Want a FREE SKETCH CARD?

As a special treat for attendees of what is sure to be a RECORD SETTING Boston Comic Con, I’m once again doing doing a limited number of absolutely FREE SKETCH CARDS!

Want one? Here’s the deal:

• Your name
• Sketch card character requested
• The day you’ll be at the convention (Saturday or Sunday)

This offer is limited, as I’ll be drawing FREE SKETCH CARDS for the first 75 Fans who contact me . If you’re interested, don’t wait to put in your order!

To get your card, stop by the Tyler James / ComixTribe table in Artist’s Alley at some point during the show, say hello, and pick up your FREE SKETCH CARD. Not a bad deal, huh?

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + a FULL CHARACTER SKETCH (7 x10.5 board) for just $20! You name the character! They’ll be bagged and ready to pick up and pay for at the show.

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + an ORIGINAL FULL CHARACTER SKETCH in the NEWLY RELEASED book “ART for the COMIXTRIBE: Commissions and Creations by Tyler James.” (Preview the book here.)

You can have the character of your choice custom sketched on an interior page of this massive 118 page artbook of great pinups, commissions, and sketches from the past two years. All this for just $30.

Order now by email or in the comments below, and pick up and pay at the show.

And for the SERIOUS Art Collector: FULL COMMISSION SPECIAL!

I have only THREE Full-Commission slots left open for the Boston show. Full-commissions are done on 11 x 17 in. professional sized comic art boards, and come in a protective plastic case. Get an original full sized character drawing of your choice, with limited background, penciled and inked, at a special convention price of just $75.

Add COLOR to your order!

If you you would like the piece finished with a grey-toned or colored marker wash, I can do that for just $5 for sketch cards, $10 more for sketches or sketchbooks, and $25 more for full commissions.

ORDER NOW, PICK UP/ PAY AT THE SHOW!

Remember, the free sketch cards are being given on a first come, first serve opportunity, so if you’re interested and coming to Boston, send me an email now at TylerJamesComics@gmail.com or Leave a Comment Below to let me know what I can draw for you.

Look forward to seeing you in Beantown in April!

-Tyler James

Cesar and I are hard at work on the next issue, and really think we have something special here.

In the coming weeks, we’ll be adding more retailers to our growing list of shops carrying the book, and will be partnering specifically with the North East Comic Retailers Alliance, a network of 30+ shops, to build local buzz for the book before making a nationwide direct market push next year.

The reviews have already started to come in, and fans, retailers, and reviewers are buzzing:

There are a bunch of new books making their debut at NYCC 2011. We’ve got no way of knowing which of them are going to be awesome, but some have us frothing. Case in point: The Red Ten, by Tyler James and Cesar Feliciano. This one-shot comic has an awesome premise: a female, Batman-style, World’s Greatest Detective is found murdered, and the prime suspect is, obviously, her Joker-equivalent. Things aren’t as simple as they seem, however, and when the dead heroine’s teammates get involved, things get really grisly.
K. Thor Jensen
UGO Entertainment

I truly enjoyed the first issue of The Red Ten and I’m looking forward to the next issue.
Marc Muser
ComixPress

4 out of 5 stars! The story is well paced. James does good with laying out the beginning, leaving the big mystery until the end…I enjoyed the Agatha Christie novel and this is shaping up to be a book I’ll enjoy as well.
Troy Osgood
Kitty’s Pride

We hope you’ll consider supporting the series.

BUY THE RED TEN #1 NOW!

THE RED TEN is a superhero retelling of Agatha Christie’s classic novel “And Then There Were None.”

When the world’s greatest detective is violently murdered by her nemesis, the world’s foremost super team and her former sidekick band together to bring the villain to justice. However, the mission goes terribly wrong, and before the night is out each of the ten “heroes” will pay dearly for past transgressions.

THE RED TEN #1

Format: Single issue, 32 pages, full color

Book Options:

Standard Version (First Printing)- $3.99

Artist Edition (First Printing) – $24.99 (featuring original sketch cover by creators Tyler James or Cesar Feliciano.)

Artist Editions are Signed, Number and Limited to 50 Copies.

What’s the website:
www.theredten.comixtribe.com/

I’ve been hard at work putting finishing touches on the cool new books we’re debuting at the show.  If you want to see what I’ll be bringing, be sure to check out the free, 60+ page digital preview of five new series that will debut at the show.

FIND ME AT COMIXTRIBE BOOTH #2537

ComixTribe Takes Manhattan features an extended first look at EPIC #1.  Written by ComixTribe publisher Tyler James and drawn by Matt Zolman, EPIC is the story of a teenager who gains incredible super powers, only to learn he has but one weakness…beautiful girls.

Also featured in this release are first looks at:

SCAM #1 by Joe Mulvey, a book about superpowered grifters who believe it’s better to die as a conman than live as a mark.

THE RED TEN #1 by Tyler James and Cesar Feliciano, a superhero murder mystery that’s Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None” meets “The Justice League,” and features a NYCC exclusive cover by CP Wilson, III (Stuff of Legend).

The STANDARD  #1 & #2 by John Lees and Jonathon Rector, the first two issues of the award-nominated story of an elderly superhero who comes out of retirement to avenge the death of his former sidekick.

RUNNERS # 1 by Steve Forbes and Mac Radwanski, a horror book that asks, “In a world over-run by zombies, with humanity on the brink of destruction, what the #$%! are vampires supposed to eat?”

ComixTribe can be found at Booth #2537 in the small press section.

Download a free PDF version of COMIXTRIBE TAKES MANHATTAN here!

Or read it online right here: http://bit.ly/CT_NYCC_O

Thanks for reading, let us know what you think, and if you like the book please share!

Hey New England comic book fans! I wanted to just give you a heads up that this weekend is The Massachusetts Independent Comics Expo (MICE 2011).

I’m a late addition to the show, but I WILL be there, with all of my latest books and graphic novels, and I’ll be doing custom sketches at the show.  So if you’re interested in checking out all the area has to offer in terms of independent, small-press, and creator owned comics, definitely come on by.  See details below, and hope to see some of you there.

Art for the ComixTribe: Commissions and Creations by Tyler James, my new 100+ page, oversized, perfect bound artbook is now available!

