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Saturday, December 26, 2009
Issue 4 Teaser
Little teaser for issue 4. Hope you like it a belated Christmas gift=). Will soon post inks from our new inker and colorist, be ready the new issue is definitely gonna be awesome
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Reviews!
Check out comicrelated's review of Hotshot!
http://comicrelated.com/news/4371/raynman-power-hour-3
this is our review for the hotshot comc book. Check it out. starts at minute 46
http://comicrelated.com/news/4371/raynman-power-hour-3
this is our review for the hotshot comc book. Check it out. starts at minute 46
Reviews!
Check out awesome necessary cool's review about us!!
http://necessarycool.com/2009/12/hot-shots-reviewed/#more-3954
http://necessarycool.com/2009/12/hot-shots-reviewed/#more-3954
Columbus Crush Game Review 2
This is the 2nd home game of the Columbus crush ABA, the official sponsor of freestyle komics. When we were ready to head out for the game we went over to mike's were he had all the equipment loaded in the car and ready to go. So by the time we got there we were ready to go. so we left the house by 12 but we had a couple stops along the way of going to the basketball game. One of these stops included the stop at EVO (the print shop in which mike works). There we had to pick up some of our equipment we needed for the basketball game. Once we got all the things we needed from the print shop we were ready to go to the basketball game. When we got to the church it was around 4 (which was the time we wanted to be there) so we just started to unload things right away so we could get setting up quickly as possible. When we got everything unloaded and pretty much set up i was called back to the kitchen to work the concession stands again. So when i got back there i found out that it would only be David Moore and me. So with that we started making the food we were going to be selling and getting everything set up in place. when the food was done people were already crowding the basketball court. Within 5 minutes later the buzzer rang for the start of the game. By half time we were sold out of most things we were selling. So we didn't have much costumers toward the end of the game. So by the time the buzzer rang signaling the end of the game, we were pretty much cleaned up and ready to get out of there. So when i went back to the FSK stand all was well and everyone were getting their action photos and a lot of them pretty happy with it. So after we got everyone taking care of we started to pack up our things and loading them into the car. once we got everything loaded and put away we said our goodbyes and got in the car and left. We had a quiet ride to mike's house, but once there we settled down relaxed and had a giant sleepover.
Victoria
Victoria
Monday, December 21, 2009
REVIEWS !!
Reviews from comicrelated and necessarycool.com
http://comicrelated.com/news/4371/raynman-power-hour-This starts on minute 47 all about Vic, Me and Hotshot.http://necessarycool.com/2009/12/hot-shots-reviewed/#more-3954The review from Necessary Cool, please check this out and make comments, we are trying to make moves.
Today go to comicrelated.com for a podcast that will be having a
discussion about Hotshot around 4 pm and go to www.necessarycool.com to read a new article about Victor, me and Hotshot. Join the following people we are doing big things.
http://comicrelated.com/news/4371/raynman-power-hour-This starts on minute 47 all about Vic, Me and Hotshot.http://necessarycool.com/2009/12/hot-shots-reviewed/#more-3954The review from Necessary Cool, please check this out and make comments, we are trying to make moves.
Today go to comicrelated.com for a podcast that will be having a
discussion about Hotshot around 4 pm and go to www.necessarycool.com to read a new article about Victor, me and Hotshot. Join the following people we are doing big things.
Columbus Crush ; First Home Game
Columbus Crush ; First home game; Review
This was the first home game for the Columbus Crush ABA (American basketball Association), the official sponsor of Freestyle Komics.
We got all the things we use to set up for conventions and we all got in the car by 4:00 pm. Then we were off the the Columbus crush basketball game. We were all in the car preparing ourselves for what was to come. When we completed our 20 minute drive to New Covenant Believers Church. There we met David Moore, the owner of Columbus Crush. David Moore was very nice and showed us around and were to set up. Then he took me in the kitchen were I was going to help with the concession stand. So when we got a look around the place we went back to the car and started unloading everything out of the car and into the church. We set up everything in the place that we wanted it to be and we also kept taking pictures to keep documenting our progress we were making. By the time we got everything set up we realized that we needed batteries. So Mike and I ran back home to get the camera stand and the rechargeable batteries. When we got back to the church, it almost time to start the basketball game. This is when i was called to the concession stand to start working. When the game started things began to get crazy. i was in the kitchen working. Which i had really great people working with me and because of that the experience was very fun for me. So things picked up 1st-2nd quarter. But around half time things started to slow down some. People all had their food and bellies were full so there wasnt much going on after that. So finally the buzzer rang signaling the end of the game. Thats when we cleaned up the kitchen and i went back to our stand to help finish up the work and get going. But thats not how it worked.When i got back to the stand things werent going so well. Apparently the printer wasn't working correctly so mike decided that we were going to send the pictures we took all the costumer's emails, and refunded everyone for the delay. So after we gotten everyone takin care of we started packing up the equipment and loaded it in the car. Then we said our goodbyes and started home. But we decided that it was a long day so we rewarded ourselves with white castle and burger king, for mike. then we went home, filled our bellies and we went to bed.
The Columbus Crush were victorious in a very impressive game. 134-102 making them 4-0.
Victoria
Our first action photos.
This was the first home game for the Columbus Crush ABA (American basketball Association), the official sponsor of Freestyle Komics.
