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This is the Wizards Keep - Tim Perkins Blog, where international comic artist/writer and concept artist Tim Perkins shares his personal thoughts and musings with the public, especially his views on the links between literacy and art. As well as working in the above roles he teaches the highly successful course Fantasy Art Unlimited and is Company Director of Wizards Keep where he is currently working on the first volume of his graphic novel series, Worlds End.
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Convention Appearance this weekend
Hi Folks,
Just a few lines today to say I am really looking forward to meeting folks over these next few days at Sci Fi Weekender in North Wales.
As I said the other week, I am taking part in a midday panel on Friday, chaired by Dez Skinn, entitled "Comics in the Digital Age: A Blessing or a Curse?" I'll be alongside 2000AD's Neil Roberts, Glenn Fabry and SFX caricaturist Paul Cemmick. The panel will focus on whether digital online comics help hard copy sales or not, and is it a boon producing work on computers whilst at the same time not having any originals to show and sell, etc.
The rest of the time I will be manning my tables, where I will be signing copies of the Worlds End – Volume 1 – The Riders on the Storm “Science Fusion” graphic novel, and Worlds End Colouring & Storybook amongst other related Worlds End and Wizards Keep products.
I will also be sketching for and chatting to anyone that comes along.
So if you are one of the lucky folks to have already got your tickets for this “SELL OUT” convention, like I said before I look forward to seeing some of you drop by the table for a chat and to see what I have on display there.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…February 28th 2012
Part 3 – Malta, Mulled Wine and Mistletoe
Hi Guys,
I awoke to a slightly more cloudy morning, but there were still enough breaks to see the sun. In the Moiré restaurant I was met with more talk of Meatloaf, or as I call myself at Karaoke, “Maltloaf,” as folks wanted to know how the previous night’s exploits had gone on.
Sonia told me all about the evening spent with Deej in the Karaoke bar and how many songs they had sung – this was all confirmed by some excited text messages following up my well-wishing as Deej made his way back to England on the plane.
It seemed to be the most talked about subject even more so than comics, or the trips for a while… LOL.
Breakfast over; we were soon leaving our meeting place, the foyer, to board the coach for the start of the trips. The coach arrived at the first stop, Rabat, which lies in the middle and the south of the island. There we visited a Roman Domus.
From outside it looked like any other museum-type building, but inside we saw the marvellous columns and mosaics that would have once been very opulent and colourful, The mosaic was painstakingly created and beautiful with the Romans even managing to create gradients in the colour schemes and optical illusions that Escher would have been proud of – incredible!
The tour guide showed us around the place and, like on previous year’s trips around Malta’s Heritage sites, he was interesting and gave all sorts of insights into Malta’s past in Roman times.
We had group photos taken outside the place and then we found ourselves walking to the next stop the, catacombs. En route, we stopped outside a little café-type place where we were treated to a Maltese treat, Pastizzi. The guys had been speaking to me of them since Friday asking if I had ever tried them, so they obviously had the stop off planned between the trip venues.
A Pastizzi is a savoury pastry, which usually contain a filling of either ricotta or of mushy peas, and are called pastizzi tal-irkotta, "cheesecakes", or pastizzi tal-piżelli, "peacakes".
Pastizzi are a popular and well-known Maltese food – and no wonder they are delicious – I had one of each… for good measure. Well the guys bought a whole load of them and wanted me to try one of each, so who was I to say no?!! These delicacies are usually diamond-shaped or round-shaped and made of filo pastry.
Eventually, brushing off all the crumbs, we made we set off for the next point of call, the catacombs. As we reached the central square in Rabat we came across a little confectionery place; Parruccan, where I bought some Maltese nut-brittle, which I thought would be great for when guests came around over Christmas.
I wasn’t alone and quite a few of the other guests also purchased some of the wares on display there. Then we were off once more and finally arrived at the catacombs. Like I have said in my previous Maltacon Blogs the tours are very well organised in advance with tour guides awaiting our arrival.
The catacombs were fascinating as some of them are from pre-historic times, whilst others are from Europe’s dark ages and medieval periods and perhaps a little later too. Once more the tour guide was interesting and answered any questions we had. Access to them is down a steep set of steps carved into the rock down to the underground burial chambers. They are quite claustrophobic as they twist and wind in very confined spaces from the initial foyer or hall-like starting point were the prayer or altar area takes pride of place.
There are single and family burial places carved into the walls and the floors. All of them long since emptied. We were told grave robbers down the centuries took anything thought to be of value. Dimly lit, cold and eerie the place would be a perfect setting for Tom Sawyer’s hunt for Indian Joe in the novel, The Adventures Of Tom Sawyer.
Outside, the sun shone still and we looked into another set of burial chambers in a separate underground chamber, adjacent to the ones in which we had just been. These were identical, but it was a smaller area to look in. The area we saw was just a small part of the catacombs, as some areas have been sealed up and others have had their access blocked, I guess for safety reasons apart from anything else.
Next stop was the Il-Vedutta Pizzeria and Restaurant in Rabat, where I sat next to Sonia discussing her pregnancy and future child’s birth, my Granddaughter, Phoebie, our respective families, our present workload and future plans for our books amongst talks of Christmas, New Year and what 2013 might hold for us both. It was a very enjoyable meal and chat and then we all spent a short while on the terrace taking photos before making our way on foot to Mdina.
It had become increasingly dull and although still not what I would call cold, it was markedly cooler with a little breeze too for good measure. We passed by the glassware places and the cathedral and made our way along the silent city to the wall at the top where we once more took photos from the high vantage point. Other folks not being from the north of England were feeling the cool air and so we headed back down towards Rabat and the awaiting coach. I must add here that fellow Scottish guest Richmond Clements was also wearing a T-Shirt and even sported shorts!!! I was suitably impressed. It's a northern thing... LOL.
We passed the square, which in Game of Thrones saw Sean Bean’s character Ned Stark ambushed by the Lannisters – which sounds like something out of a Carry On film, now I have written it, LOL. So to re-phrase that; Ned Stark was ambushed by Jaime Lannister and his men. Anyhow, suffice it to say that as my original photos from my first trip were lost when one of my computers went down a few year’s ago I decided to take some more.
The place was quiet and one of the Maltese organisers told Inko about a supposed ghost legend, which certainly did the trick of scaring her as she would not go near any of the large oaken doors as we passed them by. As they tried to get her to touch the door behind some iron railed outer gates someone in a long black robe rushed past and she almost climbed to the rooftops and screamed, which had the rest of us in fits of laughter – it could not have been timed better, if it had been planned.
As most of us continued to take photos on the way back to the coach of the battlements and other sights some of the female contingent decided to spend time with a couple of local doggies, who seemed quite affectionate towards the ladies.
By and by we reached the coach, eventually, after prising them away from their furry friends and were soon on our way back to the hotel to prepare for the evening meal, which this year was not to be cooked by the esteemed mister Chris Stellini, which gave him the opportunity to join everyone for the evening as he did on the very first Maltacon.
Showered, changed and ready for action once more we all met up in the hotel foyer and then strolled the short distance to the eatery we were to enjoy a great evening at, La Stalla Pizzeria and Restaurant, which like the Hotel Santana is in Bugibba.
There I sat next to Samantha Abela on my left, Dan Lester on my right, with Dave Gibbons, his wife and Sean Azzopardi across from me. Another enjoyable evening of conversation with some great people, whilst consuming great food and great drink too. Phoebie was once again the topic of conversation along with a close second once more being our thoughts on teaching using comics and of course the impending season of Christmas and New Year.
I ordered a Chicken Kebab on skewers and it was huge when it came to the table.Towards the end of the meal the guests were invited to draw part of a character and then fold the picture over, showing only the tips of any marks as a hint of where to draw the next bits. It was great fun and our table was split into two groups. It was the brainchild of Chris de Souzza Jensen's partner and I reckon this will become part of ever MaltaCon from now on. I have even started using it in my Fantasy Art Unlimited sessions on Wednesday evenings - Thanks!!!
Then it was approaching that time again and Mike Quinton attracted everyone’s attention to give his farewell closing speech, followed by an equally heartfelt one from Chris Le Galle. It is so obvious that the guys love organising this event – despite its massive undertaking.
Once more personal thanks were given first to Sean and I for our continued support, which was lovely and then the other guests, followed by the organisers receiving their fair share of appreciation. Then it was time for lots of photos and sad farewells and the last group photo of the trip, now a tradition at the convention.
We made our way back to hotel where we had a long chat outside with Mike, Sean, Dan and Chris de Souza Jensen and his partner, then it was decided with everyone else having gone off to bed to set off to find a bar that was still open. We walked for a while and it didn’t take too long before we found a Brit pub – complete with a Blackburn Rovers football club scarf on the wall. No sooner had we entered then we heard the doors close behind us, were we about to witness a scene out of An American Werewolf in London. No, we were in a LOCK IN!!!
A slightly more than inebriated lady called upon Sean and Mike and proceeded to give them both hand massages and an Indian head massage to boot. Well this scene caused lots of laughs and as we continued chatting Dan became her next victim. He eluded her efforts to entice him to receive a massage and I suppose the struggle with the amount of alcohol she must have consumed turned her attention to the table top at which she sat and she promptly fell asleep, much to Dan’s relief.
Well, several pints and whiskeys later and we made our way back to the hotel and the now much needed beds that waited inside. We said our farewells and I arranged to meet up with Sean and the gang for breakfast. Then Mike and I continued to talk for at least an hour outside the hotel under the stars and then agreed to meet up later the next afternoon for a meal with Emma and Jean Sebastien.
Up early for breakfast in the Moiré restaurant the next morning, as per usual, I met up with Sean and Sonia. Herb and Patricia arrived and we exchanged contact details and agreed to email each other as soon as we arrived back in our respective homes and to keep in touch afterwards. Then they had to dash off to head out to the airport. Sean and Sonia also went off to their rooms, as they too had to leave later that day.
Then, for me, it was a lazy day. Around mid-day I went out for a walk to the left of the hotel along the coast road. I hadn’t been that way before except for the journeys on the cars, minibuses and coach to Valletta, which had nearly always gone along that way, so it was a change to walk down there and experience the area like that. The previous year I had gone with Jon Haward to the promenade to the right of the hotel and wanted to see what the other side was like. Again, there was a beautiful blue sky; so it was a lovely walk bathed in the warmth of Malta’s sun.
