If you have ever been to a Comic Con, whether in New York or anywhere else, then you know what I am about to talk about. Because unless you walk in with loads of money, then the success or failure of a show comes down to decisions. Should I buy this exclusive toy? Should I wait until the end of the show to buy and try to bargain? Should I request a commission from this artist? These and probably a hundred more questions raced through the minds of thousands at this year’s New York Comic Con.
This year, I was finally able to go on the Thursday and Friday of the show. As opposed to just Saturday, I now had two days to fully enjoy the event. I arrived at the show right as the doors were opening and quickly made my way to the main floor to scoop things out. I immediately noticed a line for J. Scott Campbell. He was only sketching for one hour and already there were ten people in line. I waited for 20 minutes and only moved up three places. Time to move on.
My next stop was Artist Alley. I roamed the alleys in search of well-known names. Adding them to my list of artists to see. Having the two days this year really allowed me to fully scout the show. I knew that Friday would be the day to act. I knew that J. Scott Campbell would finally be crossed off my list and I would be able to brag about it to my friend John. I was mistaken.
As the show was coming to a close and my time of departure was looming, I found myself walking aimlessly on the main floor. It wasn’t until fate intervened that I found my true destination.
I stumbled upon a collection of fine art. Batman, Joker, Green Arrow, and many more were right before my eyes. As I looked for a name to go with the terrific art work, I spotted a man that looked so familiar. I couldn’t put a name to the face, but luckily the sign was there to smack me in the face. Neal Adams was the name and I knew I had a decision to make. Do I get a sketch from one of the most famous comic artists of all time? Normally the decision would be easy, but on a tight budget, $150 for a commission was almost tapping me out of the game. I had to think about it, and fortunately, I had one more day to make this decision.
As I rode the train home that night, my mind couldn’t stop thinking about a Neal Adams sketch. I went home and explained the situation to my lovely wife, who words of wisdom came through this time. “Go for it. You never know if you’ll get this chance again.” Done deal.
The next day, I made sure to be first in line for Neal Adams. As I waited for his arrival, the next decision was a crucial. Joker or Batman? I began rummaging through his books, prints, and even the internet for ideas and examples of his work. Time was running out.
Finally he arrived, and the decision had to be made. Joker would be my choice and a good choice it was. Neal Adams was excited to sketch something besides Batman. I would be too, if I had to draw him over and over again in one day. I was amazed at the quickness and attention to details that Neal Adams displayed. After about 30 minutes, the sketch was done and I thanked him for it and all his work within the comic industry.
While I sit here and type this article, I find myself glancing over at my sketch and admiring the true awesomeness of it. The next decision of framing it is next, but that is a while away. For now, I can keep it with my other sketches.
As for my friend John, he quickly offered to buy my sketch. That decision was easy. NO WAY!
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