We got all the things we use to set up for conventions and we all got in the car by 4:00 pm. Then we were off the the Columbus crush basketball game. We were all in the car preparing ourselves for what was to come. When we completed our 20 minute drive to New Covenant Believers Church. There we met David Moore, the owner of Columbus Crush. David Moore was very nice and showed us around and were to set up. Then he took me in the kitchen were I was going to help with the concession stand. So when we got a look around the place we went back to the car and started unloading everything out of the car and into the church. We set up everything in the place that we wanted it to be and we also kept taking pictures to keep documenting our progress we were making. By the time we got everything set up we realized that we needed batteries. So Mike and I ran back home to get the camera stand and the rechargeable batteries. When we got back to the church, it almost time to start the basketball game. This is when i was called to the concession stand to start working. When the game started things began to get crazy. i was in the kitchen working. Which i had really great people working with me and because of that the experience was very fun for me. So things picked up 1st-2nd quarter. But around half time things started to slow down some. People all had their food and bellies were full so there wasnt much going on after that. So finally the buzzer rang signaling the end of the game. Thats when we cleaned up the kitchen and i went back to our stand to help finish up the work and get going. But thats not how it worked.When i got back to the stand things werent going so well. Apparently the printer wasn't working correctly so mike decided that we were going to send the pictures we took all the costumer's emails, and refunded everyone for the delay. So after we gotten everyone takin care of we started packing up the equipment and loaded it in the car. Then we said our goodbyes and started home. But we decided that it was a long day so we rewarded ourselves with white castle and burger king, for mike. then we went home, filled our bellies and we went to bed.
The Columbus Crush were victorious in a very impressive game. 134-102 making them 4-0.
Victoria
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
New Artist on Board
If anyone has been keeping up with the interviews that have been done on Freestyle Komics you would all be aware that we have been trying to secure a new inker. We have just recently added Jeriel Burtin to the crew on Hotshot. He is a Columbus College of Art and Design Alumni with a Bachelor of Fine Art focused on Time Based Media Studies. Jeriel is a fantastic artist and the inks over top of the lines of Mike Watson are proving to be a great team up.We cannot wait to see Mr. Ryan Carter's colors on the pages. Jeriel is also an exceptional character designer to boot. You can see his art at Jerizle.deviantart.com. We will soon be posting the inks and more sneak peaks soon. We will also be posting reviews from our last two events at the Columbus Crush and the Special Wish foundation. Stay tuned
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
If you did not make it to the Main Street Komics and Games book signing due to Magneto and the evil mutants holding you hostage that is ok here is what we announced and showed everyone. ANd next time that happens call us we will send Hotshot, and Vigilance to get you=)
So we are releasing a brand new Komic at S.P.A.C.E 2010. It is called Emerald Quest. It was originally crafted by Me and has been a book that I have wanted to get off the ground for a while. The writer is Ethan Murry and the Artist on the book will Be David Brame. here is a look into the character designs that I started and then David did the final look at the characters.
Nikkie Forte is working hard on the 4 issue mini series Vigilance. Here is her first run and it is HOT!
e also will have our first cross over event with Ravenhouse Comics. L.Hammer and Hotshot will be teaming up for a two part smack down. We are VERY excited about this and cannot wait for it to happen. Will be posting the new pin up with these two characters soon
We have also launched a new Internship program for kids at Freestyle Komics. The FSK Squad has been working very diligently on our new pages on some of your favorite networking/friend sites. You can now become a fan on face book which you should. Victoria Suitor is over the fan page at FSK. Olivia Suitor handles our Myspae page, Flikr and Deviant Art page.Chris Suitor handles our deviant art page for Freestyle Komics. www.freestylekomics.deviantart.com Finally Madison Suitor handles our email accounts fskteam@yahoo.com & fsksquad@gmail.com. So if you recieve emails from them it is the new hotness that is goings down at FSK. they will also be helping with the book signing and komic book conventions. They are going to learn about Komics, how to make them, drawing, using these net working sites as true networking devices, and staying off the streets.
So we are releasing a brand new Komic at S.P.A.C.E 2010. It is called Emerald Quest. It was originally crafted by Me and has been a book that I have wanted to get off the ground for a while. The writer is Ethan Murry and the Artist on the book will Be David Brame. here is a look into the character designs that I started and then David did the final look at the characters.
Nikkie Forte is working hard on the 4 issue mini series Vigilance. Here is her first run and it is HOT!
e also will have our first cross over event with Ravenhouse Comics. L.Hammer and Hotshot will be teaming up for a two part smack down. We are VERY excited about this and cannot wait for it to happen. Will be posting the new pin up with these two characters soon
We have also launched a new Internship program for kids at Freestyle Komics. The FSK Squad has been working very diligently on our new pages on some of your favorite networking/friend sites. You can now become a fan on face book which you should. Victoria Suitor is over the fan page at FSK. Olivia Suitor handles our Myspae page, Flikr and Deviant Art page.Chris Suitor handles our deviant art page for Freestyle Komics. www.freestylekomics.deviantart.com Finally Madison Suitor handles our email accounts fskteam@yahoo.com & fsksquad@gmail.com. So if you recieve emails from them it is the new hotness that is goings down at FSK. they will also be helping with the book signing and komic book conventions. They are going to learn about Komics, how to make them, drawing, using these net working sites as true networking devices, and staying off the streets.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
FSK SQUAD REVIEW from Springfield
November 14th was the first book signing outside of Columbus, Ohio for Freestyle Komics. This was the 1st mission for the FSK team. We met up in the morning and had the 1st team breakfast ever with Mike Watson the artist and creator of Hotshot. Then after breakfast we started our hour long trip to Springfield,Oh.
