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All Stumped Out!

The doors finally close at the Lloyd Center Doubletree Hotel and I make my way to the bus stop. The banal world of business casual and cover sheets await me in a few short hours. For the first time all year, a deep sense of malaise stays at bay. Indeed, a small grin grows as I wave at people I won't see for another 365. No problem, for one short weekend in Portland, Oregon we were all best of friends as we celebrated our love for those funny books we call comics. To me, those comics are portals to other worlds, other planes of existence, and even a focused look into my own soul. Some might say I'm placing too much importance on the Stumptown Comic Fest. "Come on Aaron, its just a stinking comic book convention". No, no it isn't. Those massive PR Fests in Chicago, New York, and San Diego, those are comic book conventions. Stumptown Comics Fest is something more. Stumptown Comics Fest rises above the consumerism that plagues the modern comic book convention, events that are but one step removed from trade shows. Nope, Stumptown Comics Fest is all about inspiration, passion, and yes, those funny books.

I see it all, yet never see everything...

Every year I run into someone as I leave the event asking me if I saw this thing or talked to this person. Each time I belt out a "dammit, no! Where were they?" Small regrets not withstanding, that is one of the joys of Stumptown, there are so many stories just itching to get out, you can't possibly hear or read them all. I never seem to have enough money either. What? You thought I was all against the consumer aspect? Absolutely not. I know how this business runs and until the day comes when a comic book creator can pay their mortgage with their books, we need to make money. So, I again say that I wish I had more money. I wish I could buy every single book, 'zine, pamphlet, and funky custom shirt I find. First, I like being that guy that says, "I was there when they sold black and white books with 20# Copier Paper from Office Depot." Also, I know how it feels for a fellow human being to hand you a material representation of your hard work. (It feels even better when you don't know the person from Adam). Alas, I never bring enough coin. Not all that shocking when I remind myself that I am just like the artist behind the table.

Still, I want to say a few words to those I was able to support...

James Ratcliffe - Thanks for putting up with all my random questions about your various styles. As one that can't even pencil a decent stick figure, you impress the hell out of me.

Tara McPherson – I thought that was your work up on Juno's walls in, well, Juno. Glad you made it out to little 'ol Portland.

Super Real Graphics – I wish I could have grabbed one of everything, alas only one. Glad it was Gnome. The concept of a lone Garden Gnome protecting humanity is simply too juicy to pass up. Gnome was a seriously fun read, I hope to see more!

Dr. Eldritch – Don't feel bad, I rarely remember people I met once a year ago either.

Nolan C. Kidwell – Dammit man, your illustrated comic / cook book is a genius idea. As a writer and a damn good cook, I feel deep shame for not thinking of it! And yes, Portland does indeed have the best coffee.

Family Style – From one nerdy, dice-tossing, Mana tapping, two-fisted Dungeon Masta' to another, hail and well met! Okay, that was a little sad, still, the stories are a blast.

Jordan M Dalton – Before they were popular, zombies have always been my weak spot. I wish I could have snagged me some Jesus Hates Zombies. Really dug what I saw, I will definitely go looking for more.

The Homeless Channel – First, congrats Matt on the Eisner Nomination, can't imagine how it feels. Next, how much did you pay for that badass jacket in Vietnam? Finally, Kirsten, I never knew the life of a cigarette girl was so damn hardcore. While I'm not a smoker, you're comic might have converted me!

Kickstart – You were the first table I hit Saturday, your passionate speech set the stage perfectly. While I love those little scooters, I never thought I would enjoy a 'zine about them, thanks. And, thank you for the image of Dave Gibbons as a Super Mod back in the day!

Steam Crow Press – Hope I didn't make your lunch go cold, I feel bad for not getting a book. I did fall in love with your After Halloween book! Reminded me of a modern Edward Gorey with some sprinkling of Tim Burton. I want to see more.

North World – Seriously, when does the RPG come out? Great mix of rural wonder and old school wildness romp... With a heart.

Hereville – You get the award for the best pitch ever! No, I've not yet read the best comic about a dragon-fighting 11-year old Orthodox Jewish Girl. Now, I'm glad I have!

Girl Wonder – Like I told Dr. Eldritch, don't feel bad. This was one crazy and packed weekend. Just glad we got to talk about stuff for a while. And, the shirt looks fantastic. I am glad there are groups like you out there, I'll do my part.

Guapo Comics and Coffee – First, Guapo is totally my secret spy-chef name. I don't know who told you, but we need to talk! Well, technically, I am El Guapo, so I guess I can let it slide. I look forward to checking out your store.

Steve Lieber – What I can say? Thanks for putting up with all my rambling questions about the pending Whiteout film. Just glad I didn't totally fanboy out on you. Seriously, thanks for taking the time to chat with this reader. Love your work and can't wait for the next book! (Let me know when do I get that Periscope Studio tour). :)

Like I said, I stopped and talked at every table and yet never seem to catch everything. If you've never made it to the Stumptown Comics Fest, you're doing your imagination and mind a huge disservice. Well, keeping checking the website and lock in dates for next year. It is only going to get bigger and better. To those I missed, drop me a line. Just because the Fest is over doesn't mean I stop talking about comics. Besides, convention season just started and I got me some serious 4-color reading to get to!