It’s safe to say I’ve been busy these past few years, creating comics and attending conventions all over the country.  In that time, I’ve drawn literally hundreds of commissions for comic fans and created dozens of original characters.  Art for the ComixTribe contains the best of the best!

See for yourself! Take a Look Inside!

I will be interviewed on the TGT Webcomics Podcast tonight from 7-9pm!  No plans?  Why not listen live or join the chat room?

I’ll be talking Tears of the Dragon relaunch, ComixTribe.com, EPIC, The Red Ten, New York Comic Con, 30 Characters Challenge 2011, and much more.  Hope you can tune in!

LISTEN LIVE AT 7PM HERE!

Great news! ComixTribe will be in full force at this year’s New York Comic Con, the east coast’s largest comic book and pop culture event.  NYCC will be a coming out party of sorts for ComixTribe, and we’ve got plenty in store for the show.  We’ve reserved a corner booth on the outskirts of the small press section of the show. It’s a great location, lending itself to plenty of foot traffic.

At the ComixTribe Booth

Holding down the fort at the show will be a number of familiar ComixTribers. CT publisher and co-founder Tyler James will be there the entire weekend.  He’ll be joined in the booth by creator and New York native Joe Mulvey, who will be debuting his first creator-owned book at the show.  And we’re thrilled to announce that John Lees, writer of our Creator Owned Zone column and author of The Standard is coming all the way from Glasgow to be at the show. We may feature some additional guests in the booth throughout the weekend, so stay tuned to the ComixTribe site for more details.

ComixTribe Programming

In keeping with the ComixTribe mission statement of creators helping creators make better comics, we’ve submitted proposals for two panels:

We will find out by the end of August whether or not our panels have been accepted. Stay tuned to ComixTribe for more details on this programming as we have it.

NYCC Debut Books and Exclusive Merchandise

Of course, we’ll be debuting a bunch of brand new product at the show. The full list of products is still being determined, but expect:

• EPIC #1 NYCC Exclusive
• The Red Ten #1 – with special variant cover by CP Wilson III (Stuff of Legend)
• The Standard NYCC Collected Edition
• Runners #1
• SCAM

We’ll also have on hand copies of Tears of the Dragon – Volume 1, the Over graphic novel, a limited number of ComixTribe t-shirts, and we’re working on printing some special creator resources as well. In the coming months, we’ll be releasing a “ComixTribe Takes Manhattan” digital preview book of all of the great product we’ll have at the show.

To make sure you get the preview, be sure to subscribe to our mailing list. We’ll be mailing out some special ComixTribe discounts to mailing list subscribers, and you’ll be the first to hear about other events and programming and special offers from ComixTribe.

ComixTribe Meet-Up

We’re also planning on organizing a special event/meet-up, most liking in conjunction with our good friends at The Webcomic Alliance for one of the nights post-show. Details are still being ironed out, but we’re committed to pull together an opportunity for creators to netork and unwind in the Big Apple.

Attending the show? Let us know!

If you’re going to be at the show, whether you’re a comics pro, aspiring creator, or just a fan, definitely let us know, either in the comments below, on our Facebook Page, or Tweeting us at our Twitter account @ComixTribe.  We want to connect with as many of you as possible.

And if you are a creator attending the show, either in artist alley, small press, or walking the floor, we’d like to publicize your appearance here on the site.  Let us know who you are, what you do, anything special you’re debuting or offering at the show, and where people can find you, and we’ll include you in our upcoming NYCC Creator Spotlight Series.  Send me an email at tyler.james@comixtribe.com with the details, and we’ll get you highlighted on our site.

ComixTribe has big plans for the New York Comic Con, many of which we will be unveiling over the coming weeks. It’s going to be a ton of work, but a lot of fun.  We can’t wait.

Attending New York ComiCon 2011?

Want a FREE SKETCH CARD?

• Your name
• Sketch card character requested
• The day or days you’ll be at the New York Comic Con (Thurs, Friday, Sat, or Sunday)

This offer is limited, as I’ll be drawing FREE SKETCH CARDS for the first 75 Fans who contact me . If you’re interested in getting a custom made sketch, don’t wait to put in your order!

To get your card, stop by the ComixTribe Booth ( #2537) in the small press section of  alley, where Tyler James will be tabling,  at any point during the show, say hello, and pick up your FREE SKETCH CARD. Not a bad deal, huh?

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + a FULL CHARACTER SKETCH (7 x10.5 board) for just $15! (25% off convention prices!) You name the character! They’ll be bagged and ready to pick up and pay for at the show.

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + an ORIGINAL FULL CHARACTER SKETCH in the JUST RELEASED book “ART for the COMIXTRIBE: Commissions and Creations by Tyler James.” Have the character of your choice custom sketched on an interior page of this massive 118 page artbook of great pinups, commissions, and sketches from the past two years. All this for just $25. Order now by email or in the comments below, and pick up and pay at the show.

And for the SERIOUS Art Collector: FULL COMMISSION SPECIAL!

I have THREE Full-Commission slots open for New York. Full-commissions are done on 11 x 17 in. professional sized comic art boards. Get an original full sized character drawing of your choice, with limited background, penciled and inked, at a special convention price of just $75. (25% off convention price!)

Add COLOR to your order!

If you you would like the piece finished with a grey-toned or color prisma color wash, I can do that for just $5 for sketch cards, $10 more for sketches or sketchbooks, and $25 more for full commissions.

ORDER NOW, PICK UP/ PAY AT THE SHOW!

Remember, the free sketch cards are being given on a first come, first serve opportunity, so if you’re interested and coming to New York Comic Con, send me an email now at TylerJamesComics@gmail.com or Leave a Comment Below to let me know what I can draw for you.

Look forward to seeing you in New York in October!

-Ty

As of right now, here’s a look at what I’m planning on putting on display:

These pieces will be up at the gallery for a solid month, and the event will culminate with an artist Alley on Sept. 10th.  So hopefully I’ll sell some pieces, sell some books, and get to talk comics with some great folks.

Full details for the event below:

ComixTribe

• Hard to believe it’s been half a year since ComixTribe launched already.  Where does the time go?

