New podcast/video from Felix Comic Art (UPDATED 1/3/17!) 6 6

[Nexus]

That break was longer than I had planned, but we are finally back:

http://www.felixcomicart.com/podcast.asp

A double-episode! Thanks to everyone who pitched in and helped out with the roundtable. Hope you all enjoy!

[Stefanomjr]

As a newbie I enjoy these interviews with youngblood collectors.

[exitmusicblue]

 

[Sideshow Bob]

Great podcast. The “I paid more than I was comfortable and had a panic attack” and the other guys effectively says “hold my beer”...classic OA collector stories. Loved it. 

[Brian Peck]

On 1/29/2020 at 9:46 AM, Nexus said:

That break was longer than I had planned, but we are finally back:

http://www.felixcomicart.com/podcast.asp

A double-episode! Thanks to everyone who pitched in and helped out with the roundtable. Hope you all enjoy!

Another very enjoyable podcast, even the 2nd half where you let them loose untethered. 

DO you have a link to Jason Kim's CAF Gallery? I couldn't find it.

If Jason is reading this there is a nice Alex Nino piece on HA in the February Signature Auction:

 

https://comics.ha.com/itm/original-comic-art/alex-nino-creepy-112-the-last-sorcerer-double-width-splash-original-art-warren-publ-19/p/122006-28006.s?ic4=ListView-ShortDescription-071515

 

 

[Stefanomjr]

12 minutes ago, Brian Peck said:

Another very enjoyable podcast, even the 2nd half where you let them loose untethered. 

DO you have a link to Jason Kim's CAF Gallery? I couldn't find it.

 

 

 

https://www.comicartfans.com/GalleryDetail.asp?GCat=128250

[GreatEscape]

28 minutes ago, Stefanomjr said:

https://www.comicartfans.com/GalleryDetail.asp?GCat=128250

Amazing gallery. Impressive depth and variety  barely 2 years in, already refined tastes of a veteran collector. Jason seems comfortable knowing which pieces resonate with him and are worth going to the mat for. 

[Brian Peck]

8 hours ago, Stefanomjr said:

https://www.comicartfans.com/GalleryDetail.asp?GCat=128250

He does have a pretty diverse collection for such a new collector especially being a younger comic book reader from the 90s.

[ESeffinga]

For sure. But the other observation that I had, is that here we are presented a collector with some means, who has exhibited a depth and breadth of taste and leanings somewhat beyond his 90s nostalgia zone and is clearly looking at the history of the medium and the artistic contributions of the creators both older and newer. 

And yet I don’t see any of the “founding fathers” works that are so often grandfathered in. No Kirby. No Romita Sr. No Ditko. 
 

Seems like the way back art that he looks to from “before his time” is that of the 80s. It is true that one man, is not an indicator of a future, but it is collectors like this I’d pay attention to, if I was sitting on a raft of older works. 
 

I mean, looking at the sums being bandied about, work by those elder statesmen of comics is attainable. But as of yet not represented yet.

I am overjoyed in hearing a newer collector speak about being willing to take that financial commitment beyond looking at art as investment, or a total nostalgia burst of dopamine, and really going for the work itself as the rush, even where the larger sums are involved.

Of course he is presumably just getting started. Looking forward to see how he continues to grow his collection, and where he is in 5 years time. 

[jaykza]

6 hours ago, ESeffinga said:

And yet I don’t see any of the “founding fathers” works that are so often grandfathered in. No Kirby. No Romita Sr. No Ditko. 
 

Seems like the way back art that he looks to from “before his time” is that of the 80s. It is true that one man, is not an indicator of a future, but it is collectors like this I’d pay attention to, if I was sitting on a raft of older works. 

Thank you for the kind words Dino and Brian! I think the point above is very valid. Although I'd love to have an example from each of the above mentioned artists, with prices being where they are for quality pieces they've just fallen lower on my priority list. 