When we arrived too our destination, which was Main street Comics and Games, even though the komic store was closed, we had enough time to hand out flyers for the signing. We put flyers in the windshields of cars,we put flyers in the pop machines and news stands. Also while we were handing out flyers we met a "biker" gang( 4 kids on BMX's). Once we were done passing out flyers we went back to see if anyone was there at the comic store.
There was someone there when we went back.It was Bill Gladman, the owner of Main Street comics and Games. When we meet Bill he was very nice and helpful. He showed us where to start setting up and then thats what we did. The comic shop is kind of small but the layout works. There is a whole half wall with some of their comic displays and then boxes of comics on the sides. Then there was a whole back section that has all their Xbox games and all of that fun stuff. There also was and Xbox that people can come in play for a while. Then there are two booths you can sit at and read your comics or whatever. So Bill told us o set up in the back toward the TV. We set up our table with our book display case. We also had a Hotshot preview showing on the laptop. We had Chris working the xbox and madison the sign to attract people to the store. Victoria was working the computer with all the inventory and shows. We had some costumers come in and look at our stuff, and sold alot of it. We also had some friends come down and show us their support. We also meet some other komic book writers and it was a very fun experience. We decided that it would be a good time to go get some food. So we got our food and brought it back just in time for the interview with Frank Raynor.
The interview with Frank was an amazing experience for the FSK group. Frank interviewed Victor Dandridge and Mike Watson, partners in Freestyle Komics. The two of them announed when issue 4 of hotshot will be coming out which will be released in january 2010. Also they announced the on coming of Nikki Forte as the artist of the mini series Vigilance. Raven House comics will be doing a two part crossover with Hotshot and L.Hammer. Eathan Murry and David Brame were announced as the Writer/Artist of Emerald Quest. Also announced the development of the FSK Squad composed of Victoria, Madison, Chris, and Olivia Suitor. The FSK Squad is responsible for the Face Book, Myspace, Deviantart, and email accounts for Freestyle Komics
After we had our awesome interview there was a sketch battle. First round was Mike vs. Victor, though Victor did well it wasn't good enough against Mike. Then Victor vs. Jacob, from the studio Akumkaze. Jacob won. Then round three was Mike vs. Jacob. It was a good round but Mike didn't beat Jacob. The winner of the sketch battles was indeed Jacob from Studio Akumkaze. It was a very competitive battle but also fun and comical. By then things were settling down and we decided that we would call it a day.
So we packed and loaded up our things into the car. Then we said our goodbyes. Then we got in the car to hit the road. Though we were ready to go home we wanted to do one last thing before we left Springfield. So we stopped at McDonalds, got our McFlurry's and then headed home.
So in conclusion, Springfield was a very exciting experience for the FSK team. It was a good chance to expand our connections and to meet more interesting people. We also got interviewed which was awesome. It was a great experience and we hope to do it again soon. We appreciate everyone who came out to see us and show their support for the FSK group. We also give special thanks to MAin Street Comics and Games
When we arrived too our destination, which was Main street Comics and Games, even though the komic store was closed, we had enough time to hand out flyers for the signing. We put flyers in the windshields of cars,we put flyers in the pop machines and news stands. Also while we were handing out flyers we met a "biker" gang( 4 kids on BMX's). Once we were done passing out flyers we went back to see if anyone was there at the comic store.
There was someone there when we went back.It was Bill Gladman, the owner of Main Street comics and Games. When we meet Bill he was very nice and helpful. He showed us where to start setting up and then thats what we did. The comic shop is kind of small but the layout works. There is a whole half wall with some of their comic displays and then boxes of comics on the sides. Then there was a whole back section that has all their Xbox games and all of that fun stuff. There also was and Xbox that people can come in play for a while. Then there are two booths you can sit at and read your comics or whatever. So Bill told us o set up in the back toward the TV. We set up our table with our book display case. We also had a Hotshot preview showing on the laptop. We had Chris working the xbox and madison the sign to attract people to the store. Victoria was working the computer with all the inventory and shows. We had some costumers come in and look at our stuff, and sold alot of it. We also had some friends come down and show us their support. We also meet some other komic book writers and it was a very fun experience. We decided that it would be a good time to go get some food. So we got our food and brought it back just in time for the interview with Frank Raynor.
The interview with Frank was an amazing experience for the FSK group. Frank interviewed Victor Dandridge and Mike Watson, partners in Freestyle Komics. The two of them announed when issue 4 of hotshot will be coming out which will be released in january 2010. Also they announced the on coming of Nikki Forte as the artist of the mini series Vigilance. Raven House comics will be doing a two part crossover with Hotshot and L.Hammer. Eathan Murry and David Brame were announced as the Writer/Artist of Emerald Quest. Also announced the development of the FSK Squad composed of Victoria, Madison, Chris, and Olivia Suitor. The FSK Squad is responsible for the Face Book, Myspace, Deviantart, and email accounts for Freestyle Komics
After we had our awesome interview there was a sketch battle. First round was Mike vs. Victor, though Victor did well it wasn't good enough against Mike. Then Victor vs. Jacob, from the studio Akumkaze. Jacob won. Then round three was Mike vs. Jacob. It was a good round but Mike didn't beat Jacob. The winner of the sketch battles was indeed Jacob from Studio Akumkaze. It was a very competitive battle but also fun and comical. By then things were settling down and we decided that we would call it a day.
