"The Dude's" Visit

Steve "The Dude" Rude did his in-store signing last night. Overall, it went pretty well. There was never a long line, but there was instead a steady flow of people all night. The first hour was the busiest for the signing, and then is slowed down, but it seemed like there were always at least a few people by the table we set up for him. He did a few sketches, signed a bunch of comics and graphic novels, and talked art with lots of people.

He said that one of our customers was definitely a strong artist, especially for her age, and that he thought that she'd get into any art school she wanted to. So remember us when you make it big in comics, Mary!!

Steve Rude is well spoken, and very passionate about art. He took the time to answer a variety of questions on art and inspiration and everyone seemed very pleased with the time they got to spend with him.

Steve expressed a strong inspiration from and love for Jack Kirby and Kirby's art. He felt that Kirby was great at bringing real world stories into comics but keeping it light enough that no one felt that he was forcing politics or events onto them. He met Kirby when he was still alive, and said it was one of the greatest moments in his life. When asked what comics he's reading, Steve said one of the motivations for him to continue on with his Nexus series is that most comics today just aren't any fun.

Before he left, Steve even picked up the Jack Kirby New Gods Omnibus we had in stock, and did a sketch of Mister Miracle for us.

Thanks to everyone who took the time to stop out and meet Steve Rude! Remember, if you want us to keep bringing comic book talent into the store you have to take the time to come in and visit them when they are here. We usually loose money on these events, but do them anyway so that our customers and store guests get the opportunity to meet one-on-one with comic book creators without having to drive out to and pay the entry fees of a convention. Steve's wife told us that some of Steve's recent signing appearances were poorly marketed and therefore poorly attended, but Steve did say he was pleased with the turn out here.

The local paper, The Waukesha Freeman, did a story on Steve and his visit. Unfortunately they did it TODAY - the day AFTER Steve's appearance, which doesn't make much sense. But, it's better than nothing.