While I didn't wear a costume myself, I did wear my own-designed T-Shirt with the phrase "Comics = Kunst" using acrylic paint. I hope this doesn't mess up my other laundry when it goes for a wash, but I'll worry about that for another day.
The Javits Center was jam-packed with people (more than 20,000 people it appeared). The exhibition floor (2nd floor) contained rows after rows of vendors selling comics, action figures, T-Shirts, posters, drawings, and other knick-knacks. I saw a guy dole out $1,300 for a bunch of high-end comics without blinking an eye. Woahhh....these are serious folks here. I noticed many had brought in empty suitcases on wheels. Now I know why. All part of their shopping spree...some of the merchandise wasn't exactly light, and or easy to lug around. Hmm, maybe I should consider this when Black Friday rolls around.
Anyway, I was a bit overwhelmed by the crowd on the exhibition floor, so I didn't check out row after row, but did make a pit stop at some of the vendors' stalls. Was thrilled to see some old comics selling for $1 or $2 each. I looked for ALF, Archie and Uncle Scrooge comics, and came across a few issues that I hadn't read. Oh okay, there were many more I hadn't read, but since I had a budget (not to spend more than $10 to $12), I was selective and picked what looked most appealing.
Batman figured prominently as well. The outfits from each of the Batman movies were on display (i.e., worn by Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney, etc.). Also, the Post Office was selling limited edition Batman stamps.
I attended several panels/screenings, including about sketching, a panel of European artists, etc. For me, this was the most rewarding experience.
When lunch time rolled around, I made my way to the food court. This was the only disappointment. The food was overpriced ($10 - $12) and the quality looked shoddy to say the least. I finally settled on a $3.85 single slice of plain pizza (it was the cheapest thing on the menu that looked remotely edible). I told myself I wasn't here for the food, and didn't want to waste time waiting on several long lines. The point was to have something in the stomach so I wouldn't pass out.
Thankfully, I did stumble across Starbucks (line was incredibly long...about 50 people in front of me). But as I was in the need of an energy booster, I patiently waited and treated myself to a tall pumpkin spice latte ($5.90...yikes, I know, but that's all I had).
Visited a couple more panels/screenings, then checked out the Artist Alley, where artists would draw something for you for a price. Very talented people.
While there were events happening until 10pm, I left the Javits Center while it was still light outside. I was tired, but happy with the experience and the comic purchases. It was a well-organized event, and I'm glad that I finally decided to check out NYCC.
Below are a few pics from the event. Enjoy:
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| A Vendor's Stall |
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| Post Office Stall - Selling Batman Stamps |
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| Batman Statue |
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| The Hobbit |
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| Megabot |
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| A Stall in Artist Alley |
