10:00-11:00 How-To Session: Howard Simpson— Howard Simpson of Abba Studios is a storyteller. Simpson started drawing comics while he was in college and has continued to do so for various publishers and clients. He has done children's books for Nickelodeon, Random House, Simon & Schuster, Bantam, Doubleday, and Dell. He has done storyboards for commercials and movies. Howard will present storytelling for children. Room 18
Categories:  Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:30 Comic-Con Film School Session I: Preproduction and Screenwriting— For the sixth year in a row, Comic-Con returns with a four-day, hands-on, nuts and bolts class on how to make a movie for very little money, using available video technology and desktop postproduction software. Whether you're shooting your first Lord of the Rings fan film, or that story about the leather-clad girl who hunts zombies, this course will take you from script to DVD, so that you too can enter your own movie into the CCI-IFF. In this first class, learn the specifics of pre-production on the cheap, including screenwriting, casting, scheduling, location scouting, crewing-up, getting equipment for nothing, and so on. Panelists include Valerie Perez (producer/star of Paula Peril—Trapped in the Flames and Tears of the Dragon, a Lara Croft Fan Film), Nick Murphy (director, Tears of the Dragon), Michael Scott (director, Ryan vs. Dorkman), and Sean Rourke (writer/director, 1st Person Shooter). Room 26AB
Categories:  Animation | Comic-Con Film School | Movies | Seminars & Workshops

10:30-11:30 DC Talent Search 1— Learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional! DC Representatives discuss the different needs of the DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm, MAD magazine, and Zuda. This informative orientation session explains how DC's Talent Search works and provides numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. To have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

10:30-12:00 Comic Book Law School 101: Let's Get It Started— The popular Comic Book Law School series, which provides a basic foundation for understanding copyright and trademark law through an interactive lecture, is brought to you by noted attorney Michael Lovitz, author of The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book. This first workshop covers the basics of protection and ownership of ideas, works of authorship, characters, names, and logos, from conception through publication and beyond. Attendees will participate in an interactive discussion about basic rights provided under U.S. copyright and trademark laws, as well as new decisions and changes in the law and how they could affect those rights. Along the way, there is plenty to learn about the protections available, as well as the numerous potential pitfalls, under the U.S. trademark and copyright systems. (Please Note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and practice tips to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. This program is approved for one (1) credit of California MCLE.) Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comics Law School | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:00 How-To Session: Randy Martinez— See the Onsite Newsletter for more information on Randy’s How-To Session. Room 18
Categories:  Seminars & Workshops

12:00-2:00 CBLDF Master Session: The Painter's Process with Jill Thompson and Charles Vess— Bring your sketchbook and your questions to this first-hand view of the creative process of two of comics' greatest painters! Jill Thompson (Magic Trixie) and Charles Vess (Sandman) take you step by step through the painting process at this live art demonstration. Witness how each artist brings a painting to life on the big screen. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night in the CBLDF's auction! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Seminars & Workshops

12:30-1:30 Indie Comics Marketing 101— Too Much Coffee Man's Shannon Wheeler has gone from minicomics to self-publishing to Dark Horse and now to The New Yorker. Heidi MacDonald runs the taste-making comic industry must-read blog The Beat for Publisher's Weekly. Marketing director Chip Mosher is part of the team that has helped rocket BOOM! into the Top 10. All of them know a thing or two about marketing indie comics, and they join forces on this wide-ranging panel where they reveal their secrets! Moderated by former manager of development and content at MySpace and architect of MySpace Comic Books, Sam Humphries. Room 4
Categories:  Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

1:00-2:00 How-To Session: Denise Vasquez— See the Onsite Newsletter for more information on Denise’s How-To Session. Room 18
Categories:  Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 ComicBase— Don't miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to hear creator Pete Bickford chat about ComicBase's special program features, offer tips and tricks, and give you all the inside dirt on the making of the program. Be prepared for the cutting edge of collection software as Pete unveils the secrets of the latest version of ComicBase. And stay for the latest developments for Atomic Avenue—the world's best place for buying and selling comics online—powered by ComicBase! With exciting limited-edition prizes for lucky attendees, drop by and get your ComicBase questions personally answered by Programmin' Pete Bickford. Room 10
Categories:  Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 How-To Session: Jason T. Cruse— Jason T. Kruse is not only a veteran of the prestigious CalArts in sunny Southern California; he is also a maker of fine comic books, including The World of Quest. Jason most recently worked with DC Comics illustrating the upcoming children’s book Batman: Arctic Assault. In the animation world Jason most recently worked as an animator for Helixe, a division of THQ, on Pixar's Ratatouille for the Nintendo Gameboy as well as its sequel, Food Frenzy. He has also worked as a clean-up animator and fill-in story artist on Steve Oedekirk's The Barnyard as well as done character animation work on such films as Stuart Little and Cats and Dogs. He has also done animaton and storyboarding work for various pilots for such companies as Disney and Nickelodeon. Jason will cover the creative process for making comic books for young readers. Room 18
Categories:  Animation | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:30 Animation on a Shoestring— Learn the down and dirty tricks on how to create your own animation studio on a low budget, from the author of Animation on a Shoestring. Find out how to assemble the equipment you will need, how to build or buy equipment, and what software to use to edit and composite your project. Featuring Larry Loc,  animation educator. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 How-To Session: Tom T. Nguyen— Tom T. Nguyen is a full-time professional artist and author. He works mostly for DC Comics and does pin-up art. Tom has created a series of how-to videos on YouTube covering the comic book art creation process. He will be covering the basics of how to ink a comic book page. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