As far as art and historic appreciation, I am more likely to skip the 60s/70s Marvel stuff for the time being and buy EC pieces or even classic strip pieces from Foster/Raymond/etc. Just from a value perspective, I think pieces from these eras currently feel more worthwhile to me at this time. 

Does that mean, I'll never get to Kirby/Ditko/Romita? I think I will but I'm willing to wait until I've satisfied a lot of my other itches and/or wait for a deal I can't say no to. 

I really appreciate @Nexus having me on and I'm glad I didn't put all of you to sleep. Always down to talk art and collecting so feel free to message me and if you live in the Bay Area, grab some coffee or lunch. 

[Nexus]

On 2/2/2020 at 6:03 AM, ESeffinga said:

For sure. But the other observation that I had, is that here we are presented a collector with some means, who has exhibited a depth and breadth of taste and leanings somewhat beyond his 90s nostalgia zone and is clearly looking at the history of the medium and the artistic contributions of the creators both older and newer. 

And yet I don’t see any of the “founding fathers” works that are so often grandfathered in. No Kirby. No Romita Sr. No Ditko.

Excellent observation as usual, Eric. However, it appears to me that the reason for this is that Jason isn't primarily interested in superhero art. Which, of course, would be something else that sets him apart from most collectors in our hobby.

I got to hang out with Jason and fellow collector John Butler (a past guest of the podcast, as well) in SF last Thursday for a talk/signing with Dan Clowes. An excellent time with friends, but the best part may have been learning that Clowes has listened to the podcast! I suppose not a surprise that he might find nerdy obsessives fascinating. The event was the launch of his Artist's Edition from Fantagraphics. Which apparently was printed to order, so don't wait too long to get one. It's an A+ production, carefully curated by Clowes himself.

Working on setting up an upcoming episode with a millennial collector who's like Jason on steroids. Fingers crossed, our schedules will mesh so we can make it happen.
 

[ESeffinga]

13 hours ago, Nexus said:

Excellent observation as usual, Eric. However, it appears to me that the reason for this is that Jason isn't primarily interested in superhero art. Which, of course, would be something else that sets him apart from most collectors in our hobby.

I thought about that. My impression was that what Jason has posted on CAF seemed like roughly 50/50ish between mainstream "name" characters, and more modern characters. But there are some real keystone type pieces for someone so new to the market. When I've seen folks hop in with both feet this way, I feel like they usually go for the "accepted" trophy pieces by the usual names. That usually involves the men in tights. It's fun to see someone eschew that, and go with their gut on things more personal to them, even when the costs are up there with that other stuff.

BUT there is definitely a streak towards the indy and outsider esoteric characters in Jason's collection. I really dig it. Refreshing to me, personally. It often takes a lot longer for collectors to dig into the offbeat work (from what I've seen generally).

And Jason, apologies if we sound like we are talking around/about you. I'm super glad you are here, and hope you chip in when you can. It can be hard to define for someone else why we like what we like. And when a collection isn't quite what everyone else is into, it can compound that awkward explanation. Not that it needs to be explained away of course. But it can be super enlightening to read (or hear on a podcast) someone else explain how they feel about their collection, and their methodologies/rationalizations/ and approach for adding to it.

The more that "different" collections enter the market, the more interesting I think it makes art collecting. It's less fun to me, when so many folks are into so many of the same things. And I'm always learning, and finding new things to appreciate. It never goes away.

[vodou]

"...stories that have an ending." That was my takeaway. Perma-heroes that never age or die is sooooo 20th century

My collecting (and reading) has been in that direction for years now too.

[stinkininkin]

On 2/2/2020 at 9:36 AM, jaykza said:

Thank you for the kind words Dino and Brian! I think the point above is very valid. Although I'd love to have an example from each of the above mentioned artists, with prices being where they are for quality pieces they've just fallen lower on my priority list. 

As far as art and historic appreciation, I am more likely to skip the 60s/70s Marvel stuff for the time being and buy EC pieces or even classic strip pieces from Foster/Raymond/etc. Just from a value perspective, I think pieces from these eras currently feel more worthwhile to me at this time. 

