Comics

As reported by Laura Hudson, at today's ICv2 conference, people were moaning about prices. :

The complaint of high prices was discussed as well, along with the statistics that the average cover price of a comic book in the second quarter of 2010 is now $3.53, up from $3.38 in 2009. "Overall, [fans] are paying more for the same type of content than they were two years ago," said Griepp.

Moving forward with digital was the theme of today's ICv2 Comics and Digital conference, which kicked off New York Comic Con with an afternoon of panels and idea sharing. And for those who are moving, they are doing so with zeal and purpose. As opposed to previous such industry gatherings, where digital was timidly referring to in veiled terms, left the Gods of Tradition strike the heretics dead, almost all of today's speakers are living in a world where digital is already a part of their revenue stream. It made for a lively day of engaged attendees.

While looking up New York Comic Con schedules, we found the above Batman commission by Paolo Rivera, who has worked almost exclusively for Marvel. But in the comments he notes he would love to draw Batman "some day"...hint hint hint.

Dark Horse has a battalion of signings and creators and two exclusives: a limited edition Hawaiian Print Domo and a limited printing Xerxes Lithograph! Get 'em while you can!

Wow, this is going to be a VERY crowded schedule! There are a ton of things to do throughout New York Comic-Con and no matter what you choose, you're sure to get a little cultural edification, whether it's comics of Kirby Krackle. There are so many events and parties we had to slit this into two. We'll have Saturday's line-up later on.

Want to buy some of the best comics art available anywhere and do a good deed, too? Tom Spurgeon has details of artist Steve Rude's efforts to raise money to prevent foreclosure on his house. Rude is running a bunch of auctions at bargain prices. Rude is a much-beloved comics creator who is among the premiere artists of his generation and this is no charity but the chance to own some iconic art that will only increase in value.

As you might expect, Image has a huge presence at this year's show with Todd McFarlane, Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen and Jim Valentino -- just to name partners at the show.

Com.x, a small publisher with some top talent, has a few things cooking for the show.

As usual, Top Cow has some cool variant editions, including one of their best-selling ARTIFACTS mini series.

IDW debuts at New York Comic Con and the new book The Outfit by Darwyn Cooke is already one of the buzz books.

Jane Yolen, Matt Madden, and Faith Erin Hicks are just a few of the fine authors signing at the First Second booth.

Dozen of creators and many Kids' DAy activities highlight Archie's extensive schedule for NYCC 10. Archie Comics is at New York Comic Con 2010, bigger...