3:30-4:30 Marvel: Breaking into the House of Ideas— Are you a writer or artist? Ever dream of working for Marvel? Do you find yourself thinking "I could do that...if I knew how!" Well, here's your chance! Join C. B. Cebulski, Marvel's talent liaison, and panelists writer Jeph Loeb (Ultimatum), Marvel editor Charlie Beckerman, artist Mike Choi (X-Force), colorist Christina Strain (Runaways), and more to find out the answers on how to get your foot in the door at every level in the creative process and how to make your job Marvel! Room 6DE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 Andrew Pepoy's Professional Networking Seminar— Get set for a weekend of pressing the flesh and selling yourself with this popular Comic-Con seminar! Being talented isn't enough—getting work and continuing to work in the comic book and comic strip publishing worlds often means knowing the right people as well. Inker and writer/artist Andrew Pepoy (Fables, The Simpsons)— celebrating his 20th anniversary in the business—brings back his popular seminar to help teach you how to get out there and use Comic-Con to its fullest networking potential. Take advantage of this early time slot to put some of Andrew's good advice to work over the next few days! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 How-To Session: Zander Cannon— Zander Cannon has been working in comics since 1993 and has done both writing and art duties on comics about knights, robots, spacemen, cops, superheroes, ghosts, and mythical creatures. His presentation will cover how to produce comics and other books as an independent publisher. With Kevin Cannon (no relation) he runs the studio Big Time Attic, which focuses on educational comics for book publishers. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

4:30-5:30 Workshop: Creating Creator-Owned Comics the Image Comics Way— Want to bring your own vision to comics? Learn how from the people who do it best! Image founder Jim Valentino (Shadowhawk) and Image luminaries Joe Kelly (I Kill Giants), John Layman (Chew), Jimmie Robinson (Bomb Queen), Steve Seagle (Soul Kiss), and Richard Starkings (Elephantmen) present an unprecedented workshop with an insider look at the creative process and tips on perfecting your pitch. This program will also include a Q&A session giving you the chance to directly talk to many pros who have made their dreams a reality! Room 7AB
Categories:  Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

4:30-5:30 Drawing Upon Reference— Ron Lemen (ImagineFX magazine) and Studio 2nd Street Group will cover the subject of photo reference and how to use it when you have to use it. This lecture will briefly cover the do's and dont's of copying photos for your illustration work and some basic guidelines for drawing an effective image. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

5:00-6:00 The Pitching Hour— Michael Polis (CEO, WildBrain Ent, Yo Gabba Gabba), Jermaine Turner (director, Disney/ABC Cable Networks Group), Derek Hoffman (Donner Company, X-Men), Ford Gilmore (president, Illuminati Ent.), Paula Gould (PEG PR), and moderator Dan Evans (writer/development executive) take an idea from conception through production for various media. This process will include creating a pitch document, obtaining agents, and getting a pitch meeting. The panelists will explain, through hypothetical example and humorous stories, the process that new creators should adapt to make their way into the Hollywood creative battleground. Knowing that each project is unique, there will be a Q&A to allow the audience to really hone in on the solutions to obstacles they may encounter. Also on hand is Brendan McFeely (Kane Kessler, IP lawyer) to give creators insight on protecting their ideas as they navigate Hollywood! Room 2
Categories:  Animation | Comics Law School | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Writing for the Computer Gaming Industry— Great storytelling forms the foundation for immersive games that emotionally draw players into a gaming universe. Veteran game writers Neal Hallford (Betrayal at Krondor, Dungeon Siege), Chris Avellone (Knights of the Old Republic, Neverwinter Nights II), Anne Toole (The Witcher), Wynne McLaughlin (Star Wars: The Old Republic, Command & Conquer: Renegade), Haris Orkin (Call of Juarez 2: Bound In Blood), and John Zuur Platten (F.E.A.R 2: Project Origin, Ghostbusters) engage in a lively discussion of their art. Moderated by Jana Hallford (co-author of Swords & Circuitry: A Designer's Guide to Computer Role-Playing Games). Room 4
Categories:  Games | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Graphic Novel Programming in Libraries— Words of wisdom from Librarian Fanboys and Fangirls on ways to make your collection rock the house! It's life in the dork lane when librarian nerds become comic book geeks. How can a fan transcend life-long Universe loyalties to build a balanced collection? How do you fight back when your cataloging department thinks all superhero titles are for teens? Is it really possible to have a graphic novel book club? Get tips on starting graphic novel clubs, running workshops on cartooning, hosting author visits and much more. Moderated by Snow Wildsmith with Robin Brenner, Hillary Chang, Mike Pawuk, Jill Patterson, and Nick Smith. Room 30AB
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

