusive content to the AOL: RED website. Komikwerks has been featured in many news and entertainment periodicals including Variety, USA Today, and Wizard Magazine. Komikwerks published the graphic novel World of Quest which was turned into an animated series of the same name. Komikwerks has several feature films in development as well.
DRAGONBLOOD: THE AWAKENING – The First Book in the Series – - Now available!
LOS ANGELES---- ACTIONOPOLIS, LLC launches the eagerly anticipated Dragonblood: The Awakening. Christopher E. Long, author of The Blackfoot Braves Society as well as numerous comics for Marvel Entertainment, introduces readers to Dragonblood: The Awakening, a new action series based off of the original comic book. The book brings ancient Chinese mythology to life in a vivid modern-day setting and features interior illustrations from Flash Gordon artist Jim Keefe. Dragonblood simultaneously releases in downloadable e-book apps compatible on iPad, iPhone, PC, Mac, Kindle, Android and Nook readers.
DRAGONBLOOD- A Chinese mystic injects a young man with the blood of the last dragon! The mystic does so in an effort to create a warrior capable of saving mankind from an ancient evil intent on enslaving the planet. Though this warrior is now imbued with the knowledge and power of the ancients it may not be enough to stop this ancient evil from delivering darkness on Earth to all mankind.
For more information about the new line of ACTIONOPOLIS books visit http://www.actionopolis.com
ACTIONOPOLIS: When Adventure Is Your Destination!
ABOUT CHRISTOPHER E. LONG
Christopher E. Long's most recent work is Deadpool for Marvel Comics. He has worked in the comics field for years having had one of his comics optioned as a feature film by Warner Bros. and his previous novel for young adults was critically praised. He is currently writing a new young adult novel and other unannounced projects.
ABOUT JIM KEEFE
Jim Keefe went to the Joe Kubert School of Cartoon and Graphic Art in Dover. After his graduation, he got a job as a colorist at King Features. At King Features, Keefe also started doing illustration work, most notably as the artist on Flash Gordon.
ABOUT ACTIONOPOLIS
Actionopolis is the brainchild of publisher Shannon Eric Denton, who has years of experience with companies such as Cartoon Network, Warner Brothers, Disney, Sony, ToyBiz, Marvel Entertainment, FoxKids, DC Comics, and Nickelodeon. He and his Komikwerks co-founder Patrick Coyle have been publishing comics online and in print through their publishing company Komikwerks since 2000.
ABOUT KOMIKWERKS
Komikwerks has been partnered with Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment to publish a line of premiere Internet comics called Stan Lee's Sunday Comics on Komikwerks.com. Komikwerks also provided exclusive content to the AOL: RED website. Komikwerks has been featured in many news and entertainment periodicals including Variety, USA Today, and Wizard Magazine. Komikwerks published the graphic novel World of Quest which was turned into an animated series of the same name. Komikwerks has several feature films in development as well.
MBP Relocates to DUMBO
Finds More Spacious Accomodations
NEW YORK - January 21, 2011 - MBP has abandoned its Midtown Manhattan office for the more plentiful space and cheaper booze of DUMBO, Brooklyn. With a bit more breathing room here at headquarters we can now finally further our plans for forcing through changes to the FIFA instant-replay regulations, as well as continue to make the illustrated books you love. If you want to give us any tips on how to do either, you know how to find us:
Mark Batty Publisher
68 Jay Street, Suite 410
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718.834.8000
We're wading in boxes here so certain media requests might take slightly longer than usual to process, but all should be back to normal next week.
About Mark Batty Publisher
Mark Batty Publisher (http://www.markbattypublisher.com) is an independent publisher dedicated to making distinctive books on the visual art of communicating, showcasing the visual power and innovation of contemporary culture in all of its varied poses. Today, the visual comes at us from more places than ever, and its dissemination is faster and more advanced every year. Books from Mark Batty Publisher capture this acceleration on the pages of every book. Affordable, well designed, thoughtfully created, and produced to last, MBP books are artful products that readers want to hold onto forever.
Finds More Spacious Accomodations
NEW YORK - January 21, 2011 - MBP has abandoned its Midtown Manhattan office for the more plentiful space and cheaper booze of DUMBO, Brooklyn. With a bit more breathing room here at headquarters we can now finally further our plans for forcing through changes to the FIFA instant-replay regulations, as well as continue to make the illustrated books you love. If you want to give us any tips on how to do either, you know how to find us:
Mark Batty Publisher
68 Jay Street, Suite 410
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718.834.8000
We're wading in boxes here so certain media requests might take slightly longer than usual to process, but all should be back to normal next week.
About Mark Batty Publisher
Mark Batty Publisher (http://www.markbattypublisher.com) is an independent publisher dedicated to making distinctive books on the visual art of communicating, showcasing the visual power and innovation of contemporary culture in all of its varied poses. Today, the visual comes at us from more places than ever, and its dissemination is faster and more advanced every year. Books from Mark Batty Publisher capture this acceleration on the pages of every book. Affordable, well designed, thoughtfully created, and produced to last, MBP books are artful products that readers want to hold onto forever.
ComiXology Announces Program for Retailers to Sell Digital Comics
Industry’s first digital storefront affiliate program provides roadmap for retailers to thrive in digital marketplace
New York, NY / January 27th 2011 – comiXology, the leading distributor of digital comics, announced today the industry’s first Digital Storefront Affiliate program for retailers. The program will empower comic book merchants to prosper from the sale of digital comics with a comiXology-powered store and reader. Leveraging comiXology’s technology will provide retailers the foundation for future digital initiatives as the program evolves.
The comiXology Digital Storefront Affiliate program offers retailers the opportunity to tap into comiXology’s vibrant digital marketplace with a simple integration into their existing site. These retailers will be able to offer their customers access to comiXology’s library of digital comics and integrated reader from participating publishers. Consumers will now be able to purchase digital comics online from their local comic store’s digital storefront for the first time. All digital purchases will also be compatible with the Comics by comiXology platform, providing fans the ability to enjoy their comics on their mobile devices and on the Web at their retailer’s websites by way of cross-platform synchronization.
