I know it's not Monday, but if we're not supposed to be eaten by zombies, why are our brains so delicious?
And that's the last infographic for a while, probably. . . maybe.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Mmmm... Tasty
Todd Jepperson
I know it's not Monday, but if we're not supposed to be eaten by zombies, why are our brains so delicious?
And that's the last infographic for a while, probably. . . maybe.
I know it's not Monday, but if we're not supposed to be eaten by zombies, why are our brains so delicious?
And that's the last infographic for a while, probably. . . maybe.
Dead Island Comic Gives Character Backstories
David Brown
The final countdown has begun! In six days Dead Island will be unleashed upon the masses and we here at Zombies & Toys are excited for the release as much as all of you are. In the spirit of the release, Marvel has released a digital comic. Originally available as an exclusive at Comic Con it is now here for everyone to view. The comic is available here and helps shed a lot of light on the backstories of the four main characters that you can choose between. Stay tuned to our site as we will continue to give you as much information as we can get leading up to the release.
CDC Releases Zombie Information Posters
Matt Boiselle
There is definitely not (nor will there be) any argument about just how popular THE WALKING DEAD has become, but it seems to have grown so big that not even the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) could pass up the opportunity to throw their name in the middle of all the zombie madness. The CDC is based out of Atlanta, which is not far from where the show films, and earlier this year they decided to write up a preparation guide, which was circulated around the internet, entitled Preparedness 101: Zombie Apocalypse. Thought they were kidding? Wrong! Now, they have taken it upon themselves to make a series of posters available on their website; which I am sure can only enrich the general populations preparedness and ability to defend itself in the event of a zombie outbreak.
Just recently, it was mentioned that the posters had been sold out; but if you follow the link to the publications page (above) and find that to be the case, there is a toll free number you can call to see if any more will be made available.
There is definitely not (nor will there be) any argument about just how popular THE WALKING DEAD has become, but it seems to have grown so big that not even the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) could pass up the opportunity to throw their name in the middle of all the zombie madness. The CDC is based out of Atlanta, which is not far from where the show films, and earlier this year they decided to write up a preparation guide, which was circulated around the internet, entitled Preparedness 101: Zombie Apocalypse. Thought they were kidding? Wrong! Now, they have taken it upon themselves to make a series of posters available on their website; which I am sure can only enrich the general populations preparedness and ability to defend itself in the event of a zombie outbreak.
Just recently, it was mentioned that the posters had been sold out; but if you follow the link to the publications page (above) and find that to be the case, there is a toll free number you can call to see if any more will be made available.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
Howl-O-Scream Updates
Matt Boiselle
Last month it was reported that Busch Gardens Tampa was infusing it's yearly Howl-O-Scream Halloween event with a little zombie flavor. We can now say that "The Dark Side of the Gardens" will be overrun with scores of the undead, and all the details are here!
Last month it was reported that Busch Gardens Tampa was infusing it's yearly Howl-O-Scream Halloween event with a little zombie flavor. We can now say that "The Dark Side of the Gardens" will be overrun with scores of the undead, and all the details are here!
Marketing director Jill Revelle states that " even the streets aren't safe, zombie hordes will pour forth from every shadow in an attempt to show fans the most horrifying Howl-O-Scream yet." In the middle of hundreds of blood-thirsty flesh eaters clogging every concievable exit in the park, there will be 3 new haunted houses with the headliner being Zombie Mortuary - following the tale of a small town funeral home that was overrun by the living dead. The other 2 houses will consist of an Edgar Allan Poe themed gothic horror maze, and a Las Vegas style casino; home to some of the sexiest (and deadliest) vampires that you have ever seen. All this, plus 4 returning haunted houses from previous years, will surely make this year's event one that is not to be missed. Head on over to Busch Garden's website for the skinny on ticket pricing, event dates, and lots of zombie madness!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Posess Your Zombie Doppelganger
Who hasn't wondered what they would look like once the zombie virus takes over? How would you have been infected? How much of your flesh will be torn off before you escape the horde in order to die alone and eventually change into one of them? Would your skin be pale from a fresh reanimation or blue? Or maybe green? Now that your zombie self is fresh in your mind, allow us to take that image and create a one-of-a-kind collectible capturing your vision. And what self-respecting zombie fan reading a blog about zombies and toys wouldn't want that? Are you a fierce rage-infected killer or a docile, mindless drone?