5:30-6:30 The Physics of Hollywood Movies— Join physics instructor Adam Weiner (author of Don't Try This at Home! The Physics of Hollywood Movies) for an interactive presentation employing basic physical principles and a sense of humor in analyzing scenes from favorite Hollywood science fiction, superhero, and action movies, from Iron Man to 2001: A Space Odyssey, and actually learn the physics behind them—both good and bad! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Comic Books | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

6:30-7:30 Unlocking Arkham: Forensic Psychiatry and Batman's Rogues' Gallery— Arkham Asylum holds some of Gotham City's most disturbed criminals. But do they truly belong there? From the vantage point of a forensic psychiatrist utilizing real-world psychiatric diagnostic criteria, panelists explore the mental disorders of the Dark Knight's Rogues' Gallery, with in-depth analyses of The Joker, Two-Face, Riddler, The Ventriloquist, Mad Hatter, and Mr. Zsasz, among others. Learn as three psychiatrists explain the meaning of such terms as "psychotic," "not guilty by reason of insanity," and "psychopathy." Bring your questions, and join the fun as experts unlock Arkham Asylum and possibly set free some of its "inmates"! Panelists include H. Eric Bender, M.D., University of California, Los Angeles; Praveen Kambam, M.D., University Hospitals/Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio; and Vasilis K. Pozios, M.D., University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Room 4
Categories:  Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

6:30-7:30 The Anthropology of Star Trek— Daryl Frazetti (Department of Anthropology, Lake Tahoe Community College), Ian Morris (UCSB student), John Stivers, Jacob Hurd, and Kanan Miller (Lake Tahoe Community College students) discuss the anthropological themes in the Star Trek universe. Select themes include such topics as politics, religion, identity, technology, the cultural role of the individual, and the anthropological concept of "race." A brief discussion on the subculture of fandom is also included, along with the cultural impact of Trek. Audience participation is encouraged. This presentation spans the franchise and explores the relationship between Star Trek and society throughout the past four decades. Room 30AB
Categories:  Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Seminars & Workshops | Television

6:30-7:30 10 Other Ways to Break in as a Comic Creator— "Come back when you have a published credit." Sound familiar? How do you get your first professional break as a comic creator when all the studios are looking for "experience"? Creative director Jessica Leigh Clark-Bojin (Zeros 2 Heroes Media) offers some new options. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

10:00-11:00 DC Talent Search 2— Learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional! DC Representatives discuss the different needs of the DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm, MAD magazine, and Zuda. This informative orientation session explains how DC's Talent Search works and provides numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. To have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

10:00-11:00 How-To Session: Tom Hodges— Tom Hodges has been drawing Star Wars since the ripe old age of 5; that was in 1977. He’s only been being paid for it for it since 2003. He’s sure Lucasfilm would hurt themselves laughing if he requested retroactive payment for the years in between, so he’s just gonna keep on keepin’ on! Currently, Tom is the lead artist on StarWars.com’s The Clone Wars web-comic, which is new each week and gets readers ready for each new episode of The Clone Wars on Cartoon Network. Also under Tom’s belt are various sketch card sets for Topps, Upper Deck, Inkworks, Strictly Ink, and Rittenhouse, as well as his creator owned comic MidKnight for Red 5 Comics, which is currently in production as an animated series. In the works for 2009, more Star Wars, more MidKnight as well as m, a graphic novel created, written and drawn by Tom. He will present information on working on daily comics in a web environment. Room 18
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

10:00-11:30 Comic-Con Film School Session II: Production— Today's class focuses on the specifics of production, from shooting techniques to lighting on the cheap, to crew positions you need (and don't need), to costuming, props, and set decorating for as little money as possible. Panelists for the class include Valerie Perez (producer/star of Paula Peril—Trapped in the Flames and Tears of the Dragon, a Lara Croft Fan Film), Nick Murphy (director of Tears of the Dragon), Michael Scott (director of Ryan vs. Dorkman), and Sean Rourke (writer/director of 1st Person Shooter.) Room 26AB
Categories:  Animation | Comic-Con Film School | Costuming | Movies | Seminars & Workshops

10:00-11:00 From Fan to Creator: Goal Setting for Creative Types— Which side of the convention table do you want to be on, artist or fan? And what's keeping you from getting there? If you have an idea in your head that you've had trouble bringing into reality, you might benefit from this fun and practical goal-setting workshop, designed specifically for the Comic-Con crowd. Teacher and coach Douglas Neff offers simple, proven techniques for achieving your most important goals. Whether you want to write your own screenplay, draw your first comic, or shoot your independent film, you're sure to get something useful from this informative and energizing workshop. Room 32AB
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Film School | Fandom | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television | Writers & Writing

