Signatures - last page

Signatures from top left to right: Joe Kubert, Joe Giella, Carmine Infantino, Frank Cho (Liberty Meadows's Dean head sketch), Chris Claremont (above Batman), Len Wein (Batman head sketch), J.M. DeMatteis, Al Plastino, and Gary Friedrich.

Identifying Chris Claremont and Gary Friedrich's signatures was a challenge.

I was a complete fanboy when I saw Joe Kubert walking the NYCC floor, probably in 2009. I was so excited to see him. He rarely went to cons, wasn't on the guest list, and didn't have a table. I hesitated for a moment and then made a beeline towards him for his signature. It's the only time I've ever approached a creator walking the floor to ask for one. He didn't seem to mind, appeared a bit amused, and graciously signed the book. I was struck by his physical presence and kind manner during that brief encounter. He looked like he could withstand a hurricane. It was Sgt. Rock with a beard and non-regulation haircut.

Al Plastino's signature is an unpleasant reminder of flippers and line cutting. I was in line for Al at NYCC 2009 right behind a flipper who had an original Superman page and books for signature. Al recognized the page, angrily questioned its provenance, and refused to sign anything. The flipper, of course, didn't take no for an answer. After some back and forth Al relented and grudgingly signed all of it.

It was uncomfortable. I felt really bad for Al, regardless of whether his memory was correct about the art being stolen. Moreover, I was up next for what I knew would be my only chance to meet him. He was sullen and silent but at least signed the sketchbook; I didn't dare ask a question or for a sketch or commission. Al passed away several years later in 2013.

I am reminded of that experience whenever I see that guy or his minions. Once a minion tried to slip ahead of me as the artist opened his table. I was not going to let that stand, particularly after what happened with Al. I spoke up and kept my place. I like to think that Al would have appreciated that.