When I got home from from Comic Con, I decided to sell my prized Drew Struzan Frankenstein print which will be replaced by Struzan’s Dark Tower (I am a HUGE Stephen King fan) and also got rid of my Martin Ansin Dracula. Tears were shed but I made a few bucks. I got the chance to meet Drew at the Con and talk to him for a few minutes. He’s a humble, gentle man. I only had a minute or so to thank him for creating the iconic images that made me want to rush to the theater and see “that movie”.
In their place I now have a Francesco Francavilla Universal Monster corner and a lovely 1966 Batman print by Tom Whalen. I love both artist’s work.
In San Diego a friend of mine at Mattel hooked me up with the oversized 1966 Batmobile with the Batman and Robin figures. (Someday hope to get the Hot Toys one at SDCC – freakin’ amazing!!!!). The Mattel Batmobile was an SDCC Exclusive and will be at Toys R Us later this year.
A Company called 3D Light FX sent me this light up Iron Man mask and decal that makes it look like Ol’ Shellhead is busting through your room.
At the Con I got Scott C. to do a sketch of me in his Great Showdowns Book and Olly Moss drew a little Batman doodle in his Silhouettes book.
I was able to get some back issues of Sandman graphic novels to round out my collection (yes Comic Con actually has comics if you look hard enough). I am only missing one book now, Season of Mists. I’m eagerly anticipating Neil Gaiman’s Sandman Overture in October!
Finally, I have been hunting for these two Marvel Origin books for years. I had them when I was 10 years old and read them until they fell apart. I looked and looked at SDCC but they were too expensive or in rough condition. My best friend found them both at the Bud Plant booth for $145 – first print hardcovers in mint condition. Heart racing, I quickly snatched them up and then had Stan “The Man” Lee sign both! They will be keepsakes forever. Again, thanks Don!
So, that’s it for now until I hit up D23 Expo next week and see what I can bring home for my walls and shelves.