A Blue Zest

Every year there is a comic book convention. Some even call it a graphic novels convention. Whatever, the case may be, the convention usually brings together a wide variety of people from different occupations, regions, and heritage. The average age of the attendee is probably closer to thirty.

The style of comics that are presented for sale or display can vary tremendously. The common type of comic book one thinks of is the super hero comic. However, there are also more sinister and darker stories told with pictures. A graphic novel, such as it is called, means a novel told with graphics or pictures. This does not necessarily imply adult themed or erotic comics.

The convention presenters have different options when it comes to their display. Some artists use enlarged photo images which are copies of their work to show off their artistry. Others might actually allow certain attendees to peruse later editions of their prized collection. Technology also has its place here. For instance, many use LED backlight screens to provide a more enhanced color experience.

A comic book convention is all about entertainment. To this end, many large and prominent producers arrange and hire actors to impersonate certain of their characters. They would dress up accordingly and act as if they were in the comics. The idea would be to lure passersby and other attendees to visit the artist’s booth. Many different mechanisms are employed. Generally, the typical story line of the more popular comics revolves around violence and/or some type of sexy female heroine or character in distress, as cliche as that might sound.

One particular artist invited a band to play the theme song of its hero. The band had a drummer, singer, and a takamine acoustic guitar player. There were dancers on both sides and his booth became one of the featured attractions. The artist, hopefully, was able to generate more sales. The cost of presenting at a convention can be prohibitive.

As a convention attendee I usually have fun and also find some inspiration. The stories are generally about the triumph of good versus evil. Other story plots can be more diabolical or even serve a fetish. There are some that can be likened to a soap opera and others are more intense in nature, including gore and nudity. The more recent comics tend to have more contemporary story lines as opposed to being placed in the distant past or future.

The overall experience is very unique and highly engaging. The convention puts on display the work of many talented artists. The industry is a tough one to break into. For an artist to be successful, he or she generally needs a great story line and an engrossing character. Then this has to be artistically rendered. The competition is fierce.