The “rebuilding year” for comic cons is coming to an end as shows are getting their first post pandemic show under their belts. Tucson Comic Con is one I was excited for as it was my last con before covid hit, the good vibes had to last me almost 2 years before I attended another convention. TCC took place over Labor Day weekend at the Tucson Convention Center in AZ. This is becoming one of the most fun shows I regularly attend.
This mid-size show was pretty packed..like sardines packed..at times, but one could see the whole exhibit floor in one day. But this is the perfect show to take your time, get to know some artists, get sketches, and dig through boxes.
Convention center security (not the convention itself) had a clear bag and backpack policy similar to a concert; but what about my trusty Con backpack?? Luckily this didn’t affect attendance as that seemed way up from the previous show. It felt much busier this year and I understand sales were up overall. I think people are still excited to be back at big events plus clear bags are readily available on Amazon.
Diverse lineup of artists, mostly from the west coast. A few I don’t often see like James O’Barr and Jim Shooter. I really appreciate the quality of interactions at TCC, more room to be conversational with any of the guests. In contrast to SDCC, where you pretty much need to say ‘hi’, get your signature, then get out of the way.
Marat Mycheals has some of the most reasonable prices you will find at comic con on original art for someone of his veteran status in the comic industry. If you’re looking to get some ‘OA’ in the collection, check out the portfolio on his table or ask about commissions. He always has his portfolio with fresh new art and you can take some beautiful stuff home without donating blood. He also has been running some great Kickstarters so follow his new company Counterpoint Comics for more.
Always great to see Mike Debalfo, he makes time to be a regular at southwest comic cons while knocking out stunning variant covers for several independent publishers. He is also one to complete commissions fast with an amazing amount of detail. Marissa Pope was right next to him, I was happy to see her there and immediately requested a commission. I predict she will continue to be a rising star with many variant covers to come, give her a follow now to watch her comics career grow.
Jesse Hernandez was there, his style is summed up by his social media handle – Urban Aztec. His colorful art pops from across the room. Has some unique statues of iconic characters with this unique flavor of art.
Diego Bernard made a very rare US appearance. He’s a regular artist on Lady Death and previously did some work on Witchblade. He is very prolific and accomplished a hefty amount of commissions within the 3 days, with constant visitors at his table.
Speaking of Lady Death, Coffin Comics was there celebrating their 15th anniversary. I have been following them closely for about 13 of those years. From the start I was a big fan of the Pulidos and loved the books, but who knew the kind of evolution we would see over the next several years? What came next was a marathon of successful kickstarters, a physical headquarters, Coffin events and conventions, the Sworn Nation Facebook Group, and an ongoing shared universe of new characters. Most unexpectedly was all of the amazing friends I have made over the years. It may not be for everyone, but I think most of us can appreciate seeing a classic character like Lady Death skyrocket after being reunited with its Creator. Coffin brought some awesome exclusives to the event, I really appreciate the creepy take on Lady Death by James O’Barr:
Spawn is still hot, anything under 300. Quite a bit of She-Hulk on the floor as well. Seeing some Sandman books too, I think the quality of the show is bringing in some new fans. Nothing really stood out as going crazy but this con was a great place to negotiate and help vendors reduce their inventory for the end of year.
If you ever collected Pokemon cards, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to pull them and see if you have any gems. There were some tables selling those and they were going for the big bucks, these cards have been on fire!
Here we are wrapping up almost a full year of conventions and probably more to come, feeling like all the previous cancellations never happened. Wishing everyone at CHU a great upcoming holiday season. Until the next one, please check out the cosplay gallery and give the artists I mentioned a follow. Let’s help grow our community!!