Manix - Astonishing X-Men - Dangerous

For folks who have followed my CAF gallery you know I have two Manix Mystery Sketches which are so incredibly epic that it's easy for someone to say "hey, you got yours, leave some for the rest of us." But when the Next Comic Art NYCC pre-show commissions came around I couldn't resist reaching out to have Manix recreate one of my all-time favorite covers (also check out Darryl's digital recreation in my CAF).

I would also be remiss if I didn't mention John Cassaday who's loss is so very tragic. I met him at NYCC '23. We spoke for a good thirty minutes while he signed a few books. He wasn't doing remarques but colored in Scott's visor with a red marker on one of my B&W covers. We talked about this cover, how much we both loved Cyclops and what it meant to be powerful as an X-man. It was a lovely conversation. Similarly, when I met Manix at NYCC '24 I was reminded of my conversation with John.

Manix is equally sweet and we also had a delightful conversation. As for this piece, it's pure Manix. Recreating the virgin cover while having to fill in all that black space really gets all the characters to pop, something Manix was adamant about. It's got that deep inky/painted quality with strong colors and the fluorescents that just won't show on a scan. It's a glorious piece for so many reasons.

P.S., thank you again to Manix and to Lance for getting this to me safe & sound.