As heard on Kevin Smith's S.I.R. network, Zombies & Toys can make your dream a reality. We work with artist, Philip Hynes, to create a collectible that you will cherish forever. Literally. Because when the zombie apocolypse does eventually overcome you, this cherished item can be carried around for eternity. What irony, you wondering around as a zombie clutching a sculpted bust of yourself as a zombie.
With the holidays around the corner, I wanted to take a moment to showcase the talents of Philip and explain the process and steps we take to make your dream a reality.
* First, rush over to The Zombie Toy Store and add a custom magnet or bust to your shopping cart and checkout as usual.
* In 24 to 48 hours, you will be contacted by master craftsman, Philip. That's less time than it would take for the virus to take over! Hopefully.
* Be prepared to answer Phil's email with details about your zombie self. Any particular physical damage? Skin color? Amount of gore? You will also want to include several photos of yourself including a good, clear picture of the front of your face and a side profile. Take care to make sure your expression is how you would like it to be immortalized. Admittingly, you will feel a bit goofy, but this is important in order to accurately capture your likeness. You can also include any pictures of zombies you like for reference.
* You will be in contact with Phil throughout the process. This will allow your bust or magnet to take form as you watch! It also grants you the ability to make any changes or adjustments prior to the product being finished.
* In 6 to 8 weeks, your zombified self will arrive at your doorstep!
Below are some pictures of Phil's work. We welcome any questions you may have and can be reached by emailing phil@zombiesandtoys.com or jason@zombiesandtoys.com.
As heard on Kevin Smith's S.I.R. network, Zombies & Toys can make your dream a reality. We work with artist, Philip Hynes, to create a collectible that you will cherish forever. Literally. Because when the zombie apocolypse does eventually overcome you, this cherished item can be carried around for eternity. What irony, you wondering around as a zombie clutching a sculpted bust of yourself as a zombie.
With the holidays around the corner, I wanted to take a moment to showcase the talents of Philip and explain the process and steps we take to make your dream a reality.
* First, rush over to The Zombie Toy Store and add a custom magnet or bust to your shopping cart and checkout as usual.
* In 24 to 48 hours, you will be contacted by master craftsman, Philip. That's less time than it would take for the virus to take over! Hopefully.
* Be prepared to answer Phil's email with details about your zombie self. Any particular physical damage? Skin color? Amount of gore? You will also want to include several photos of yourself including a good, clear picture of the front of your face and a side profile. Take care to make sure your expression is how you would like it to be immortalized. Admittingly, you will feel a bit goofy, but this is important in order to accurately capture your likeness. You can also include any pictures of zombies you like for reference.
* You will be in contact with Phil throughout the process. This will allow your bust or magnet to take form as you watch! It also grants you the ability to make any changes or adjustments prior to the product being finished.
* In 6 to 8 weeks, your zombified self will arrive at your doorstep!
Below are some pictures of Phil's work. We welcome any questions you may have and can be reached by emailing phil@zombiesandtoys.com or jason@zombiesandtoys.com.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
The Wizard World Chicago Comic Con held last weekend in Rosemont, IL was easily one of the best cons I have been to. It was massive without being overwhelming and had a floor-plan that made it easy to navigate. As my wife and I made the rounds throughout the convention center, we encountered booths with store names we recognized and made plenty of new friends. So many, in fact, that Zombies & Toys is going to bring you several exclusive features in the weeks to come!
There was no lack of fun to be had for zombie fans last weekend. For starters, several of the cast from The Walking Dead were in attendance. I was able to meet up with several friends of the site who were happy to be a part of the attraction. Let me stop here and thank Addy Miller and her mother, Jaime. Addy was the first zombie we laid eyes on in AMC's series and someone our very own, Gnat, was able to meet at Spooky Empire. I was also introduced to Chandler Riggs (Carl Grimes), Viviana Chavez (Miranda), Melissa Cowan (bicycle zombie), Anthony Guajardo (Miguel), Adrian Kali Turner (Duane Jones), and Keisha Tillis (Morgan's wife). It was an absolute pleasure to meet everyone. I encourage any readers who have the opportunity to swing by and say "hello" at upcoming shows to do so. Next month, Zombies & Toys will be giving away autographed pics from each of the above cast as we all count down the days to The Walking Dead series two premier!