• ComixTribe continues to slowly grow in terms of both traffic and reputation.  The Proving Grounds continues to get rave reviews, as it should, for providing a genuine service to comic writers not found elsewhere.  I think we’re meeting our mission statement, and I’m excited about some of the articles, interviews, and features we have in the pipeline.  Good stuff coming!

• We’ve added a great asset to the ‘Tribe in the form of writer John Lees.  His reviews of independent comics in the Creator Owned Zone are some of the most thoughtful and constructive on the internet.  John has been a tireless supporter of ComixTribe, and we’re thrilled to have his contributions to the site.

• And speaking of John, we’re excited to have launched The Standard #1 under the ComixTribe banner. The Standard is a project John’s poured a lot of blood, sweat and tears into over the past few years, under the editorial guidance of Steven Forbes.  It was a no brainer for us to want to bring John into the ComixTribe fold from a publishing standpoint. And with strong reviews like this and this and this, it was clearly a smart move on our part!  Keep tabs with all things The Standard at it’s official blog, and if you haven’t read issue #1 yet, you can do so right here, thanks to Graphic.ly:

• And speaking of, we’re very excited about the strong work being done over at Graphic.ly, and are thrilled with their revamped publisher pages.  If you haven’t checked out the new and improved ComixTribe publishers page at Graphic.ly, please check it out.  We have a catalog of 10 titles and counting, with more to come soon.

 

Tears of the Dragon

• Tears of the Dragon – Volume 1 is now on sale at Amazon.com.  (Getting a book on Amazon, the world’s largest book seller, is a bit of a milestone.  check that one off!)

• The stories that comprise volume one have been split up and sold in issue form via a number of distribution channels.  In particular, I find the Graphic.ly panel to panel transition mode to be a great way to experience the story.  (Especially on the iPad.)  I’ll share those here:

 

• On the webcomic side, we’ve finished posting the second chapter, Torvuld’s Plight, at TOTDcomic.com earlier this month.  We’re currently on hiatus until August 1, when Chapter 3: The Assassin, begins.  In some regards, this chapter is where the story really begins, and everything previous, merely a preamble.  We open with a huge battle scene, introduce a number of colorful new characters, and meet Princess Yordania, age 19.  If you’ve been a TOTD fan from the beginning, things start paying off this August.

EPIC

• EPIC production continues, though not at the pace Matt or I would ideally like.  Unfortunately, life has a way of interfering with making comics.  Matt and I (and the rest of the incredible creative team) are firmly committed to the project, it’s just taking longer than expected.  Right now, we’re about 40% done with the first bonus-sized 32 page first issue.  Trust us, though…it’ll be worth the wait.

• In the meantime, however, I’m pleased to report that the EPIC/Dynagirl Free Comic Book Day digital offering we put out across a number of platforms has been viewed or downloaded by more than 7,500 people and counting.  If you haven’t read it yet, do yourself a favor and enjoy:

The Red Ten

• The Red Ten #1 production is well-underway.  Cesar Feliciano is a good seven pages in on pencils, and is producing strong work.  Cesar’s pal Jimmy Tournas is inking this project, and we’re expecting inked pages to start coming in shortly.  I’ve been doing some preliminary lettering tests, to establish a style and template for the series.  All in all, things are looking good.

• The Red Ten is an ambitious project.  It’s a 10-issue mini-series, a murder mystery, with a large cast of characters.  (Of course, that cast gets cut down one by one with each issue…)  Still, it’s a large ensemble, and juggling all of the characters has been a challenge.  The series is plotted out in broad strokes, and I recently completed the script on issue #2.  My goal is to have at least the first three issues scripted by the time Cesar finishes pencils on issue #1.

• Readers will be able to get their first taste of The Red Ten at this year’s ComiCONN in August, where we’ll be debuting a sketch cover ashcan preview of issue #1.  Cesar and I actually met at ComiCONN last year, and this year we will be tabling next to each other.  It only seemed fitting we debut this collaborative project at the second annual show.

Conventions & Appearances

• This summer convention schedule is actually quite light, as I’m spending the bulk of the summer focusing on producing new material, rather than selling it.
• Unfortunately, I will not be going to the Baltimore Comic Con this year.  While I love the Baltimore show, and Baltimore area fans have been great to me in past years, I just could not justify it this year.  That said, I plan on making a big return to the BCC in 2012.
• I may try to do a local event or in-store appearance this summer…still working out the details.
• As for the conventions I will be attending, here’s how the rest of the year looks:

August 27, 2011
ComiCONN, New Stamford, CT
September 10, 2011
“Faster than a Speeding Bullet: An Exploration of Funnies, Superheroes and Comic Book Art”, Stamford, CT
September 17-18, 2011
New England Comic Con, Boston, MA
October 14-16, 2011
New York Comic Con, New York, NY

And that’ll about do it for the comics update.  Believe it or not, this is only a fraction of what I have going on in life as a whole.  Crazy times, but crazy in a good way.  Thanks for checking in!

Attending the ComiCon 2011?

Want a FREE SKETCH CARD?

• Your name
• Sketch card character requested

This offer is limited, as I’ll be drawing FREE SKETCH CARDS for the first 50 Fans who contact me . If you’re interested, don’t wait to put in your order!

To get your card, stop by Tyler James’ table in Artist’s Alley at some point during the show, say hello, and pick up your FREE SKETCH CARD. Not a bad deal, huh?

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + a FULL CHARACTER SKETCH (7 x10.5 board) for just $15! You name the character! They’ll be bagged and ready to pick up and pay for at the show.

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + an ORIGINAL FULL CHARACTER SKETCH COVER to the ALL NEW Tyler James Comics Sketchbook. Have the character of your choice adorn an original cover to a 40 page sketchbook of great pinups, cover designs, and sketches from the past two years. All this for just $20. Order now by email or in the comments below, and pick up and pay at the show.

And for the SERIOUS Art Collector: FULL COMMISSION SPECIAL!

I have THREE Full-Commission slots open for for ComiCONN. Full-commissions are done on 11 x 17 in. professional sized comic art boards. Get an original full sized character drawing of your choice, with limited background, penciled and inked, at a special convention price of just $70.

