Milwaukie is a small town but we have some big names. Here we have Dave’s Killer Bread, Bob’s Red Mill, and in October, the Davis Graveyard. Milwaukie is also the home of the third largest comics publisher, Dark Horse Comics.

From June 18 to the 23, Milwaukie Arts Committee or “ArtMOB,” are displaying Dark Horse Comics founder Mike Richardson’s art collection.  I heard about this event a few months ago through our neighborhood association’s Arts Committee. Later, after receiving approval to get time off early from work, I purchased a ticket to last night’s VIP event.

How did it all go last night? The event started off with a wine and cheese social. I chatted my neighbors, other neighbors, neighborhood board members, and a few city leaders.

Following the social was a presentation from Mr. Richardson about the history of comics.  He begins the presentation with a question, asking the audience if they were familiar with the comic titles listed in the Sunday’s newspaper. A few hands raised.

Mr. Richardson then asks the audience if they were familiar with comic titles like “Archie,” “Annie,” and a few other titles. Many more hands thrust into the air, contrasting the familiarity with newspaper comics versus comic books. Many in the audience were over the age of 25.

Mike Richardson with Concrete.

One fascinating story was how early comics  were printed on large sheets of paper, usually wrapped around the newspaper to boost sales. I mentally compared the early concept with today’s smaller comics buried deep in the pile of advertisements in overpriced leaflets. Mr. Richardson also covered the comics relations with today’s digital media.

The presentation ended and Mr. Richardson split the audience into two groups by the first letter of the audience member’s last name. While the first group went on a tour, the second group remained in the auditorium with Steve Lieber, Todd Herman, and Jeff Parker for their presentation. I head out on the tour.

Mr. Richardson gave an excellent artist background on the art and props. Some of the props and art included “Star Wars,” “The Mask,” and “Hellboy.” The artists’ talent and the incredible job they do is is awesome and inspiring.

At the end, I approached Mr. Richardson, shook his hand and said, “Thank you.” This has been one of the finer art displays I’ve seen in a long time. This event has also revived my inspiration for drawing, something I haven’t done in a long time.

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