That evening arrangements had been made for Mike Quinton to meet up with Emma Rios, Jean Sebastien and I for an evening meal. He met the three of us in the hotel foyer and took us along to a superb restaurant called Luzzu in Qawra. There was lots of chatting as we all shared our thoughts on the convention and the state of comics in our respective areas and it was truly a great evening; laid back and great to see the different perspectives too. The meal was great and unrushed and when we had finished we continued to talk for quite a while over coffees and then we made our way back to the hotel once more.
There was a brief conversation outside the Santana as we all wished each other all the best and for each of us to have safe trips home; Emma and Jean Sebastien were leaving the following day, Jean Sebastien quite early.
Mike and I carried on talking and decided to go out for a drink somewhere. We came to a bar that was open, The Watson’s Pub. There was a chorus of angels – there in front of us lay a Karaoke at the back of the bar. It wasn’t too long after we got there that they closed it down for the evening, but the bar remained open for a while longer and Mike and I continued our conversation until we had finished our drinks.
Then it was back to the hotel once more where we checked out the bar, but it was shut. So under a starlit evening sky, which was fast becoming a common theme, we continued to chat about all manner of things. Mike’s a great guy and is really interesting with his background as a musician and his knowledge of Malta and its history – a great ambassador!
We arranged to meet up again the following evening and then it was time for bed again.
I was up early, once more, for breakfast in the Moiré restaurant on the Wednesday morning. It’s always really funny to me that I eat breakfast when in hotels or on holiday when normally I don’t have much to eat, if anything at all, usually.
For me, it was another lazy day and a time to catch up on some reading, send text messages back home and another chance to check out the local scenery. I decided on a walk to the second Karaoke bar that Mike and I had found the previous evening The Watson’s Pub and ask the owner, Marco if there was a Karaoke on that night – there was!!!
Well, hardly containing my excitement I contacted Mike straight away and asked if he fancied going to the bar tonight for a laugh? His answer was a resounding yes so you can imagine my joy and anticipation at the impending night ahead.
I headed back to the hotel and went to the Castagna café bar inside it. There I had a couple of Kinnies and sat in the café window area. I sat across from a northern couple, Tom & Mary and spent the rest of the afternoon chatting with them. Over the next couple of hours I learnt he was a builder and had some very amusing anecdotes about his time in the business. They were intrigued to hear about my job and seemed totally fascinated that I had worked on so much stuff.
When they got up to leave I headed back to my room to have a shower then it was off to the Chinese down the road for a meal, I was starving… LOL. I recognised the waiter from one morning in the hotel foyer with the rest of the guests, whilst we were waiting for the coach. He had been talking about comics and I thought he was part of the group. With that in mind I asked him if he had enjoyed the convention. He told me he had been working so had to miss it, but sounded really upset that he hadn’t been able to get along to it.
My meal finished I went the short distance back to my room at the hotel, signed a copy of my Worlds End Ashcan and then went back to the restaurant. The waiter was behind the reception desk. I told him I too thought it was a shame he had been working and hadn’t managed to get along to the convention so thought I would bring a little part of the convention to him and handed over the Ashcan. His eyes were wide with appreciation. He looked so happy and said thanks so many times I lost count. I added I hoped to see him next year at the convention and wishing him well left for the Karaoke bar to meet up with Mike.
I sat in the bar chatting with a few of the folks there for a while and received a text message from Mike, he was running a little late, but would be with me in around half an hour. I asked the lady behind the bar, who was taking the Karaoke requests and was pointed in the right direction.
I added my name to the list and Maltloaf was ready once more. I did Bat Out of Hell as my opening song and I have to admit to feeling much happier with it than on the Saturday evening. The folks in the bar seemed to really appreciate my song, if the applause was anything to go by and so, thanking them with a nod, I returned to my seat at the bar. I added another song, this time Two Out Of Three and waited my turn.
The other folks there singing were really good and it was turning into a really fine evening of entertainment. Before I knew it, my name was being called again and up I got to the stage area. Half way through the song I realised Mike had arrived, winked and carried on to the end of the song. He was very complimentary and we sat at the bar once more where we chatted, listened to the other performers and had a few quiet drinks.
I wasn’t able to convince Mike to have a go on the microphone, but that didn’t stop me, LOL. Heaven can Wait was next, followed by the Eagles’, Hotel California. As I began to hand the microphone back to Tony, the Karaoke DJ/MC, he told me to keep the mike and sing another song, this time, Desperado again by the Eagles. I was really chuffed I tell you. Not a bad evening’s singing and one I really enjoyed.
Mike again told me that he had been talking with the others and after being let down by the hotel said that they had decided that the next convention party was to be held at a Karaoke bar – YEEEEAH!!
Maltloaf strikes again!!!
The owner, Marco, called for last orders and Mike and I had a last drink. Marco asked if we would be back the following evening to which I replied that I would be flying back to England then, but would hopefully be back in late 2013.
Tony & Miriam the Karaoke organisers were almost packed away and came over to me to thank me for joining in with the singing. It had been a great night and I agreed and said I hoped to see them again next year.
Mike and I walked back the short distance to the hotel and then had another long chat in the moonlight outside the hotel. Madness, as we could have sat inside in the warm and comfort of the leather suites inside the foyer, but it had become the way of things that week and we continued to this end all the while, Mike said he was to take me to the airport again on the morrow, which I really appreciated.
Eventually we forced ourselves to stop talking and, bidding him goodbye until the next morning, I went back to my hotel room where I packed the rest of my things into my bags ready for the flight home later that next afternoon.
My bed looked inviting as my head hit the pillow and then my alarm went off – it was time to get up again.
Thursday morning, and I was up early for breakfast in the Moiré restaurant. Here I met and chatted with Dez Skinn and Aniko Boholy who were staying on for a few days longer having turned the convention into a part holiday to make the most of the visit.
They wished me a safe trip, which was reciprocated and then they returned to their rooms. I checked in my luggage, in the outbound luggage storage room, signed out of my room and then decided to walk around Buggiba taking the names and photos of the nearby places we had visited restaurants, Karaoke bars, etc for this series of Blogs.
The day was glorious and definitely the best and warmest one of the trip. The locals still had their sweaters or light jackets on, but for me, a northern barbarian from Cimmeria I was in my shirtsleeves, as I had been all week long, today especially – it was a scorcher!
At length I made my way back to the hotel where sitting in sunshine on the entrance veranda I met up with a lovely couple, John & Anne. As we found out a little about each other they checked out Worlds End Volume1, which to my relief they said that they loved. After only a short while Mike arrived. I introduced him as one of the organisers and my friend and then I went to get my bags. Upon my return it was time to bid farewell to the couple, who were by now busily chatting to Mike and we were off.
Mike said there was plenty of time and would like to take me to a favourite restaurant of his – Melita Gardens in Balzan for a meal and where I had my last Kinnie of the trip.
The car ride took through areas of Malta that I had not been before now and was most enjoyable. Mike as usual told me all about the places we drove through, about how all the towns and cities have grown over the years until it almost one continuous conurbation.
The restaurant was lovely and my chance to have a last Maltese Pizza and a glass of Kinnie. It was a last chance to chat with Mike over the last week and then before I knew it we were off to the airport once more.
Once at the airport Mike waved me off and I checked in. Once through customs I walked through the duty free lounge and saw my present for my little Granddaughter, Phoebie; a little Christmas Penguin. He was too good to resist and with him firmly in hand I headed for the departure lounge, where in a very short space of time I found myself on a plane heading back to the UK.
The flight back was uneventful. I was sat next to an older gentleman and we chatted for a while. He was an elderly ex-navy man and very interesting to talk to. Like most folks he was fascinated by the fact I created comic books and graphic novels, as it is such a strange job to have.
Soon, we arrived at Manchester Airport, where once en route to the train station I started to feel a much cooler air. Once at the train station I realised it was freezing, indeed there was a little light frost in scattered here and there.
By the time we arrived at Bolton station it was even worse and most things were frozen with dustings of white frost everywhere. The train journey to Blackburn saw me standing the entire journey as the train was full to bursting and my thoughts were on the coming Christmas; the first one for my little Granddaughter, Phoebie.
I arrived at Blackburn station and everywhere was covered in white, everywhere was covered in snow and it was lightly snowing too. My thoughts at the time were that it was REALLY freezing!!!!!!! Nothing like the sunshine I had just come from and I was so grateful that I had had the foresight to bring along my bob hat, scarf and gloves for the return trip.
My text message had told my wife, Margaret I was due to arrive and by and by she picked me up. Her car was toasty warm and very much to my liking.
Once home I regaled her with tales of my trip, as is now customary after my trips to Malta and I downed a much-needed warm brew of tea. I unpacked my bags all the while chatting about the convention and the Karaoke nights.
To end this series of Blogs I would just like to add my heartfelt thanks to:
Mike Quinton for taking such good care of me after the convention was long over – after all he made sure I had company each day of my stay, which goes some way to saying what kind of guy he is.
I would also like to thank Chris and Joanna Le Galle who invited me back to their home once more to a wonderful evening spent with friends, reminiscing – along with a beautiful meal and some great wine too. These guys are so lovely and inviting.
Chris Muscat for making sure my initial arrival was met with friendship and a smiling face, again and for keeping me supplied with water and pop throughout the weekend.
Fabio Agius, and his little niece Jessica who looked after my tables when I wasn’t there – she is a little star – x, Samantha Abela for making sure I was always fed, organising everyone and ensuring that we all caught the coach on time, Mark Ellul and Anthony Pirotta for all the laughs on the Saturday evening – priceless, Elaine Muscat for keeping Mark in line - LOL, Kenneth Micallef for looking after me during the convention days, young Juan Mario Farrugia, who saved the day on the Saturday when he found my sketch sheets and promotional posters, Chris Stellini for his humility and friendship, Olivier for setting up the Workshops, and all the other organisers for making this fourth Malta comic convention another successful one for all involved.
Thanks also to the local artists, Jeanelle-Marie Zammit, Bernard Micallef, Maria Isabella Grech, Joseph Bugeja, Dean Fenech, Chris De Souza Jensen, Iella, Samwell Mallia, Liz Mallia, Inez Kristina and all the other local artists that continue to grow in their talents and, again, show me far more respect than I deserve – I am humbled by your friendships.
Thanks each and everyone of you, most of all for your friendship, but also the fun, the laughter, the conversations, the help throughout the trips and for the undeserved respect you show to me each time I arrive on your wonderful island. Your caring of and attention to “all” the guests, not just the “hot” folks of the moment is appreciated by all of the guests – everyone notices that. You guys are second to none.