"By having a comiXology-powered store and reader integrated with our existing new and back-issue comics website, we will provide our customers with even more access to the comics they love while increasing their loyalty to us,” said Chris Powell, General Manager and CRO of Lone Star Comics and mycomicshop.com. “Having seen comiXology’s Retailer Tools and Pull List services, we trust comiXology’s technology to help us thrive in a market where customers are interested in both print and digital comics. ComiXology will help us provide the one-stop shopping that customers are looking for.”
Participating publishers will benefit from comiXology’s Digital Storefront Affiliate program through wider distribution on the Web and by strengthening the bonds between publishers, comic stores, and fans that have so successfully made comics a major force in world culture. comiXology plans to announce participating publishers in the coming weeks.
"The comiXology digital sales and reading platform embedded directly on a retailers website is a great opportunity for retailers to participate in the digital comic business,” said David Steinberger, CEO of comiXology. “As a result, the program will create a new marketplace online for publishers and retailers to increase revenue streams while strengthening their relationships. It also marks the beginning of new way of thinking for retailers, which will ultimately lead them to taking full ownership of their digital initiatives as we continue to roll out the stages of the program.”
ICv2 recently announced a strategic agreement with comiXology to provide customer support for all comiXology’s retail initiatives including its Retailer Tools and the Digital Storefront Affiliate program. Milton Griepp, CEO of ICv2, Steinberger, and comiXology CTO and co-founder John Roberts will demo the Digital Storefront Affiliate program at the upcoming ComicsPRO conference in February.
“Comic retailers have built and nurtured the local communities that support the comics business, and it’s important that those retailers have a way to participate in and profit from the digital comics revolution,” said Roberts.“ Building on the success of our Retailer Tools, we look to expand our relationship with retailers by helping brand each digital storefront to the specific retailer, while hosting it at no cost. With a plan to integrate the Retailer Tools and Pull List, comic retailers will become a one-stop shop for all comic readers needs.”
“Digital comics can be a great tool for reaching out to new or lapsed customers, and retailers should not be afraid of this new format. Instead, they should look for ways to make the digital format complement their existing print business," Powell added.
To request more information about the Digital Storefront Affiliate program, retailers can visit http://retailers.comixology.com/digital_form/
About comiXology
Since 2007 comiXology has been developing the technological infrastructure to bring comics into the digital mainstream and expose new audiences to the rich history and culture of the industry. Through partnerships with top comic book publishers including Marvel Comics, DC Comics, BOOM! Studios and Image Comics as well as their own mobile and web apps which hosts over 5500 digital titles, comiXology has become a leader in digital comic book proliferation. Also focused on creating strong ties with retail stores through its technology solutions, comiXology continues to transform the previously fragmented comic ecosystem into a vibrant and cohesive marketplace.
Industry’s first digital storefront affiliate program provides roadmap for retailers to thrive in digital marketplace
New York, NY / January 27th 2011 – comiXology, the leading distributor of digital comics, announced today the industry’s first Digital Storefront Affiliate program for retailers. The program will empower comic book merchants to prosper from the sale of digital comics with a comiXology-powered store and reader. Leveraging comiXology’s technology will provide retailers the foundation for future digital initiatives as the program evolves.
The comiXology Digital Storefront Affiliate program offers retailers the opportunity to tap into comiXology’s vibrant digital marketplace with a simple integration into their existing site. These retailers will be able to offer their customers access to comiXology’s library of digital comics and integrated reader from participating publishers. Consumers will now be able to purchase digital comics online from their local comic store’s digital storefront for the first time. All digital purchases will also be compatible with the Comics by comiXology platform, providing fans the ability to enjoy their comics on their mobile devices and on the Web at their retailer’s websites by way of cross-platform synchronization.
"By having a comiXology-powered store and reader integrated with our existing new and back-issue comics website, we will provide our customers with even more access to the comics they love while increasing their loyalty to us,” said Chris Powell, General Manager and CRO of Lone Star Comics and mycomicshop.com. “Having seen comiXology’s Retailer Tools and Pull List services, we trust comiXology’s technology to help us thrive in a market where customers are interested in both print and digital comics. ComiXology will help us provide the one-stop shopping that customers are looking for.”
Participating publishers will benefit from comiXology’s Digital Storefront Affiliate program through wider distribution on the Web and by strengthening the bonds between publishers, comic stores, and fans that have so successfully made comics a major force in world culture. comiXology plans to announce participating publishers in the coming weeks.
"The comiXology digital sales and reading platform embedded directly on a retailers website is a great opportunity for retailers to participate in the digital comic business,” said David Steinberger, CEO of comiXology. “As a result, the program will create a new marketplace online for publishers and retailers to increase revenue streams while strengthening their relationships. It also marks the beginning of new way of thinking for retailers, which will ultimately lead them to taking full ownership of their digital initiatives as we continue to roll out the stages of the program.”
ICv2 recently announced a strategic agreement with comiXology to provide customer support for all comiXology’s retail initiatives including its Retailer Tools and the Digital Storefront Affiliate program. Milton Griepp, CEO of ICv2, Steinberger, and comiXology CTO and co-founder John Roberts will demo the Digital Storefront Affiliate program at the upcoming ComicsPRO conference in February.
“Comic retailers have built and nurtured the local communities that support the comics business, and it’s important that those retailers have a way to participate in and profit from the digital comics revolution,” said Roberts.“ Building on the success of our Retailer Tools, we look to expand our relationship with retailers by helping brand each digital storefront to the specific retailer, while hosting it at no cost. With a plan to integrate the Retailer Tools and Pull List, comic retailers will become a one-stop shop for all comic readers needs.”
“Digital comics can be a great tool for reaching out to new or lapsed customers, and retailers should not be afraid of this new format. Instead, they should look for ways to make the digital format complement their existing print business," Powell added.
To request more information about the Digital Storefront Affiliate program, retailers can visit http://retailers.comixology.com/digital_form/
About comiXology
Since 2007 comiXology has been developing the technological infrastructure to bring comics into the digital mainstream and expose new audiences to the rich history and culture of the industry. Through partnerships with top comic book publishers including Marvel Comics, DC Comics, BOOM! Studios and Image Comics as well as their own mobile and web apps which hosts over 5500 digital titles, comiXology has become a leader in digital comic book proliferation. Also focused on creating strong ties with retail stores through its technology solutions, comiXology continues to transform the previously fragmented comic ecosystem into a vibrant and cohesive marketplace.