So we packed and loaded up our things into the car. Then we said our goodbyes. Then we got in the car to hit the road. Though we were ready to go home we wanted to do one last thing before we left Springfield. So we stopped at McDonalds, got our McFlurry's and then headed home.
So in conclusion, Springfield was a very exciting experience for the FSK team. It was a good chance to expand our connections and to meet more interesting people. We also got interviewed which was awesome. It was a great experience and we hope to do it again soon. We appreciate everyone who came out to see us and show their support for the FSK group. We also give special thanks to MAin Street Comics and Games
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Springfield Review by Bill Gladman
Life In Four Colors Event Coverage
Hotshot book signing at Main Street Comics
and Games with Freestyle Komics
Saturday November 14th Hotshot writer Victor Dandridge and artist/creator Mike Watson along with the Freestyle Street Team took over the Main Street Comics and Games storefront for what was supposed to be your ordinary type book signing. Turned out it was much more. The event was supposed to run from noon until six o' clock, and the actual signing did. But the comic book talk continued on for hours more. With store owner Scott Riley, Victor, Studio Akumakaze members writer BJ Johnson and artist Jacob Newell, Akumakaze hired lead slinger Brain Latimer and myself all in attendance as well as one or two regular customers...we talked about EVERY aspect of comics long after the store had closed.
Actually Scott finally made everybody leave, although he didn't want to. And my head was still swimming from the previous conversations of the night before when I woke up this morning. It was the best "comic book hangover" I ever had.
(No...we weren't drinking anything other than the usual mix of carbonated sodas).
Since S.P.A.C.E 2009 the guys from Freestyle Komics almost seemed to come out of nowhere. To be honest before day one of that two day show I had never heard of them or their ongoing comic Hotshot. Now, just seven months later it seems that everybody knows who Mike Watson and Victor Dandridge are. More importantly they know who Freestyle Komics are. Scott and I have wanted to get Mike and Victor in the store for a book signing since Champion City Comic Con where the now legendary Freestyle Sketch Battles were given birth. Their combined energy and enthusiasm took over the entire second floor of the con and when they sat down at the Independent Thinking panel at the show along with their peers in the field, took off those masks they wear as the "Masters of Self Promotion", and got down to the basics of talking business. People listened.
And people are still listening.
Everybody has a method and technique in promoting their own books. And just because these guys like to have fun while they're out there making a name for themselves, meeting fans, and of course making new fans....don't sell these guys short.
There is a fire of determination behind those fun loving eyes of Victor Dandridge you will find hard to match anywhere else. He breathes professional confidence while at the same time he's not afraid to crack a joke at any given minute...or even show off some dance moves. His partner in crime, Mr. Michael J. Watson balances Victor in every aspect. A man of vision equaled only by his creative energy and sense of eagerness to please the customer. To exceed the readers expectations to every detail. From the books on the table, the way the table is set up. To the people they associate with. Mike has a unique visual image of what Freestyle Komics should look like. What it should feel like. And that is the secret (one of many that these two gentlemen have down to a fine practiced art)....meeting the guys behind the Freestyle table is an experience and one you will never forget. If it's the first time you've done so...or the tenth.
They have earned their reputation of the Masters of Self Promotion and are always ready to "Drop it like it's Hotshot!" They even brought their own mixed soundtrack with them to play on the store's stereo system and it was a great mix of music. Michael Jackson, Prince, Queen...."We Are the Champions" a favorite at the Main Street store and many more!
The book signing took on a life all it's own. It became a party, a Freestyle party and I wanted to share a little of it with you.
Victor and Mike putting the final touches on the table setup while members of the Freestyle Street Team play Modern Warfare 2...during their break. Mike brought about four kids with him (each rockin' a Hotshot t-shirt.)Both he and Victor make a serious commitment to giving back to the community and take great pride in being positive role models for the kids in their neighborhood. And the Street Team was no joke! They can set up and tear down a table faster than a speeding bullet, stream information to several different websites at once, and even pick up a white board hyping the event and go outside and bring people into the store!!
Like this young lady who picked up a copy of every book the guys had available. And she wasn't the only one to do so. I lost track of the number of people walking away from the table with a full set of Hotshot books in their eager little hands.
Jacob Newell just realized he was in this photo a second too late.
One of our many great customers at the store, Joe. Hanging out on a beautiful November Saturday afternoon in a very classic Thor shirt. Good stuff!
"Fierce" Frank Raynor preparing for the video interview with Victor and Mike which he did for Underground Video Network.
Frank and I also did a brief video promo for the RaynMan Power Hour Show debuting on Comic Related Monday November 16th. He also filmed interviews with Scott Riley and myself about the plans for Champion City 2010. (Hey, it's all about self promotion.)