Malta has some great ambassadors and they deserve every little bit of endorsement and respect they get and more. Their love of comics and their country is infectious and has enabled foreign writers and artists, such as myself to see a rich and wonderfully historic country. I have learnt a massive amount about the small islands history, culture, cuisine and lots more besides, which I would otherwise never have known and feel all the more rich for having done so.
These guys are worth their weight in gold, people of Malta. Check them out at MaltaComicCon 2013.
Website: www.maltacomic-con.com
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I, for one, am looking forward to MaltaComicCon5 in 2013 – in fact I am counting the days.And now to round off this series of Blogs, some more photos:
Part 2 – Cracking Comics Conventions, Company & Karaoke
Hi Guys,
Well, I awoke to the dulcet tones of my mobile phone’s alarm on the dawn of day one of the convention and as usual the first thing I did was to check the weather outside the balcony windows – Sunshine, all was well.
I gave my convention paraphernalia a last minute check before I went down for breakfast and I noticed my pre-printed sketch pages and promotional posters where missing. I had been putting things in and out of the bags as I tried to keep them inside the baggage allowance on the planes. I must have left them behind – Darn I thought!!!
In no time at all I was eating breakfast in the Moiré restaurant with my Fantasy Art Unlimited student, Deej. He had taken the organisers up on their fans convention rates for flights and accommodation.
There was the usual air of anticipation from all the new guests – which doesn’t ever go away, no matter how many times one returns to the convention. The sun was shining, the air was warm and very soon after the buffet-styled breakfast was over I soon found myself in the hotel foyer with Deej, Sean and the other guests.
Dave Gibbons saw my pink “Hawaiian shirt", which has been with me since the mid-eighties and was a part of my early visits to the Marvel offices and to UKCAC – the London comics conventions of the 80s and 90s and said “Nice Shirt”. Now, I know deep down he was being complimentary even though he said he wasn’t… LOL. This was the first time since the nineteen eighties that I had worn the shirt. It is the only relic that remains that I have persuaded Margaret not to sneakily throw out.
My good buddy and one of the MaltaCon Organisers, Chris Le Galle and me have a real laugh both during the convention time and also via email the rest of the year and amongst several running gags “Pink” is the optimum colour. Well, my shirt being pink with black silhouettes of women in bikinis was what I decided to bring to the table at 2012’s event, just for Chris. The shirt had the desired effect and Chris and I had a great laugh about it. Oh, yes and Dave would mention the shirt on more than one occasion throughout the convention too, even when I wasn’t wearing it.
This year, because of the large contingent of guests we were to go to Valletta on a coach and we soon found ourselves en route to the convention. In no time at all we found ourselves in the St James Cavalier setting up and before I knew it I was once again getting myself ready to delivery the first of my children’s drawing workshops. My tables were once more in the charge of one of the organisers; whilst I went next door to greet the folks coming along for the session.
Deej had decided to go for a look around the convention just prior to this and I knew he was in for a great time.
As usual, the workshop was well subscribed and we needed more tables and chairs to accommodate all the children there. It’s always nice to see that the kids like to join in and last year was no exception. As I do with all my workshops regardless of age I take those attending right back to basics and it is hardly any surprise that the children, unbound by the same constraints adults find around themselves, always adapt and “get” the new ways of drawing, even down to the techniques I may show them, pretty much from the off.
It never ceases to amaze me just how creative folks can be given the opportunity, especially when they are told they cannot make mistakes in my sessions. Hands go up eagerly to answer questions and great characters appear as if by magic on the once blank, white pages in front of them. After all drawing and painting is a kind of magic!
The session saw one little boy constantly coming forward to show me his finished work – it was always the same piece, but he was really proud of it and his appearances beside me increasingly endeared him with the adults there.
I started a drawing with some basic circle shapes and placing them strategically on the flip chart I asked who the character was. One Grandma decided it was likely Mickey Mouse, which it was, and after asking her to come and join me at the front of the class I asked her to finish of the drawing – which she did. This went down well with children and adult alike and after taking a bow she rejoined the child she was accompanying who now sported a great big grin – well, after all she was her Grandma.
It’s incredible just how fast the morning goes because of the workshops and I soon found some of the other guests and myself in the Café Inspirations looking at one of the menus, although I needn’t have bothered, as I already knew what I was going to order – a Maltese Pizza.
I sat with Samantha Abela, one of the organisers and Chie Kutsuwada, Inko, Dan Lester and Richmond Clements, with some of the other guests and Sonia Leong joining us a little later.
Well, Pizza eaten and feeling well and truly stuffed and the others looking in pretty much the same state we all made our way back to the tables to sell our wares.
On returning to my table one of the volunteers, young Juan Mario Farrugia, showed me the missing pre-printed sketch pages and promotional posters. He had found them underneath a pile of Worlds End Ashcans. They had been there all along, just hidden. He had saved the day, so I gave him a “Freebie” as a thank you – He was my young hero for the day!!!
The afternoon went extremely well with me selling lots of the new Worlds End Colouring & Storybooks and more of the first volume of the Worlds End graphic novel, producing scores of sketches and autographs on both my books, fans’ autograph books, sheets of paper and Malta’s first graphic novel, the Golden Lizard, for which I produced the cover in 2010.
By mid – late afternoon I was rejoined by Deej, who had been very busy as he looked around the convention, bought books off folks and went for a look around Valletta. Not too long after this we began to pack our wares away until the next day and retired to the Inspirations once more, where Deej and I sat and chatted with Herb Trimpe and his Wife, Patricia. These are the priceless moments we are lucky to share as comic creators where we get to know each other a little. Lots of laughs later and we were Hotel Santana bound once more on the coach. The plan was to return to the hotel, get refreshed, go for something to eat and then join the Saturday evening convention party.
On the coach Deej and I along with Sonia decided we would go for a Chinese meal at the nearby Great Wall Chinese Restaurant. So after dropping our gear off in our respective rooms the three of us met up in the hotel foyer and set off for some food. We had gone but a few steps away from the hotel when Deej noticed a sign above a local bar, The Little Waster Pub Diner, it read KARAOKE… he pointed it out to me and I remember saying something along the lines of, well we’ll have to eat up quick then because we’ll be singing tonight and then laughing along with Deej, who agreed. Neither Sonia nor I knew each other loved to sing and so it was a great surprise when she agreed and said we simply had to go. So the mood of the rest of the evening was set for us and we continued on our way to the restaurant.
The meal was, as usual, fantastic, as was the service. We had a starter and main course each. I had hot and sour soup, followed by sweet and sour chicken, all helped down with a pint of Cisk. The meal was accompanied with some great conversation and an air of expectation for what might be to come.
We arrived at the Karaoke bar and ordered our drinks; Sonia being pregnant was drinking fruit juice. We looked at the long list of folks already scheduled to sing and decided to get our names and songs down quick to see if we had time before going along to the convention after party.
Name, rather then clock watching became the order of the day as we drank, chatted and checked our positions on the Karaoke board, as slowly our names came closer to the head of the list.
And then it happened; our names reached the top!!!!!!
We were about to make headline news at the convention. I was first up and did Meatloaf’s Bat Out Of Hell. Sonia was next with Evanescence’s Bring Me To Life, which was magnificent and sounded just like the real singer, Amy Lee. Next up was Deej and his version of Glenn Campbell’s Rhinestone Cowboy, which got all the regulars in the groove. The scene was set; this was the precursor of the Comics and Karaoke Conventions – you heard it here first!!!
All three of us got rapturous applause, which was gratefully accepted, but looking at the time; it was already after half past ten and having a party to attend, we now, in singing mode, reluctantly prised ourselves away from the bar and proceeded back to the hotel to join the others.Upon arrival at the hotel, however, it soon became apparent that all was not as well as was expected. Everyone, rather than being in the upstairs bar area, was in the downstairs Castagna café part of hotel as the hotel has not ordered drinks to stock up the bar upstairs. So in somewhat more cramped circumstances than was customary at the convention we set about ordering drinks at the small bar.
Sonia was busy telling of the exploits of the aforementioned Miss Lee, Monsieur Campbell and Maltloaf to anyone that would listen, whilst Anthony Pirotta and Mark Ellul regaled Deej and I with explanations about the lack of drinks upstairs and tales of Hamsters, which due to good taste, must remain amongst our mutual memories of the evening. Suffice it to say the evening continued for the next hour with hysterical bouts of uncontrollable laughter from the four of us. Echoes of 2011’s David Lloyd episodes I hear you say.
Eventually the bar closed – after all it was now long past 2:30 a.m. so everyone now congregated in the small reception area where the hotel held it’s tours and information guides. The whole scene must have seemed rather cramped to anyone looking in on things, but to everyone there it just made the evening just that bit more intimate. As the talk on comics, conventions and family began to peter out, so too did the folks as they started to slowly drift off as well.
It took several attempts by the organisers to leave the hotel – 2013 saw them mostly going home rather than staying at the hotel, although I think Fabio, Chris and his wife Joanna stayed for the night, as they were early birds at breakfast the following morning. They would say their goodbyes to all in the small room outside of the bar area and then finding themselves back at the start of the list of folks they were saying their goodbyes to find themselves repeating the process.
Eventually all of us retired to our rooms and our beds for some much needed sleep – we would be at breakfast in around four hours time getting ready for day two of MaltaCon…
I awoke to both of my alarms going off almost simultaneously. I had left them purposely one on the bedside cabinet at the side of the bed and the other at the end of the bed on the dressing table.
So it was that I arose, feeling like I hadn’t slept in a week, but nothing that a shower and a Moiré breakfast wouldn’t mend. I sat with Deej, who wasn’t eating too much that morning and began to wade through the plateful of food in front of me. The legend of the “Karaoke Kids” was already rife by the time I was eating. Dez told me how he had heard that Meatloaf was in town – I told him it was “Maltloaf” and that was to be the way of things for much of the next twenty-four hours. I told him all about Sonia and Deej and it fast became apparent that a new legend was being born right in front of us… LOL.
Breakfast eaten, we all met up in the foyer, where the talk of Karaoke continued and we soon found ourselves once more on the short trip on the coach. Here Dave Gibbons mentioned that Sonia had been telling he and his wife all about the night before and our exploits in the Karaoke bar. It wouldn’t be the last time Dave and I spoke on the subject and by the end of the convention trip he would be lined up to practise at home so that the next convention we attended together we would both get up and sing.
