Sitting down at the computer one day, going through update submissions from the StashMyComics.com members, i come upon a note attached to one of them that reads “…i am the artst…”.  That put a smile on my face after taking a second to sink in.  That artist was Michael Shelfer.  Immediately I’m hit with the though that i want to find out more about this artist and see if we could do a giveaway or some kind of promotion, which began a slew of emails back and forth learning more about Michael and working out the details for a giveaway.   Read on for an interview with Michael and info about our giveaway. 

How did you break into comics?

I had grown up reading comics and drawing for as long as I can remember so around 2000 I started to try and break in to the industry by drawing all of the time and sending in submissions.  I did this for almost five years and was repeatedly turned down.  I can’t even tell you how often I was turned down but each new submission got my art a little bit better to where it needed to be.  Finally, I entered Tokyopop’s Rising Stars of Manga volume 5 competition and was voted the best for the People’s Choice Award.  After that I got a gig drawing Tokyopop’s Star Trek the Manga volume 1 and the rest, as they say, is history.

Do you remember the first comic book you read and what did you think of it?

I think the first comic I ever read was probably Transformers #1 back in the ’80s.  The once where Marvel started it off as a 4-issue mini-series. I liked comics from a very early age so I remember being very influenced from every one that I could get my hands on.

When did you first begin drawing?  Was there anything in particular you enjoyed drawing?

I can’t remember when I started drawing but I’m pretty sure it was as soon as I could hold a pencil.  Growing up I drew a lot of Ninja Turtles, Spider-Man, and Batman.  Typical stuff.  I’d look at an old Mark Bagley issue of Amazing Spidey and copy all of his poses.

When did you start thinking about becoming a comic book artist? Why comic books and not a different type of genre?

As stated before, I’d say I seriously started trying to get into comics around 2000.  It’s an idea that I’d always entertained but had considered it a pipe dream because I knew I wasn’t good enough.  When I first started trying, let me tell you, I was terrible.  But the more I tried the better it got.  I’m still not where I want to be as an artist.  I never wanted to draw anything other than comics.  I stink at painting and I’m not very good at life drawing; it doesn’t give me the satisfaction of being able to tell a story in sequential images.

Who was influential in you becoming a comic book artist?

Mike Mignola, Mark Bagley, Tite Kubo, Nightow, Shirow, Joe Mad, geez, the list could go on and on.

Are there any particular writers that you would like to collaborate with?

Any of them really.  I’m not picky and I’ve already had the chance to work with a lot of very talented and creative writers.

If given the opportunity, what are some titles or characters you would like to work on?

I’ve never been very picky about that.  I’ve always said that I’d draw “The Amazing Pile of Crap-Man” if it got me published.  But seriously, I’d love to draw Spider-Man or Captain America one day.  Robin would be fun too or maybe Batgirl.

What are some of your upcoming projects?

I’ve been doing some covers for Bluewater Productions, including a cover for Logan’s Run: Last Day #1 and Legend of Isis #11.  I’m also working on a full-color graphic novel called Queen of Hearts written by Adam Gragg and its based on Alice in Wonderland.  It’s a very sexy and different approach to the lore of Chessworld.  I think readers will get a lot of enjoyment out of it.  It’s got pretty ladies, flashy outfits, and an engaging storyline.  High fantasy at it’s best.

Of the projects you have already completed, which has been the most fun to work on?

Well there was Star Trek for Tokyopop and then I did Dead Already for Seven Seas Entertainment (http://www.gomanga.com/), then I went back to Tokyopop and did Private School vol. 1 and Ghostbusters: Ghostbusted.   They all had their good points as they have allowed me to work on a variety of different genres including sci-fi, comedy, horror, and action.  Although unfinished, I’d have to say that Queen of Hearts had been the most fun.  I’ve always had a soft spot for fantasy.

What have you been reading lately?  Any particular title or story line peaking your interest week to week?

In comics I’ve been reading the Justice League of America.  I mostly read a lot of novels.  Currently, I’m reading Glory Road by Robert Heinlein and before that it was Rendezvous with Ramaby Arthur C. Clarke.  I like the Shannara books by Terry Brooks too.

Past few years and looks like at least a few more to come, comics have been huge in Hollywood. Have you enjoyed any of the comic based releases? Are you looking toward any new releases?

I’ve liked most of the newer Marvel movies like Iron Man and Hulk.  I love the new Batman movies.  I’m looking forward to Thor but I’m very excited about Captain America as he’s one of my favorite characters.  I’m also interested in seeing how the Green Lantern movie is going to turn out.

Out of all the characters and teams in the comic universe, which would you love to see on the big screen?

I’d really like to see the Flash made into a good movie and I’d love a solo Silver Surfer flick.

Anything else you would like to comment on, about yourself, about comics, or anything that might be on your mind?