While Boondock Saints may be the film Norman Reedus is most notable for, we all recognize him as crossbow-weilding Daryl Dixon. Norman was also at Comic Con accompanied by Boondock Saints alumni, Sean Patrick Flanery and David Della Rocco.
We were witness to an Evil Dead reunion as none other than Ash himself, Bruce Campbell, was accompanied by all five women from the cult classic. Marvel Zombies artist, Arthur Suydam, was also featured at the con providing zombie fans more to hoot about. But this show wasn't just about zombies. Celebrities from all areas of fandom were at the show signing autographs and mingling with the attendees. Patrick Stewart (Star Trek), Peter Mahew (Star Wars), Felicia Day (The Guild), several of the cast from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and more were all guests of Chicago Comic Con.
The floor was packed with vendors allowing ample excuses to spend your money. Toys? Check. Comics? Of course! Artists? A guarantee. Hand-made katana swords? Yes, even hand-made katana swords. Wizard also ensures there is plenty to do for those smart enough to buy an all-weekend pass. Panels and shows appealing to all of geekdom were certainly not absent, either. Most importantly, there were fans. With so much to do and so much to offer attendees, it felt like a giant party.
In the weeks to follow, we will be bringing you several features introducing you to the new friends made in Chicago. You will have the opportunity to hear about a zombie musical, zombie Smurf comic, several original comic books, the creator of a zombie game, several artists, and more! Oh... and did I mention the zombie cupcakes?
My final thoughts? Go to a convention, people! I've been hitting cons since I was a child and am always surprised by the number of folks I run into who have never been. The truth is, you don't have to be a certain "type" to enjoy shows such as this one. The Chicago Comic Con offered something for everyone allowing even visitors with a focused collection or hobby to easily get their money's worth by attending. Shows like this are also great because it is like being surrounded by hundreds of potential friends. Next on the list is Wizard World's Mid-Ohio Comic Con. Living in Ohio, I'm looking forward to a home-field Wizard show. Visit Wizard for more details and make sure to track me down at the convention!
There was no lack of fun to be had for zombie fans last weekend. For starters, several of the cast from The Walking Dead were in attendance. I was able to meet up with several friends of the site who were happy to be a part of the attraction. Let me stop here and thank Addy Miller and her mother, Jaime. Addy was the first zombie we laid eyes on in AMC's series and someone our very own, Gnat, was able to meet at Spooky Empire. I was also introduced to Chandler Riggs (Carl Grimes), Viviana Chavez (Miranda), Melissa Cowan (bicycle zombie), Anthony Guajardo (Miguel), Adrian Kali Turner (Duane Jones), and Keisha Tillis (Morgan's wife). It was an absolute pleasure to meet everyone. I encourage any readers who have the opportunity to swing by and say "hello" at upcoming shows to do so. Next month, Zombies & Toys will be giving away autographed pics from each of the above cast as we all count down the days to The Walking Dead series two premier!
While Boondock Saints may be the film Norman Reedus is most notable for, we all recognize him as crossbow-weilding Daryl Dixon. Norman was also at Comic Con accompanied by Boondock Saints alumni, Sean Patrick Flanery and David Della Rocco.
We were witness to an Evil Dead reunion as none other than Ash himself, Bruce Campbell, was accompanied by all five women from the cult classic. Marvel Zombies artist, Arthur Suydam, was also featured at the con providing zombie fans more to hoot about. But this show wasn't just about zombies. Celebrities from all areas of fandom were at the show signing autographs and mingling with the attendees. Patrick Stewart (Star Trek), Peter Mahew (Star Wars), Felicia Day (The Guild), several of the cast from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and more were all guests of Chicago Comic Con.
The floor was packed with vendors allowing ample excuses to spend your money. Toys? Check. Comics? Of course! Artists? A guarantee. Hand-made katana swords? Yes, even hand-made katana swords. Wizard also ensures there is plenty to do for those smart enough to buy an all-weekend pass. Panels and shows appealing to all of geekdom were certainly not absent, either. Most importantly, there were fans. With so much to do and so much to offer attendees, it felt like a giant party.
