Another Show…Another Successful Adventure

Less than a year ago, my friend and I decided to take a trip to Philadelphia for Philly Con. It was my first show and I have been hooked ever since. So what started off as a random trip, has quickly turned into an almost monthly occurrence. I have been to Philly Con, Baltimore Con, New York Con, and most recently, I traveled to Boston Con.

Now if there is one thing I have learned during these shows, it is this: DO NOT GO UNPREPARED OR BY YOURSELF! The first part of this hard learned lesson has gotten easier and easier with each passing show. I make a list, check it twice, and make sure to stop by every artist I’m interested in seeing. The second part of this lesson is not so easy. My usual partner in crime, John, is a new dad and unfortunately cannot come on these monthly adventures. Adding to that dilemma is the fact that not many of my other friends would be willing to go.

Keep in mind that Boston is a 4 hour drive at the least. I can barely go 1 hour in the car by myself, so I knew I had to bring someone. This is the point in this story where I have to give a TREMENDOUS thank you to my all so loving wife. Somehow I convinced her to join me on this adventure. Of course this came with a price of going out to dinner and enjoying many of the lovely sights around Boston. Oh well, it would be worth it in the end.

As far as Boston Con goes, it was a great show. Many big names made it out to the show and gave fans a great experience. Based on my list, I knew I would be interacting with many of the great artists. One in particular brings back nostalgic memories of my childhood. Growing up I was a huge Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fan. In fact, I was a Ninja Turtle 3 years in a row for Halloween.

It is with no surprise then, that Kevin Eastman would be at the top of my list. I mean seriously, this is the guy that co-created my favorite show, comic, and toys of all time. How could I pass the opportunity? Immediately through the doors, we made our way to his table. Can you believe that my wife found his table just in time to beat the rush and seconds before his arrival?

As he sat down, he looked up and said, “What’s up? What can I do for you?” Like the fan boy that I am, I responded with my own question, “Will you be doing any sketches today?”

He of course said yes and that’s the not even the best part. Throughout the whole show, him and his buddy Simon Bisley, were doing FREE sketches for anyone who wanted them. I for one wanted a Leonardo sketch. Thankfully my wife was also with me, and she asked for a Donatello sketch. Mission Accomplished!

The remainder of show allowed me to meet several other artists. Norman Lee was an extremely friendly and awesome person in general. He sketched an excellent Captain America headshot, just in time for the Avengers movie. Another person of interest was Herb Trimpe. Famous for his art on G.I Joe, I was more interested in getting an old school Wolverine sketch from the man who first drew him.

By far one of my favorite sketches in my collection. Also of note, would be the Batman sketch from Tom Raney and the Green Lantern sketch by Jamal Igle. Both have been additions to my collection.

Overall the show was an excellent experience. Just by reading some of the comments on Twitter from people who have been to Boston Con, the show has grown in leaps and bounds. It was a great show with great artists and enthusiastic fans who came dressed as their favorite characters. If you’re ever in Boston during the next show, do yourself a favor and buy a ticket. You won’t regret it.