11:00-12:00 How-To Session: Chuk Wojtkiewicz— Chuk Wojtkiewicz has penciled comics for DC, Marvel, Dark Horse, Acclaim, and many others. He's now lead concept artist at the award-winning animation house Blur Studio, where he designs characters, props, vehicles, and environments and produces copious storyboards for high-end computer animation. Chuk will present the dynamics of graphic arts design and the transition from comic books to animation. Room 18
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:00 Masquerade 101— This overview of convention costume competitions offers a mixture of history, info on what goes on behind the scenes, costuming and presentation tips, and more. Thinking about taking your costume creations onto the stage? Looking for ideas on how to enhance your presentations? Curious how it all works? Comic-Con's Masquerade director Martin Jaquish, award-winning fan costumers Allan Lavigne and Jeff Dullum, and Masquerade assistant John Ruff discuss on-stage costume competitions and present insider tips for getting the most out of this unique, fun, and ever-advancing artform. Room 32AB
Categories:  Costuming | Fandom | Seminars & Workshops

12:00-1:00 How-To Session: David Yardin— David Yardin is a comic book illustrator based in Sydney, Australia. He got his start in the industry in 1999, studying under acclaimed comic book artist Whilce Portacio. David has since worked on a variety of titles at Image, DC, and Marvel Comics, collaborating with such writers as Eric Jerome Dickey (Storm), Reginald Hudlin (Black Panther), and David Hine (District X). He has also worked on properties for Stan Winston (Realm of the Claw) and Stephen King (The Dark Tower: End World Almanac and The Dark Tower: Guide to Gilead). He has most recently illustrated full tonal art for X-Men Origins: Gambit and is currently the regular cover artist for X-Factor. David will cover how to create a comic book cover breakdown. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

12:00-1:00 CBLDF Master Sessions: Expressionistic Atmosphere with Mike Mignola— No one establishes visually sophisticated atmosphere like Hellboy creator Mike Mignola. Utilizing a unique sense of design and composition, Mignola's dark environments have earned him the acclaim of artists and fans around the world. Bring your sketchbooks and follow along as he walks you through his creative process at this live art demonstration! The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night at the CBLDF's auction! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

1:00-2:00 How-To Session: Bryan Tillman— Bryan Tillman is currently the academic director for Visual Effects and Motion Graphics as well as Media Arts and Animation at the Art Institute of Washington DC. He has an MFA with a focus in sequential art and a minor in drawing. Bryan is the owner and CEO of the Kaiser Studio Productions, a production studio for comics, toys, animation, and games. He is currently working on a tabletop RPG titled Dark Legacy. Bryan will present the theory of character design, featuring insight into what is character design and how to make a successful character design. He will talk about archetypes, color, design, silhouettes, story, and much more. Room 18
Categories:  Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Games | Seminars & Workshops

1:00-2:00 CBLDF Master Sessions: "Who Killed Amanda Palmer?" Life Drawing with Camilla D'Errico, David Mack, & Terry Moore— Bring your sketchbook and witness how illustrative masters Camilla D'Errico, David Mack, and Terry Moore draw from life as internationally renowned performer Amanda Palmer poses at this CBLDF Master Session! Amanda is the creative force behind Who Killed Amanda Palmer?, a book of photographs accompanied with stories by Neil Gaiman, and the critically acclaimed album of the same name. Palmer will establish the mood for the event, while the artists translate her dramatic poses into their own distinctive styles. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night at the CBLDF's auction! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 How-To Session: Joe Corroney— Joe Corroney has been providing Lucasfilm with official Star Wars artwork for related books, games, trading cards, and magazines since 1997, including penciling Star Wars: Empire for Dark Horse Comics. Other comic books he's illustrated include Crimson Dynamo for Marvel Comics and G.I. Joe, Fallen Angel, 24: Nightfall, Angel, and Spike Vs. Dracula for IDW. Currently, he's providing cover art for IDW's new Star Trek series and BOOM! Studios’ new Farscape comic books, developing his creator-owned comic book series Death Avenger, and continuing to create new Star Wars artwork for Lucasfilm. For ten years he was the instructor for the comic book illustration course at the Columbus College of Art and Design in Columbus, Ohio, and has also taught at Ohio State University. His how-to session will include an introduction to the comic book illustration process. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 A Chalk Talk with Jack Katz— Comic-Con special guest Jack Katz (The First Kingdom) demonstrates the technique of dynamic page layout and storytelling as it relates to the graphic novel. Study the anatomy of page design from Jack as he dispenses knowledge gained from over 50 years in the comic book business! Moderated by Charlie Novinskie. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 How-To Session: Elvin A. Hernandez— Elvin A. Hernandez is a faculty member of the Media Arts and Animation Department at the Art Institute of Washington. He has an MFA, with a concentration in sequential art, from the Savannah College of Art and Design. His work has appeared in books from such publishers as Dark Horse Comics, Evigen Press, and Creature Graphic Novels, as well as storyboards for proposed film and television projects. He is currently working with Kaiser Studio Productions on the comic book The Solution, the first issue of which will be available this fall. His presentation will cover the differences and similarities between storyboards and comics. Room 18
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television