WIZKIDS ANNOUNCES THE QUARRIORS DICE BUILDING GAME
(January 27, 2011-Hillside NJ) – WizKids announced today the addition of the Quarriors Dice Building GameTM to their summer 2011 product release schedule. Players take on the roles of Quarriors —mighty mystical warriors—who have the power to capture dangerous quarry from the untamed Wilds! They must conjure the mysterious powers of Quiddity, cast powerful spells, and summon their creatures to battle if they hope to overcome rivals and earn their rightful place as the Champion!
The game features 130 custom molded dice, 53 creature and spell cards and everything needed to play for 2 to 4 players.
“Quarriors has the frenetic excitement of a dice battle game,” said co-designer Eric Lang “with an added ‘deckbuilding’ twist: players customize their dice pools during the game using resources generated by their rolls.”
“It takes the best of deckbuilding games without the tedium of shuffling” said Mike Elliott the other co-designer of the game, “take a typical deckbuilding game, add the speed and fun of dice and in 60 minutes you’re on your second or third game trying unique strategies against your opponents.”
“When Mike and Eric first showed us the game we were amazed at how quick it was to set up and play and really get to the strategic elements of the game. We are excited to continue WizKids tradition of innovating core hobby gaming and believe this will really resonate with players who want to get the most out of a gaming session” said Lax Chandra President of WizKids.
Find us on the web at http://www.WizKidsGames.com/Quarriors or friend us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Wizkids to see the latest developments from Wizkids as they happen!
(January 27, 2011-Hillside NJ) – WizKids announced today the addition of the Quarriors Dice Building GameTM to their summer 2011 product release schedule. Players take on the roles of Quarriors —mighty mystical warriors—who have the power to capture dangerous quarry from the untamed Wilds! They must conjure the mysterious powers of Quiddity, cast powerful spells, and summon their creatures to battle if they hope to overcome rivals and earn their rightful place as the Champion!
The game features 130 custom molded dice, 53 creature and spell cards and everything needed to play for 2 to 4 players.
“Quarriors has the frenetic excitement of a dice battle game,” said co-designer Eric Lang “with an added ‘deckbuilding’ twist: players customize their dice pools during the game using resources generated by their rolls.”
“It takes the best of deckbuilding games without the tedium of shuffling” said Mike Elliott the other co-designer of the game, “take a typical deckbuilding game, add the speed and fun of dice and in 60 minutes you’re on your second or third game trying unique strategies against your opponents.”
“When Mike and Eric first showed us the game we were amazed at how quick it was to set up and play and really get to the strategic elements of the game. We are excited to continue WizKids tradition of innovating core hobby gaming and believe this will really resonate with players who want to get the most out of a gaming session” said Lax Chandra President of WizKids.
Find us on the web at http://www.WizKidsGames.com/Quarriors or friend us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Wizkids to see the latest developments from Wizkids as they happen!
ESCAPE INTO THE FANTASY OF NONPLAYER
Newcomer Nate Simpson Makes Monumental Debut at Image
Berkeley, CA - 25 January 2011 –
Image Comics carries on its tradition of introducing the best new talent with an all-new title from rising star Nate Simpson. Combining references to massively multi-player online roleplaying games and science fiction/fantasy mainstays with exquisite illustration, Simpson's NONPLAYER is planned as a six-issue miniseries, with the first installment out in April.
NONPLAYER is the story of Dana Stevens, a young woman who retreats from the dismal workaday world of the future into the digital fantasy realm of Jarvath, where she's a fearless warrior. Dana is not alone in her pursuits, however, and before long, her adventures begin to cat-and-mouse back and forth between the two worlds.
Prior to NONPLAYER, Simpson made video games come to life for their players in his previous job as a concept artist. After taking a year off to "learn how to make comics," though, he is quickly establishing himself as not only as a gifted illustrator, but as a storyteller with a wonderfully unique voice as well.
“A comic book is just about the most elaborate thing a person can create without assistance, which sounds like heaven to somebody who's spent fourteen years in video game development,” Simpson explained. "I've had a lot of fun putting all the nuts and bolts of this story together and figuring out how best to approach everything in terms of production, and I can't wait to share this story with people."
Added Image Publisher Eric Stephenson, "It's always a pleasure to link up with a creator as well-rounded and imaginative as Nate. Every aspect of NONPLAYER is so well-considered, it's like working with an old pro. As first timers go, Nate is one of the most impressive I've ever seen."
Indeed, Simpson has built a panoramic world through sequential art, with each interior page more lovingly executed than the last. The dual worlds of NONPLAYER are depicted with detailed rendering, whether in Dana's real world or in the lavishly real game world. The overall effect is not dissimilar to the lush artwork found in some of Europe's best and most loved comics, but with a distinct flavor all Simpson's own.
NONPLAYER, a 32-page full-color science fiction and fantasy comic will be in stores April 6, 2011, for $2.99. For more information, visit www.nonplayercomic.com.
Newcomer Nate Simpson Makes Monumental Debut at Image
Berkeley, CA - 25 January 2011 –
Image Comics carries on its tradition of introducing the best new talent with an all-new title from rising star Nate Simpson. Combining references to massively multi-player online roleplaying games and science fiction/fantasy mainstays with exquisite illustration, Simpson's NONPLAYER is planned as a six-issue miniseries, with the first installment out in April.
NONPLAYER is the story of Dana Stevens, a young woman who retreats from the dismal workaday world of the future into the digital fantasy realm of Jarvath, where she's a fearless warrior. Dana is not alone in her pursuits, however, and before long, her adventures begin to cat-and-mouse back and forth between the two worlds.
Prior to NONPLAYER, Simpson made video games come to life for their players in his previous job as a concept artist. After taking a year off to "learn how to make comics," though, he is quickly establishing himself as not only as a gifted illustrator, but as a storyteller with a wonderfully unique voice as well.
“A comic book is just about the most elaborate thing a person can create without assistance, which sounds like heaven to somebody who's spent fourteen years in video game development,” Simpson explained. "I've had a lot of fun putting all the nuts and bolts of this story together and figuring out how best to approach everything in terms of production, and I can't wait to share this story with people."