In the weeks to follow, we will be bringing you several features introducing you to the new friends made in Chicago. You will have the opportunity to hear about a zombie musical, zombie Smurf comic, several original comic books, the creator of a zombie game, several artists, and more! Oh... and did I mention the zombie cupcakes?
My final thoughts? Go to a convention, people! I've been hitting cons since I was a child and am always surprised by the number of folks I run into who have never been. The truth is, you don't have to be a certain "type" to enjoy shows such as this one. The Chicago Comic Con offered something for everyone allowing even visitors with a focused collection or hobby to easily get their money's worth by attending. Shows like this are also great because it is like being surrounded by hundreds of potential friends. Next on the list is Wizard World's Mid-Ohio Comic Con. Living in Ohio, I'm looking forward to a home-field Wizard show. Visit Wizard for more details and make sure to track me down at the convention!
Black Tuesday - Zombies invade Call of Duty
Quick Review for those who have been teetering on the undead fence on whether or not to purchase the latest DLC Rezurrection for Call of Duty: Black Ops. Buy it.
While coming in at 1200 Microsoft points, the add-on allows the player to dive into five complete zombie-filled maps including four from Call of Duty: World at War and the new add-on "Moon." Each level puts players against unending waves of the resurrected and bloodthirtsy while breaches in rooms must be boarded up. Upgrade your weapons and search for a way out. Follow these steps and you just might make it through the level.
Rezurrection is a welcome addition to any zombie-hunters gaming gallery. Stay tuned for more updates on this well-done DLC.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Darabont Fired from "The Walking Dead"
Jason Meehan
It's been a few weeks since we first we reported on AMC's startling announcement; that the mastermind behind the network's most talked about series was leaving the project. While cast and crew scramble to continue production on season two of "The Walking Dead" reports are starting to surface that the director/producer did not step down willingly, he was fired by the network.
This seems to clear some of the confusion about why series creator Frank Darabont was at SDCC promoting his show just days before being ousted. It also paints the cable channel in a very sinister light. Stories are emerging of a cast meeting that took place with AMC executives on location in Atlanta where the crew was informed of the dismissal. "This isn't working," was all that was said to explain the cable channel's decision.
Other reports indicate that the network has been very aggressive in discouraging the crew from making any comments. So far Darabont and the cast have maintained a strict silence about this news and the severe impact it could have on future success for the show, apparently out of fear for their own futures on the series.
So why did AMC toss the man responsible for the highest rated show on their network? All indications point to huge budget cuts that Darabont was adamantly against. The second round of "The Walking Dead", which is to have twice as many episodes, is being made using less than was spent to create the shorter premiere season.
What is to become of the drama that has single handedly brought zombies out of the horror genre and into the main stream? For starters we may hear more and see less of the undead just to save some bucks on makeup. Severed fingers are still crossed, but if the show falters, AMC will have a tidal wave of angry fans turning off their HDTV's (and cheering Darabont's name.)
It's been a few weeks since we first we reported on AMC's startling announcement; that the mastermind behind the network's most talked about series was leaving the project. While cast and crew scramble to continue production on season two of "The Walking Dead" reports are starting to surface that the director/producer did not step down willingly, he was fired by the network.
This seems to clear some of the confusion about why series creator Frank Darabont was at SDCC promoting his show just days before being ousted. It also paints the cable channel in a very sinister light. Stories are emerging of a cast meeting that took place with AMC executives on location in Atlanta where the crew was informed of the dismissal. "This isn't working," was all that was said to explain the cable channel's decision.
Other reports indicate that the network has been very aggressive in discouraging the crew from making any comments. So far Darabont and the cast have maintained a strict silence about this news and the severe impact it could have on future success for the show, apparently out of fear for their own futures on the series.
So why did AMC toss the man responsible for the highest rated show on their network? All indications point to huge budget cuts that Darabont was adamantly against. The second round of "The Walking Dead", which is to have twice as many episodes, is being made using less than was spent to create the shorter premiere season.
What is to become of the drama that has single handedly brought zombies out of the horror genre and into the main stream? For starters we may hear more and see less of the undead just to save some bucks on makeup. Severed fingers are still crossed, but if the show falters, AMC will have a tidal wave of angry fans turning off their HDTV's (and cheering Darabont's name.)