Check out Frank's full interview with the guys at http://undergroundvideonetwork.com/ which is going live on the site in just a few hours.
Victor Dandridge. Mike Watson. Frank Raynor. Nuff said.
Jacob knows he's in front of a camera this time.
Raichal hanging with Mike and Victor. She loves these guys. The feeling appears to be more than mutual.
Pretty decent crowd. A lot of foot traffic in and out of the store all day. This book signing was the sixth such event we've had at the store and the store itself hasn't even been open for a year yet. Other signings so far have included Chad Lambert, Jesse Mounts, Dustin Carson, Sean Collins, and Studio Akumakaze with future plans for Sean Forney, Chad Strohl, Gary and Derron Church, as well as Andy McGinn. Scott and I are so very lucky to know so many talented people who want to stop by the store. It's always a mini-convention at Main Street Comics and Games!
Rich "The Stoner Review" Walden and Rick Lazear showing their overwhelming support for our current commander in chief. Rich and Rick showed up while in the middle of the taping of the RaynMan promo and make a brief cameo! Two of my oldest friends. I've played music with these two guys off and on for years in various projects and bands. Rich is without a doubt the best drummer I have ever worked with...and the best damn drummer I ever heard! I'm very thankful to have recorded a couple of c.d ';s with him in the past including the Misled: Seasons Past disc back in 1996 and Project X: Good Intentions back in 2002.
Rick is a local guitar legend. He was on the Project X disc with me and Rich and plays all the music for the Eternity's End concept disc we are working on with former So Be It lead vocalist Kevin Adkins. Hopefully the disc will be out some time in 2010. Production is currently on hiatus until March 2010.
Both Rich and Rick appear on the All Is Forgiven disc I released in 2007 while still affiliated with Zonetrooper. The disc was my farewell to playing music and a greatest hit disc (of sorts). Currently I only write songs and produce.
Watch for Rich's review column in the Rabbit Hole forum real soon.....back to our regularly scheduled event coverage.
The store got crowded enough that Raichal decided to hang outside with Ron Fortier and Chad Lambert junkie Rob Adams (in the leather jacket) and his sidekick. Springfield Ohio's biggest Moon Knight fan. The conversation bounced around from Hotshot, Red Robin, and Batgirl with a little of the Darkness thrown in for good measure.
The biggest surprise of the afternoon came for me during a moment on the before mentioned soundtrack (one of my favorite songs that I first heard on an episode of Smallville called Superman -It's Not Easy by the band Five for Fighting) Victor and Mike presented me with this. They had heard about my father passing away recently and designed this beautiful framed picture featuring a heartfelt black and white illustration of Hotshot and a paragraph dedicated to my Dad's memory.
Are these guys super cool or what....(and yes I cried like a little girl...even Riley started to tear up.)
Spending a little time in the sun.
Scott listening in on tales of past road trips to Chicago inside with Tyler from Studio Akumakaze.
Back to business, Mike working on one of the commissions he sold while at the store. This one was an "Evil Ernie"
And the finished product and a happy customer...Thelma...Wonder Woman from Champion City Comic Con. Doing this last commission got Mike fired up and you know what time it was now.....
Sketch Battle Time!!!!!!! Round One....Mike versus Victor...five minutes to draw Deadpool (thanks for the suggestion...and the dedication Brian!) Mike wins the first round.
Round Two: Jacob versus Victor. Five minutes to draw Red She-Hulk. Suggested by Scott. Jacob beats Victor.
Round Three. Final Round. Jacob versus Mike. Five minutes to draw Black Bolt. As suggested by Victor...I learned that Black Bolt is Victor's favorite character...pretty cool...and as time ticks away, the winner of this double elimination Sketch Battle is....
JACOB NEWELL!!!!!
Not long after the Sketch Battles finished up Mike had to leave to get the kids from the Street Crew back in time. Victor hung out four another three and half hours talking shop in the shop.
Over all a great day. A win for Freestyle Komics and a win for Main Street Comics and Games. Want to get in on the ground floor on what is sure to be an independent comic sensation and learn more about Hotshot and Freestyle Komics check out the following site.
www.freestylekomics.com
Until next time, I leave you with a little music. A song I like now more than ever and will always have fond memories of until the day I catch up with the "old man".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gNkuD01v8U
Bill Gladman - Bill is a writer and illustrator and currently working on several different projects including the first issue of an ongoing comic book series (Prodigy), an illustrated fantasy novel (The Book of Noheim), and the first of four illustrated science fiction/fantasy novels (Jack the Rabbit, Living Legend of the Purple Plains) as well as a light-hearted on going mini-comic (Three Wise Men). Bill also pens a column for Comic Related and will be doing a mix of regional convention coverage.
Hotshot book signing at Main Street Comics
and Games with Freestyle Komics
Saturday November 14th Hotshot writer Victor Dandridge and artist/creator Mike Watson along with the Freestyle Street Team took over the Main Street Comics and Games storefront for what was supposed to be your ordinary type book signing. Turned out it was much more. The event was supposed to run from noon until six o' clock, and the actual signing did. But the comic book talk continued on for hours more. With store owner Scott Riley, Victor, Studio Akumakaze members writer BJ Johnson and artist Jacob Newell, Akumakaze hired lead slinger Brain Latimer and myself all in attendance as well as one or two regular customers...we talked about EVERY aspect of comics long after the store had closed.