3:00-4:00 Impact University: How to Write and Draw Comics and Graphic Novels— Some of the biggest names in comics teach you what it takes to make it in comics and graphic novels. The star-studded faculty this year includes Peter David (X-Factor), Tom Nguyen (Adolescent Radioactive Black Belt Hamsters), Brian Miller (Hi-Fi Colour Design), former Marvel editor and now IDW editor Andy Schmidt, publisher and editor-in-chief of IDW Chris Ryall, writer Scott Tipton (Angel), and Comics Buyer's Guide senior editor Maggie Thompson. Find out the best way to submit your work, learn the dos and don'ts of the business, and participate in a Q&A session. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

4:00-5:00 How-To Session: Patrick and Shelly Block— Patrick and Shelly Block have created hundreds of projects for Walt Disney's comics line. Their work has been published in the United States through Gemstone Publishing and Gladstone, and overseas via Egmont's extensive publishing service, as well as through Walt Disney Italia. Patrick is a recipient of a Comic Buyer's Guide Fan Award in the "Favorite Inker" category. Shelly, who writes most of the pair's tales, runs a wide ranging and creative art school, Art Quest, in Washington, PA. The Blocks shoot for a simple, straightforward style of story that they themselves would enjoy reading. They have presented their Interactive Comics Creation Seminar at various colleges and schools around the country. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

4:00-5:00 The Shiflett Bros. and Friends Sculpting Panel— Industry sculptors Brandon and Jarrod Shiflett (Shiflett Bros. Originals, Bowen Designs) are joined on stage by sculpting friends and heroes including Clayburn Moore (CS Moore Studio), Paul Komoda (Artist Proof Studio), and Simon Lee (Spiderzero), in this free-for-all discussion about the craft, process, and industry of comic book and fantasy sculpting. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Seminars & Workshops

4:30-5:30 Buck Rogers 80th Anniversary— Hermes Press celebrates Buck Rogers' 80th anniversary with a panel presenting guests discussing Buck Rogers in print, on television, and in film, including plans for a new movie. Join Flint Dille (Transformers), Daniel Herman (Hermes Press publisher), Nick Barrucci (Dynamite publisher), actors Gil Gerard (Buck Rogers from Buck Rogers) and Erin Gray (Wilma Deering from Buck Rogers), and author Chris Irving (From Four Color to Silver Screen: The History of Superhero Movie Serials) for a discussion and Q&A. Room 4
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Seminars & Workshops | Television

4:30-6:00 So You Want to be a Comic Book Retailer?— A Comic-Con tradition! You love comics and want to get into the business, but art and writing are not in your skill set. Have you considered opening your own comic book specialty retail business? You have questions—this panel of experts has answers. Moderator Joe Field (Flying Colors Comics & Other Cool Stuff, Concord, CA) is joined by retailers Carr D'Angelo (Earth-2 Comics, Sherman Oaks and Northridge, CA), Chris Powell (Lone Star Comics, TX), and Scott Proulx (Double Midnight Comics, Manchester, NH) and Diamond Comic Distributors field sales manager Dave Hawksworth to discuss your future as a retailer of comics and graphic novels. Room 32AB
Categories:  Comic Books | Retailer Programming | Seminars & Workshops

5:00-6:30 Resin Casting and Silicone Mold-making— Jeffrey Broz (Matrix Enterprises) has presented seven previous seminars about plastics and casting. Sam Girgis (Biggerbox Models) is producing large-scale garage kits. Whether you want to produce a garage kit model, mold your sculpture, or reproduce a broken part for your vintage toy, this year's seminar will cover new material choices and tips from previous seminars about complex silicone mold design and casting techniques. They'll talk about the pitfalls with short-run 3D duplication, and garage kits and industrial design. This year, they will also talk more about vendors, guides, and material choices to cast your sculptures or model. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Art and Illustration | Seminars & Workshops

6:30-7:30 Digital Painting Seminar— Patrick McEvoy (Starkweather: Immortal) demonstrate the art of digital painting with Adobe Photoshop and Corel Painter. Using examples from his work on the Marvel Style guide, a panel from Archaia's Starkweather, and a cover from BOOM! Studios' Fall of Cthulhu, Patrick will step through various techniques, starting from pencils and working up to a final rendering. Learn how to bring a fully painted look to your digital artwork! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