Added Image Publisher Eric Stephenson, "It's always a pleasure to link up with a creator as well-rounded and imaginative as Nate. Every aspect of NONPLAYER is so well-considered, it's like working with an old pro. As first timers go, Nate is one of the most impressive I've ever seen."
Indeed, Simpson has built a panoramic world through sequential art, with each interior page more lovingly executed than the last. The dual worlds of NONPLAYER are depicted with detailed rendering, whether in Dana's real world or in the lavishly real game world. The overall effect is not dissimilar to the lush artwork found in some of Europe's best and most loved comics, but with a distinct flavor all Simpson's own.
NONPLAYER, a 32-page full-color science fiction and fantasy comic will be in stores April 6, 2011, for $2.99. For more information, visit www.nonplayercomic.com.
IDW Announces Second Printing for
INFESTATION #1
The Opening Salvo in IDW’s Multi-Title Zombie Event Sells Out
Second Printing Available in Stores on February 16th
INFESTATION #1 2nd Printing coverSan Diego, CA (January 27, 2010) – IDW Publishing is excited to announce that INFESTATION #1 has sold out! Setting the stage for the company’s massive INFESTATION event, IDW is rushing a second printing of this debut issue to stores. INFESTATION #1 kicks off an epic adventure that invades Star Trek, Ghostbusters, TRANSFORMERS, and G.I. JOE comics with hordes of zombies and infected robots. Written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning (The Thanos Imperative, Legion of Super-Heroes) and illustrated by David Messina (True Blood), INFESTATION #1 starts the multi-title event with a bang, and never lets up. To meet the continued demand and ensure readers can get in on the brain-eating action, the second printing of INFESTATION #1 will be in stores on February 16th, and readers should check availability with their local store.
“The response to INFESTATION has completely exceeded our expectations,” said Chris Ryall, IDW Chief Creative Officer and Editor in Chief. “This project has been in the works for years and it’s very regarding for all of us at IDW to see it getting such a positive response.”
This initial 32-page INFESTATION story begins in IDW’s own ZOMBIES VS. ROBOTS universe, where something goes terribly wrong and ultimately infests the worlds of TRANSFORMERS, STAR TREK, G.I. JOE, and GHOSTBUSTERS. From there, the story spins ferociously into each of the four properties throughout February and March, and culminates in April’s bombastic finale, INFESTATION #2.
In February, TRANSFORMERS: INFESTATION #1 and #2 and STAR TREK: INFESTATION #1 and #2 will ship bi-weekly. The TRANSFORMERS title will also be penned by Abnett and Lanning, with fan-favorite Nick Roche handling the art. STAR TREK: INFESTATION will be written by mainstay writers Scott and David Tipton and illustrated by Gary Erskine (Dan Dare) and Casey Maloney (Zipper).
March will see the release of the bi-weekly G.I. JOE: INFESTATION #1 and #2 by writer Mike Raicht and artist Giovanni Timpano, as well as GHOSTBUSTERS: INFESTATION #1 and #2 by Erik Burnham (The A-Team: War Stories) and Kyle Hotz (Marvel Zombies).
Artist John K. Snyder III (Phoenix Without Ashes) will provide covers for the two INFESTATION issues, as well as 1950s sci-fi film-inspired images for each of the four involved series.
INFESTATION #1, 2nd printing ($3.99, 40 pages, full color) will be available in stores on February 16, 2011. Diamond order code DEC10 8147.
TRANSFORMERS: INFESTATION #1 and #2 (each: $3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be in stores on February 2 and 16, 2011, respectively. Diamond order codes DEC10 0337 and DEC10 0340.
STAR TREK: INFESTATION #1 and #2 (each: $3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be in stores on February 9 and 23, 2011, respectively. Diamond order codes DEC10 0332 and DEC10 03335.
G.I. JOE: INFESTATION #1 and #2 (each: $3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be in stores on March 2 and 16, 2011, respectively. Diamond order codes JAN11 0472 and JAN11 0475.
GHOSTBUSTERS: INFESTATION #1 and #2 (each: $3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be in stores on March 9 and 23, 2011, respectively. Diamond order codes JAN11 0467 and JAN11 0470.
INFESTATION #2 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in stores on April 6, 2011. Diamond order code FEB11 0291.
Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books.
About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro's The Transformers and G.I. JOE, Paramount's Star Trek; Fox's Angel; the BBC's Doctor Who; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studios; and is the print publisher for EA Comics and ComicMix.
IDW's original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.
INFESTATION #1
The Opening Salvo in IDW’s Multi-Title Zombie Event Sells Out
Second Printing Available in Stores on February 16th
INFESTATION #1 2nd Printing coverSan Diego, CA (January 27, 2010) – IDW Publishing is excited to announce that INFESTATION #1 has sold out! Setting the stage for the company’s massive INFESTATION event, IDW is rushing a second printing of this debut issue to stores. INFESTATION #1 kicks off an epic adventure that invades Star Trek, Ghostbusters, TRANSFORMERS, and G.I. JOE comics with hordes of zombies and infected robots. Written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning (The Thanos Imperative, Legion of Super-Heroes) and illustrated by David Messina (True Blood), INFESTATION #1 starts the multi-title event with a bang, and never lets up. To meet the continued demand and ensure readers can get in on the brain-eating action, the second printing of INFESTATION #1 will be in stores on February 16th, and readers should check availability with their local store.
“The response to INFESTATION has completely exceeded our expectations,” said Chris Ryall, IDW Chief Creative Officer and Editor in Chief. “This project has been in the works for years and it’s very regarding for all of us at IDW to see it getting such a positive response.”
This initial 32-page INFESTATION story begins in IDW’s own ZOMBIES VS. ROBOTS universe, where something goes terribly wrong and ultimately infests the worlds of TRANSFORMERS, STAR TREK, G.I. JOE, and GHOSTBUSTERS. From there, the story spins ferociously into each of the four properties throughout February and March, and culminates in April’s bombastic finale, INFESTATION #2.
In February, TRANSFORMERS: INFESTATION #1 and #2 and STAR TREK: INFESTATION #1 and #2 will ship bi-weekly. The TRANSFORMERS title will also be penned by Abnett and Lanning, with fan-favorite Nick Roche handling the art. STAR TREK: INFESTATION will be written by mainstay writers Scott and David Tipton and illustrated by Gary Erskine (Dan Dare) and Casey Maloney (Zipper).