Does that mean, I'll never get to Kirby/Ditko/Romita? I think I will but I'm willing to wait until I've satisfied a lot of my other itches and/or wait for a deal I can't say no to. 

I really appreciate @Nexus having me on and I'm glad I didn't put all of you to sleep. Always down to talk art and collecting so feel free to message me and if you live in the Bay Area, grab some coffee or lunch. 

I'm honored that among the many pieces of your already impressive collection, you specify the Batman Hush piece Jim and I did as a current favorite.  I mentioned on your CAF comments section that it's actually a favorite of mine as well (especially since I'm a typical artist in that I see every flaw first and foremost in our own work).  Jim also mentioned to me that he thinks it's the best thing I've ever done over him so I take great pride in that.  Congrats on entering this rewarding hobby with such a bang, and condolences to your bank account.

[Unstoppablejayd]

Just listened to the podcast.. It was really nice to hear a fellow newbie (ish) talk about their journey. I just started the podcast a month or so ago and I was working from the 1st one forward so other then drooling over all the Dark Knight pages bought for a couple hundred by you veterans it was tough to relate. Coming into the hobby over the last couple years it can be overwhelming in so many ways... and also clickish with how long everyone has known each other. Showcasing a newer collector can help people feel comfortable jumping into the deep and so they know they are not the only person going for it!

Thank you to Felix and Jason!

[delekkerste]

New drinking game:  do a shot every time Daniel Warren Johnson laughs like Robert Carradine in "Revenge of the Nerds" on the podcast.  

He was hilarious...he should be in every roundtable discussion!

Edited February 4, 2020 by delekkerste

[jaykza]

6 hours ago, stinkininkin said:

I'm honored that among the many pieces of your already impressive collection, you specify the Batman Hush piece Jim and I did as a current favorite.  I mentioned on your CAF comments section that it's actually a favorite of mine as well (especially since I'm a typical artist in that I see every flaw first and foremost in our own work).  Jim also mentioned to me that he thinks it's the best thing I've ever done over him so I take great pride in that.  Congrats on entering this rewarding hobby with such a bang, and condolences to your bank account.

Thank you Scott! I apologize for not mentioning you during the interview, and it's something that once it's over, one says "Doh! I forgot to say this or that." I adore the piece and I get lost appreciating your inking wizardry everytime I take it out. 

 

11 hours ago, ESeffinga said:

And Jason, apologies if we sound like we are talking around/about you. I'm super glad you are here, and hope you chip in when you can. It can be hard to define for someone else why we like what we like. And when a collection isn't quite what everyone else is into, it can compound that awkward explanation. Not that it needs to be explained away of course. But it can be super enlightening to read (or hear on a podcast) someone else explain how they feel about their collection, and their methodologies/rationalizations/ and approach for adding to it.

The more that "different" collections enter the market, the more interesting I think it makes art collecting. It's less fun to me, when so many folks are into so many of the same things. And I'm always learning, and finding new things to appreciate. It never goes away.

No apologies necessary! Helpful to see some outside observations of my tendencies and helps to get me thinking more about my collection, the individual pieces in it, and the personally meaning for each. Thanks!

[Nexus]

Podcast fans, we've got good news and bad news. Good news is...new episode is up! Bad news...it's got nothing to do with comic art. But it's about something important to me.

The Felix Comic Art Podcast (Episode 39): My Family

This one's about my family. And what we've been through the last few years. It will, at the very least, answer any questions you may have had about why we went off our regular schedule.

But mostly, I hope it might help someone out there who finds themselves in a similar siuation. Or if anyone is dealing with cancer now, feel free to reach out to me. You are not alone!

The organization Paltown was extremely critical to me during our family journey. And it's so crucial for other patients and caregivers now. If you're a fan of the show and appreciate what we do, then please consider making a donation that will assist so many:

https://paltown.org/donate/

Please dedicate the donation to my wife ("In Memory of Dianna Lu") and notify me via e-mail (felixcomicart@gmail.com).