10:00-11:00 How to Get a Job in the Video Game Industry— Capcom presents an insider's look at how a video game is made from concept through development and marketing, featuring a panel of Capcom professionals who will explain what they do in the whole process and, most important, how they got their job in the video game industry so you can gain insight for your own possible entry into the business. Featuring Motohide Eshiro (Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth), Mona Hamilton, Melody Pfeiffer, and other Capcom staff. Moderated by Francis Mao. Includes an in-depth Q&A session. Room 2
Categories:  Games | Seminars & Workshops

10:00-11:00 How-To Session: Allison Sohn— Allison Sohn has been working the past few years as a trading and sketchcard artist. Her works include characters from Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Lord of the Rings, X-Men, and various other comic book properties. A classically trained artist and graphic designer, Allison works primarily with Copic Markers for her printed works as well as her sketchcards. She will discuss working in the sketchcard trade as well as her perspective on working with movie and superhero projects. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

10:00-11:30 Comic-Con Film School Session III: Working with Actors and a Crew— Day 3 deals with how to direct actors, organize a crew, and keep them all happy without anybody making any money. Panelists for the class include Valerie Perez (producer/star of Paula Peril—Trapped in the Flames and Tears of the Dragon, a Lara Croft Fan Film), Michael Scott (director of Ryan vs. Dorkma), Sean Rourke (writer/director of 1st Person Shooter), and actors Susan Smythe, Brian Stevenson, Kat Steel, Jack Conway, and Brad Upton. Room 26AB
Categories:  Animation | Comic-Con Film School | Movies | Seminars & Workshops

10:30-11:30 DC Talent Search 3— Learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional! DC Representatives discuss the different needs of the DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm, MAD magazine, and Zuda. This informative orientation session explains how DC's Talent Search works and provides numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. To have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

11:00-1:00 How-To Session: Adam Hughes— Adam Hughes is most commonly known for his stylized renderings of women: superheroines, damsels in distress, and figures in fantasy. Adam is considered by many to be one of a new generation of Good Girl artists inspired by Petty, Vargas, and Elvgren. He has worked on many DC titles, most notably Justice League and Wonder Woman, and has just finished a long run as the monthly cover artist on Catwoman. Adam will grace the stage for a two-hour demonstration on sketching characters. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

12:00-1:00 CBLDF Master Sessions: The Heroic Figure with Dave Gibbons— As the co-creator of Watchmen and Martha Washington, Dave Gibbons established himself as a master of creating immediately iconic heroes. Bring your sketchbooks and follow along as he shows you his creative process for creating dynamic, heroic figures at this live art demonstration! The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night at the CBLDF's auction! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

1:00-2:00 How-To Session: Matt Busch— Join Star Wars artist Matt Busch as he covers all the tricks of the trade, not only for creating dynamic illustrations but also on how to break into the industries of comics and pop culture. Matt will share some of his adventures and give unique insight into how you can make your dreams of working for your favorite publisher or Hollywood property come true. He will also show some videos and have prizes for those with great questions! Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

1:00-2:00 CBLDF Master Sessions: The Art of the Panel with Jeff Smith— Every comics page is an avalanche of creative decisions. The successful comics storyteller must move the reader not just through the larger story but through each panel, conveying crucial story information with clarity, economy, and flair. With his nine-volume masterpiece, Bone, and his new series RASL, Jeff Smith is a proven master of comics storytelling. Bring your sketchbooks and your questions as he gives an in-depth view of the process of building a successful comics panel. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night at the CBLDF's auction! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | CBLDF Events | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 Drawing Lessons from Great Masters of Comic Art— Marshall Vandruff (marshallart.com) teaches classic principles of drawing from great artists of early 20th century comics and illustration, such as Heinrich Kley, George Herriman, and Winsor McCay. He will showcase their work, pointing out examples of their high standards of draftsmanship that continue to inspire artists seeking mastery, and explain how the old disciplines of anatomy, perspective, and pen & ink technique apply to artists of modern media. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:30-3:30 Using Comics in the Classroom— Calling all teachers, school librarians, all-ages publishers and kid-friendly cartoonists! Help cultivate the next generation of comic readers with a practical guide on the hows and whys of using comics in the classroom courtesy of this panel of Certified Awesome experts. Teachers will learn how to win over skeptical administrators, integrate comics into the curriculum, and find the best books for their students, while publishers will be given strategies for getting their titles into this burgeoning new market. Panelists include Jimmy Gownley, Peter Gutierrez, Gina Gagliano, and David Serchay, with moderator Josh Elder. Room 4
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 How-To Session: Dave Dorman— Eisner Award–winning illustrator Dave Dorman has been doing cover art, packaging art, fine art, toy design, and concept art for the past 25 years. His first cover was for Heavy Metal magazine, and since that time, he has expanded into artwork for licensed properties including Star Wars, Alien, Predator, Alien vs. Predator, Batman, Spider-Man, G.I. Joe, The Green Hornet, Magic: The Gathering, World of Warcraft, Battlestar Galactica, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and many more. The fans voted him the "#1 Star Wars Artist of All Time," and he is a proud honorary member of the 501st Midwest Garrison. Room 18
Categories:  Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Marv Wolfman Writing Seminar— Comics writer and editor Marv Wolfman has been conducting his acclaimed writing seminar at Comic-Con International as well as across the world for many years. He'll discuss how to create characters, stories, plots and much more. You need to attend if you are interested in writing either professionally or even just for fun. Q&A session! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 How-To Session: Arthur Suydam— Award-winning artist Arthur Suydam's meteoric rise to superstardom for his work for the smash hit series Marvel Zombies broke records, immediately placing the artist in the category of comic legends. In 2007 and 2008 Suydam's art graced the covers of Marvel Zombies Dead Days, Marvel Zombies #2 and #3, Wolverine, Fantastic Four, The Incredible Herc, X-men, Ghost Rider, Thor, Spider-Girl, and more. Arthur's session will cover how to break down an image for painting, the thumbnail process, and painting for comic books. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