March will see the release of the bi-weekly G.I. JOE: INFESTATION #1 and #2 by writer Mike Raicht and artist Giovanni Timpano, as well as GHOSTBUSTERS: INFESTATION #1 and #2 by Erik Burnham (The A-Team: War Stories) and Kyle Hotz (Marvel Zombies).
Artist John K. Snyder III (Phoenix Without Ashes) will provide covers for the two INFESTATION issues, as well as 1950s sci-fi film-inspired images for each of the four involved series.
INFESTATION #1, 2nd printing ($3.99, 40 pages, full color) will be available in stores on February 16, 2011. Diamond order code DEC10 8147.
TRANSFORMERS: INFESTATION #1 and #2 (each: $3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be in stores on February 2 and 16, 2011, respectively. Diamond order codes DEC10 0337 and DEC10 0340.
STAR TREK: INFESTATION #1 and #2 (each: $3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be in stores on February 9 and 23, 2011, respectively. Diamond order codes DEC10 0332 and DEC10 03335.
G.I. JOE: INFESTATION #1 and #2 (each: $3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be in stores on March 2 and 16, 2011, respectively. Diamond order codes JAN11 0472 and JAN11 0475.
GHOSTBUSTERS: INFESTATION #1 and #2 (each: $3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be in stores on March 9 and 23, 2011, respectively. Diamond order codes JAN11 0467 and JAN11 0470.
INFESTATION #2 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in stores on April 6, 2011. Diamond order code FEB11 0291.
Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books.
About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro's The Transformers and G.I. JOE, Paramount's Star Trek; Fox's Angel; the BBC's Doctor Who; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studios; and is the print publisher for EA Comics and ComicMix.
IDW's original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
DEBUT ISSUE OF FREAKSHOW SELLS OUT FROM APE ENTERTAINMENT
DARK SUPERHERO SAGA TAKES COMIC SHOPS BY STORM
Ape Entertainment is pleased to announce that FREAKSHOW #1, the debut creator-owned comic from creators David Server & Jackson Lanzing with art by rising star Joe Suitor, has sold out from the publisher. This marks an exciting start for the highly anticipated miniseries, which is poised to introduce a new, original brand of post-apocalyptic superhero action to audiences all over the world.
"FREAKSHOW is an incredibly exciting project with roots in the superhero, science-fiction, and horror genres, so we knew we'd be able to turn some heads with comics fans", says Ape Co-Publisher David Hedgecock, "but the response to the book from fans and retailers has been truly overwhelming. We're thrilled to finally get this book into the hands of our readers."
The sell-out follows an auspicious preview run at the 2010 San Diego Comic Con, which also sold out on the convention floor. Interest has been bolstered by positive early reviews from such websites as SlashFilm and Comic Book Resources, as well as the attachment of veteran screenwriter Mark Protosevich (I AM LEGEND, THOR, the upcoming MASS EFFECT), who has been announced to write and possibly direct a feature adaptation of the comic for producers Jennifer Klein (PEARL HARBOR) and Sheldon Turner (UP IN THE AIR).
"We've always hoped the world of FREAKSHOW would resonate with people, so the feedback we've gotten so far from fans we've met at conventions and online has been tremendously exciting and gratifying," said Server. "We couldn't be more thankful that retailers are taking a chance on our book," adds Lanzing, "and we plan to reward readers with three issues of characters, story, and art that's like nothing else on the stands."
Since Ape Entertainment recognizes that this sell-out will limit retailers from ordering further copies of FREAKSHOW #1, there are plans to release a digital version of the book as soon as possible. A similar digital format is planned for issues #2 and #3, and details will be announced by Ape upon release.
To find out for yourself why Fangoria gave FREAKSHOW #1 four out of four skulls, calling it "noteworthy and original" with "stylish artwork and attention grabbing storytelling", make sure to contact your local retailer and reserve a copy as soon as possible. The book will be arriving in stores January 26th, and will be followed monthly by issues #2 and #3. Those issues are still available for ordering from Diamond Comics distribution using ordering codes #DEC100718 and #JAN110927 respectively.
For more information about FREAKSHOW, visit http://www.freakshowcomic.com.
You can also join our 1,200+ member fan community and get exclusive access to original art and updates at http://www.facebook.com/freakshowcomic.
For the latest on Ape Entertainment, including the successful KiZoic line, please visit http://apecomics.com.
About Ape Entertainment: Founded in 2003, Ape Entertainment is the brainchild of lifelong comic book devotees David Hedgecock, and Brent E Erwin. Home to such popular titles as GO-GO GORILLA AND THE JUNGLE CREW, SUPERHUMAN RESOURCES, BLACK COAT, ATHENA VOLTAIRE, and THE TROUBLE WITH KATIE ROGERS, it is also the North American publisher for DreamWorks Animation licensed properties SHREK, THE PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR, and KUNG FU PANDA.
About FREAKSHOW: FREAKSHOW is the upcoming 3-issue comic book miniseries from writers David Server & Jackson Lanzing, with art by Joe Suitor. In the aftermath of a catastrophic chemical explosion in a major city, five refugee survivors develop monstrous mutations, faulty "superpowers" that leave them hideous but powerful. Their humanity seemingly stripped away, they must navigate the clandestine military quarantine zone that has engulfed the city, balancing their thirst for revenge with their new ability to exact it. But as they draw closer to their goal, they begin to realize that their own dark origins may be more closely linked to the devastation than they thought...
DARK SUPERHERO SAGA TAKES COMIC SHOPS BY STORM
Ape Entertainment is pleased to announce that FREAKSHOW #1, the debut creator-owned comic from creators David Server & Jackson Lanzing with art by rising star Joe Suitor, has sold out from the publisher. This marks an exciting start for the highly anticipated miniseries, which is poised to introduce a new, original brand of post-apocalyptic superhero action to audiences all over the world.
"FREAKSHOW is an incredibly exciting project with roots in the superhero, science-fiction, and horror genres, so we knew we'd be able to turn some heads with comics fans", says Ape Co-Publisher David Hedgecock, "but the response to the book from fans and retailers has been truly overwhelming. We're thrilled to finally get this book into the hands of our readers."