In fact, so successful was the creation of the legend that Mike Quinton said that after discussing it with the other guys 2013 would see the after party held in a Karaoke bar… Now, by now, Mike should know that they guys never have to bribe me in this way to get me to go over once more… but as the Tesco advert says on TV, I suppose – “every little helps!”The talk continued with folks asking about our three’s singing exploits and then suddenly we were back in Valletta once more. It was a lovely morning with the sun shining down on us all, so it became a mass photography shoot with folks snapping away at the battlements and other sights that greeted us all as we alighted from the coach.
An hour after setting up the table again I was bound for the children’s workshop once more. This time Deej manned the table for me, which was very kind of him. Again there were plenty of takers for the workshop, but this time there were equal amounts of adults who also wished to take part, which was great. There were some folks arrived a little after I had started and provision was once more made for the extra bodies.
Just like the day before I had someone come up to the flip chart to finish off the basic drawing, which was again recognisable as Mickey Mouse. Everyone was very enthusiastic again with adults encouraging the children and vice versa. So much so, that at the end of the session I was asked if I taught in Malta. When I explained that I was a resident of the UK and only visited for the conventions they asked if I would be able to set up some kind of course there – something I am still working on at the moment – stay tuned, as they say on TV.
At 2 o’clock I was part of the discussion panel Building Atmosphere through Art, moderated by Chris Thompson of Orbital Comics fame. I joined Chie Kutsuwada, Inko and Guillermo Ortego as a panellist. After our introductions we discussed how we each try to create atmosphere in our work. The hour passed by very quickly and enjoyably as we each answered Chris’ questions in turn. It’s always great to listen to how other creators work and indeed how they think and each, in turn, resolve the same problems.
The discussion was then opened up to the audience and we were asked some great impromptu questions. You can hear the entire discussion here in Chris’ Podcast on Orbital Comics’ website.
I had a brief chat with a few of the audience members as I made my way to leave to return to my table and upon arriving back there saw a queue of people waiting for books signing and sketches too.
The rest of the day saw pretty much a repeat of the previous day with time spent signing and selling books, sketching and signing some more – so much so that by the time I realised I had missed lunch it was almost the end of the event for another year.
Like the first day people came up to me and asked how book two was doing. I had lots of interest in the second volume and showed some of the artwork produced up to that point, which also went down well with those seeing the new stuff.
The next two or three hours flew by as with Deej now at my side pretty much all of the time I sold books and sketched for the fans. I even got Deej sketching too, which was great and he seemed to really enjoy himself too once the nerves had settled.
The rest of the convention was slowly packing away and I was still busy sketching, with several still in the pipeline to do. Eventually I managed to finish them all and was soon packed away myself, another convention done for another year… phew!
Then it was down to the Inspirations for a final time. The café itself was full to bursting and so we found ourselves outside the café sat at the tables in the corridor.
The usual journey back to the hotel ensued and then the three of us made our way to the Karaoke bar again. I was due to be picked up at 9:00 p.m. by Joanna to go along to hers an Chris’ home once again, this time with Chris Thompson and Herb Trimpe and his wife Patricia. That meant we had to, figuratively speaking, barge our way into the Karaoke in order to get a song in each before I had to leave them.
Once again there were a great number of folks already up on the digital board set to sing. We spoke to the owner and mentioned our plight and we soon found ourselves with a microphone in our hands again. This time Maltloaf sang, “Heaven Can Wait,” Sonia sang a beautiful ballad, I can’t remember what the track was, but it was lovely, whilst Deej sang the Dubliner’s “Seven Drunken Nights” complete with Irish accent and the jig too. Once more the reception we each got was great and just as Deej finished his little ditty along came Chris to say, Joanna had just arrived – it was now 9:00 p.m. So, telling Sonia I would see her on the trip in the morning and wishing Deej a safe trip that same morning and all the best until I saw him in back in Blighty I rushed off with Chris to meet up with the others.
On the way to Joanna’s home we all chatted and discussed all manner of things, as though we had all known each other for years, it was great. The roads were lined with Christmas decorations and I knew we were in for a fun evening.
After the grand tour of their home we sat and chatted over a bottle of wine, whilst the meal was put before us and what a lovely meal it was. It’s always great to share time with friends, especially when accompanied with wonderful food and drink.
The night passed so quickly as Herb and I discussed our mutual careers in comics. Everyone chatted about the differences in comics nowadays, anecdotes, the digital age, families and all manner of other stuff – all in just a few hours.
My Granddaughter, Phoebie was mentioned a lot during the convention and that night was no different with me showing them photos of her from my phone like any proud Granddad would. With Christmas just around the corner, children were in all our thoughts.
All good things come to a close, however, and so it was that Joanna drove us back to the hotel and our beds. Tomorrow was the official last day for the guests, although I would not be leaving until Thursday. Monday was also the day of the annual trips around Malta, so we were not finished with all the fun just yet.
Joanna was waved off and every one of us feeling exhausted were quite ready for some much needed sleep. Tomorrow was a later start for us. We did not need to leave the hotel until ten o’clock, but it was now gone 1:30 a.m. so it wasn’t many hours until breakfast.I packed my convention gear back into my travel luggage, as I would need it no longer and then lay my head on the pillow…And now for some more photos - enjoy:
And now, here are some extra photos, used with her kind permission and expertly provided by Photographer, Aniko Boholy:
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…February 26th 2012
Part 1 – A New Book and a Convention on the Horizon
Hi Guys,
Well the run up during November to the MaltaComicCon 2012 was full of deadline issues and saw me once again burning the candle at both ends and all points between. Shades of 2011 and the launch of the first graphic novel I hear you say – yes is the reply.
I had decided when the year turned out to be full of tribulations with serious illness amongst family and friends and the many “things that could go wrong” actually doing so that book two, being way behind in the pencils, would take a back seat as I honoured something I had mentioned back in 2009 when I ran the Worlds End colouring book competition.
Never being one to shy away from complicating something for myself to make it better, however, I added something to the mix – a storyline.
The book became the Worlds End Colouring & Storybook. I looked at several ways of doing this, but decided on a linear one, which introduces the basic premise and principle characters, preparing the way for the graphic novel series. I again employed the services of James Hill to edit the script for me. Then promptly added some new stuff and moved some others around. Not enough to have James look at it again, but enough to make me thorough in my last proof reading.
This time around Rob Sharp was unavailable to help with the production design, so that too fell into my lap. I remember thinking to myself how glad I was that I studied graphic design at Art College, laughing and then wishing my little furry buddy, Bentley had too.
Well, the artwork was completed for the new book in the early hours of Tuesday December 4th just before dawn (my Dad’s birthday) and later on that day I delivered the files by hand to my printers for this project, Direct Ed. It’s only a short distance of around four or so miles away in the next town to their place, which made the close to the wire job a little easier for me to get it to them. The trouble was I needed the books printed and in my possession on the 6th, just two days away, and my Mum's birthday.
From there I picked up my train ticket, sorted my travel insurance and then changed my money to Euros for the trip.
Luckily the guys have a very professional set-up and on the morning of the 6th I picked the books up mere hours before my flight was due to take off. I checked them over and the quality was superb. There was a thick frost on the ground first thing in the morning with a thin dusting of snow added to this later in the afternoon, so it was starting to look like an icy take off.
My bags were eventually re-packed to accommodate some of the new books and then it was off to Blackburn railway station to catch the train to Manchester airport. There was a snag, however, time was tight and the roads were bad, there was obviously some sort of problem. I never found out what it was, but just as I began to walk down the slope from the station car park to the platforms I heard a train pulling out. It was mine.
With an hour to kill I sat in the indoor shelter, checked my timetable, my passport, and my airline tickets, adjusted my scarf, pulled on my gloves and waited for the next train.
Eventually it came and the trip to the airport was uneventful if a little cramped. The weather changed somewhat as we neared Bolton train station, where I had to change trains, and the snow changed to sleet. It was now rush hour and with my baggage in hand – so to speak – it was a little difficult, nay impossible to find seating. The train arrived in Bolton just as the one for the airport did and the overhead tannoy alerted me to the fact that the adjacent train was the one I needed.
Arriving at the airport terminus I rushed through to the airport departures area then checked with the AirMalta desk assistant and was directed to the appropriate check in gate number.
There were two women at the position and one of them said my name as I approached. I laughed and made a comment about how they knew me and asked if it was crime watch. They both laughed and I continued to check in my luggage. Then the one behind the desk asked if I was superstitious and I said not particularly. I then told them that I guessed my seat was going to be number thirteen? It was and as the light-hearted banter continued they laughed and said have a pleasant flight and not to worry. I showed them my hand, pretending to shake nervously and said that if the worst did happen and the plane came down I WOULD come back to haunt them both.
This was the nicest start at an airport I had ever experienced. Okay not something one should really be joking about or indeed tempting fate with, but it was so light-heartedly done – so unlike the usual straight laced way one usually experiences in these situations.
And with that I walked up the steps to the customs check in and the departures lounge beyond. At the customs check-in I experienced the X-Ray scanning machines for the first time. I have to admit to feeling a little like a Power Ranger or one of the Centurions I had drawn early in my career as I stood in an almost X position as I was scanned. It took little time at all, all things considered and I soon found myself at the departure lounge boarding gates awaiting the plane.
It was delayed as it had arrived a little later than expected and was now in the process of being cleaned. One of the ladies from the check-in desk was also at the boarding gates and she began the banter with me once more regarding the number of my seat… 13. I reiterated my threat of haunting her if it came down and then wondered if any of the other nearby passengers heard us and were now even more worried than they may have been before.
Eventually I found myself in the air once more and bound for Malta. There was none of the plane taxiing and then coming to a stop before launching itself along the runway. No the pilot taxied the plane around at the end of the runway and then with a mighty roar of the engine continued down the airstrip and took off, perfectly.
I was tired and so pretty much fell asleep straight after the take-off. I was abruptly awakened by someone nudging my arm. It was one of the two women next to me. They both wanted to get up – I assumed to go to the toilet. When they merely sat in the seats in front of the ones they had been using I figured they were either very superstitious or they didn’t particularly like my aftershave – LOL.
Anyhow, soon after this the onboard drinks and meal were served and once I had finished I put my head down for a while again, although I never managed to get fully over to sleep again – thanks ladies.