I’d love for everyone to check out my art gallery at http://the-bluephoenix.deviantart.com/ and comment on it.  I love hearing feedback.  I also update it with my most recent work and I let fans know when a new project is about to hit stores.  I also take commissions and I’m cheap to boot.  Commission questions can be emailed to shelfer007@yahoo.com

I would like to thank Michael for his time and his generous contribution for our giveaway.  Michael has provided us with a page of original comic book art from Ghostbusters: Ghostbusted, from his personal collection. The artwork is for page #100 and is signed by Michael at the top left. Giveaway details can be found on our events page, and members of StashMyComics.com can start entering the giveaway immediately. 

Marvel Comics – September 2009 – $3.99 – 32 pgs – Color

Writer: Brian Bendis – Art: Stuart Immonen – Cover: Stuart Immonen

Synopsis: With the new Sorcerer Supreme chosen, and the Hood seemingly out of commission you would think we would be moving on to something fresh.  Unfortunately we once again return to The Hood and his gang cooking up a brand new plot to take out the underground Avengers team.  Some of The Hood’s gang decides they are getting tired of taking orders, and want to try doing things their way.  Dr. Harrow (baddie) reverse engineers old Starktech that is a power nullifier, and decides to test it out on the Avengers…

Review: I am done with the Hood and his gang.  Last issue we saw the Hood get the crap beat out of him, and in the hospital.  Now we are back to a mediocre story involving the Hood and his gang of villain rejects next issue.  I dunno, this all just feels very redundant.  Also, the team dynamic seems really messy lately.  We have Clint bring up that he should go kill Norman, and Spider-Man saying that goes against everything they stand for.  The rest of the team just sits there while the two argue about it, and say basically nothing.  Captain America is trying to interrupt conversation to let everyone know he thinks the apartment is too dirty, and Spider-Man makes about seven random comments about how he wishes he didn’t tell the team his identity.  WHAT?!?!  I think Bendis is officially past his prime on the series.  The artwork did receive a major improvement with Immonen joining the team, but it’s not enough to improve upon a story that has become stale and uninteresting.

Story: 5.5 – Writing: 5 – Art: 8 – Cover: 7.5

Overall: 6.5

              Bryan Hitch Cover 50/50           Alex Ross Cover 50/50          John Cassaday Variant                 B & W Variant

Marvel Comics – September 2009 – $3.99 – 32 pgs – Color

Writer: Ed Brubaker – Art: Bryan Hitch/Butch Guice – 50/50 Covers: Bryan Hitch/Alex Ross

Synopsis:  Sooooooooo…We have ANOTHER recap/flashback for half an issue, and then finally we get to some story telling.  Basically, Sharon has shared that she believes Captain America can be saved…an idea that came to her as memory has returned since her ordeal with the Red Skull.  A team is assembled to break onto a H.A.M.M.E.R. base to find the equipment Sharon believes was used to make Captain America disappear.  Norman Osborn is of course involved, and seen talking to Zola about the whereabouts of Captain America, who is apparently “unstuck” in time.

Review:  I think this is the third Captain America book to give us a recap of everything Brubaker has done up to this point, please make it stop!!!!  Despite my frustration about that, I do have to admit some actual advancement in the story did take place.  I’m not sure I completely understand how it is Steve is somehow trapped in time, but I imagine as the story develops I will start to get it.  Art was decent, and each of the covers aren’t too bad.  I will say that the Ross cover was not his most impressive work, it just looks a little funny without the legs.  There are a few more variants, but I couldn’t find images for them.

Story: 7.5 – Writing: 8.5 – Art: 9 – 50/50 Covers: 8.5

Overall: 8.375

      Regular Williams Cover                           J.G. Jones Variant

DC Comics – August 2009 – $3.99 – 32 pgs – Color

Writer: Greg Rucka – Artists: J.H. Williams III/Cully Hamner – Regular Cover: J.H. Williams III

Synopsis:  Batwoman finally gets her time in the spotlight as she takes over duties under the Detective Comics title following Bruce’s “death.”  If you followed the 52 series from a few years back, or the mini that followed that you will be familiar with the Religion of Crime that Batwoman refers to.  Apparently the cult has reorganized itself after a year and half, and Batwoman is doing some digging to get information on it’s new leader.

Also in this issue you will find the Question as a part of the new Second Feature deal that DC is running in several of it’s titles.  If you don’t know the new Question is Renee Montoya, which also took place under the title 52.  Renee is just starting her investigation into the disappearance of some guys sister, and leaves us with a cliffhanger of her being surrounded by a gang of hoodlums.