Add COLOR to your order!

If you you would like the piece finished with a grey-toned or color prisma color wash, I can do that for just $5 for sketch cards, $10 more for sketches or sketchbooks, and $25 more for full commissions.

ORDER NOW, PICK UP/ PAY AT THE SHOW!

Remember, the free sketch cards are being given on a first come, first serve opportunity, so if you’re interested and coming to ComiCONN, send me an email now at TylerJamesComics@gmail.com or Leave a Comment Below to let me know what I can draw for you.

Look forward to seeing you in Stamford!

-Ty

Creator Owned Publishers Join Forces to Release Free Digital Crossover Comic.

To celebrate this weekend’s Free Comic Book Day event, creator-owned publishers ComixTribe and Red Handed Studios have joined forces to digitally release a crossover between their flagship titles. What happens when a teenage superhero whose only weakness is his libido teams up with America’s hottest supermom? Find out as EPIC joins forces with DYNAGIRL to take on the incomparable threat of INDESTRUCTOTRON! In addition to this never before seen crossover, the FREE 54-page comic also includes:

• A Dynagirl solo story by Cary Kelley and Harold Edge.
• An 8-page inked preview of EPIC #1 by Tyler James, Matt Zolman and Vic Moya.
• A preview of The Standard by John Lees and Jonathan Rector.
• A preview of Runners by Steven Forbes and Mac Radwanski.
• Additional pin-ups, previews, and more!

Download a free PDF version of the ComixTribe/Red Handed Studios Free Comic Book Day release here!

Or read it online right here:

Thanks for reading and if you like the book please share!

About ComixTribe ComixTribe is a new publisher of creator-owned comics, including EPIC, Tears of the Dragon, and The Standard, with several new titles debuting this fall.  In addition to being a publishing imprint, ComixTribe is also an online community, with the mission statement: Creators helping creators make better comics.  Visit ComixTribe.com or email publisher Tyler James (tyler.james@comixtribe.com) to learn more. About Red Handed Studios Red Handed Studios has been an independent publisher of comics and graphic novels since 2009.  Its titles include the hit mini-series Fallen Justice and the ongoing superhero series Dynagirl, with several new titles debuting soon.  Visit the Red Handed Studios website to learn more, or contact publisher Cary Kelley (info@redhandedstudios.com) to learn more. About Free Comic Book Day Free Comic Book Day is a single day when participating comic book specialty shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their shops.  This year, Free Comic Book Day is May 7, 2011.  To find out more about Free Comic Book Day, or to find a participating comic shop in your area, head to the official FCBD website. Please support your local retailers!

Want a FREE SKETCH CARD?

• Your name
• Sketch card character requested

This offer is limited, as I’ll be drawing FREE SKETCH CARDS for the first 25 Fans who contact me . If you’re interested, don’t wait to put in your order!

To get your card, stop by Tyler James’ table at some point during the show, say hello, and pick up your FREE SKETCH CARD. Not a bad deal, huh?

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + a FULL CHARACTER SKETCH (7 x10.5 board) for just $15! You name the character! They’ll be bagged and ready to pick up and pay for at the show.

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + an ORIGINAL FULL CHARACTER SKETCH COVER to the Tyler James Comics Sketchbook, Vol. 1. Have the character of your choice adorn an original cover to my first 32 page sketchbook of great pinups, cover designs, and sketches from the past five years. All this for just $20. Order now by email or in the comments below, and pick up and pay at the show.

And for the SERIOUS Art Collector: FULL COMMISSION SPECIAL!

I have THREE TWO Full-Commission slots left open for Albany. Full-commissions are done on 11 x 17 in. professional sized comic art boards. Get an original full sized character drawing of your choice, with limited background, penciled and inked, at a special convention price of just $70.

Add COLOR to your order!

If you you would like the piece finished with a grey-toned or color prisma color wash, I can do that for just $5 for sketch cards, $10 more for sketches or sketchbooks, and $25 more for full commissions.

ORDER NOW, PICK UP/ PAY AT THE SHOW!

Remember, the free sketch cards are being given on a first come, first serve opportunity, so if you’re interested and coming to Albany, send me an email now at TylerJamesComics@gmail.com or Leave a Comment Below to let me know what I can draw for you.

Look forward to seeing you!

-Ty

ComixTribe

ComixTribe.com has been live for three months now.  Feedback has been generally very positive.  To date, we’ve had some 6,000+ visitors and nearly 15,000 page views.  I’ve managed to do a weekly column again, and am a solid 13 columns deep into Comix Counsel.  We’ve managed to launch a couple of new columns, including Trenches and The Creator-Owned Zone with John Lees, both of which I’ve played a part in getting off the ground.  I’m happy with how things are progressing with the site, but of course, there’s always to desire to build it bigger, and do more.

Earlier this month, we’ve launched the ComixTribe Shop (filled with several of my books at present.)  I’ve also just added a Facebook Fanpage for ComixTribe, and if demand warrants it, we plan on opening up a forum on the site in May.  I’ve got some more advanced features I’m interested in implementing, and will be continuing to plan for those.  It’s a slow build, but I’m proud of what we’ve done so far.

EPIC

EPIC will be hitting the con circuit in a major way this year.  It wasn’t until August of last year that EPIC made it’s debut, and by that time, the bulk of my cons had already passed.  So this will be the first full year that EPIC will be making a splash on the con scene.  I did a small reorder of EPIC #0 standard edition for a show I’m doing in three weeks in Albany.  Currently printing is a special New England Edition of EPIC #0 with a flipcover featuring the EPIC/ Dynagirl crossover.  I’ll have a healthy stack of these ready for the Boston Comic Con.

On the production side, we’re working HARD to hit a July 15th deadline for finishing EPIC #1, a 32 page issue.  Last month we brought inker Vic Moya to allow Artist Matt Zolman to focus solely on pencils.  And let me tell you, it’s been great.  Matt’s pace has picked up, and his pencils have gone to the next level.  Our color artist Ty Tyner also had to leave the project, so we scrambled to find a replacement.  Arsia Rosegar has joined the team, and we’re now back at full capacity.  And let me tell you, the book is looking good!

