Fan Expo Chicago 2022: Comic Guest Spotlight
One of the best ways to entice people to attend a comic convention is by assembling an incredible and diverse group of talented creators. Comic fans, including myself, are constantly checking for updates leading up to a show. We’re all waiting to see which writers, pencillers, painters, inkers, colorists and letterers will be in attendance. The phrase “the more the merrier” is more than apt when it comes to comic conventions.
Fan Expo Chicago takes place this week, so let’s take an opportunity to spotlight some of the talented comic creators that will be in attendance. From mainstream to indie works, this guest list is set to make it a convention to remember.
Brian Michael Bendis and Geoff Johns are a couple of writers who’ve been big draws for years and usually command lengthy lines. One of the few on this list I’ve met, Bendis has been popular for his writing on Ultimate Spider-Man, Avengers and Daredevil. Johns’ runs on Green Lantern and Flash were also well received by the community.
Painter extraordinaire, David Mack, of similar Daredevil fame, is another I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. He also created the independent work Kabuki, which has run several series.
Marc Silvestri, partially known for his work on Uncanny X-Men and Wolverine, has to be celebrated for his role in the formation of Image Comics and subsequently his own imprint, Top Cow Productions, along with titles such as Cyberforce and The Darkness.
Comic books are far from a North American uniquity. There are artists who’ve made an impact from all over, especially with ties to Italy. Some of those receiving praise are Alessandro Cappuccio (Moon Knight), Francesco Manna (Carnage) and Dike Ruan (Shang-Chi).
Making their mark on the indie side of the industry with their unique styles capturing the essence of their series are Stephanie Hans (Die) and Simone Di Meo (We Only Find Them When They’re Dead). Teaming with Image Comics and BOOM! Studios, respectively, these artists have helped their series carve out spaces in the minds and hearts of fans all around.
Having a career in comics that’s spanned decades and continues to go strong should be acknowledged. That’s why names such as Leinil Francis Yu (X-Men, Silent Dragon), Joe Quesada (Marvel Knights, Ninjak) and Greg Capullo (Spawn, Batman) continue to excite fans.
Joshua “Sway” Swaby’s name continues to spread as one of the most popular cover artists around. His pieces for Black History Month and Pride tributes are highly sought after by collectors of all tastes.
The final two creators in the spotlight need no introduction to longtime comic fans. They are Alex Saviuk and Howard Mackie. Though they may not be as well known by newer readers, their work continues to be admired. Saviuk’s lengthy stint on Web of Spider-Man helped define that title. His work on several Spider-Man titles aside, Mackie is well regarded for not only his ‘90s Ghost Rider run, but for co-creating the lead character of the relaunched series, Danny Ketch.
Which creators are you looking forward to seeing? What comics are you taking to get signed? Are you getting any commissions done? Let’s hear about it.
FAN EXPO Chicago takes place July 7th-10th at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL.