Is SDCC worth going to for the art / commissions?

carlito1978 · 07-13-2016, 11:23 AM

For those of us that enjoy commissions, is this a show worth keeping on the radar?

Or has it gone so far outside traditional comics / comic art that its only worth going for the experience and not the art?

**JadeGiant** · 07-13-2016, 11:42 AM

As someone who has never been to SDCC, I would have to say no. At least not if getting commissions at the show is your primary reason for going. From what I hear, many artists hike their commission rates for this show to offset their increased cost to set up there. But we as collectors also pay a premium to go so it is double jeopardy from a cost perspective when it comes to getting con commissions. You pay more to get there and they charge more for art. And we all hear how crowded it is so you have even more competition to get your art. More expensive to get there, more expensive art once you get there, and even harder to even get the privilege of paying more money. All that said, I still do hope to do an SDCC show at some point. More for the experience and enjoyment perspective. As such, art won’t be my priority but I am sure I will bring something home as I always like to have some art (even if just a single piece) to associate with a given show. I am a Midwest guy so getting there makes cost a huge factor. If I lived closer I am sure I would have already been to a show.

I will be interested to hear more from the show regulars as most of my reply is based upon my perception of the show. Ken, what's your perspective?

Ghost9 · 07-13-2016, 11:45 AM

I've written off really any desire to go to SDCC. To me, NYCC is just as big, and is easier to get art. It doesn't have the Hollywood element, which is a bummer, but you still get the feel of a mega-show.

**nbr3bagshotrow** · 07-13-2016, 11:48 AM

Just for the art/commissions? No.

But SDCC is for the experience, the vendor booths, the many discussions and premiers. If you are a comic/sci-fi/fantasy geek there is NOTHING like SDCC. It's a blast.

Of course, JMO.

**JadeGiant** · 07-13-2016, 11:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ghost9

I've written off really any desire to go to SDCC. To me, NYCC is just as big, and is easier to get art. It doesn't have the Hollywood element, which is a bummer, but you still get the feel of a mega-show.

I have been to NYCC twice and echo your comments. I still want to do SDCC for the reasons nbr3 describes below.

Quote:

Originally Posted by nbr3bagshotrow

Just for the art/commissions? No.

But SDCC is for the experience, the vendor booths, the many discussions and premiers. If you are a comic/sci-fi/fantasy geek there is NOTHING like SDCC. It's a blast.

Of course, JMO.

Behold Gravitas · 07-13-2016, 02:35 PM

Have never been to San Diego - if I go - I think I'd rather spend it outside then cooped up in a convention hall, especially during the summer.

Even got tickets last year through the lottery - then asked for a refund because I decided NYCC was more my style.

dchiscon · 07-13-2016, 03:18 PM

When I went in 08' you could still get great art. The artist alley lost its sponsor last year I think that says it all.

**MONSTER** · 07-13-2016, 03:40 PM

Not the best unless you can set them up ahead of time. Its a madhouse so most of the lists fill up before the general public has a shot a them. Art Adams is there every year and I've never come close to getting on his list in time.

Mr. Machismo · 07-13-2016, 05:31 PM

Fan Expo Toronto is a GREAT con for art, and in general. Could be a cheap alternative if you fly using Porter.

Bishop40 · 07-14-2016, 10:58 AM

I tend to agree and disagree about the art aspect at SDCC, it's great for OA and it's great for attracting artist that don't normally go to cons in the states or haven't been heard of in awhile. I was able to get a gary frank pieces at sdcc prior to him taking on commissions so that was a big score for me.