The trip passed quickly and I soon found myself alighting from the plane, feeling the warm breeze, and walking across the tarmac to the buses, which waited for us to take us to the arrivals lounge at Luqa Airport.
I passed through customs in no time at all, grabbed my luggage, which was one of the first dozen off the plane and was met by Chris Muscat, one of the convention organisers.
Our greetings exchanged and we went to the airport café for a coffee, whilst we waited for Emma Rios’ flight to arrive. She had needed to go to London Heathrow from the airport in northern Spain, as there was no direct flight and so was coming from Blighty right behind me.
It was a little over a half hour or so and then her flight arrived. We all three exchanged greetings and then found ourselves en-route in Chris’ car to the Hotel Santana in Bugibba on the north west coast of the island.
The trip between the airport and the hotel is just long enough for folks to introduce themselves a little and break the ice. I sat in the back as I had done this now four times and felt it much nicer for Emma to be able to speak to Chris from the front seat instead.
There were a plethora of Christmas decorations all over as we drove along, which to someone from northern England seemed strange due to the warm weather. I associate the season with cold, ice and snow, and rain… lots of rain. Warm, sunny weather, on the rare occasions we do get any, is in the spring or the summer months. So warm weather and Christmas decorations seem strangely at odds with each other. It was lovely though and was the start of the holiday season for me. In fact I reasoned by the time I was back in the UK it would be half way through December and leave me a week before the actual event itself.
By the time we arrived at the hotel, all three of us where looking a little tired as it was around 1:30 – 2:30 a.m. Chris told me that Chris Le Galle and Fabio Agius would be coming along in the morning after breakfast to take Chris Thompson and me to the venue for set-up day.
I was in room 215 and so waving off Chris, Emma and I went up in the lifts to our respective rooms. It took me little time to unpack and for my head to hit the pillow, once I had freshened up a little. It was now 3:30 a.m. and I was beginning to see a pattern of sorts appearing, as I thought of the previous year’s arrivals.
And then my alarm on my mobile phone went off. It was Friday, the day before the convention and it was time to shower and go down for breakfast in the Moiré restaurant. I was still half asleep after the flight and indeed the insane hours I had worked in the past week or so with the all-nighters.
At breakfast I met Dez Skinn and his partner, Aniko Boholy. Shortly afterwards we were joined for a short while by Sonia Leong and Chris Thompson. We chatted for a while as we ate and then they retired to their room and I decided to check out the local area once more. Most of the others were due in throughout that morning and afternoon.
It was a lovely sunny morning with some thick clouds away in the distance and after breakfast I had a short walk around the local area. It was warm and I was in my T-shirt, which gained me a few odd looks as I saw most folks with sweaters and jackets on. They obviously didn’t see too many folks from Cimmeria in Malta nowadays.
Back at the hotel I sent a text message to Mike Quinton and asked if he knew what time Chris Le Galle and Fabio were due to pick Chris Thompson and I up to go along to the St James Cavalier in Valletta. It wasn’t long after his text back to me that the guys arrived and the yearly manly hugs session began. MaltaComicCon was now officially opened for me… LOL. We were soon joined by Chris Thompson (I can see this series of Blogs getting somewhat confusing so I will include second names for the multitude of Chris’ that abound at MaltaComicCon) and we went outside to Fabio’s car, which we loaded up with our convention luggage.
Outside the hotel I saw Emma, pointed her out to them both and the guys introduced themselves. We were then joined by the legendary Hulk and Wolverine artist (although he has worked on just about every other Marvel character over the years) Herb Trimpe and his lovely wife Patricia. Ben Templesmith also showed up on the hotel steps as he and his partner planned on taking a stroll about the area.
It’s always nice when you meet one of your heroes and they live up to the expectations you have of them as both fantastic creators and decent human beings and Herb is just that.
Soon, after a brief car journey to the capital we found ourselves once again back at the venue. Even after four years of events I still find myself blown away by the beauty and the size of the walls of the ancient fortress in which we reside for the duration of the two days.
I think the main reason for the success of the conventions is down purely to the fun invoked by and the enthusiasm shown by the organisers. One cannot help but become immersed and wrapped up in their good humour, good nature and commitment as the events take place.
Add to that the ambiance of the local landscape, the sunshine, the great food, the historical relevance and culture of the island and no one could possibly doubt this is a winning combination.
This year I decided that after having dropped off my gear ready for setting up at my table I would take a look around and check out what was on display or being set up in anticipation of such. I managed to look at the Corto Maltese - The Spirit of the Journey, Emma Rios and Streets of Valletta comic book art exhibitions, which were all brilliant and worth coming along to the convention for alone.
The morning passed quickly and soon Chris Le Galle, Fabio and Kenneth Micallef approached me to ask if I would like to go for a late lunch with them. Burger King was the chosen eatery and I decided on a triple whopper – well I was on a pre-Christmas diet… LOL.
A fun time was had as we reminisced on past events and places we had eaten in and of course comics, conventions, our families and unfortunately the dropping out, for various reasons, of six of the guests on the list literally at the last minute.
Despite the latter, however all the convention organisers were high-spirited, even though not all the guests had arrived yet as that would take the majority of the day to see through.
Almost without warning the afternoon waned and evening approached, so off went Chris Thompson, Chris le Galle, Fabio and myself back to the hotel for a quick shower and then it was back down to the foyer to catch the coach that would take us all back to Valletta and the venue. It is only a short journey back. But the period of intense work to get the new book ready was starting to catch up with me as I drifted in and out of sleep on the way. Chris too was obviously feeling tired as he also dozed a little.
2012’s convention saw a single coach for the duration of the event itself and the Monday trips instead of the usual two mini-buses and as such the banter and camaraderie were perfect and reminded me so much of the very first trip to Malta when there had only been five guests travelling in a six-seater people carrier as we spent our first evening together as a group.
Sean Azzopardi was once more back with us having arrived not too long before. And so sporting my MaltaComicCon T-shirt given to me during my trip out there last year off we sped to the St James’ Cavalier.
As always the new folks were astounded by the venue, which for anyone not having read my previous Blogs about the conventions is a medieval fort and one, which has never been taken by invaders. The walls are incredibly thick, but then they had to be to resist cannon balls hurtling down at them from the enemy.
Thankfully nowadays the worst that is thrust upon its mighty fortifications are a group of comics creators and fans. As folks milled around the insides all the expletives were positive ones, but as I say it would be pretty hard to find anyone not impressed by the place.
The group was brought together and then Mike Quinton gave a speech introducing all the organisers and the mission for their merry band. This was followed by a further list of thanks to the guests, starting off with Sean and I for our continued support and our friendship, which was very touching and I am sure Sean will agree reciprocated from us both.
This introductory viewing of the venue, introduction of the organisers and guests was something that began last year and they obviously saw the value of it, as it makes the trip all the more special. It gives everyone time to look around the place, check out the exhibitions and where they will be sitting for the weekend and also a chance for new friendships to begin. There are also the little touches, which don’t go unnoticed by the guests too like the meet and greet as the guests make their way down the main corridor into the building and continuing as Mike shakes the hand of every guest as they enter the main convention hall. All subtle touches, but ones, which so sadly are missing from any other conventions I attend.
I hope any convention organisers reading this make a note of this very subtle, as I say, but welcoming aspect afforded to the initial arrival of the guests to the event. It takes place the night before the convention weekend begins, but puts faces to names for both organiser and guest alike. For me it’s a cracking little touch!
As always the evening is spent with the organisers explaining a little about Malta, its people, its culture, its cuisine, its incredible and often times violent history and its beginnings, along with lots of talk of comics, families and current projects. No wonder so many of the guests take so many photos and speak so highly of the convention.
Speeches done and we found ourselves in the balmy evening air of Malta’s capital Valletta and on our way to the restaurant – The San Giovanni Café – for some much needed food and a drink or two. Again this started last year with all the guests arriving at the latest by late afternoon allowing everyone the chance to enjoy the pre-convention party atmosphere.
I found myself seated between Dave Gibbons and his wife on my left and Kenneth Micallef to my right with Ben Templesmith and his partner, Richmond Clements Mike Quinton and Jean-Sebastien Rossbach across from us. Before the meal had even arrived Dave and I had a great conversation about our current projects, publishing, the future of comics, digital comics, teaching comics and my being a Granddad. The meal wasn’t long in arriving either. In fact by the time the meal was in front of us we actually seemed to realise there were other folks with us and we let them have a turn to speak with us too… LOL.
It was a lovely meal – I chose a Maltese Pizza, something I had been planning to do since my attending the convention had been mentioned some while before and let me tell you it was fantastic. I try to get at least one of these pizzas in during the trips. Cisk was on the drinks agenda; Malta’s home produced beer. Followed by a glass of Kinnie; Malta’s home produced soft drink, which is citric flavoured and quite sour in its after taste – it’s quite addictive once you give it a go.
The meal finished I was joined by my Maltese pal, Chris Le Galle for some of our usual fun-filled banter. It’s always great to catch up with friends and although we all speak to each other during the year the time spent amongst them is always better. Not long after this folks were gathered together once more and we made our way back up the hill to where the coach awaited us.
We bid farewell to those not staying at the hotel and then sat back and enjoyed more good-humoured banter, chatting and the journey back to the hotel. Once there everyone was pretty much ready for bed and the café bar had closed, so off we all went to our respective rooms ready for some sleep and the early start in the morning.As my head hit the pillow and I drifted off to sleep little did I realise what lay in store when I was to team up with my student, Deej who was en-route to the convention via the special fan-rates invitation and Sonia Leong on the evening to come…And now just a few photos - I didn't take many pre-convention this year - I was too excited I suppose... LOL
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
February23rd 2012
Convention Appearance
Hi Folks,
A few weeks ago my good mate Dez Skinn of Marvel UK, Warrior and Quality Communications fame (to name but a few of his successes) asked if I would attend Sci Fi Weekender; a science fiction and comics convention in North Wales.
Well, having a lot of respect for Dez and being a pal I accepted his kind invitation.
The website makes it look like it will be great fun and I am really looking forward to attending my first convention of 2013 – full itinerary details of convention appearances for 2013 can be found here on the Worlds End Website.
The convention takes place at Haven’s Hafan y Mor Holiday Park in Wales from Friday 1st March to Sunday 3rd March 2013. There's also a pre-convention party being held on the Thursday night of 28th February too.
