ELKHART, Ind. (WNDU) -It was 50 years ago that the new X-Men first appeared in Marvel Comics, specifically it was Giant Size X-Men #1 published in 1975.
The Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum held a special observance event, billed as a celebration of the X-Men’s 50th anniversary.
But the comic book and pop culture devotees who showed up on Saturday, don’t limit their fandom to the X-Men.
Superheroes and villains from a wide range of movies, comic books, and pulp novels were represented here, like the shield wielded by Captain America in the 2012 film, “The Avengers”.
A lot of people enjoy superheroes, and even villains; like Jonathan Suddarth, a cosplay artist who took on the role of Wolverine for Saturday’s event. But don’t typecast this guy.
“I do Spider-Man, Superman, Captain America, Green Lantern,” said Suddarth.
For true Marvel and DC aficionados, the thrill Saturday was the opportunity to meet the creators of their obsession.
Illustrator Scott Rosema has been working steadily as a comic book artist for nearly 40 years, and he draws the X-Men.
“I knew that I wanted to Draw for a living. Of course, when I was a little kid, I didn’t know what that meant. As I got older, I learned about it. I took classes in school. And I just knew that that was what I was going to be doing,” said Rosema.
And this successful creator has some no-nonsense advice for aspiring comic book artists.
“Always be drawing. Always have a pad of paper and a pencil with you and sketch and draw everything and anything all the time.”
Rosema points out that competition in the comic industry is tough, and only the best artists get work.
Incidentally, Scott Rosema has an impressive resume, as the illustrator worked for Marvel, Archie, and DC Comics. He’s also been employed by Warner Brothers, DreamWorks, Valiant, and Disney.
WNDU’s George Mallet did a quick internet search, and found some of his commissioned illustrations for sale, and reasonably priced.
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Comic books artists and cosplayers came out for this 50th anniversary celebration of the X-Men in Elkhart. Read More