The sell-out follows an auspicious preview run at the 2010 San Diego Comic Con, which also sold out on the convention floor. Interest has been bolstered by positive early reviews from such websites as SlashFilm and Comic Book Resources, as well as the attachment of veteran screenwriter Mark Protosevich (I AM LEGEND, THOR, the upcoming MASS EFFECT), who has been announced to write and possibly direct a feature adaptation of the comic for producers Jennifer Klein (PEARL HARBOR) and Sheldon Turner (UP IN THE AIR).
"We've always hoped the world of FREAKSHOW would resonate with people, so the feedback we've gotten so far from fans we've met at conventions and online has been tremendously exciting and gratifying," said Server. "We couldn't be more thankful that retailers are taking a chance on our book," adds Lanzing, "and we plan to reward readers with three issues of characters, story, and art that's like nothing else on the stands."
Since Ape Entertainment recognizes that this sell-out will limit retailers from ordering further copies of FREAKSHOW #1, there are plans to release a digital version of the book as soon as possible. A similar digital format is planned for issues #2 and #3, and details will be announced by Ape upon release.
To find out for yourself why Fangoria gave FREAKSHOW #1 four out of four skulls, calling it "noteworthy and original" with "stylish artwork and attention grabbing storytelling", make sure to contact your local retailer and reserve a copy as soon as possible. The book will be arriving in stores January 26th, and will be followed monthly by issues #2 and #3. Those issues are still available for ordering from Diamond Comics distribution using ordering codes #DEC100718 and #JAN110927 respectively.
For more information about FREAKSHOW, visit http://www.freakshowcomic.com.
You can also join our 1,200+ member fan community and get exclusive access to original art and updates at http://www.facebook.com/freakshowcomic.
For the latest on Ape Entertainment, including the successful KiZoic line, please visit http://apecomics.com.
About Ape Entertainment: Founded in 2003, Ape Entertainment is the brainchild of lifelong comic book devotees David Hedgecock, and Brent E Erwin. Home to such popular titles as GO-GO GORILLA AND THE JUNGLE CREW, SUPERHUMAN RESOURCES, BLACK COAT, ATHENA VOLTAIRE, and THE TROUBLE WITH KATIE ROGERS, it is also the North American publisher for DreamWorks Animation licensed properties SHREK, THE PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR, and KUNG FU PANDA.
About FREAKSHOW: FREAKSHOW is the upcoming 3-issue comic book miniseries from writers David Server & Jackson Lanzing, with art by Joe Suitor. In the aftermath of a catastrophic chemical explosion in a major city, five refugee survivors develop monstrous mutations, faulty "superpowers" that leave them hideous but powerful. Their humanity seemingly stripped away, they must navigate the clandestine military quarantine zone that has engulfed the city, balancing their thirst for revenge with their new ability to exact it. But as they draw closer to their goal, they begin to realize that their own dark origins may be more closely linked to the devastation than they thought...
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
ORIGINAL UK SERIES, BEING HUMAN
, RETURNS NEXT MONTH ON BBC AMERICA’S SUPERNATURAL SATURDAYS FOR A MONSTER THIRD SEASON
Russell Tovey as George, Sinead Keenan as Nina, Aidan Turner as Mitchell and Lenora Crichlow as Annie
New York, NY – Being Human
, BBC AMERICA’s original hit supernatural series about a group of friends trying to live normal lives despite their unusual afflictions, is back – and, says creator and writer, Toby Whithouse, "It is, without doubt, our best season yet.”
“A third season is a unique opportunity because it allows you to take all the best bits of season one and season two," he says. "What we took from season one is the domestic element and very strong stories of the week with very strong guest characters. Season two had much more of an epic sweep and a breadth of ambition. Season three has allowed us to combine all those things.”
A BBC AMERICA co-production, Being Human stars Russell Tovey, Sinead Keenan, Lenora Crichlow and Aidan Turner as werewolf George, werewolf Nina, ghost Annie and vampire Mitchell - four friends doing the best they can to cope with the supernatural challenges of their lives while trying to blend in with their human neighbors. The showdown last season with Kemp and Lucy Jaggat has forced some changes for the friends. Couple George and Nina plus Mitchell have fled their beloved house in Bristol and are looking for a new house to rent in Wales. They are also without Annie, who is stuck in purgatory and desperately trying to escape. Being Human premieres on Supernatural Saturday, February 19, 9:00p.m. ET/PT for eight weeks.
Leaving the memories of their much-loved former house behind, George, Nina and Mitchell settle into their new home – a kitsch bed and breakfast named Honolulu Heights that boasts many benefits for supernatural sharers – a large basement providing a safe and sheltered environment on a full moon, for one.
Season three boasts an impressive array of guest-stars, including Lacey Turner (EastEnders) as Lia, who Mitchell meets in Purgatory, Robson Green (Wire In The Blood) as primitive werewolf McNair, Michael Socha (This Is England '86) as McNair's son Tom, Paul Kaye (It's All Gone Pete Tong) as twisted vampire Vincent, Craig Roberts (Young Dracula) as teenage vampire Adam; Nicola Walker (MI-5) as social worker Wendy, James Fleet (Four Weddings and a Funeral) as George's father George Sr; and Jason Watkins making an eventful return as vampire leader Herrick.
Being Human first premiered on BBC AMERICA in 2009 and quickly won over fans and critics alike, and has even spawned a US remake. The New York Times recently said that the UK series “has energy, and interesting characters, and a pulpy momentum that keeps you engaged in its kitchen-sink drama meets Bram Stoker story lines,” and Variety called it “improbably absorbing, wonderfully sly.” In addition, the cast and creator have appeared to sold-out crowds at the last two years of San Diego Comic Con. Season one and two of Being Human are available on DVD and Blu-ray on the BBC AMERICA Shop and iTunes.
BBC AMERICA brings audiences a new generation of award-winning television featuring news with a uniquely global perspective, provocative dramas, razor-sharp comedies, life-changing makeovers and a whole new world of nonfiction. BBC AMERICA pushes the boundaries to deliver high quality, highly addictive and eminently watchable programming to viewers who demand more. It is available on digital cable and satellite TV in more than 68 million homes.