Monday, August 22, 2011
Random Zombie Monday
Today's Random Zombie Monday arrives to us courtesy of Jeanette J. from Canada. As a thank you, Jeanette will receive a package of ZT swag!
If you would like to contribute to our Random Zombie Monday's, shoot an email to todd@zombiesandtoys.com. If your image is used and has never been featured on Zombies & Toys, we'll send you some swag!
If you would like to contribute to our Random Zombie Monday's, shoot an email to todd@zombiesandtoys.com. If your image is used and has never been featured on Zombies & Toys, we'll send you some swag!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Zombies Set to Invade a Theme Park This Week
Jason Meehan
When there's no more room in hell, the dead will ride rollercoasters! This Thursday the Guinness World Record™ holding NJ Zombie Walk is hitting the road for their first summertime event, partnering with reanimated friends from the NYC Zombie Crawl and the Philly Zombie Crawl to spread the zombie infection to nearby Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom for the park's first ever ZOMBIE INVASION!
On August 18th the Allentown, PA amusement park is opening its gates to the undead for ONE NIGHT ONLY! If you've ever wanted to live out a "Zombieland" fantasy this is your chance! Gates open at 10am for humans, then the park closes to the public at 7pm for this special after-hours event FOR ZOMBIES ONLY! Organizers have planned a gore-filled evening of rides, music and mayhem.. as well as a NEW Guinness World Record™ attempt! The zombie horde hopes to set a record for the "Most costumed riders on an amusement ride." Guinness officials will be on-site to oversee the walking dead as they board and ride Dorney's largest coaster, "Steel Force."
Want to join them? Dorney Park is offering a deep discount on admission to the park if you purchase tickets online. Zombie Invasion tickets are only $25, and valid for both regular park hours and for this 8pm-midnight special event. A team of professional makeup artists will also be on-site offering zombie makeovers from 5-8pm for a nominal fee.
For more info visit http://www.njzombiewalk.com or http://www.dorneypark.com/zombiesnj to buy tickets.
When there's no more room in hell, the dead will ride rollercoasters! This Thursday the Guinness World Record™ holding NJ Zombie Walk is hitting the road for their first summertime event, partnering with reanimated friends from the NYC Zombie Crawl and the Philly Zombie Crawl to spread the zombie infection to nearby Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom for the park's first ever ZOMBIE INVASION!
On August 18th the Allentown, PA amusement park is opening its gates to the undead for ONE NIGHT ONLY! If you've ever wanted to live out a "Zombieland" fantasy this is your chance! Gates open at 10am for humans, then the park closes to the public at 7pm for this special after-hours event FOR ZOMBIES ONLY! Organizers have planned a gore-filled evening of rides, music and mayhem.. as well as a NEW Guinness World Record™ attempt! The zombie horde hopes to set a record for the "Most costumed riders on an amusement ride." Guinness officials will be on-site to oversee the walking dead as they board and ride Dorney's largest coaster, "Steel Force."
Want to join them? Dorney Park is offering a deep discount on admission to the park if you purchase tickets online. Zombie Invasion tickets are only $25, and valid for both regular park hours and for this 8pm-midnight special event. A team of professional makeup artists will also be on-site offering zombie makeovers from 5-8pm for a nominal fee.
For more info visit http://www.njzombiewalk.com or http://www.dorneypark.com/zombiesnj to buy tickets.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Call of Duty Rezurrects on XBox August 23rd
Matt Boiselle
If you are a Call of Duty: Black Ops junkie, then get ready to start feeling the shakes !! Breaking loose on XBox Live August 23rd, this newest version subtitled Rezurrection will offer downloadable content at an affordable tag price of 1200 MS points or $ 15 bucks. Here is what you get (talk about bang for the buck !) - 3 all new re-mastered levels of zombie gore including Nacht der Untoten, Verrukt, Shi No Numa and Der Riese, the zombie factory that started it all, and an all new " Moon" level. Also sporting an enhanced zombie soundtrack and a new zombies moon theme, this content will be available to you if you already own the Hardened or Prestige releases, if not then it will cost you the aforementioned price. Sounds like a small price to pay to start wasting zombies on the moon!!
