One great thing about small press is the fact that there is so much great talent out there and the collaborations are often truly amazing as they're done for support, encouragement and the love of the project. THWAK has been truly blessed in this way for the many great artists and writers who have not only contributed over the years but have also helped promote the project.
One such individual is Marty Hirchak. A permanent fixture on the Detroit arts scene Marty's murals, billboards, comix and spot illustrations can be seen all over this busy city as well as his band "The Smarties" a punk/rockabilly outfit . In early 2001 as the 1st THWAK magazine sized issue was being conceived I received some submissions from 2 arts with very different styles. One of which was Marty Hirchak (the other, Billy Genius - but more about him later) whose style just echoed a kind of nostalgic feel mixed with a very "Pop culture" vibe. Incidentally both these artists came to my attention through my buddy John Hett (The Journal of MADness) when he met them at the Motor City Comic Con.
Marty's work fit well with the varied styles I was looking for and his work has been in every issue of THWAK, including the new trade paperback and JOKESTER. Encouraged by the possibility of self publishing one's own work Marty started his own title POP ART FUNNIES in the fall/winter of 2003. With an excellent approach Marty decided to give back to the comic reader and started his run of books with only a 10c cover price. This coupled with advertising from local establishments enabled him to build a very loyal following around the country. Issue #1 had a print run of 2000 but as subsequent issues came out the cover price eeked it's way upwards and print runs went into the 10,000 range. Starting at 10 c, 12 c, 15 c, 25 c, 50 c, $1, $2 and finally $3 many of these issues are now highly collectible selling at $10 -$15.
Marty introduced many of his long term characters in this series like Sonny Boy, Wally, Super Bull and more in these pages and occasionally included some guest appearances by other artists including myself in issue #4.
In early 2008 I had the opportunity to finally meet Marty after collaborating and communicating for the past 7 years. I was there in Detroit to attend the Alfred E. Neuman exhibit and Marty's art exhibit that he put together that included many prominent artist from the city. It was great to see him and hang out. More pics to come.
Currently Marty is working on another issue and a future trade paperback is in the works. Anyone interested in finding out how to get ahold of these comics please contact me.
Long live underground comics!
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