Bay Area comic book fans will have cause for celebration when the 2013 Big WOW! Comicfest descends on the San Jose Convention Center May 18-19.
In addition to what Operations Director Tatiana Dykes calls “…one of the most robust artist guest lists on the con
circuit,” the convention will also feature various cosplay guests, guest artist panels and a Geek Fashion Show.
Professional artist and comic inker extraordinaire, Joe B. Weems V will be among the artists featured at the event. A recent transplant to the Northern Calif. area, Weems is excited to be attending his first Big Wow! Comicfest. In a phone interview with The Inquirer, Weems described his experience at past conventions as being “…like coming home… you feel completely accepted in that
environment.”
The third annual Big Wow Comicfest, formerly known as Wonder Con, recently added to it’s already impressive docket of talent, with the living legend of Marvel Comics, Stan Lee for autograph and photo opportunities.
“We’re going to have Stan Lee there on Sunday, so that’s
something to get excited about.” Weems said of the still growing list of comic legends scheduled to make appearances. “Joe Benitez will be doing a live panel, that’s a
live art demonstration with Rose Ivy Wallace, who is a cosplay model… She’ll be
cosplaying as Joe’s character Lady Mechanika.”
Artists Neal Adams of DC Comics fame and J. Scott Campbell will also be in attendance for interaction and book signings throughout the two day convention.
“Big Wow! is more of a classic-type convention, where you can walk up to your favorite creator and have a conversation with them. Where you can walk around and look at cool wares and dig through old comics and spend all day immersed in the culture. A place where you can be yourself and meet like-minded people for a fun, geeky weekend.”
Dykes said of the expected ambiance at the event in a Facebook interview.
In addition to the myriad guests and experiences, many of the artists in attendance will offer contributions to an art auction held on Saturday evening. Aside from various pieces of original comic artwork donated for the auction, “…there will be an inking panel where a number of
artists are given blue-line pieces to ink.” Said Weems, who will be participating in the inking panel with others. “That’s half the fun, seeing which pieces the artists
chose to pick from and how they interpret the art.”
Whether the allure of world class artists, writers and creators draws people in, or the appeal of joining like-minded enthusiasts for non-judgmental good times, attendees are sure to find themselves immersed in an unrivaled experience. “There’s nothing else like it.” Weems said of the general convention ambiance. A place where guests “…can let (their) freak-flag fly.” And “…don’t ever have to worry about being judged.”
“I’m looking forward to seeing old friends and making
new ones.” Dykes said of her convention anticipation. Of the impressive lists of guests, she was unable to chose a favorite. “I’m excited about everyone on the list.”
Fortunately for those who share that passion and enthusiasm for comics and comic art, there’s no need to pick favorites over the course of the two-day extravaganza. There will be something for every fan of the genre.