Tears of the Dragon

I launched a pre-order campaign for Tears of he Dragon Vol. 1, which will debut at the Boston Comic Con at the end of April.  This book has been a couple year’s worth of work, and I’m really happy with how it’s turning out.  All pages for this volume are in from artist Koko Amboro, and it’s been incredible watching his growth as an artist and storyteller over the years.  The last four pages of the chapter are in the hands of color artist Miguel Marques, and I expect to get them in shortly.  I’m going to do a medium sized print run and try CreateSpace for the first time.

For the webcomic readers, TOTD continues its Tuesday update schedule, and will through June.  There will likely be another small hiatus inbetween the end of the second chapter and the start of the third.  But now that the TOTD team is really rolling, the story should continue on a regular pace.

The Red Ten

I haven’t spoken much about this project on my blog, so I’ll announce it here.  I’ve got another new book coming out!  And I think people are going to really dig this one.  This is a super-ambitious, 10-issue superhero murder mystery.  The first issue is written and in the hands of  the artist, and the entire 10 issues have been plotted. Artist Cesar Feliciano is co-creating this project with me.  Cesar has done an awesome set of character sketches already, and is bringing an incredible amount of thought and energy to this project. The current plan is for him to complete layouts by the end of the month, and get started on pages May 1.  We’ve set an ambitious goal to have the first issue done in time for ComiCONN in August.  This is a book that grabs you at page 1 and won’t let go until it’s done.  Twists, turns, clues, red-herrings, and MURDER! It’s going to be a lot of fun.

Con Season

It kicks off for me next month.  I’m pumped!  I’ve been sketching my ass off for the Boston Comic Con, doing pre-order commissions.  The good news is, my pre-order commissions are over $600 already.  To put this in perspective, last year I made $800 TOTAL (art, book sales, prints) for the two-day Boston show.  So, I’m looking to shatter convention sales records at Boston this year.  On hand will be copies of EPIC #0 and TOTD Volume 1, the OVER graphic novel, and a killer “Heroes at Fenway” set of 11×17 prints that I hope sell like gangbusters.

More shows coming up:

April 17, 2011
Albany Comic Con, Albany, NY
April 31-May 1, 2011
Boston Comic Con, Boston, MA
May 7, 2010
FREE Comic Book Day @ Comically Speaking, Reading, MA
August 20-21, 2011
Baltimore Comic Con, Baltimore, MD
August 27, 2011
ComiCONN, New Stamford, CT

Anyway, that’s what I got.  EPIC, TOTD, and THE RED TEN are all GNs or maxi-series, so writing them will be taking up most of my time for the rest of the year.  I think I know what my next comic that I’ll draw myself will be, but I probably won’t start that until 2012.  I’m also going to try to squeeze in some artistic professional development this year, as I want to take my artistic skills to the next level before drawing a new series.

So, yeah, I’m a busy kid.  But that’s how I like it!

Great news!

Tears of the Dragon – Volume 1 is now available for pre-order!  This is the first landscape format print collection of TOTD, containing the first two chapters of the fantasy epic.

I’m running a special Pre-Order Campaign between now and May 15, 2011, with a number of great incentives for readers who choose to support the campaign.  This book has been a labor of love, and I’m really excited to be releasing this new volume.

Pre-order now and receive:

- FREE Shipping!*

- Artist Edition Upgrade! Original sketch in the book by series creator Tyler James!

- Free Bonus Digital PDF Copy !

Pre-ordered books will ship 5/15/11.

US/Canada – $14.99 (Includes Shipping!)

International – $14.99 (+$5 Shipping)

About Tears of the Dragon

To entertain his grandchildren while on a pilgrimage, a well-traveled Old Man spins a grand tale of swords and sorcery, dragons and demons, revenge, regret and redemption, and above all…love. His story begins with a young nobleman with eyes on the crown. To prove his valor, the would-be king sets out to slay a dragon, earning the undying wrath of the mighty Sythic.

Volume I collects the first two chapters of the Tears of the Dragon saga!

Writer – Tyler James

Artist – Koko Amboro

Color Artists - Paul Little, Miguel Marques, Evan Surya Nugraha

56 pages, Full Color

Contains Mild-Fantasy Violence.  Appropriate for pre-teen and up.

8.5″ x 6″ Perfect Bound Trade

www.totdcomic.com

* Free shipping to US/CA. Add $5 international orders.

That’s right! I’ve been invited to be a guest at the Albany Comic Con on April 17th.  Seeing as I was already going to be in town that weekend for a friend’s wedding and that Albany is my home town, how could I not want to be a part of this show?

There’s a strong guest list at this spring’s show.  I’m looking forward to chatting again with Ron Marz (Witchblade, Artifacts), Jim Zubkavich (Skullkickers), Jamal Igle (Super-Girl), and the Timony brothers (Night Owls.)  There will be plenty of dealers in attendance selling comics, toys, original art, and more.

As for me, I’ll have copies of EPIC #0 and my graphic novel OVER for sale.  And I’ve done a few custom Albany themed prints like the one above just for the show.  If you’re in Albany that day, I hope you’ll stop by!

Albany Comic Con

Sunday, April 17th, 2011
10am to 4pm.
Holiday Inn on Wolf Rd. in Albany, NY.
Admission is $5.00

ATTN: Boston Area Artists!

You’re invited to a special EPIC Drink-n-Draw at Larry’s Wonderful World of Comics in Lowell, MA January 19, 2011. Drink-n-Draw is a social drawing club that meets on Wednesday’s in the basement of Larry’s great comic shop.  It’s a chance to draw and talk comics in a relaxed atmosphere.

Need more of a reason to attend?

How about a FREE COPY OF EPIC #0 just for showing up!

Larry has graciously purchased copies of the hard to find EPIC #0 for all participants this week.  (Thanks, Lar!)  These are rare sketch cover variants you can only get at cons…and Larry’s!

So come on down to Larry’s on Wednesday, January 19th between 4-7:30 pm.  Pick up your new books, get a free copy of EPIC, and do some drawing.  I hope to see you there.