4:00-5:00 Building Your Art Portfolio— Moderated by Comics Experience founder Andy Schmidt (X-Men, Annihilation) and featuring the expert advice of comic creators Chris Bachalo (X-Men, Generation X), Todd Nauck (Spider-Man, Young Justice), Robert Atkins (G.I. Joe), C. B. Cebulski (Marvel Talent Coordinator), and Zander Cannon (Top 10), this panel covers everything an aspiring comics artist needs to know about building a portfolio and getting his or her first gig. Join the discussion and ask your questions at the end! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

5:00-6:00 How-To Session: David Finch— Artist David Finch got his start at Top Cow and Image comics more than 15 years ago. Successful books there—including his creator-owned Aphrodite IX—set him up for the incredible success he received on reaching Marvel Comics in 2001. After a 15-issue run on Ultimate X-Men with Brian Bendis, Finch made his permanent mark on the Marvel Universe with Avengers, Avengers Disassembled, and New Avengers. He is currently finishing up the smash hit Ultimatum, written by Jeph Loeb. David will discuss the creative process of comics and how to compose and lay out a comic book page from a script page. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

5:00-6:00 Adventures in Voice Acting Workshop— Here's an opportunity for attendees interested in the voice-acting profession to get firsthand advice and experience from the pros in an intimate yet dynamic and exciting setting. Learn directly from some of the best voice actors and directors in the world. This one-hour class covers practical dubbing techniques, important issues such as studio protocol, and what to expect at your first audition. You'll also get some inside information on how to break in and what the industry is really like. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans and aspiring voice actors to interact with some of the most accomplished members of the industry. Panelists include Michele Rodriguez (Lost), Steve Blum (Wolverine), Lance Henriksen (Aliens), and special surprise guests. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television

6:00-7:00 Digital Color Styles & FX— Brian Miller (Booster Gold) and Kristy Miller (Hi-Fi Color for Comics) demonstrate digital color styles for superhero, alternative, manga, and web comics. Learn tips, tricks, and techniques for creating stunning digital color and special effects. Plus a behind-the-scenes look at Hi-Fi's upcoming projects! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes | Webcomics

10:00-11:00 How-To Session: Anson Jew— Anson Jew's career took off at LucasArts as an animator for nine years on such titles as Full Throttle, Curse of Monkey Island, and Herc's Adventures. His comic Saturday Nite won a Xeric Grant in 1998. He moved to L.A. to freelance as a concept/storyboard artist for film, TV, games, and toys for properties including Sky Captain, TMNT, Insecticide, and Wolverine & the X-Men. Anson will discuss his work, his process and his new book Show Me the Body. Room 18
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Games | Seminars & Workshops

10:00-11:15 Comic-Con Film School Session IV: Postproduction and Visual FX— The fourth and final day of this comprehensive course will go over the basics of editing on your home computer, as well as what software to use for editing, graphic design, sound design, and finally, how to get your finished product to DVD and the web. The latter half of the class will specialize on Digital Visual FX, where panelist Michael Scott (director, Ryan vs. Dorkman) will go over the basics of VFX, as well as some down and dirty techniques for taking your movie to the next level. Other panelists include Valerie Perez (producer/star of Paula Peril—Trapped in the Flames and Tears of the Dragon, a Lara Croft Fan Film), Nick Murphy (director of Tears of the Dragon), and Sean Rourke (writer/director of 1st Person Shooter). Room 26AB
Categories:  Animation | Comic-Con Film School | Movies | Seminars & Workshops

10:30-11:30 The Art of Adapting Comics to the Screen— Jeff Goldsmith (senior editor for Creative Screenwriting magazine) examines the in-depth process of adapting comic books to the big screen with a stellar panel including David Hayter (Watchmen), Gregory Noveck (Sr. VP of creative affairs, DC Comics), and Josh Olson (A History of Violence). Room 5AB
Categories:  Comic Books | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

