Fletcher Chu-Fong has long been a trusted behind-the-scenes player on the comics scene. Formerly the events manager for DC Comics, he launched Fletch Forward Event Solutions in 2021 to handle some of the biggest booths at SDCC, NYCC and beyond. And now he’s taking it one step further with Sketch, a talent rep company that will handle convention appearances for creators Bernard Chang, Riccardo Federici, Emanuela Lupacchino, Dustin Nguyen, Giulia Pellegrini.
Events management and talent representation are things that we generally only notice when they go wrong, but believe me, it takes a ton of work behind the scenes to ensure things go smoothly. Talent reps have become more and more widespread at cons – surely you’ve seen the blocks of artists tables at various shows with matching banners and tablecloths – as a way to lessen the wear and tear of convention appearances for creators. They’re not without controversy – some creators prefer to do it all themselves – but for many, it’s a valuable service.
They’re also part of the “support infrastructure” of the comics eco-system that I’ve been talking about on podcasts for the last few years, a growing array of publicists, marketers, talent reps and so on who help creators do business stuff so they can spend more time creating.
Fletch-a-Sketch is launching with some worthy goals. According to the announcement:
Founded on the principles of engagement, quality and transparency, Fletch-A-Sketch aims to provide fans with a more personable connection with acclaimed comic book artists, through sales of commissions and original art, convention appearances, attendance at WhatNot shows, and a regular newsletter for fans.
“Bernard Chang, Riccardo Federici, Emanuela Lupacchino, Dustin Nguyen and Giulia Pellegrini are some of the most talented artists in the world and it’s a great pleasure to represent them with Fletch-A-Sketch Talent Representation,” said Fletcher Chu-Fong, in a statement. “To be able to work with friends who I love and respect, and who have entrusted me with promoting their art, is an absolute honor.”
F.A.S.T. Rep is committed to community engagement and creating positive, lasting memories.
Key Highlights of Fletch-A-Sketch
- A personalized message with every art sale
- Ongoing engagement through monthly newsletters
- Unique selling opportunities through WhatNot or Nerd Crawler in development
- Certificate of Authenticity with every item
Some art from the above:
I’ll take off my reporter’s hat here for a moment to relate that Chu-Fong is definitely one of the most popular and respected behind-the-scenes folks in comics. Everyone loves Fletch because he’s just the man, and he’s been quite busy helping run events. Which, BTW, does not just mean making sure there is a pen on the table for a signing. Other services Fletch Forward offers run from “securing convention sponsorships, to creating panel programming, to executing booth set-ups, from artist alley to a full scale experiential booth, and more.”
The F.A.S.T. Rep talents all had nice things to say as well:
“I’m honored to be joining the founding group of artists represented by Fletch-A-Sketch,” says Bernard Chang. “Fletch Chu-Fong has been a comic book industry stalwart and his professionalism, knowledge and guidance is unmatched.”
“Fletch-A-Sketch represents a new and great opportunity for artists to showcase their talent and work,” says Riccardo Federici. “I am truly honored to be one of the artists represented by Fletch-A-Sketch and I can’t wait to start this collaboration.”
“Fletch-A-Sketch is a brand new way to get connected and stay updated with your favourite artist’s work, events, sales and content!:” said Emanuela Lupacchino. “I’m so excited to start this new adventure with the best people around that will connect us directly with our audience, sharing everything about art and comics with you!”
“I can finally say I’m a veteran in comics after 25 years in the industry, with all 25 years of that having Fletcher by my side— as an advisor, a mentor, and oftentimes a handler, but also as an amazing friend.” says Dustin Nguyen. “There isn’t anyone I would trust more to help me navigate through the events and promotional sector of the comics industry than Fletcher. I’m so excited for this new venture (for the both of us!), making things finally official rather than just a late minute text for his advice.” Fletch-A-Sketch is only arranging convention appearance services at this time. Dustin will continue to handle all commission and art sales on his own.]
“We are very excited to be part of Fletch-A-Sketch, a new reality that connects artists with business and audience,” says Giulia Pellegrini. “Were proud to be represented by great people; stay tuned for news on events, commissions and releases!”
You can sign up for information on these artists, art sales and more by signing up for the monthly F.A.S.T. Rep newsletter.