Larry’s Wonderful World of Comics

66 Lakeview Ave. Lowell, MA 01850

This year, I am supporting the Comic Creator’s Alliance’s mission to end human trafficking. I’ve joined more than 100 webcomic creators to build awareness for this important issue, by contributing an image to a massive collage that can be downloaded with any donation.

This week, the CCA is running their annual donations drive. If you’re unfamiliar with the work the mission of the CCA, please read founder Laura Innes’ words below. And if you can spare a few bucks, know that you’re supporting a worthy cause.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead

Tuesday, January 11th is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. In honor of the event, I teamed up with the Comic Creator’s Alliance–a group of over 100 comic book creators (both web and print!) who volunteered our artistic talents to raise money and awareness for this cause. You may not know it, but there are currently 27 million enslaved people worldwide- more than double the number of enslaved Africans during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. UNICEF estimates that 1.2 million children every year are sold into slavery, most of it sexual. The US Department of Justice estimates 16,000 victims of human trafficking are brought into the United States every year. Unlike slavery in the 19th century, what is happening today is happening in secret. It won’t end until awareness is raised, and people like you and me take a stand.

So here’s what we did: each creator contributed an original drawing of one of our own female characters, and combined them into a single image! This year’s theme was “The Brady Bunch.” There is so much going on in this image–you can look at the wallpaper for a long time and still find something new! All of the artists included in the drive are amazing and some of the fan favorites are: Scott Sava (The Dreamland Chronicles), Adam Hughes (Star Wars, Wonder Woman), Sarah Ellerton (Inverloch), Bryan Glass & Victor Santos (Mice Templar), Beau Smith (Wynonna Earp: The Yeti Wars), Billy Tucci (Shi), Mookie (Dominic Deegan), Crystal Yates (Earthsong), Lora Innes (The Dreamer), Thom Zahler (Love and Capes), and Alison Action (Bear Nuts). View the full listing of contributors here: http://comicalliance.weebly.com/the-people.html.

Donate today to download this unique, once-in-a-lifetime wallpaper. Or, this year you can buy a print! The Donations Drive will last for two weeks, from January 11th – 24th. All proceeds will be split evenly between Love 146 and Gracehaven House- two organizations working on rehabilitation of victims and prevention of this crime.

To learn more about the CCA and to donate visit www.comicalliance.weebly.com. To learn more about the problem, visit http://love146.org/slavery. (Note: contains adult themes and actual accounts of sex slavery.)

Lora Innes

The Dreamer

Nominated for two Harvey Awards: Best New Series and Best New Talent

Adventure. Romance. War. 1776 is back.

www.thedreamercomic.com

UPDATE- Sketch Cards Requests Now Closed.

Note: I will be sketching on Saturday and Sunday from 1-3pm at the show.  Get there early and request one of my limited sketch slots at the show.

Want a FREE SKETCH CARD?

• Your name
• Sketch card character requested
• The day you’ll be at the convention (Saturday or Sunday)

This offer is limited, as I’ll be drawing FREE SKETCH CARDS for the first 50 Fans who contact me . If you’re interested, don’t wait to put in your order!

To get your card, stop by Tyler James’ table in Artist’s Alley at some point during the show, say hello, and pick up your FREE SKETCH CARD. Not a bad deal, huh?

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + a FULL CHARACTER SKETCH (7 x10.5 board) for just $15! You name the character! They’ll be bagged and ready to pick up and pay for at the show.

Get your FREE SKETCH CARD + an ORIGINAL FULL CHARACTER SKETCH COVER to the Tyler James Comics Sketchbook, Vol. 1. Have the character of your choice adorn an original cover to my first 32 page sketchbook of great pinups, cover designs, and sketches from the past five years. All this for just $20. Order now by email or in the comments below, and pick up and pay at the show.

And for the SERIOUS Art Collector: FULL COMMISSION SPECIAL!

I have THREE ONE Full-Commission slot left open for for Boston. Full-commissions are done on 11 x 17 in. professional sized comic art boards. Get an original full sized character drawing of your choice, with limited background, penciled and inked, at a special convention price of just $70.

Add COLOR to your order!

If you you would like the piece finished with a grey-toned or color prisma color wash, I can do that for just $5 for sketch cards, $10 more for sketches or sketchbooks, and $25 more for full commissions.

ORDER NOW, PICK UP/ PAY AT THE SHOW!

Remember, the free sketch cards are being given on a first come, first serve opportunity, so if you’re interested and coming to Boston, send me an email now at TylerJamesComics@gmail.com or Leave a Comment Below to let me know what I can draw for you.

Look forward to seeing you in Beantown!

-Ty

It’s January 1, 2011. That means ComixTribe is now live, and I for one, couldn’t be more excited!

ComixTribe’s mission is simple: Creators helping creators make better comics.

The grand vision of what ComixTribe will become is extremely ambitious.  The ultimate goal is to make ComixTribe a premier online community and resource for comic creators serious about improving their craft.

ComixTribe will consist of two parts:

• ComixTribe.com, a free website/web-service/online community for writers and artists, featuring quality content and resources for creators, services not found anywhere else, and sponsored events for creators, such as the 30 Characters Challenge.

• The ComixTribe imprint, a new publishing imprint for creator-owned comics and books, with an initial focus on digital distribution (Comixology, Graphic.ly, etc.)  My titles Tears of the Dragon and OVER area already being published under this imprint name, and more titles will be coming under the ComixTribe banner in the months and years to come.
  

We have an ambitious and exciting roadmap laid out for the development of both the site and the imprint.  However, we’re starting small and simple, with an initial focus on producing quality content geared toward comic creators.  To that end, ComixTribe Editor-In-Chief Steven Forbes and I are curating a small selection of quality columns, podcasts, and resources we’re confident will appeal to the comic creating community at large.  Through frequent, consistent, and quality content updates, we’ll establish ComixTribe as a voice worth listening to in the comics world.  As the community builds, we’ll incorporate new features that will go beyond content, to meet the many needs of comics creators.

If you’re like us, you have a passion both for creating comics and sharing your knowledge about the process of creating them with others. If so, I really hope you’ll check out CT, and consider joining our Tribe!

ComixTribe. Creators helping creators make better comics.

Happy Holidays!