11:00-12:30 Secret Origin of Good Readers— AKA "Evil Plots to Get Kids Reading." The 9th annual Secret Origin of Good Readers panel consists of Dr. Robyn A. Hill (National University, San Diego), Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics, Salt Lake City), Bill Galvan (creator/artist The Scrapyard Detectives, artist for Archie Comics), Dr. Bill McGrath (National University), and Jim Valentino (creator/publisher Silverline Books/Image Comics). The panelists will discuss how teachers, librarians, retailers, authors, artists, and publishers can work together to bring comic books into the classroom for use as an innovative and motivating cross-curricular teaching tool and a vehicle for promoting reading and literacy. Through a multimedia presentation, personal remarks, and a question-and-answer session, the speakers will present an overview of the medium and highlight specific ways that comic books and graphic novels can be used to engage a variety of learners. Breakout sessions will follow the main presentation. The 70-page resource book The Secret Origin of Good Readers is available for free download by clicking here courtesy of XMission.com. Room 3
Categories:  Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:00 How-To Session: Charles Vess— Comic-Con special guest Charles Vess is best known for his extensive work with Neil Gaiman on Sandman and Stardust. He is the winner of several Eisners and other awards. Early in his career, Charles worked on superhero comics, such as Spider-Man and Swamp Thing, and has successfully transitioned his career into book publishing. He has published his own works through Green Man Press. He has collaborated with writer Charles de Lint on many books, including Seven Wild Sisters, A Circle of Cats, and Medicine Road. Charles' presentation will cover the creative process and how it translates to print and film. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Seminars & Workshops

12:30-1:30 Secret Origin of Good Readers Breakouts— This year's Secret Origin of Good Readers program offers an extended opportunity for attendees to learn and network through select breakout sessions following the main presentation. Participants will be able to choose from two intriguing options: "Promoting Tolerance with the Scrapyard Detectives" with Bill Galvan (creator/artist) and Dr. Robyn A. Hill (teacher educator), or "Building Comics & Graphic Novels Collections in Classrooms and Libraries" with Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics) and Jim Valentino (creator/publisher Silverline Books/Image Comics). Room 3
Categories:  Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 How-To Session: Kevin J. Anderson and Brian Herbert— Kevin J. Anderson has published a hundred books, many of them bestsellers, and many of them in collaboration with Brian Herbert or Doug Beason, as well as his wife, Rebecca Moesta. His solo novels include the Terra Incognita fantasy series and the science fiction epic Saga of Seven Suns. Brian Herbert, the son of Frank Herbert, has published the international bestselling Dune prequels and sequels with Kevin J. Anderson and is the author of his own Timeweb series. He wrote Dreamer of Dune, the Hugo-nominated biography of his illustrious father. Kevin and Brian will conduct a how-to regarding the creative process of writing as a team. They will cover the fundamentals of writing science fiction. A brief history of this writing team will uncover the original premise for the new Dune series of novels, as well as their new series from Tor Books coming out in 2010. Scott Brick, narrator for many of the Dune series audio novels, will moderate this session. Room 18
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 Making Webcomics— Ron Perazza (Zuda Comics), Kwanza Johnson (Zuda Comics), Kevin Colden (Fishtown, I Rule The Night), Cameron Stewart (Transmission X, Vertigo), Molly Crabapple (Act-i-vate, Dr. Sketchys Anti-Art School), and others present a roundtable discussion about the advantages, challenges, questions, solutions, costs and benefits of making webcomics for fun and profit. Topics include working with a publisher, self-publishing, promoting yourself, best practices, style, and moving from web to print (or vice versa)! Room 4
Categories:  Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

3:00-4:00 How to Toon: Kids Cartooning Class— Joe Wos, a resident cartoonist of the Charles M. Schulz Museum and executive director of the ToonSeum in Pittsburgh, PA, offers a hands-on cartooning basics workshop for children of all ages. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Kids | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Full-time Creative Work on a Part-time Schedule— Learn the secret to using part-time collaboration to achieve full-time results! No matter which industry (comics, illustration, movies, animation), breaking into today's media is a full-time job, even if you have only part-time hours to accomplish it. Topher Davila (editor and co-creator of TomatoTV.net), Mario Martinez (co-creator of TomatoTV.net), Kevin Flessing (TomatoTV.net columnist: TomatoTV Guide), Jonelle Cobb (web designer), Ron Coleman (TomatoTV.net columnist: "Doctor Professor"), and Joe Combs (web designer/coder) tell how they successfully juggle time between the creative and business sides from their experiences in illustration, business branding, writing, and animation. Whether you struggle with deadlines, are a creative hobbyist, or simply want to know how to get your foot in the door, this panel is not to be missed! Room 32AB
Categories:  Animation | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

3:30-5:00 How-To Session: Jim Lee— End Comic-Con with a bang watching the most popular artist in comics draw anything he wants! Jim Lee (Batman: Hush) creates art before your very eyes on the big screen. Follow his creative process as he explains what he's doing while he's drawing. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Seminars & Workshops