Actually Scott finally made everybody leave, although he didn't want to. And my head was still swimming from the previous conversations of the night before when I woke up this morning. It was the best "comic book hangover" I ever had.
(No...we weren't drinking anything other than the usual mix of carbonated sodas).
Since S.P.A.C.E 2009 the guys from Freestyle Komics almost seemed to come out of nowhere. To be honest before day one of that two day show I had never heard of them or their ongoing comic Hotshot. Now, just seven months later it seems that everybody knows who Mike Watson and Victor Dandridge are. More importantly they know who Freestyle Komics are. Scott and I have wanted to get Mike and Victor in the store for a book signing since Champion City Comic Con where the now legendary Freestyle Sketch Battles were given birth. Their combined energy and enthusiasm took over the entire second floor of the con and when they sat down at the Independent Thinking panel at the show along with their peers in the field, took off those masks they wear as the "Masters of Self Promotion", and got down to the basics of talking business. People listened.
And people are still listening.
Everybody has a method and technique in promoting their own books. And just because these guys like to have fun while they're out there making a name for themselves, meeting fans, and of course making new fans....don't sell these guys short.
There is a fire of determination behind those fun loving eyes of Victor Dandridge you will find hard to match anywhere else. He breathes professional confidence while at the same time he's not afraid to crack a joke at any given minute...or even show off some dance moves. His partner in crime, Mr. Michael J. Watson balances Victor in every aspect. A man of vision equaled only by his creative energy and sense of eagerness to please the customer. To exceed the readers expectations to every detail. From the books on the table, the way the table is set up. To the people they associate with. Mike has a unique visual image of what Freestyle Komics should look like. What it should feel like. And that is the secret (one of many that these two gentlemen have down to a fine practiced art)....meeting the guys behind the Freestyle table is an experience and one you will never forget. If it's the first time you've done so...or the tenth.
They have earned their reputation of the Masters of Self Promotion and are always ready to "Drop it like it's Hotshot!" They even brought their own mixed soundtrack with them to play on the store's stereo system and it was a great mix of music. Michael Jackson, Prince, Queen...."We Are the Champions" a favorite at the Main Street store and many more!
The book signing took on a life all it's own. It became a party, a Freestyle party and I wanted to share a little of it with you.
Victor and Mike putting the final touches on the table setup while members of the Freestyle Street Team play Modern Warfare 2...during their break. Mike brought about four kids with him (each rockin' a Hotshot t-shirt.)Both he and Victor make a serious commitment to giving back to the community and take great pride in being positive role models for the kids in their neighborhood. And the Street Team was no joke! They can set up and tear down a table faster than a speeding bullet, stream information to several different websites at once, and even pick up a white board hyping the event and go outside and bring people into the store!!
Like this young lady who picked up a copy of every book the guys had available. And she wasn't the only one to do so. I lost track of the number of people walking away from the table with a full set of Hotshot books in their eager little hands.
Jacob Newell just realized he was in this photo a second too late.
One of our many great customers at the store, Joe. Hanging out on a beautiful November Saturday afternoon in a very classic Thor shirt. Good stuff!
"Fierce" Frank Raynor preparing for the video interview with Victor and Mike which he did for Underground Video Network.
Frank and I also did a brief video promo for the RaynMan Power Hour Show debuting on Comic Related Monday November 16th. He also filmed interviews with Scott Riley and myself about the plans for Champion City 2010. (Hey, it's all about self promotion.)
Check out Frank's full interview with the guys at http://undergroundvideonetwork.com/ which is going live on the site in just a few hours.
Victor Dandridge. Mike Watson. Frank Raynor. Nuff said.
Jacob knows he's in front of a camera this time.
Raichal hanging with Mike and Victor. She loves these guys. The feeling appears to be more than mutual.
Pretty decent crowd. A lot of foot traffic in and out of the store all day. This book signing was the sixth such event we've had at the store and the store itself hasn't even been open for a year yet. Other signings so far have included Chad Lambert, Jesse Mounts, Dustin Carson, Sean Collins, and Studio Akumakaze with future plans for Sean Forney, Chad Strohl, Gary and Derron Church, as well as Andy McGinn. Scott and I are so very lucky to know so many talented people who want to stop by the store. It's always a mini-convention at Main Street Comics and Games!
Rich "The Stoner Review" Walden and Rick Lazear showing their overwhelming support for our current commander in chief. Rich and Rick showed up while in the middle of the taping of the RaynMan promo and make a brief cameo! Two of my oldest friends. I've played music with these two guys off and on for years in various projects and bands. Rich is without a doubt the best drummer I have ever worked with...and the best damn drummer I ever heard! I'm very thankful to have recorded a couple of c.d ';s with him in the past including the Misled: Seasons Past disc back in 1996 and Project X: Good Intentions back in 2002.
Rick is a local guitar legend. He was on the Project X disc with me and Rich and plays all the music for the Eternity's End concept disc we are working on with former So Be It lead vocalist Kevin Adkins. Hopefully the disc will be out some time in 2010. Production is currently on hiatus until March 2010.
Both Rich and Rick appear on the All Is Forgiven disc I released in 2007 while still affiliated with Zonetrooper. The disc was my farewell to playing music and a greatest hit disc (of sorts). Currently I only write songs and produce.
