Right now, as I write this, thousands of comic, sci-fi and movie buffs (or, geeks to some) are dressing up in ridiculous costumes and are flocking to San Diego California for the yearly SDCC. Yes, it’s that time of year for the San Diego Comic-Con. Probably the biggest comic event in the world (I haven’t checked the stats on that, but I’m assuming that’s a pretty accurate statement). Where am I? Home. And you know what, as a cartoonist, I have absolutely no interest in going.
Above: This is where I don’t belong.
This kind of statement from me would be like Michael Jordan saying he doesn’t want to attend the NBA finals. No, I’m not comparing myself to Michael Jordan, but c’mon – EVERY cartoonist likes Comic-Con, right?
Listen, it might just be ignorance on my part. I’ve never attended one. So, I’m not knocking it (don’t knock it til’ you try it). But, I think I’ve seen enough video clips, pictures and post on Facebook to pretty well assume what it’s all about. That being said, there is about 5% or so of the event that does peek my interest. And that is several cartoonist booths and the lectures from artist and cartoonist. The majority of the festival is dedicated to movies, actors, Star Wars/Star Trek (take your pick) and non-industry stuff that I wouldn’t be interested in. And no, I do not have the desire to dress up as the Incredible Hulk either, like a lot of attendees (or maybe it’s Cat Woman – not too sure).
Not wanting to go is one thing. However, if given the chance, I would love to do a lecture someday there! Now, to do that, I would have to be a pretty well known cartoonist and quite the brand name for me and my work. A ways off? I’m guessing so. And at the state of cartooning right now, yikes, who knows. But, sure, that would be fun. And boy, can I give lectures! (Actually, I’m not too sure if I am that great or not. I’m testing that theory later on this month at a presentation to a bunch of middle and high school kids for an hour and a half about my thrilling life as a cartoonist. We’ll see how rambunctious the audience gets and I’ll get back to you.)
And a booth. I’d like my own booth there if I had books out or a lot of goodies to promote or sell. Mingling with some of the audience would be thrilling, I’m sure. And interesting. I’d probably add a dunk tank as well to really spike interest.
But, if you noticed, I started writing this as the fact I wouldn’t want to just attend. Participate? Sure. Sign me up. But going itself just doesn’t at all prompt me to want to buy a train ticket from Florida to California. Besides, I couldn’t afford one if I tried. But still, I’m really anxious for my next train trip regardless.
I guess I’m a rare breed of cartoonist. I’ve mentioned all this before, so stop me if I’m repeating myself, but I’m just not a big fan of Star Wars, geeky things and I don’t drool over television and movie stars. I’m not a Trekkie and I’m afraid I’d offend people there by not knowing how to speak Klingon (the fact that I know about speaking that doesn’t look too good on my part).
Beyond a few cartoonist panels and booths, they might have several other things I would like. I like the series The Walking Dead and the new Batman movie looks pretty good. Again though, I don’t get so stoked about things like I feel as if I need to attend a convention for it. But, that’s just me. A lot of people would consider me a loser for it, but oh well. I’d probably be more content attending a convention on banana peel sticker collecting.
Above: Now this is more like it.
Dare I mention ANY of this on Facebook right now. Obviously, I have a lot of colleagues that are friends on there (well, Facebook friends, if there is such a thing). I could imagine a big de-friending event planned out pretty quickly in my honor if I spoke ill of the beloved Comic-Con. If I did, it would be like when the Beatles compared themselves to Jesus; everyone would probably burn their Break of Day cartoons and boycott me.
You know, if an event as big as SDCC ever came here to my area and I got a free ticket, I might just go. And then, maybe I’ll have a change of heart. But, in the meantime, my odd-ball costume is tucked away (actually, I don’t even have one) and I’ll be spending the weekend at the beach, watching baseball and probably not thinking about Comic-Con.
How do I say happy I’m not going in Klingon?
Nate's Ramblings 
There is a smaller con here in Cincinnati. Maybe 40-50 booths total. Interesting. Maybe you should get a table at a smaller one near you.
I’d have to have things to sell first. Beyond Cartoon Your Pets, I’m a bit dry. But, in the near future, that’s an idea.
What about a book collection? thought you had a couple of those
Book are coming soon! (Hopefully soon, that is.)