Review:  This appears to be a strong start for Batwoman’s first solo flight (well minus the Question’s feature that is).  I like that they are keeping the Religion of Crime involved in her story as I can remember that being a part of the 52 series that I really enjoyed.  Batwoman was recently stabbed through the heart (for those of you who have not followed her character), and Rucka does not ignore this as a hinderance by having her dad/partner remind her she is limited by this injury even now.  William’s art is stunning throughout the Batwoman portion of this book.  There is a two page spread that is simply one of the best interior works I’ve seen in a very long time.  The cover is nice, but I felt could have been better if the bottom 1/4th had not been on there.

The Question feature is a quick story, but very entertaining by itself.  I think the Question could become a great supporting character for a Batwoman solo series, but I’m not sure she would survive on her own at this point.  Hamner did the art duties on this portion of the issue.  I would have considered it pretty good, but compared to William’s Batwoman stuff it is inferior.  Excellent overall, and I will definitely be picking up future issues!

Story: 9.5 – Writing: 10 – Art: 9.5 – Cover: 8.5

Overall: 9.375

Marvel Comics – August 2009 – $2.99 – 32 pgs – Color

Writer: Warren Ellis – Art: Simone Bianchi – Cover: Simone Bianchi

Synopsis:  Last issue in the 6 part “Ghost Box” arc.  The team discovers that Forge has been behind the creation of new mutants, which he intends to fight a war against invaders from an alternate universe.  The X-Men quickly write him off as out of his mind, and inhumane for turning people into mindless messed up looking mutants.  A quick solution is found to not only end the threat from the invaders, but put an end to the insane Forge.

Review:  First off, ever since Ellis has taken over the book I have NOT found myself really enjoying it.  There have been a few little things where I have thought MAYBE there was some potential, but lost all luster about issue #27.  This issue was definitely no exception.  Basically the few things that were interesting and threatening about the book were taken care of by simply blowing it all up.  I was really annoyed by this especially given the situation.  Beast explains that the blast shot down (a super laser courtesy of Agent Brand) through the Ghost Box (the door into the parallel dimension) is so powerful that it would kill everything within 10 miles of the blast in that dimension.  I understand the concern for protecting their own dimension, but potentially killing thousands of people in another to do that doesn’t seem in character in my opinion.  Also, find it VERY stupid that Forge is the inhumane one when the X-Men make a reckless decision to blow up what could be an entire city.   Does anyone know what Armor was talking about when she said “See? Death legs!” after Wolverine slashed off Forge’s robot leg?  Or, why Storm refers to Forge as her maker?  Honestly, doesn’t matter because I have removed this from my pull list (3 issue too late).

Simone’s artwork has never worked for me.  There are a few good looking panels here and there, but for the most part everything he has done looks kinda creepy.  I felt this cover was especially odd considering Cyclops is wearing purple glossy lipstick.

Story: 4.5 – Writing: 4 – Art: 6 – Cover 5

Overall: 4.875

Marvel Comics – August 2009 – $2.99 – 32 pgs – Color

Writer: Paul Cornell – Art: Leonard Kirk – Cover: Mico Suayan

Synopsis:  Dracula discovers that his victory over Britain is premature as he finds out he has been getting his hearts desire in Plokta’s realm set up in his own cabin.  The real battle begins and ends quickly due to MI:13′s surprise, and Dracula’s distraction, but not as successful as they would have hoped thanks to Lilith’s strength against Captain Britain.  All seems nearly lost for Dracula until Doom honors his alliance by offering him something that should provide leverage against Captain Britain…Megan!

Review:  I love that Cornell is using bits and pieces he has used in the last issues to contribute to this current story.  The use of Plokta’s domain was a brilliant idea, and something I didn’t even consider after last issue’s dismal end.  I am happy to have Megan back in the mix, and think Cornell’s use of the character in this situation is great.  There is a PURPOSE to her being back.  Some of the dialogue during and after the attack on Dracula felt rushed at times, but that could just be me.  Art and cover are both still really good.  I heard a nasty rumor that this series will be ending with issue 15…such crap!  Why can’t they put an end to Astonishing or Hulk instead?  This is a great series…I will be sad to see it go!

Story: 9.5 – Writing: 8.5 – Art: 9 – Cover: 9.5

Overall: 9.125

Marvel Comics – August 2009 – $2.99 – 32 pgs – Color

Writer: Peter David – Artists: Valentine De Landro/Marco Santucci – Cover: David Yardin

Synopsis:  The plot thickens in the future as Madrox takes Cyclops up on his “challenge” to put his investigative skills to work and make up for future Madrox’s past mistakes.  In present time something seems to be “off” with Monet, when she at first tries to strangle Longshot, and then makes advances toward Darwin.  The team appears to be caught up in something calling itself “Cortex.”