We have a lot planned for the show, and it starts with this fundraiser for Paltown. Thanks everyone, talk soon.

Felix

[Nexus]

Surprise everyone, we’re back. I bet none of you were expecting another episode so soon.

Well, this one’s not a regular episode. This one’s more of a sneak preview. To introduce a special edition of the show that we’re calling SECRET STORIES OF COMIC ART. 

 

SECRET STORIES OF COMIC ART is the Felix Comic Art Podcast unleashed. I’ve recruited some of the biggest names in the hobby to assist with this project. If you’ve enjoyed the stories we’ve shared on the Felix Comic Art Podcast, then our SECRET STORIES OF COMIC ART series will share the stories that we couldn’t discuss publicly before. Until now. A few samples of what you'll hear:

 

- Did a well-known collector once deprive himself of water for 24 hours prior to a notorious dealer coming to his home, because he was afraid he'd get ripped off if he had to go to the bathroom during the meeting?

 

- Did a publisher once try to extort Frank Frazetta for a painting, and if he didn't get it, he would publish some of Frank's secret pornographic art he'd gotten his hands on?

 

- What happens when the son of billionaire tries to buy $250K worth of art from you at a show with a check...but you don't know he's the son of a billionaire?

 

- How about the first (and last?) ever interview with the mysterious megacollector known as "The Vacuum"?

 

- And a whole lot more!

 

So why are so many willing to share these private collecting and hobby stories now? Because SECRET STORIES OF COMIC ART is my fundraiser to benefit the cancer charity organization, PALTOWN. I want to thank my friends for helping me with this, and for opening up like never before to provide the best content possible. 

 

The SECRET STORIES OF COMIC ART series will only be available for those who have donated to PALTOWN. If you've already donated, you will be given access to everything. Every single episode. We already have five full-length episodes in the can, and are working on more! If you haven't donated, yet, it's not too late. We are offering multiple tiers, so you can have access to as many episodes, or as few, as you like. Please write me for more details. Our goal is to raise as much as we can for PALTOWN, so know that your tax deductible donations, at any tier, are greatly appreciated.

 

For now, this one’s available for all listeners…it's "The Craigslist Story":

 

The Felix Comic Art Podcast (Episode 40): The Craigslist Story

 

Thanks everyone, talk soon.

Felix

www.felixcomicart.com

[Nexus]

For those who just can't get enough OA-related content, I host a chat on my site every so often. A lot of collectors whose names you might know will show up. And there can also be surprise appearances from my artists. Those who have participated before include Cliff Chiang, Daniel Warren Johnson, Ryan Stegman, Ian Bertram, and Andrew MacLean. Yesterday, Paul Pope popped in:

http://www.felixcomicart.com/chatdetail.asp?cId=21

Some fantastic back-and-forth between Paul and collectors would yield gems like this:

Italians understand LIGHT, and shadow. And I think there is a certain---insouciance-- to southern Euro cartoonists that I find magnetic. There is a theory about European artists that suggests the Northerners (Herge, etc) understand light and volume, because the light is diffused....the southerners understand contrast and line, because the light is strong...it applies to classical painters as well, it's an interesting theory. And I am very committed to keeping in the line of Caniff/Eisner/Pratt/Miller, so I want to find deeper understanding in the brush...

 

 

We also got an appearance from Albert Moy. A lot of fun, check it out. And join us for the next one!

 

And speaking of Albert...our first episode of SECRET STORIES OF COMIC ART dropped last week for Paltown donors. Our first ever podcast guest was Albert, so fitting that he should be first for our exclusive series, too. He doesn't disappoint. If anyone is interested in having access to this special edition series (currently slated to be six episodes, maybe seven), write me! For now, thanks so much to donors. We have raised almost $25,000 for Paltown in a little over a week. More fun stuff on the way!

 

Edited July 28, 2020 by Nexus