If you are a Call of Duty: Black Ops junkie, then get ready to start feeling the shakes !! Breaking loose on XBox Live August 23rd, this newest version subtitled Rezurrection will offer downloadable content at an affordable tag price of 1200 MS points or $ 15 bucks. Here is what you get (talk about bang for the buck !) - 3 all new re-mastered levels of zombie gore including Nacht der Untoten, Verrukt, Shi No Numa and Der Riese, the zombie factory that started it all, and an all new " Moon" level. Also sporting an enhanced zombie soundtrack and a new zombies moon theme, this content will be available to you if you already own the Hardened or Prestige releases, if not then it will cost you the aforementioned price. Sounds like a small price to pay to start wasting zombies on the moon!!
Monday, August 15, 2011
Marc Damicis Presented by the Undead Bazaar
Sara Ross
This week, THE UNDEAD BAZAAR is happy to feature the creepy cool art of Marc Damicis. First up for demo is the Zombie Coloring Book Fun Pack; Digest size (5½" x 8½"). 20 pages, saddle stapled with a purple paper cover and black & white illustrations by the artist. There are 16 “creepy, goofy, gooey, rotten, toothsome, eye-bulgey zombies” inside for you to color or abuse to your hearts content. They’ve even been given cute and fitting names like, Chomp, Nekkie, Rex, Slab & Hairy, just to name a few. Also contained inside is a written introduction to Marc’s own particular brand of Zombie and a few little extras in there, just for fun.
Also, check out his “Bouncing Zombie Fun” pin-back button set! There are red and purple, green and a nice putrid yellow too! There's even a vicious-looking, deep blue zombie. If that’s not enough, there is also bright pink, along with fleshy zombie, pale zombie, turquoise zombie, orange zombie, and there is even a secret 11th button...the mottled putrid zombie! This is fun for the whole deranged family.
How long have you been in business? I've been selling online, since 2001. But I've been making zines since 1988 and doing art & craft shows since 1992.
How did you get started? Selling art?...Back in the day, I remember starting with a few weird art zines and silk screened shirts, though I gave away more than I sold. A little later, I got into vending at alternative music events selling this tribal-monster-mask ceramic jewelry I used to make.
What is the inspiration for your art? Some inspirations include: Horror, monster, sci-fi, and fantasy genres in film and fiction. Indigenous art traditions of various cultures. And the anxieties of everyday existence.
What is your favorite zombie movie/book/game? Favorite zombie movie is probably Dawn of the Dead, the original Romero version from 1979. My favorite zombie game is the Resident Evil video game series.
What was your first exposure to zombies? I think it was through Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine from the 70's and early 80's. And also seeing the film, “Children Shouldn't Play with Dead Things” on TV as a kid. Kind of brutal for an 8 or 9 year old perhaps. It really did scare me terribly. My parents shouldn’t of let me watch it.
How do zombies play a role in your art? The Zombie itself does not play as much a role as it did in earlier days. However, I've always felt that zombies symbolized fears and anxieties in relation to human degeneration, social degeneration, disease, epidemics, and an apocalypse of sorts. These ideas continue to play a role in my art.
Who/what are some of your favorite artists or art styles, or your biggest inspirations? The artists who worked on various weird and monsterry trading cards & stickers from the 60's and 70's, like Wacky packages and Ugly Stickers. A few of these artists are Basil Wolverton, Norm Saunders, Wally Wood. I had Ugly Stickers when I was 4 years old, and those artistic styles still resonate with me today. There are also a number of artists from the Underground Comics era that are big favorites as well
If bitten by a zombie, should we leave you to change or shoot you? ? I would probably want to be left. I figure that, though unlikely it may be, if a cure should come along, I'd still have a chance right? Being cornered by zombies and about to be eaten might be a different story.
If made into a toy, would you be a zombie or survivor? Whataccessories would you come with? A survivor, and accessories should include a variety of firearms and ammo and maybe some explosives.
What is your favorite subject/image to craft/paint/draw, and why? Anything strange, creaturely, skully, and monsterish! As for why I'm compelled to draw, paint, and sculpt these things: It's most likely due to experiences as a kid. From the TV shows, movies, & magazines I looked at, and of course the trading cards, stickers, and monster toys I collected. That stuff must've left a lasting impression.
