Australian comic book shops have been hit hard by COVID-19 restrictions. Diamond Distribution (the sole distributor of comics from the U.S.A) has currently put a hold on all shipments of the weekly comics that are the lifeblood of many stores.
"Comic book shops are the epicentre of geek culture. A home away from home where we can get lost in the medium of graphic storytelling and connect with others who love it as much as we do." says comic artist Dean Rankine (Simpsons, Futurama, Rick and Morty, Invader Zim)
A group of the top Australian comic book artists, banded together under the banner of #aussies4comics, are selling original comic art to raise funds for the struggling stores.
The line-up includes; Jon Sommariva (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), Nicola Scott (Wonder Woman), David Yardin (Uncanny X-Men), Mark Raats (Lucasfilm) as well as heavy hitters from the U.S - Humberto Ramos and Freddie E. Williams II.
"When Jon Sommariva asked me to be involved I lept (not unlike Spider-Man) at the chance! I knew comic book retailers were struggling and I was looking for an opportunity to help out. Besides who needs an excuse to draw cheesecake pictures of Stay Puft Marshmallow Man!" says Dean.
"Cheesecake Marshmallow may not be everyone's cup of tea", admits Dean "But the other art on offer is absolutely extraordinary!"
You can bid on the fundraiser artwork here - http://bit.ly/welovecomics
More info: bit.ly