, RETURNS NEXT MONTH ON BBC AMERICA’S SUPERNATURAL SATURDAYS FOR A MONSTER THIRD SEASONRussell Tovey as George, Sinead Keenan as Nina, Aidan Turner as Mitchell and Lenora Crichlow as Annie
New York, NY – Being Human
, BBC AMERICA’s original hit supernatural series about a group of friends trying to live normal lives despite their unusual afflictions, is back – and, says creator and writer, Toby Whithouse, "It is, without doubt, our best season yet.”“A third season is a unique opportunity because it allows you to take all the best bits of season one and season two," he says. "What we took from season one is the domestic element and very strong stories of the week with very strong guest characters. Season two had much more of an epic sweep and a breadth of ambition. Season three has allowed us to combine all those things.”
A BBC AMERICA co-production, Being Human stars Russell Tovey, Sinead Keenan, Lenora Crichlow and Aidan Turner as werewolf George, werewolf Nina, ghost Annie and vampire Mitchell - four friends doing the best they can to cope with the supernatural challenges of their lives while trying to blend in with their human neighbors. The showdown last season with Kemp and Lucy Jaggat has forced some changes for the friends. Couple George and Nina plus Mitchell have fled their beloved house in Bristol and are looking for a new house to rent in Wales. They are also without Annie, who is stuck in purgatory and desperately trying to escape. Being Human premieres on Supernatural Saturday, February 19, 9:00p.m. ET/PT for eight weeks.
Leaving the memories of their much-loved former house behind, George, Nina and Mitchell settle into their new home – a kitsch bed and breakfast named Honolulu Heights that boasts many benefits for supernatural sharers – a large basement providing a safe and sheltered environment on a full moon, for one.
Season three boasts an impressive array of guest-stars, including Lacey Turner (EastEnders) as Lia, who Mitchell meets in Purgatory, Robson Green (Wire In The Blood) as primitive werewolf McNair, Michael Socha (This Is England '86) as McNair's son Tom, Paul Kaye (It's All Gone Pete Tong) as twisted vampire Vincent, Craig Roberts (Young Dracula) as teenage vampire Adam; Nicola Walker (MI-5) as social worker Wendy, James Fleet (Four Weddings and a Funeral) as George's father George Sr; and Jason Watkins making an eventful return as vampire leader Herrick.
Being Human first premiered on BBC AMERICA in 2009 and quickly won over fans and critics alike, and has even spawned a US remake. The New York Times recently said that the UK series “has energy, and interesting characters, and a pulpy momentum that keeps you engaged in its kitchen-sink drama meets Bram Stoker story lines,” and Variety called it “improbably absorbing, wonderfully sly.” In addition, the cast and creator have appeared to sold-out crowds at the last two years of San Diego Comic Con. Season one and two of Being Human are available on DVD and Blu-ray on the BBC AMERICA Shop and iTunes.
BBC AMERICA brings audiences a new generation of award-winning television featuring news with a uniquely global perspective, provocative dramas, razor-sharp comedies, life-changing makeovers and a whole new world of nonfiction. BBC AMERICA pushes the boundaries to deliver high quality, highly addictive and eminently watchable programming to viewers who demand more. It is available on digital cable and satellite TV in more than 68 million homes.
Monday, January 24, 2011
WORLD’S FIRST VIRTUAL SPORTS THEME PARK REWARDING KIDS FOR ACTIVE PLAY TO LAUNCH THIS SPRING – FUNGOPLAY.COM
Online World Introduces Sports-Themed Games, Customizable Avatars and Original Characters with “Connected” Sports Gear To Track Play Periods
And Reward Kids For On-The-Go Real World Physical Activity
NEW YORK – January 24, 2011 – An all-new virtual world is launching this spring for online and mobile platforms that bridges the gap between offline and online play in a way that is truly interactive and social, combining the interests of children with the attributes that parents seek -- FunGoPlay. An online sports theme park, FunGoPlay separates itself from all other virtual worlds through “connected” sports gear that rewards kids every time they use them in the real world by tracking their play periods and earning them medals, points, and power-ups in the online world.
Targeted at 6-11 year old boys and girls, FunGoPlay comes from a group of industry veterans across different fields – entertainment, digital media and licensing - with a common mission to deliver a safe, affordable online entertainment experience that both parents and children will love. By merging the most appealing aspects of online gaming with the joys of real world play, FunGoPlay connects new technologies with classic play patterns like nothing ever before.
“Our research shows that kids’ activity levels are determined when they are eight and nine years old. Not coincidentally, this is the time that they are being sucked into the often sedentary lifestyle of video games and surfing online,” said FunGoPlay President, David Jacobs. “We saw an opportunity to combine two leading kid passions—digital entertainment and real world active sports play—so we changed the game by introducing a virtual world that rewards kids for playing and being active in the real world. We see this as a future of online gaming that both parents and children can enjoy.”
"FunGoPlay has developed a model that could change the face of sporting goods," said David Mauer, former President of Mattel USA and current CEO of EB Brands, the Yonkers based manufacturer that will be creating the initial line of FunGoPlay sports gear. "This is the future of products staring us right in the face, and most importantly, gets kids to be more active, thereby improving their health in a significant way."
At its core, FunGoPlay is a humorous and light-hearted online sports world that offers kids fun games, funny characters and fully customizable avatars combined with ample rewards and achievements. When children enter the site they are greeted by a vast universe filled with different sports-themed venues and events based on everything from core sports like basketball, baseball, soccer and football to extreme and non-traditional sports such as skateboarding and outdoor games. Games will consist of quick, fun mini-games along with more elaborate single and multiplayer games.
FunGoPlay features an engaging storyline that is told through the FunGoPlay All Stars, a cast of characters that kids can play with and against throughout the world. Every character in the game possesses a rich history and distinct personality that will develop during the course of a child’s interaction with the site. To intermingle with these characters and navigate the universe, kids will utilize their own fully customizable avatars – called FunGoPlayers -- that can be created through one of the deepest databases any online world has ever seen.
FunGoPlay will utilize a Freemium subscription model offering kids access at a variety of levels. Pricing will be announced at a later date. For more information on FunGoPlay, visit www.fungoplay.com.