Watch for Rich's review column in the Rabbit Hole forum real soon.....back to our regularly scheduled event coverage.
The store got crowded enough that Raichal decided to hang outside with Ron Fortier and Chad Lambert junkie Rob Adams (in the leather jacket) and his sidekick. Springfield Ohio's biggest Moon Knight fan. The conversation bounced around from Hotshot, Red Robin, and Batgirl with a little of the Darkness thrown in for good measure.
The biggest surprise of the afternoon came for me during a moment on the before mentioned soundtrack (one of my favorite songs that I first heard on an episode of Smallville called Superman -It's Not Easy by the band Five for Fighting) Victor and Mike presented me with this. They had heard about my father passing away recently and designed this beautiful framed picture featuring a heartfelt black and white illustration of Hotshot and a paragraph dedicated to my Dad's memory.
Are these guys super cool or what....(and yes I cried like a little girl...even Riley started to tear up.)
Spending a little time in the sun.
Scott listening in on tales of past road trips to Chicago inside with Tyler from Studio Akumakaze.
Back to business, Mike working on one of the commissions he sold while at the store. This one was an "Evil Ernie"
And the finished product and a happy customer...Thelma...Wonder Woman from Champion City Comic Con. Doing this last commission got Mike fired up and you know what time it was now.....
Sketch Battle Time!!!!!!! Round One....Mike versus Victor...five minutes to draw Deadpool (thanks for the suggestion...and the dedication Brian!) Mike wins the first round.
Round Two: Jacob versus Victor. Five minutes to draw Red She-Hulk. Suggested by Scott. Jacob beats Victor.
Round Three. Final Round. Jacob versus Mike. Five minutes to draw Black Bolt. As suggested by Victor...I learned that Black Bolt is Victor's favorite character...pretty cool...and as time ticks away, the winner of this double elimination Sketch Battle is....
JACOB NEWELL!!!!!
Not long after the Sketch Battles finished up Mike had to leave to get the kids from the Street Crew back in time. Victor hung out four another three and half hours talking shop in the shop.
Over all a great day. A win for Freestyle Komics and a win for Main Street Comics and Games. Want to get in on the ground floor on what is sure to be an independent comic sensation and learn more about Hotshot and Freestyle Komics check out the following site.
www.freestylekomics.com
Until next time, I leave you with a little music. A song I like now more than ever and will always have fond memories of until the day I catch up with the "old man".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gNkuD01v8U
Bill Gladman - Bill is a writer and illustrator and currently working on several different projects including the first issue of an ongoing comic book series (Prodigy), an illustrated fantasy novel (The Book of Noheim), and the first of four illustrated science fiction/fantasy novels (Jack the Rabbit, Living Legend of the Purple Plains) as well as a light-hearted on going mini-comic (Three Wise Men). Bill also pens a column for Comic Related and will be doing a mix of regional convention coverage.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Fan Page on Face Book
We have started a fan page on Face book and you should sign up for it if you are on face book. Soon to come updates from the Springfield book signing, emerald quest sneak peaks, the introduction of FSK Youth Force 3 page preview of Hotshot 4, and so much more... stay tuned
http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=11104&uid=174875843132#/pages/Freestyle-Komics/174875843132?ref=mf
http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=11104&uid=174875843132#/pages/Freestyle-Komics/174875843132?ref=mf
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Sprignfield first to get new Poster
East Main Street Comics and Games got the first poster of Hotshot this week and placed on there wall. It was an awesome thing to see. I think they really like the work=)
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East Main Street Comics and Games got the first poster of Hotshot this week and placed on there wall. It was an awesome thing to see. I think they really like the work=)
Add a caption
East Main Street Comics and Games got the first poster of Hotshot this week and placed on there wall. It was an awesome thing to see. I think they really like the work=)
Monday, October 19, 2009
Springfield Book Signing
Freestyle Komics is so proud and excited for our first book release in another city, Springfield Ohio at Main Street Comics and Games. It only makes sense that the city where Sketch Battles were inaugurated is the city to host our first out of city book Signing.
Due to it being the first signing out of the greater Columbus area we have big plans for the event. We are taking orders on color commissions of freestyle Komics Characters, selling posters, releasing exclusive new prints from FSK, selling issues 0-3 of Hotshot, Sketch Battles, contest and Portfolio reviews.
We will be doing commissions, not just sketches but full fledged commissions. Tools used will be pencil, inks, white acrylic, markers, sharpies and these commissions will cost 5 bucks! It will be a limited run you will have to hit the blogsite and leave comments under this article requesting your character you want us to draw. You can choose from Hotshot, Vigilance, Void, Justice, or Carla.
We will have the "Hotshot Kills Broad and High" Poster for sell. It will be 18 x 24 in. full color poster selling for 10 bucks. We will have exclusive new 11 x 17 prints featuring new and old artist from FSK. We will of course have issues #0-3 of Hotshot to sell and sign for fans.
The epic return of SKETCH BATTLES to the city that made them popular. See us battle it out to see who can create the better freestyle art off the top of our heads. You pick the character and we draw it with no reference.
FSK is looking for new pencilers, inkers and colorist to join or crew to make komics, go to conventions, and most of all get our names out there to the komics community.