The weekend line-up is very impressive with the likes of Craig Charles, Peter Davison, Frazer Hines, Richard Madden, Jerome Flynn, and Brian Blessed, amongst the film and TV stars in attendance. There are authors such as, Robert Rankin and I will be joining fellow comic creators such as Glen Fabry, for the weekend.
The Official Website says this of the event:
Back for a fourth year in 2013, The Sci-fi Weekender (formerly the SFX Weekender) promises the ultimate sci-fi experience. It's a festival of fun and activities for people who love science fiction and fantasy
The Sci-fi Weekender is packed with activities for fans: big-name guests, interviews, Q&A sessions, movie screenings, comic workshops, video-gaming, music, book readings and plenty more. It's all about bringing like-minded people together for a weekend structured around four pillar events: the entertaining Imaginarium cabaret, the sweeping Maskerade party (with awesome DJing from Craig Charles), and the fiendish Blastermind pub quiz.
The Sci-fi Weekender attendees will get the chance to fully immerse themselves in Sci-Fi culture. Fans can discover how comics are made, discuss burning issues with their favourite author, or be among the first to see exclusive screenings of films and TV shows. There are also many autograph opportunities. Above all, though, it's a chance to hang out with like-minded people and enjoy a few drinks in a safe environment with other fans.
I am taking part in a midday panel on Friday, chaired by the aforementioned Dez Skinn, entitled "Comics in the Digital Age: A Blessing or a Curse?" I'll be alongside 2000AD's Neil Roberts, Glenn Fabry and SFX caricaturist Paul Cemmick. The panel will focus on whether digital online comics help hard copy sales or not, and is it a boon producing work on computers whilst not having any originals to show and sell, etc.
So if you are one of the lucky folks to have already got your tickets for this “SELL OUT” convention I look forward to seeing some of you drop by the table for a chat and to see what I have on display there.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
February 13th 2012
Art Course Details
Hi Folks,
Well, it’s almost time for the new series of sessions to start for Fantasy Art Unlimited – now in its 9th year and so here are a few details on what to expect from the art course.
There is an opportunity to come along for a FREE Taster Session – please just contact us via the email address or phone number at the bottom of this Blog Post to arrange for this.
Course Details:
Course Tutor: International comic writer & artist and concept artist, Tim Perkins
Duration of FAU course: 30 x weeks
Duration of sessions: 3 x hours each session
Evening sessions: Wednesdays
Times: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Topics covered include:
Comic books
Graphic Novels
Game Design
Book Jackets
Children's Books
Cartoons
Storyboards
Character Designs
Background designs
Logo Designs
Film/Animation/Theme Park Conceptualisation
Storytelling techniques
Sculpting - For students that wish to take part
Creative Writing for comics, graphic novels, and children's books - For students that wish to take part
And lots more besides...
Techniques taught using different Mediums:
Pencilling
Inking
Painting
New - Digital Painting - Students must provide their own laptop, tablet and stylus and have Corel Painter loaded onto it
The centre has excellent car parking facilities.
For more details please visit us at:
Or call for more information on 01254 263217
The new Semester begins on at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday February 20th.
I look forward to seeing some new faces there soon.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
January 8th 2012
FULL DETAILS ON HOW TO ENTER
Hi Folks,
Lots of folks have been asking questions about the details on the Worlds End Colouring & Storybook Competition, since we launched the book and competition at the beginning of December so here are the Answers and the FULL DETAILS on entering the Worlds End Colouring & Storybook Competition:
Can I enter traditional colouring?
Yes - all you need to do is send off good quality A4 colour copies (Please DO NOT send off original artwork as Wizards Keep cannot accept any responsibility for any damage or loss to the artwork) to the address below:
Worlds End Colouring & Storybook Competition
Wizards Keep Publishing
11 Walton Crescent
Blackburn
Lancashire
BB2 3TQ
UK
Can I enter digital colouring?
Yes - all you need to do is send off 300dpi jpegs to:
mail@wizards-keep.com
How do I enter the competition? All you need to do is purchase one of the Worlds End Colouring & Storybooks and choose which page or pages you wish to colour and then submit - it's that simple.
Where can I purchase one of the Worlds End Colouring & Storybooks?
There are No age limits on the entrants - anyone and everyone can enter.
Do I need to be a professional artist?No - Of course you can be a professional, or you can be an enthusiatic amateur or a complete novice.
I live outside of the UK can I still enter the competition?Yes - the competition is open to literally everyone on the planet and from other planets too if they want to enter.
I live outside of the UK can I still purchase one of the Worlds End Colouring & Storybooks?Yes - you can by clicking the link here:You can enter as many or as few times as you wish.
What is the winning prize?
The winner will work with Tim on a paid Worlds End Project as the colourist. This is a great opportunity to work and receive payment on a professional project with a professional comic artist/ graphic novelist. As well as this the winner will receive full credit on the project as the colourist and the winning entrant will be announced on all the Wizards Keep networks.
When do the entries have to be in by?
The last entries have to be with us at Wizards Keep Publishing by Wednesday January 1st 2014 - so you have a little over a year to put forward your best work.
When will the winners be announced?
The winner will receive an email at 9:00 a.m. on Friday January 31st giving them the great news.
The winning entry will then be announced to the general public later on in the day at 3:00 p.m. on Friday January 31st 2014.
It really is that simple.
Good Luck to everyone that enters!
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
January 4th 2012
May All Your Dreams Come True...
Hi Folks,
Well it’s the end of another year once more.
Thanks to all my family, friends, fans and customers.
I’d like to take the opportunity to wish you all the very best wishes for 2013.
I hope it's a wonderful and prosperous year for one and all.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
January 1st 2012
The weather outside is frightful...
Hi Folks,
Well it’s that time of year once more – my favourite time of year for reflection and looking to new adventures.
Blogs have been a little light again this year.
Hopefully more Blogging in 2013 as I work to complete the pencil artwork ready for digital painting.
2012 has been a strange year, but one which for my family saw a new addition with the birth of my wonderful and beautiful little Granddaughter, Phoebie – our little Princess.
Thanks go out to all my family, friends, fans, colleagues and customers to wish you all a very Merry Christmas.
Thanks for your continued support – without which there would be no new books etc.
Just a quick note that we will be launching some completely new product ranges in 2013 – watch this space for more news soon.
In the meantime have a wonderful time and if you have to work through the holidays remember to take time to join in the fun when you get a chance.
Oh, yes, and try not to eat and drink too much!
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
December 25th 2012
Or my NEW book, Malta and a Seasonal Offer
Hi Folks, well, with Christmas just around the corner, my deadline for finishing the brand new Worlds End Colouring & Storybook met and Malta’s yearly comic convention imminent I thought it would be a good time for a quick tri-promotional Blog before I find myself jetting to warmer climes.
Okay first up, the new book is finished and, although it was a mad rush to get things done in time, I managed to complete the artwork and the design of the new book in time for a world exclusive Pre-Christmas launch once again at MaltaComicCon 2012 in a few short days time.
This has been a chance to draw some new scenes from the world of Gaeyrth on which the saga takes place. The artwork is purposely very open as it is a colouring book as well as containing some Worlds End back-story too. It contains some great action scenes and some more tranquil moments and includes all of your favourite characters, both hero and villain.
We have received some really nice complimentary comments and emails via our Worlds End and Wizards Keep FaceBook pages since we began to show some of the artwork a few weeks ago.
The new Colouring & Storybook will be available for sale on the website from Wednesday 5th December.
In the meantime for everyone that orders a graphic novel before Christmas, on the evening of Christmas Eve, even if you have missed the last Pre-Christmas post, we will include one of the new 40 page books, as a special seasonal stocking filler.
Here is a little teaser cover-art from the book:
In this book I am joined by three – yes three – guest artists. Dave Windett, Paul Eldridge and Lauren Hanratty.
You may remember that back in January 2009 we announced a new Worlds End project, which would launch after the publication of the first graphic novel. Three pages were left open for three lucky winners to fill in the book. It was just a fun thing and the competition was open to four categories – Professional, Semi Professional and Amateur. Dave won the Pro category, Paul won the Semi-Pro and Lauren won the Amateur category.
The Competition required the guys to draw a black and white line drawing of one, or more, of the Worlds End Characters. Well they did just that and after sifting carefully through hundreds of entries we decided on our winners.
So, please make sure you get your orders for the graphic novel in before Christmas day to receive your FREE Colouring and Storybook or if you prefer to order just the colouring book itself I am sure we will throw in some extra goodies for those fans/customers too, but as to what those may be - well, that will be Santa’s secret for now.
Well, Thursday will see me heading out from old Blighty, as a guest once more, for the sun-drenched island of Malta, home to some of the most enthusiastic comics fans and creators I have ever met, as well as some of the nicest folks ever to grace our wonderful planet.
This year’s convention has a great line up of guests and includes some big guns from the world of comics – a full list of which you will find in my earlier Blog here.
You can bet your bottom dollar I will be posting my thoughts and a great plethora of photos as soon as I get chance when I get back to the UK.
Excited, even though this is my fourth trip out there?
You bet I am, because having been to all of the conventions held there this time I know what is to come there. I will also get to share more moments with my Maltese mates, fans, and a lovely warm culture that will leave indelible memories in my heart once again.
If you have been thinking of going and need a little nudge as to whether or not to attend – do yourselves a favour and order your flight now! You won’t be disappointed.
If any of you reading this are going to be at the convention and would like to buy something in particular, please get in touch ASAP before I fly on Thursday to ensure I pack your goodies in the cases. That way you will make sure yours is included and won’t miss out.
I’ll just add here I can’t wait to see you all once again.
And now…
“What, there’s more?” I hear you say. Yes, a little teaser for you all. We are launching a NEW competition.
The Worlds End Search For A Superstar!
Okay, it’s just that time of year for us here at the Keep, so we’ll spill the beans already.
The competition is Free to enter and is open to everyone and the prize will go to someone very special indeed. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work on a special comic book project for real? Well, now’s your chance to find out.
So what do you need to do?
You are going to be invited to colour a page from the Worlds End Colouring & Storybook!!!
If you work traditionally with “real” paints, inks or coloured pencil crayons then you will need to create your masterpiece, scan your finished artwork and then send it off.
Please DO NOT send off original artwork – we cannot accept responsibility for any potential damage or loss.
If you work digitally you can scan the page from the book you intend to digitally colour and then work on the computer to colour it.
After which you need to email it to one of our email addresses.
