The Justice League

When most people think about comic books there are certain images called to mind. Comics are brightly colored books filled with bad art, silly stories and flying dudes in tights. They are read by lonely nerds in basements who collect decorative swords and action figures. In reality, lonely nerds make up only a fraction of the vibrant, thriving community of readers devoted to the medium of comics. This community is important to me, and countless others, for a variety of reasons; great artists and great authors bring new excitement into the genre every day, new media allows anyone to publish creative work independently of big name imprints, and conventions allow fans a regular opportunity to interact with creators on a personal level.

When American publishers first started distributing comic books in the 1930's they were specifically targeting children. Story lines and art were not particularly important and were kept very simple. In the 1960's and 70's an explosion in the trend of "underground comics" meant for older audiences. This attracted great artists and writers like Will Eisner and FrankFrazetta, who completely revolutionized the game and changed the way people looked at comics forever. Todays readers are mostly adults with a more refined taste when it comes to content and illustration. Some of the greatest works of literature have been translated into graphic novel form. Contemporary authors, like NeilGaiman and Michael Chabon , have not missed their chance to contribute and are causing many people to take a second look at the genre. Comic art has gone from the simple black and white line drawings of the past to brilliant, complex work by some oftoday's top artists. Creators have taken on a celebrity status, but they don't get to have all the fun.

The Internet has leveled the playing field in the comic world. With the invention of the Webcomic anyone can create and publish with a minimal cost, and have their work immediately available to a worldwide audience. Even big publishers like DC andDarkhorse have started putting out web exclusive content on blogs and social networking sites like mySpace. Most publishers hold open calls for fan submitted art and writing.

The first Comic Book Convention was held in 1970 in San Diego. That convention is still going strong, attracting bigger crowds every year. Since then "Cons", as they're called by attendees, have popped up all over the world. These Cons offer the opportunity for fans to meet the creators of their favorite comics, get books signed, and buy exclusive merchandise directly from the artists. Most importantly it allows the fans to meet each other, and make social and professional connections based on a common interest.

In the past decade comic books have finally come out of the basement and into the spotlight. A recent rash of blockbuster movies adapted from graphic novels has caused an explosion of interest from people who never considered comics as entertainment. Concurrently, the fiercely loyal base of lifelong readers has not diminished. Comics, graphic novels and Webcomics have created a global community that is growing and reinventing itself every day.