Do you want to win the "The Hotshot Kills Broad and High" poster for free, check the blogsite on November 10 2009 to find out how you can win it.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Hotshot issue 4 teaser
Yea here is the teaser for issue 4 of Hotshot but also the Poster for the end of the year.
Click the image to get a bigger view.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Mid Ohio Con Wrap Up
Welcome to the Mid Ohio Con wrap up
Click on pictures to get a bigger View
MOC was great show for FSK. This was our first appearance and we had a very strong showing. We met so many new people that were just wonderful to be with. Saw our comic brethren as well and it was good to see all of them again. We sold a lot of Hotshot books, and a crap load of Prints. We had several contest and giveaways at the conventions. SKETCH BATTLES were a huge success at the convention!We also premiered an updated Hotshot button and the 1st costume button thanks to Mutant Cactus.
Here are pics from the epic sketch battles that started to bring FSK attention at the con
We did a few contest as well, a Scavenger hunt and a Independent Publisher starter pack. The Scavenger hunt you had to find several key people and items located in the convention to win. If you did that you would win a Hotshot music CD, Chipotle with free guacamole, 24 x 36 poster of The Ninja Turtles, Hotshot Issues 0,1,2,3, A carrier bag from EVO, Tales of Awesome #1, Free Blackest Night Buttons, Free Hotshot Buttons, No Gods #1, A custom print from Blades Illustrations, A 10 dollar Gift Certificate from Dave's Clubhouse, 2 free passes to the BRUSH experience, 4 Season pass tickets to the ABA Basketball team The Columbus Crush. Here are pics of our winners from Saturday and Sunday
In our raffle ticket contest for Independent publishers our sponsors were Freestyle Komics, Evo, Evolution Printing, and Soulo Theory. FSK provided a free variant cover for any 1 issue of the winners book. Evo and Evolution printing together provided- 200 free business cards, 10 full color copies of the winners book, 20 11 by 17 prints, and 1 24 by 36 in full color poster. All of these printed items would feature the winners characters and art work. Soulo Theaory provided a free redesign or Logo design with a newly designed Title font for the book of the winner. Here are the winners.
Derek Stewart of Art and Design Apparel, and Bruce Gerlach of Tattoed-Sky
It was great to see all our friends from Comic Related, Mutant Cactus, Ren McKinzie of Blades Illustrations who dominated our Sketch Battles,Dustin of No Gods, Studio Akumakaze, Ringtail Cafe productions. Then we met new awesome people like Justin Castaneda from "When I was Little", Jacob Newell participated in a many Sketch battles, Steve Scott, Nikki Forte she is a mean Silke Spectre, and Julia Wright draws wicked cool Harry Potter characters.
Special thanks to all of our sponsors and the crew that worked the tables and floor for us Phil, Staffon,Deborah and Dez for all their help this weekend.
More Pics to come soon....
Click on pictures to get a bigger View
MOC was great show for FSK. This was our first appearance and we had a very strong showing. We met so many new people that were just wonderful to be with. Saw our comic brethren as well and it was good to see all of them again. We sold a lot of Hotshot books, and a crap load of Prints. We had several contest and giveaways at the conventions. SKETCH BATTLES were a huge success at the convention!We also premiered an updated Hotshot button and the 1st costume button thanks to Mutant Cactus.
Here are pics from the epic sketch battles that started to bring FSK attention at the con
We did a few contest as well, a Scavenger hunt and a Independent Publisher starter pack. The Scavenger hunt you had to find several key people and items located in the convention to win. If you did that you would win a Hotshot music CD, Chipotle with free guacamole, 24 x 36 poster of The Ninja Turtles, Hotshot Issues 0,1,2,3, A carrier bag from EVO, Tales of Awesome #1, Free Blackest Night Buttons, Free Hotshot Buttons, No Gods #1, A custom print from Blades Illustrations, A 10 dollar Gift Certificate from Dave's Clubhouse, 2 free passes to the BRUSH experience, 4 Season pass tickets to the ABA Basketball team The Columbus Crush. Here are pics of our winners from Saturday and Sunday
In our raffle ticket contest for Independent publishers our sponsors were Freestyle Komics, Evo, Evolution Printing, and Soulo Theory. FSK provided a free variant cover for any 1 issue of the winners book. Evo and Evolution printing together provided- 200 free business cards, 10 full color copies of the winners book, 20 11 by 17 prints, and 1 24 by 36 in full color poster. All of these printed items would feature the winners characters and art work. Soulo Theaory provided a free redesign or Logo design with a newly designed Title font for the book of the winner. Here are the winners.
Derek Stewart of Art and Design Apparel, and Bruce Gerlach of Tattoed-Sky
It was great to see all our friends from Comic Related, Mutant Cactus, Ren McKinzie of Blades Illustrations who dominated our Sketch Battles,Dustin of No Gods, Studio Akumakaze, Ringtail Cafe productions. Then we met new awesome people like Justin Castaneda from "When I was Little", Jacob Newell participated in a many Sketch battles, Steve Scott, Nikki Forte she is a mean Silke Spectre, and Julia Wright draws wicked cool Harry Potter characters.
Special thanks to all of our sponsors and the crew that worked the tables and floor for us Phil, Staffon,Deborah and Dez for all their help this weekend.
More Pics to come soon....
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