OR you can opt to send full colour photocopies, or prints of your work via snail-mail to our studio address at:
Wizards Keep Publishing – 11 Walton Crescent – Whinney Heights – Blackburn – Lancashire – BB2 3TQ – United Kingdom
Now here is the prize – the winner will get the chance to work with us here at the Keep on a new Worlds End project as the colourist.
Yes, it’s a paid Gig and a chance to work alongside us here at the studio. Now, don’t worry you don’t need to leave home to come along here it can all be done virtually from your own homes. But the work needs to be of a professional standard and it is even better if you can do this digitally.
So there you have it in a nutshell.
The winner will be the colourist on the next Worlds End Project that we will announce following the prize draw!!!
Check back here soon for ALL the details and Good Luck when you enter.
Here is a copy of the Competition Flyer for you to pin on your notice boards...
In the meantime – I have some books and clothes to pack and a flight to catch soon, so as always…
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
December 5th 2012
<!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 <![endif]-->Interview on DownTheTubes
Hi Everyone,
The other day I was fortunate to have John Freeman ask to interview me for his wonderful website, DownTheTubes regarding all things comics, movies and everything in between. You can read the interview here:
Next time I will be plugging my upcoming convention appearance once again at MaltaComicCon4 and following this some news on Worlds End and some new art from the books.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
November 15th 2012
The third of three sketches for Halloween week
Hi Everyone,
Well, I hope you are all set for this evening’s partying.
Here is the last of this week’s quick Halloween sketches with this one, again in biro, of favourite Halloween performer, ALICE COOPER. Alice and his music have always had a special place in my life. For me he is the ultimate “real-life” Halloween character performing in this vein all year around. In Alice’s world everyday is Halloween.
If I was to produce a comic version of Alice – this would be my version of him.
So, if you are seeing this Alice and you decide you would like to produce a new comic – hopefully you know where to come – yes what better company than here at Wizards Keep.
I look forward to hearing what you think of this quick little sketch.
In the meantime, if you are out this evening “Trick or Treating,” please ensure you all keep safe and watch out for all those...
“Ghosties and Ghoulies and Things that go Bump in the Night...”
For me, I’m off to sort this evening’s viewings – Scooby Do cartoons, followed by Alice Cooper in Concert and then perhaps the thousandth viewing of The Fog, or perhaps Halloween, or Salem’s Lot – or then again perhaps all the above and more...
BOO!!!
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
October 31st 2012
The second of three sketches for Halloween week
Hi Everyone,
Well I hope you are all well on with your plans for your Halloween parties and that you have your pumpkins at the ready to carve for tomorrow evening’s exploits. Here we have our treats ready for any “Trick or Treaters.”
As with the theme this week here is another Halloween sketch. Today’s rendition is this one, again in biro, of a Witch.
I look forward to hearing what you think of this quick little sketch.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
October 30th 2012
The first of three sketches for Halloween week
Hi Everyone,
As many of you already know Halloween is a special time of year for me. I love all the pumpkins, dressing up and Scary films on TV – I always have. I am so happy that my daughter, Joanne and her husband, Toby are following on the tradition in their home too.
The year usually runs like this for me, Halloween and a few days later Bonfire Night. This is a great lead up to December and the run up to Christmas and the New Year and then I start looking forward to the coming longer days... or at least I hope the ones in 2013 are indeed longer and sunny next year.
So with that in mind I thought instead of my usual sketch for Halloween, as it’s a short Halloween week this year, I would publish a sketch over the next three days, beginning with this one in biro of Frankenstein’s Monster.
I look forward to hearing what you think of this quick little sketch.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
October 29th 2012
My Granddaughter’s new bedroom mural
Hi Everyone,
I have been meaning to post this for a while now, but aside from posting some photos on my FaceBook page hadn’t managed to get around to doing so here. A few weeks ago I finished painting a mural on my Granddaughter Phoebie’s bedroom wall.
As I have said before I am now a proud Granddad and as such – when asked to create a mural for what was to become Phoebie’s bedroom by my daughter, Joanne and her husband Toby – decided to try to create something a little special for our special little girl.
The plan is to eventually post a big series of day by day photos of the creating of the mural from start to finish – which in real terms took a few weeks to complete.
Here in the meantime is a photo of some of the finished article to whet your appetites.
Once I get a little straighter with the Worlds End schedules I will begin publishing the stage-by-stage photos of the creation of the mural.
I look forward to hearing what you guys think.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
October 23rd 2012
Update on Malta’s Comic Convention 2012
Hi Everyone,
I thought I would make it official that I will be attending MaltaComicCon for the fourth time in as many years, so like Sean Azzopardi I have been lucky enough to be invited along to all the Maltese Comic Conventions since 2009. The convention has now become a main event in my diary – to which I look forward to every year. I feel extremely honoured to have been asked back each year and I cannot wait to catch up with my Maltese Friends and Fans once more.
This year will also give me the opportunity to catch up with fellow comics creators that I know already and some other guests whom I have never met before. This is the beauty of this kind of event.
As always I will be running the Children’s Comic & Fantasy Art Workshops on both Saturday and Sunday mornings, between 11:00am and 12:00pm. This is a really great way for me to start the convention as each year the children that attend, along with their parents a lot of the time, are always incredibly keen to learn how to draw comics and fantasy characters. The workshops are always extremely well attended and sometimes over-subscribed, which is always a good thing. From what the guys are telling me at the moment this is the same for December’s workshops.
I will be sketching and signing books, etc throughout the weekend, so please feel free to drop by my table and say hello – I don’t bite, honest.
AND NOW SOME INFORMATION FOR YOUR DIARIES:
Dates: Saturday 8th December and Sunday 9th December
Venue: St. James Cavalier (all floors), Valletta
Times: Between 10pm to 6pm - both days
Ben Templesmith
Calssara
- Cameron Stewart
Chie Kutsuwada
Chris Thompson
Dave Gibbons
David Gianfelice
Declan Shalvey
Dez Skinn
Emma Rios
Glenn Fabry
Herb Trimpe
Inko
James Hodgkins
Jimmy Broxton
Jordie Bellaire
Mike Carey
Richard Clements
Sean Azzopardi
Sonia Leong
Tim Perkins
An incredible line-up as you can see, well apart from the last guy on the list... I’m not too sure about him... LOL.As I mentioned in my previous Blog, if you are new to my Blog and want to read more about the conventions, please feel free to check out my Blog Archives for November 2009, October 2010, and February, March and April 2012. You’ll need to make a brew before hand as they are quite comprehensive and maybe even some sandwiches to boot.
I am going to be taking along some pages from Worlds End – Volume 2 – A Hard Reign’s Gonna Fall, as well as the Worlds End Colouring and Storybook Book plus a few other projects in the pipeline this year. I am also trying to take along a few surprises as well. In fact, because the second book is in these early stages it feels a lot like my first visit way back in 2009 when that was the stage volume 1 was at. I am excited to hear what the Maltese folks think about my new book. You will also get an exclusive chance to view a piece of full colour art from Volume 2 as the artwork will be part of a MaltaComicCon Calendar.
Anyhow, I have lots to do before then, so I’ll just simply say how much I look forward to meeting up with everyone at the convention – see you all soon.
Until next time, have fun! October 18th 2012
The Man Who Ate Daffodils
Hi Guys,
What? I hear you all saying. Has he been on something this fine day?
Well, actually no, I haven’t. The title of today’s little missive belongs to the graphic novel of the same name by my Welsh buddy, fellow comic creator and graphic novelist, Simon Wyatt.
I first met Simon around 2007 when I first started to frequent comics conventions once more. I had met him on line previous to this on one or more of the social and professional networks. Each time we met, we both spoke about our mutual projects – both of us were writing and drawing our own graphic novels and both of us shared a common passion and drive to see them come to fruition and publication.
The book arrived in the post a few weeks ago. I waited to read it until after I had finished writing the final draft of volume two of my Worlds End graphic novel series, as I wanted to savour this nice looking book.<
Art and respect outside of comics...
Hi Everyone,
There is a world outside of comicbooks, honest...
I thought I would be a little controversial with my opening comment here today, for which the reasons will hopefully become apparent, as the tale progresses. This is especially so as the coming words seem to express the exact opposite of my current career position.
I originally wrote this Blog a couple of years ago after I was involved in a series of conversations on a forum on the internet and although it was a broad subject, it contained some of the subject matter, which I have broached in my Blogs since I started writing them. I had intended on publishing this particular Blog as a result of those conversations an age ago, but the machinations of the previous two year’s events conspired against me doing so before now, until I had managed to proof-read it.
The conversations between several comics professionals and myself covered lots of ground during the time we spent in them. Some of the discussions covered positive aspects to the business, whilst others were not so. There are some home truths here in this Blog and I have chosen not to pull punches, but I have elected not to name and shame, the damage is done to those in the industry that will appreciate these words and also maybe there will be some folks that hear of this Blog and see the words and recognise themselves as guilty as charged, but somehow I doubt that will even occur to such folks.
Ask most folks inside of the business and you will hear the countless nightmare stories of artists (pencillers/inkers/colourists), writers, and letterers waiting for jobs to come along and then getting insane deadlines because folks had sat on the jobs, late payments, just because creative folks were looked on as last in line for payment (at best), and sometimes even a cut in pay from the start of a job, because the publisher hadn't made as much as they wanted/expected, etc.
Pieces of artwork, numbering in the hundreds, if not in the thousands (per artist in question) that have never been returned to the rightful creators and sadly there are many artists that can lay claim to this fact applying to themselves. This artwork not being returned due to the facts that either it was not the policy of the said publisher to return artwork (despite having already received a
Enlightenment for those of a creative disposition
Hi Guys,
As I said in my previous Blog, a while ago on one, or two of the comics forums a series of threads were started, which showed the level of unrest amongst the ranks of professional comicdom and looked at what is rife in US comics and nowadays the remnants of UK comics. The discussions broached on some very touchy subjects and they are just some of the things amidst a whole host of others that are fundamentally wrong with the system we work inside of within the machinations of the comic business.
One of the touchy subjects was producing samples years after becoming established as a professional artist. On a personal note, I have refused to produce samples without full payment since 1999 for two reasons:
1.) The editor/publisher should, if competent, be able to ascertain whether or not an artist can create/write/draw/paint, etc from existing work they have done, without the need to see whether, or not they can draw a horse, or a 18th century town house, because there wasn't one in the samples that were sent. If not, then the odds are it will end up being a typical comic scenario of changes for the sake of them and the general garbage that can arise from these kind of working relationships - the alarm bells certainly sound instantly with me now.
