This year’s New York Comic Con was held October 11-14 at the Jacob Javits Center on the west side of Manhattan – and on Saturday the 13th, Depth Of Field presented the “Hip-Hop And Comics: Cultures Combining” panel with speakers Adam “Illus” Wallenta, Darryl DMC McDaniels, Eric Orr, Jean Grae, Johnny “Juice” Rosado, Kagan McLeod, Pete Rock, Ron Wilson, and Ronald Wimberly.
I moderated the panel, and spent the day leading up to it running around and doing last-minute preparations. There was a table provided for us in the downstairs autographing area, and after doing a couple hours of signings, we hung out in the greenroom area. Some panelists already knew each other and were thrilled to be reunited, some were being introduced for the first time. The time flew by, and before we knew it, it was time to take the stage.
What ensued was amazing. An hour-long session of artists describing their personal connections to comics and Hip-Hop, and discussing their inspirations. The vibe in the room was electric. The audience was in tune with what unfolded, enjoying themselves every bit as much as much as we onstage were – and we were having a GREAT time. You can watch for yourself.
I’d like to give thank-yous and shout-outs to the businesses and organizations that contributed to our gift bags and giveaways:
Frank 151
New Era
Forbidden Planet NYC
Slice Of Spice Records
Turntable Lab
Reciprocal Skateboards
Adam Warrock
Kenny Keil
Mimoco/Mimobot
Shut NYC
5 Pointz Art Center
Rock And Soul NYC
And of course, extra-colossal thanks to our cameraman Garry Brewer, the NYCC staff and volunteers, to all the amazing panelists, and to everyone who joined us at the signings and the panel.
Photos © 2012 Marnie Ann Joyce.