I wanted to take a quick moment in this always hectic holiday season to wish you and yours a happy holiday season.  I had a ton of fun making comics this past year, and am really excited about the new books I have in the works for 2011.  I really appreciate your support.  I hope 2010 finishes up strong for you, and here’s to a  happy New Year!

Sincerely,

Tyler James

Coming 1-1-2011…

Didn’t get my Christmas card in your mailbox this year?  Get on my mailing list and we’ll take care of that!

Great news! The SOLD OUT EPIC #0, a smash hit at cons across the country this fall, is NOW AVAILABLE for digital download from Graphic.ly for just $0.99, a whopping $4 less than the print version. (Take that Marvel and DC!) Graphic.ly is an exciting new platform for comics content: there’s a desktop application, a web-browsing app, and apps for iPhone, iPad, and Windows 7 phones.

You can find EPIC #0 in the independent publishing section, under the new imprint COMIXTRIBE, which you’ll be hearing a lot more about in the very near future. Download the Graphic.ly app to your preferred device for free. Or, if you’d like to download it from the web app, go here directly!

EPIC is written by Tyler James, drawn by Matt Zolman, and colored by Ty Tyner.

About EPIC

After a freak accident gives teenager Eric Ardor incredible abilities, he enthusiastically joins the ranks of the superpowered set as the masked crusader EPIC. He quickly learns he’s one of the most powerful heroes around: super strength, speed, flight, invulnerability. You name it, he’s got it. Unfortunately, he’s also just discovered his only weakness…beautiful girls! Eric’s powers are inexplicably linked to the attraction and arousal center of his brain. While other boys his age lose their cool around hot chicks, EPIC loses his powers! Living in Miami, home to the zaniest super-villians AND the most beautiful women in America, it’s gonna be a problem…

For a closer look at EPIC, check out the Digital Ashcan Preview to the right, in the featured comic section of this website.

It wasn’t easy. An unplanned week-long work trip really threw a monkey wrench in my daily updates (not that I’m complaining…Austrailia = awesome.) But, I was able to suck it up and get ‘em done. Once again, I was able to do some planned character work, specifically characters for The Red Ten, which I’m really pumped about. And once again, plenty of zany characters came out of nowhere. Once you get those creative juices flowing, you never know what you’re gonna produce.

I was completely floored by the level of participation and interest in the challenge this year. I’m honored to be joined by so much talent in this little endeavor. Can’t wait to see what’s to come with many of the characters created during this year’s challenge.

If you missed any of them, here’s a round up of all 30 of my gems.  (Links will take you to 30Characters.com for the full image and profiles.)

Where did 2010 go?  If you find out, definitely let me know!

Regardless, my final show of the year will be Larry’s Wonderful Woburn Warehouse Show December 18, 2010.  It should be a Skullkicking good time, as hot indy creator Jim Zubkavich (writer of the breakout image series Skullkickers) will be there.

This show is heaven for anyone looking for $5 trades and $10 hardcovers, as well as older books to complete runs on various series, from the golden age until present day.  Lot’s of great deals to be had.

I’ll be on hand, doing FREE SKETCH CARDS for the kids (or kids at heart) and will have copies of the OVER graphic novel for sale for the first time at a con.

I’m also slashing prices on ALL of my inventory as a holiday super-special…Grab copies of Tears of the Dragon, Super Seed, and my Vol. 1 Sketchbook for the lowest con prices ever.  (Get ‘em before they’re gone.)

AND might I also mention that all of my prints and original art will be 1/2 off!

Also, for interested artists, Jim Zubkavich is looking for New England Skullkickers fan art to publish!

Besides signing autographs and chatting it up with fellow comic fans, Zubkavich is going to be looking for a piece of pin-up art featuring his characters to spotlight in issue 5 of his ongoing Image comic.

So would-be artists, this is your chance at the big time. Bring along your artwork for Zubkavich to pore over, and if your offering kicks skulls, you could see your piece making it into the pages of one of the hottest titles on the comic racks these days!

Hope to see you there!

1 RAININ RD, WOBURN, MA right off rt 93 S toward Boston
Take exit 36 to merge onto Montvale Ave toward Woburn

]]> http://www.tylerjamescomics.com/2010/12/my-final-show-of-2010-dec-18-larrys-wonderful-woburn-warehouse-show/feed/ 0 http://www.tylerjamescomics.com/2010/12/the-internet-and-your-art/ http://www.tylerjamescomics.com/2010/12/the-internet-and-your-art/#comments Fri, 03 Dec 2010 16:14:56 +0000 Tyler James http://www.tylerjamescomics.com/?p=1028
The other night, I had a great chat with Ted Seko, host of The Idiot Engine Podcast.  Ted was interested in picking my brain on how I use the internet…for my business, for staying connected with the comics community, and for building an ongoing relationship with readers and other creators.  Despite recording in the wee hours of the night (my time), I think it was a fruitful and interesting discussion.  I talked a lot about the success of The #30Characters Challenge, and offered advice to Ted and anyone else considering organizing something like #30Characters in the future.

I hope you give it a listen. You can play it in the link below (EPISODE 37) or go to the link here.

Check it out! The OVER graphic novels are finally here, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the finished product.

There is something surreal about holding two years worth of work in your hands. But there’s no time for me to get sentimental…I have a TON of artist edition sketches to do for all of the awesome people who pre-ordered and helped make this print run possible.

I’ll be scanning and sharing some of the sketches here on the blog over the next few weeks. But…if you want an original one of your very own, well, here are the deets on how to get one:

Artist’s Edition Special

The 188 page graphic novel is now available! This print collection contains the entire OVER tale, along with an additional 10 pages of content never shared online!

The OVER Graphic Novel Artist’s Edition Package includes:

• A SIGNED copy of “OVER”
• FREE SHIPPING
• ARTIST’S EDITION Sketch on a blank page inside the book.
• An “I Support Indy Comics!” Button (while supplies last.)

The Artist Edition Package is just $20, and yes, that includes shipping to the US & Canada. (Add $5 for international shipping.)

US/Canada – $20 (includes FREE shipping)

International $20 + $5 shipping!

It’s November, and that means the 30Characters Challenge is back! I think it’s safe to say this thing has gone viral!  This year, I’m joined by 150 creators, each committed to creating a brand new character a day for each day of November.

