Unmasked Spider-Man (Peter Parker) and Mary Jane Watson by Chris Samnee

Back in March 2024, Chris Samnee opened up his commission list for the year - and it was special one. For the first time ever, it was open to international collectors. Lucky me was in Japan back then. I wasn't *just* lucky because I was in Japan, but because of the time zone difference, versus Europe where I normally had been. It helped me out in getting a fairer shot and it all worked out.

I love Chris' Daredevil, Batman and especially Fire Power as much as the next comic book reader, but - surprise, suprise - I wanted a Spider-Man and Mary Jane commission. The whole process was super easy and smooth. You'd let Chris know your characters ("Unmasked Spidey and MJ") and he'd go to town.

Spidey and MJ swinging around the city. An enemy shows up in the far top right of their view. Explosion near the same direction. Peter drops MJ off by a fire escape. MJ helps Peter suit up. They say their goodbyes. And off we go.

See, I'm not a professional writer, but I'd love to think that there is a whole implied story in this one single image. I'm happy that Chris does that with his commissions. He doesn't do that many, but he always puts his heart into them.

An interesting choice was offered during the process. "Do you want to see a scan before we ship it out?". I don't get why anyone would feel that way, but if you wouldn't be happy, you'd have the choice to not take the piece, I presume. The commission speaks for itself; no chance I was passing on this one.

Since 2019, I had been trying to get something from Chris, whether it was a doodle or a commission. But international shipping was never an option, so I'm extremely grateful for that change.

As usual with Chris Samnee's commissions, this was done on 9x12 art board with pencils and inks.