Review:  X-Factor continues it’s streak of hotness with another fine issue!  David touches just enough on the future story to keep us salivating, while at the same time building on an increasingly intriguing plot involving the rest of the team.  One could be upset if this were a lesser performance by a mediocre writer due to the slow development of the story, but because of David’s masterful work on these characters and all the little moments in between you won’t feel a bit disappointed.  I was especially impressed by the extra time spent on Darwin this issue.  In my opinion he is a great character with a very unique set of powers that should not be thrown by the wayside.  David’s work on the character is making him more significant, and interesting…something he is very talented at doing.  The art and cover this go around was all very A+.  The look the artist came up with for Darwin is my favorite so far with that character.  My only critique is that the panels with distance become a little lower quality, and chunky.  Also, I can’t believe the same artist who did such a crappy cover last time came up with this masterpiece!  Reminds me of Cassaday’s work.

Story: 10 – Writing: 10 – Art: 9.5 – Cover: 10

Overall: 9.875

             Cassaday 50/50 Cover                                  Alex Ross 50/50 Cover                                   Matt Wagner Variant

Dynamite – June 2009 – $3.50 – 32 pgs – Color

Writer: Scott Beatty – Artist: Carlos Rafael – Regular Covers: John Cassaday & Alex Ross

Synopsis:  We are treated to the beginning of this adventure by showing us how Buck’s ship comes to travel through time, and crash land on future Earth.  Background is given to show us that Buck is not much for respecting authority or a stranger to adventure and danger.  On future Earth Buck is rescued from his wreck by Wilma, a woman who appears to work for Earth’s defense.  They soon find themselves in a predicament as they are chased down by a being known as the Pack, who appears to be some kind of intelligent and/or maybe cybernetic bear!  Both Buck and Wilma are blasted by the Pack, and appear to fade into nothing.  Wilma gives us our only clue as to what’s next as she says, “See you on the other…”

Review:  I usually don’t go for these sci-fi/futuristic type books, but I was initially brought in by the cheap #0 from a few months ago and felt curiously drawn to the next issue.  So far the book appears to be pacing itself pretty well, giving us some background to our hero yet keeping us tuned in with interspersed action and mystery.  The Pack character is a fun idea, but I found myself immediately comparing it to Phillip Pullman’s bears from his Golden Compass book.  Hopefully, there will be more to this in future issues to distract from my initial impression.  Overall though a fun read, and great artwork to boot!  You really can’t go wrong with any of the covers that are offered with this issue either!

Story: 8.5 – Writing: 9 – Art: 9 – 50/50 Covers: 10

Overall: 9.13

Marvel Comics – August 2009 – $2.99 – 32 pgs – Color

Writer: Daniel Way – Artist: Paco Medina – Cover: Jason Pearson

Synopsis:  Deadpool wakes up dazed with an arrow through his head, and Bullseye discussing how to completely dispose of him with a butcher.  Deadpool quickly gets himself together and eventually goes fist to fist against Bullseye wearing armor made of pig meat.  Advantage….Deadpool!

Review:  First of all…if you take this book seriously you will hate it.  Deadpool continues to provide an easy laugh or two, while also giving us some great action sequences and a fun story.  Using the frozen meat as armor was a good stroke of genius, and at the same time super hilarious!  Last two issues (especially this one) have been filled almost entirely with the fighting between Bullseye and Deadpool.  As enjoyable as that has been I’m hoping Way begins to move the story along next issue!

Story: 8 – Writing: 9 – Art: 8.5 – Cover: 8.5

Overall: 8.5

   Regular Frank Quitely Cover                     J.G. Jones Variant                 Quitely Black & White Variant

DC Comics – August 2009 – $2.99 – 32 pgs – Color

Writer: Grant Morrison – Artist: Frank Quitely – Cover: Frank Quitely

Synopsis:  Fresh out of Battle for the Cowl the new Batman and Robin hit the streets in the new and improved Batmobile.  The issue introduces us to the new duo, and sets the tone for what their relationship is like.  We are also shown a villain, Pyg, who I believe has only been mentioned (not seen) back in Batman #666 for the first time.  He appears to have tools available to basically zombify and enslave people.

Review:  Good first issue to start the series off.  I like having Morrison back on a Batman title to ease the transition to the new Batman and Robin.  It will be a little difficult I think for long time Batman fans to get used to a “friendlier” Batman, but the arrogant overconfident Robin injects a good amount of “toughness” to bring a balance.  Thank you Morrison for not using the crutch of an overused regular Batman villain!  This Pyg guy seems to have a good amount of creepiness and derangement to fit in to the mold of Batman villain, but fresh enough to separate himself from the regular cast of villains.  I was advised to read Batman #666 as Morrison has stated he will be using elements from that particular issue in his Batman and Robin stories.  I really enjoyed Quitely’s art duties on the book, and especially liked how he incorporated his sound effects into the action of some of the scenes.  The new Batmobile also looks pretty sharp…I think it’s a perfect time to combine the flying and driving into one vehicle.

Story: 9.5 -Writing: 10 – Art: 9 – Quitely Cover: 9

Overall: 9.38