Once again, I’m blown away by the talent and creativity that’s on display in the challenge.  We have an incredible cross-section of creators participating, and despite quintupling in size from last year’s event, the positive community atmosphere is just as strong.

Here’s the video message I sent out to all the Challengers right before kick-off:

I did have to officially close the challenge down to those creators who registered by the Friday night before the challenge kicked off.  Unfortunately, this left out a lot of folks who are just hearing about it now.  I encouraged those creators to “play along at home” and to make sure to leave a comment here to get notified about next year’s event.   I’m pleased to see that many people are doing just that.

As for me, my challenge is off to a decent start.  I’ve created some characters for an unannounced project that’s been on the brain for a while now, and will be doing more of those, as well as doing characters for EPIC, Tears of the Dragon, and who knows what else.  Want to check out the characters I’m creating during the challenge?  You can find them all HERE.

The BUZZ

I’ll be archiving the media buzz the #30Characters Challenge is generating, with links to all the major news sites covering the event.  Here’s who’s been talking about us:

• TGT Webcomics: Episode 134 – Tyler James Interview
• Comic Related: 30 Characters Challenge
• Robot 6: Because the World Needs New Characters
• Newsarama: Hey, That’s My Cape – 30 Characters, 30 Days

Friend Request

The initial print run of books should be delivered to my doorstep no later than November 1.  Once they arrive, I’ll start working on Artist Edition sketches for people who pre-ordered the book.  I’ll be doing them in order, so the sooner you pre-ordered, the sooner you’ll get your books!  (Early birds and worms and all.)  All pre-orders will be shipped withing the first two weeks of November!

If you haven’t had a chance to pre-order the book, and were still hoping to, I’ll be honoring the pre-order special for another couple of weeks.  Here’s the link for all the details.

Here’s a preview of the wrap-around cover, done exclusively for the print collection.

While the location has changed to the snazzy new 30Characters.com website, the premise is the same: Create 30 new characters in 30 days, one for every day of the month of November. Nearly 50 creators have already signed up, and I’m counting on a bunch more before we launch.

I’m looking forward to working on characters to flesh out the EPIC universe, as well as exploring character designs for an assortment of other projects I’ve had to backburner.

Thinking about joining?  Here are the details you need!

I’ll be appearing at the The Massachusetts Independent Comics Expo this Saturday from 10am-6pm.  I’ll have a table at the show, and be sitting on a panel on webcomics at noon.  Should be a fun time.

Here are the important details:

Admission is FREE!

And if you’re gonna be there, print up this here free coupon with a $5 comics purchase!

EPIC, a new superteen comic book, will make it’s official debut at this year’s Baltimore Comic Con.   Writer Tyler James, artist Matt Zoman, and color artist Ty Tyner will be appearing together in a corner booth on the main showroom floor to give this exciting project a proper launch.

For sale will be EPIC #0, a 32 page full-color book containing a self-contained 16 page story, along with pin-ups, sketches and more.

The EPIC team will have three versions of the inaugural issue on hand.

• EPIC #0 – Standard Edition, featuring an awesome wrap-around cover.
• EPIC #0 – Artist Edition, featuring a one-of-a kind sketch cover, with pencils by Matt Zolman, inks by Tyler James, and colors by Ty Tyner.
• EPIC #0 – Baltimore Comic Con / Comic Related Exclusive, we’re partnering with the comics news site Comic Related to bring you this exclusive cover.  Quantities extremely limited!

About EPIC

After a freak accident gives teenager Eric Ardor incredible abilities, he enthusiastically joins the ranks of the superpowered set as the masked crusader EPIC. He quickly learns he’s one of the most powerful heroes around: super strength, speed, flight, invulnerability. You name it, he’s got it. Unfortunately, he’s also just discovered his only weakness…beautiful girls! Eric’s powers are inexplicably linked to the attraction and arousal center of his brain. While other boys his age lose their cool around hot chicks, EPIC loses his powers! Living in Miami, home to the zaniest super-villians AND the most beautiful women in America, it’s gonna be a problem…

For a closer look at EPIC, check out the Digital Ashcan Preview to the right, in the featured comic section of this website.

Attending the con?  Want a FREE Sketch?

If you’re planning on attending the show, you’ll definitely want to check out the Free Sketch Card Promotion we have going on!

What Else?

In addition to copies of EPIC #0, our booth will feature a select number of prints, including AWESOME collaborative Baltimore Exclusive Prints.  All three creators will also be sketching and taking commission requests.

Tyler James will have print copies of his popular webcomics OVER and Tears of the Dragon available for purchase as well.

Oh, and by the way…

If you would like a Coupon for a FREE PRINT redeemable for one of a selection of 11×17 full color prints, contact me at tylerjamescomics@gmail.com or leave a comment below saying “Hey, I’ll see you guys at Baltimore!”

Tyler James Comics has partnered with brand spanking new mobile comics publisher Oxicomics to distribute a selection of books in a format tailor made for the iPhone, and sold through the App Store.

Tears of the Dragon #1 is now available for purchase, one of the inaugural handful of comics released during Oxicomics soft-launch kick-off.  (In fact, Oxicomics has been using Tears images in the promotional images of their new app…which is fine by me!)

TOTD #1 is on sale for just $0.99 at the app store, and can be found easily by searching either “Tears of the Dragon” or “Oxicomics” or simply by following THIS LINK.

Also available FOR FREE is Tyler James Comics Presents…Vol. 1.  Yup, that’s right.  FREE!  So, please, download and let me know what you think!

In the coming weeks and months, I’ll be adding new titles to the Oxicomics Catalogue, including Tears of the Dragon #2 and the complete OVER series, with all new, mobile-only covers.

One of my biggest goals of this year was to get my comics on the iPhone and iPad.  Partnering with Oxicomics, a new kid on the block whose comics reader rivals the best apps out there, made a lot of sense, and it will hopefully be a win-win for both of us.  Though I’ve been drooling over the iPhone for a long time, I refused to allow myself to purchase one until I was selling comics through it.

Well, looks like I’ll be hitting the Apple store, soon!

AVAILABLE NOW AT OXICOMICS