Connecticut ComiCONN 2012

The 3rd Annual Connecticut ComiCONN was held on Saturday Aug 18th at the Trumbull Marriott. 

This was super one-day show with the love of Comics clearly at its center. It featured a solid variety of 

guests - from veteran DC & Marvel talent to indie artists and current web comic creators. Creators like 

Jerry Ordway, Peter David, Billy Tucci, Bill Walko, and many others were all available to chat and sign 

items in an approachable setting despite an unexpectedly busy turnout of around 3500. There was also a large Vendor Room packed with a great selection of back issues, as well as Superhero and Sci-Fi related toys, statues, and other collectibles. Additional activities included a Lightsaber Demo and a Band.

Comics are kind of the missing piece at our other big geek event ConnectiCon (which tends to focus more on Anime/Manga Fans and Gamers) - and I think the surprise attendance here reflected not only the local need for a show like this but the broader interest in Comics generated by the amazing success of this summer's Avengers, Spider-Man, and Batman movies. I came away feeling this is a show with great potential - I'd like to see some panels added (apparently this was planned - but prevented by issues with renovation at this years location) and maybe a Costume Contest to help establish the event as a whole day experience. 

And yes...they're going to need a bigger venue.

I picked up several fantastic prints from next-gen artists Chris Uminga and Chrissie Zullo, 

as well the Show Exclusive Avengers print done by Paul Shipper

The Avengers by Paul Shipper

There were many attendees (including a lot of families and kids) in costume - but the Cosplay highlight
was this incredibly well crafted Trio featuring a pair of Gargoyles and their Keeper.
 The detail and costume textures were fantastic...and they truly posed stone still.

The Cosplay Troupe Intent 2 Sell Films and the 501st CT Garrison were on hand to provide
a great walk around character presence - kind of like what you find at a Renaissance Faire.
It was an excellent idea - they posed for pictures with kids, promoted the art form, and
helped create an encouraging atmosphere for attendees to come in costume as well.

 

Photos of  I2SF and the 501st at the Show.

It was my first time attending this show, it had a great friendly vibe despite the surprising crowd,
I got some fresh art, and I'm really looking forward to next year and seeing how it grows.

Visit ComiConn.com or the Facebook Page for updates on the next show.