FunGoPlay is entering the digital space during a period where entertainment technologies capture the interests of children, but also as childhood obesity rates have risen to unprecedented levels and continue to rise. Over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, and today, nearly one in three children in America is overweight or obese*. This makes the need to introduce activities that use virtual avenues to encourage real world play all the more crucial.
Research shows that currently 89 percent of kids 8-17 play online games making it the number one youth activity** with a projection that 46 percent of all 3-11 year olds will play in virtual worlds in 2011***. This demographic will be one segment of a market that will hit 20 million during this same year†. Concurrently, FunGoPlay will be entering the mobile space at a time of similar growth in that category, much of it again spawned by the younger sect. In 2011, 64 million people in the US will play mobile games. Children will be a large segment of that as studies show that 49 percent of kids 6-11 use mobile phones to play games†† and two-thirds of children ages 4 to 7 have used an iPhone or iPod touch and 85% have used one owned by a parent†††.
*Letsmove.gov
**Norton Online Family Report, June 2010
***eMarketer, April 2009
†Kzero, 2009
†† American Kids Study January 2010
†††PBS Kids.Org/Joan Ganz Cooney Center, November 2010
About FunGoPlay
FunGoPlay (www.fungoplay.com) is an online sports theme park and the first virtual world to bridge online and offline play through the use of ‘connected’ sports gear. Conceptualized by industry veterans — including music industry pioneer and start-up expert Steven Lerner, children’s content development, TV distribution, merchandising and licensing veteran David Jacobs (Sesame Workshop/HIT Entertainment), and writer and franchise director of kids properties Fabian Nicieza (Batman, X-Men, Transformers, etc.) -- the site caters to the online gaming needs of today’s 6-11 year olds. FunGoPlay delivers customizable avatars, fun games, and a social community while rewarding active offline play.
Online World Introduces Sports-Themed Games, Customizable Avatars and Original Characters with “Connected” Sports Gear To Track Play Periods
And Reward Kids For On-The-Go Real World Physical Activity
NEW YORK – January 24, 2011 – An all-new virtual world is launching this spring for online and mobile platforms that bridges the gap between offline and online play in a way that is truly interactive and social, combining the interests of children with the attributes that parents seek -- FunGoPlay. An online sports theme park, FunGoPlay separates itself from all other virtual worlds through “connected” sports gear that rewards kids every time they use them in the real world by tracking their play periods and earning them medals, points, and power-ups in the online world.
Targeted at 6-11 year old boys and girls, FunGoPlay comes from a group of industry veterans across different fields – entertainment, digital media and licensing - with a common mission to deliver a safe, affordable online entertainment experience that both parents and children will love. By merging the most appealing aspects of online gaming with the joys of real world play, FunGoPlay connects new technologies with classic play patterns like nothing ever before.
“Our research shows that kids’ activity levels are determined when they are eight and nine years old. Not coincidentally, this is the time that they are being sucked into the often sedentary lifestyle of video games and surfing online,” said FunGoPlay President, David Jacobs. “We saw an opportunity to combine two leading kid passions—digital entertainment and real world active sports play—so we changed the game by introducing a virtual world that rewards kids for playing and being active in the real world. We see this as a future of online gaming that both parents and children can enjoy.”
"FunGoPlay has developed a model that could change the face of sporting goods," said David Mauer, former President of Mattel USA and current CEO of EB Brands, the Yonkers based manufacturer that will be creating the initial line of FunGoPlay sports gear. "This is the future of products staring us right in the face, and most importantly, gets kids to be more active, thereby improving their health in a significant way."
At its core, FunGoPlay is a humorous and light-hearted online sports world that offers kids fun games, funny characters and fully customizable avatars combined with ample rewards and achievements. When children enter the site they are greeted by a vast universe filled with different sports-themed venues and events based on everything from core sports like basketball, baseball, soccer and football to extreme and non-traditional sports such as skateboarding and outdoor games. Games will consist of quick, fun mini-games along with more elaborate single and multiplayer games.
FunGoPlay features an engaging storyline that is told through the FunGoPlay All Stars, a cast of characters that kids can play with and against throughout the world. Every character in the game possesses a rich history and distinct personality that will develop during the course of a child’s interaction with the site. To intermingle with these characters and navigate the universe, kids will utilize their own fully customizable avatars – called FunGoPlayers -- that can be created through one of the deepest databases any online world has ever seen.
FunGoPlay will utilize a Freemium subscription model offering kids access at a variety of levels. Pricing will be announced at a later date. For more information on FunGoPlay, visit www.fungoplay.com.
FunGoPlay is entering the digital space during a period where entertainment technologies capture the interests of children, but also as childhood obesity rates have risen to unprecedented levels and continue to rise. Over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, and today, nearly one in three children in America is overweight or obese*. This makes the need to introduce activities that use virtual avenues to encourage real world play all the more crucial.
Research shows that currently 89 percent of kids 8-17 play online games making it the number one youth activity** with a projection that 46 percent of all 3-11 year olds will play in virtual worlds in 2011***. This demographic will be one segment of a market that will hit 20 million during this same year†. Concurrently, FunGoPlay will be entering the mobile space at a time of similar growth in that category, much of it again spawned by the younger sect. In 2011, 64 million people in the US will play mobile games. Children will be a large segment of that as studies show that 49 percent of kids 6-11 use mobile phones to play games†† and two-thirds of children ages 4 to 7 have used an iPhone or iPod touch and 85% have used one owned by a parent†††.
*Letsmove.gov
**Norton Online Family Report, June 2010
***eMarketer, April 2009
†Kzero, 2009
†† American Kids Study January 2010
†††PBS Kids.Org/Joan Ganz Cooney Center, November 2010
About FunGoPlay
FunGoPlay (www.fungoplay.com) is an online sports theme park and the first virtual world to bridge online and offline play through the use of ‘connected’ sports gear. Conceptualized by industry veterans — including music industry pioneer and start-up expert Steven Lerner, children’s content development, TV distribution, merchandising and licensing veteran David Jacobs (Sesame Workshop/HIT Entertainment), and writer and franchise director of kids properties Fabian Nicieza (Batman, X-Men, Transformers, etc.) -- the site caters to the online gaming needs of today’s 6-11 year olds. FunGoPlay delivers customizable avatars, fun games, and a social community while rewarding active offline play.
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