2.) We do not work for FREE! Freelance does not mean we work for free, it means we hire ourselves out to companies to produce work for them, without them having to pay out national insurance, tax, and any of the perks one may have working on staff with a salary.
My view is simply – just because that's the way it's always been, doesn't mean it is right, or indeed cannot be changed.
My previous Blog enlarged on scenarios, which would be deemed wrong when compared with the comic creators’ analogies here.
If anything good has come from the digital age of the Internet, it is the abilities to better network with fellow colleagues, be they writer, artist, letterer, graphic designer or production folks. Comics creators can now side-step the publisher in favour of publishing the books themselves. With the advent of the co
The flow and rhythm in the process of Storytelling
Hi Guys,
I have been involved in this same conversation that I am sharing with you guys today, several times in the last few years.
I have always believed that the story will write itself and end when it is finished, not at some pre-appointed page. That said the publisher may have certain page counts, and/or word counts in mind when commissioning a book, due to the format, size and budget of the book in question.
The beauty of me controlling all the aspects of publishing nowadays, with my graphic novels, outside of the constraints of Marvel, DC and other major comics publishers and book publishers means the stories can unroll naturally and I do not have to conform to the decompressed style of storytelling prevalent nowadays in US comics, or indeed fit it into a page count needed for a story arc to be later collected into a trade paperback, or hard backed edition.
When I am writing a book, again that unfolds as per the needs of the story and also the age group. Thus I am aware of being more concise when writing a children’s book as against a novel.
I have to admit that my working in comic books as made me aware of being able to write in concise ways driving the story forward without having to write reams of unnecessary prose to do so. It is the same with the illustration side of things, as I am able to control how much, or how little is needed to convey the mood, atmosphere, tension and space for dialogue through the relationship of words and artwork and the pacing of the storyline(s).
I have found you develop a gut feeling as to when the art is finished and so too the writing of the story. Comics have certainly also made me totally aware of what is needed for driving a story forward, whether it is inside of a comic, graphic novel, magazine piece, novel, children’s book, or TV/film/animation script and as to what can be left out.
0 Comments on Driving the Story Forward as of 5/13/2012 5:54:00 PM
The Latest News from Wizards Keep
Hi Guys,
Today I thought I would share some important and exciting news - as we saw the shop section gain the addition of PayPal to the SagePay payment gateway.
This now gives customers another option for payment methods.
There is no difference in the gateway page other then the "NEW" PayPal button - which looks like the one below.
The new products due to be launched in the shop in June will now take their respective places later this month.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
July 10th 2012
This last week has seen BT Business Phone and Broadband issues
Hi Everyone,
Just a few lines today to send our apologies to everyone that has placed orders or tried to contact us here at the Keep via telephone, or email during this last week.
Unfortunately our BT Business Phone Line and Broadband have been down for the fourth time since 2005.
Thieves stole the copper cabling for this area last Wednesday evening, leaving all the companies and residential customers without any connections and these were only replaced yesterday.
If you have placed an order with us, emailed us or called and were unable to speak to us or leave a message we are trying to get back to normal here ASAP.
We will be fulfilling all outstanding orders this week and will reply to all emails ASAP.
If you wish to contact us again via telephone, please feel free to do so at your convenience.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
July 18th 2012
The second instalment of the hit graphic novel series
Hi Everyone,
Well, it’s been a while since anything new appeared on this little Blog of mine regarding the graphic novel series, so here is a first look at the second page from the second book.
There will be other pages and updates from A Hard Reign’s Gonna Fall as there were for the first volume The Riders on the Storm from time to time to give you guys a flavour of this new volume. I look forward to hearing back from you guys to ascertain your verdict on my latest work.
There will be large format versions of the pencil artwork on the Worlds End Website soon for you to check out too and you can see new information on the Wizards Keep Website, as well as regular updates via our Twitter accounts (My Tweats and Bentley's have direct links from here on the side bar of the Blog - Gweldar has his own link on the Worlds End Homepage).
Eventually there will be painted, colour versions of the pages up here to peruse too.
And if your bag includes the words to the stories you can always check out the Arcanum page on the Worlds End Website to read an on-going series of prose stories – All set on Gaeyrth of course. The first of these is entitled, "The Tar Monster of Khemis Treesett."
And for those of you wondering, yes, Bentley is here in the studio helping out with the chores once again...
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
August 22nd 2012
Jack (KING) Kirby’s 95th Birthday
Hi Everyone,
Well, those of you that know me will by now know that Jack Kirby was a massive influence on my becoming a comic creator and so like most years here is a commemorative Blog to celebrate what would have been his 95th Birthday.
As I worked on the pencils for Worlds End Volume 2 and the Worlds End colouring book today I thought about Jack's work a lot.The master universe creator in the comic book form, who knows what wonders he would be creating today with the advent of the digital age?I would like to share a little video created by his youngest Granddaughter, Jillian. Simply click on the picture to be redirected to YouTube to view the video.Please feel free to pass on the message and give her your support.All that remains is to raise a glass to the heavens, this bright sunny evening (somewhat of a rarity this year in this neck of the woods) and to say thanks for all the wonderful stories and art once again, Jack and I hope you are having a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, in which ever universe you are looking down from.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…August 28th 2012
Malta’s latest Comic Convention - 8th/9th December 2012
Hi Everyone,
Well, what can I say except it is the best organised and also the best convention I have ever attended with for its atmosphere and sense of fun. This year it takes place over the weekend of Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th of December.
It seems incredible that this lovely convention and its organisers and fans have been a part of my life for FOUR years now – where does all the time go? Over that time I have seen it grow in both statue and in what it offers to fans and creators alike.
The convention is run by a small band of incredibly enthusiastic and warm-hearted individuals who under the guise of Wicked Comics create a convention, which is every bit as much a meeting of like-minded souls (both comic fan and creator alike) as much as it is a professional assembly of all things comic.
The guys have become a big part of my life during this time and my words cannot honestly do their work the justice it truly deserves – all I can say is they have just announced an offer in the last day or so and if you can – you really should take them up on it.
My good buddy, Chris Le Galle posted this onto my FaceBook page on Tuesday afternoon:
Fantastic Offers for Fans Travelling to the Malta Comic Con 2012!
Wicked Comics are proud to announce fantastic package deals (including discounted accommodation rates and discounted convention tickets) for fans who wish to travel to the forthcoming Malta Comic Convention from abroad.
The Single Accommodation Package:
The Single Accommodation Package includes the following:
Accommodation in a 4 star hotel in Bugibba (tourist area) on Bed and Breakfast basis for 3 nights (Friday 7th December, Saturday 8th December and Sunday 9th December).
2 Day Ticket to the Malta Comic Convention (Saturday 8th December and Sunday 9th December between 10am - 6pm both days).
Return Transport from the hotel to the convention centre (applicable for both Saturday and Sunday)
This package only costs €102 per person.
Optional additional accommodation dates available at €25 per night per person.
The Shared Accommodation Package:
The Shared Accommodation Package is even cheaper! But this is only applicable for 2 persons travelling together. It includes the following:
Accommodation in a 4 star hotel in Bugibba (tourist area) on Bed and Breakfast basis for 3 nights (Friday 7th December, Saturday 8th December and Sunday 9th December).
2 Day Ticket to the Malta Comic Convention (Saturday 8th December and Sunday 9th December between 10am - 6pm both days).
Return Transport from the hotel to the convention centre (applicable for both Saturday and Sunday)
This package only costs €87 per person.
Optional additional accommodation dates available at €20 per night per person.
Ticket holders are granted access to all convention areas and for everything happening during the Malta Comic Convention. Additional minor charges only apply for console and cosplay competitions.
Anyone interested in any of these packages is kindly requested to email us on travelling@maltacomic-con.com quoting the package of interest and indicating any extra nights might be applicable.
And if you're thinking of coming to our convention why don't you also pop over to another great convention happening just a week before ours in Madrid? The Expocomic will be held between Thursday 29th November and Sunday 2nd December 2012. More info at: http://www.expocomic.com
The Malta Comic Con 2012
Saturday 8th December and Sunday 9th December
St. James Cavalier (all floors), Valletta
Between 10pm to 6pm - both days.
The Malta Comic Con - What's all the Buzz about?
The Malta Comic Con (MCC) is a 2 day event which celebrates comic creators, comic books, books, movies, TV series, table top games, video games, role playing games, cosplaying and virtually anything that is related to the comic culture. The MCC is both entertaining and educational and on both days there will be material specifically intended for children and material specifically intended for a mature audience. However, particular focus is always given towards providing a platform for creators to meet their fans. This year MCC 2012 will be hosting the biggest number of professional creators yet. The names will be communicated shortly but one thing we will promise is that there is going to be some really BIG names this year.
- Big Guests - Short or no queues!
- Local and Foreign Exhibitors!
- Signings, Sketches, Original artwork and more!
- Workshops, Talks, Discussion Panels and more!
- Exhibitions - Emma Rios Artwork and Corto Maltese!
- Movies and animations showing continuously on both days!
- Console Gaming, LAN Gaming, Table Top Gaming & Role Playing Games!
- Cosplay!
- Competitions!
- Collectables!
- Retail Stands!
Detailed information about all things Malta Comic Con will be uploaded on our website shortly!
So there you have it, guys – straight from the organisers themselves.
It really is an incredible event, but don’t just take my word, ask any of the previous convention guests and they will say the same.
This year’s Guest list stands like this:
Calssara
Chris Thompson
Declan Shalvey
Dez Skinn
Emma Rios
Jimmy Broxton
Jordie Bellaire
Mike Carey
Sean Azzopardi
Sonia Leong
If you are new to my Blog and want to read more about the conventions, please feel free to check out my Blog Archives for November 2009, October 2010, and February, March and April 2012. You’ll need to make a brew before hand as they are quite comprehensive and maybe even some sandwiches to boot.
I am hoping that my deadlines on Worlds End – Volume 2 – A Hard Reign’s Gonna Fall, as well as the Worlds End Colouring and Storybook Book plus a few other projects in the pipeline will allow me to venture along again this year.
Stay tuned I’ll let you know how things move along.
Until next time, have fun!
Tim Perkins…
September 26th 2012
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0 Comments on MaltaComicCon4 - 2012 as of 2/27/2013 5:37:00 PM
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HNY Tim.
Happy New Year straight back at ya, mate.
Hope it's a great year for you.
("j)