The Hulk & Ben Featherston by Mostly Comics
Geeks have moved up in the world. Long gone are the days where you had to hide your love of Star Wars or Battlestar Galactica. We’ve built loud-and-proud communities on social networking sites and the media takes notice. With this week’s release of Thor: The Dark World, and the heavy promotion for The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Captain America: Winter Soldier, and X-men: Days of Future Past, it’s clear that the nerd movie bubble has not yet burst. Still, there is one place that still holds almost the same stigma as it has in years past – the comic book store.
The Mostly Comics Crew with Lou Ferrigno
The local comic book store has been a haven for the geeky for decades. I know. I’ve been seeking them out for years. They’re places where like-minded people can discuss the in-depth history of the Marvel Universe, or deconstruct the career of Alan Moore in peace. I’ve spent hours pouring over back issues, and defending my opinions on X-men team members. I’ve made friends through local stores, both as an employee and a customer, and I miss the tight-knit group I made since I’ve moved away. I miss my store!
Renovations at Mostly Comics
Most people don’t look at comic shops like that. They’re still seen as dingy, dark, hole-in-the-ground stores without any space or organization. Yes, those shops exist, but the image of the comic book store is changing. Think more family friendly and less mylar and shame.
We’ve already seen this in Toronto. The Silver Snail’s new downtown location has added a cafe to their store, so now you can sip a latte while browsing. The Comic Book Lounge shares their space with Guerilla Printing and hosts launch parties and gallery shows as well as selling books. Big B Comics in Hamilton is a bright and airy space that caters to every age group and hands out free comics for every “A” on children’s report cards. Mostly Comics in St Catharines is currently undergoing a major renovation to update their space and change the look of their store.
Artist Ben Featherston
Comic book stores tend to be small, and Mostly Comics is no exception, but owner Kim Stevens is using the space to get the biggest bang for their buck – quite literally. He’s commission artist Ben Featherston to paint a new mural, a replication of The Incredible Hulk No. 1o. Comic book fans will recognize the font, Comics Code Authority logo, and original price. The mural will be used as a backdrop for the shop’s full-scale Hulk statue (one of 5 in Canada). The goal is to allow people to take pictures with the statue for fun and promotion of the store. This wasn’t Featherston’s first foray into comic book artwork. He also created an elaborate mural for Fort Erie Secondary School earlier this year. Stevens and Store Manager, Bev Morley, are excited to showcase their renovations and are holding a re-launch celebration on November 23, which will include Hulk-size sales and some special appearances by comic book artists.
Hulk Smash!
Although comic book stores have gained a bad reputation these stores are moving into a new era. There’s no reason not to visit them. Sure, you can buy a graphic novel or action figure at one of the big box stores, but you’re missing out on the camaraderie. Each store has a personality. Find one that fits yours. Mostly Comics will be revealing Ben’s finished mural at their re-launch on November 23. Come out and celebrate. Find a new book or catch up with old friends. Costumes are always welcome.