What can you tell us about your piece that is being given away? I guess the idea behind my Zombie Coloring Book is a grotesque novelty. It's the combination of something cute and childish, an innocent coloring book, with something strange and potentially horrible which are pictures of zombies. As it turned out though, the zombies are actually quite tame...More cartooney and weird rather than realistically gruesome.
With today's feature, you can enter to win your own copy of Marc's Zombie Coloring Book! All you have to do is the same thing we always ask you to do: send us an email to coloringbook@zombiesandtoys.com with your name and adress included. Watch for the wrap up of this years UNDEAD BAZAAR coming to see all of our contest winners.
This week, THE UNDEAD BAZAAR is happy to feature the creepy cool art of Marc Damicis. First up for demo is the Zombie Coloring Book Fun Pack; Digest size (5½" x 8½"). 20 pages, saddle stapled with a purple paper cover and black & white illustrations by the artist. There are 16 “creepy, goofy, gooey, rotten, toothsome, eye-bulgey zombies” inside for you to color or abuse to your hearts content. They’ve even been given cute and fitting names like, Chomp, Nekkie, Rex, Slab & Hairy, just to name a few. Also contained inside is a written introduction to Marc’s own particular brand of Zombie and a few little extras in there, just for fun.
Also, check out his “Bouncing Zombie Fun” pin-back button set! There are red and purple, green and a nice putrid yellow too! There's even a vicious-looking, deep blue zombie. If that’s not enough, there is also bright pink, along with fleshy zombie, pale zombie, turquoise zombie, orange zombie, and there is even a secret 11th button...the mottled putrid zombie! This is fun for the whole deranged family.
How long have you been in business? I've been selling online, since 2001. But I've been making zines since 1988 and doing art & craft shows since 1992.
How did you get started? Selling art?...Back in the day, I remember starting with a few weird art zines and silk screened shirts, though I gave away more than I sold. A little later, I got into vending at alternative music events selling this tribal-monster-mask ceramic jewelry I used to make.
What is the inspiration for your art? Some inspirations include: Horror, monster, sci-fi, and fantasy genres in film and fiction. Indigenous art traditions of various cultures. And the anxieties of everyday existence.
What is your favorite zombie movie/book/game? Favorite zombie movie is probably Dawn of the Dead, the original Romero version from 1979. My favorite zombie game is the Resident Evil video game series.
What was your first exposure to zombies? I think it was through Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine from the 70's and early 80's. And also seeing the film, “Children Shouldn't Play with Dead Things” on TV as a kid. Kind of brutal for an 8 or 9 year old perhaps. It really did scare me terribly. My parents shouldn’t of let me watch it.
How do zombies play a role in your art? The Zombie itself does not play as much a role as it did in earlier days. However, I've always felt that zombies symbolized fears and anxieties in relation to human degeneration, social degeneration, disease, epidemics, and an apocalypse of sorts. These ideas continue to play a role in my art.
Who/what are some of your favorite artists or art styles, or your biggest inspirations? The artists who worked on various weird and monsterry trading cards & stickers from the 60's and 70's, like Wacky packages and Ugly Stickers. A few of these artists are Basil Wolverton, Norm Saunders, Wally Wood. I had Ugly Stickers when I was 4 years old, and those artistic styles still resonate with me today. There are also a number of artists from the Underground Comics era that are big favorites as well
If bitten by a zombie, should we leave you to change or shoot you? ? I would probably want to be left. I figure that, though unlikely it may be, if a cure should come along, I'd still have a chance right? Being cornered by zombies and about to be eaten might be a different story.
If made into a toy, would you be a zombie or survivor? Whataccessories would you come with? A survivor, and accessories should include a variety of firearms and ammo and maybe some explosives.
What is your favorite subject/image to craft/paint/draw, and why? Anything strange, creaturely, skully, and monsterish! As for why I'm compelled to draw, paint, and sculpt these things: It's most likely due to experiences as a kid. From the TV shows, movies, & magazines I looked at, and of course the trading cards, stickers, and monster toys I collected. That stuff must've left a lasting impression.
What can you tell us about your piece that is being given away? I guess the idea behind my Zombie Coloring Book is a grotesque novelty. It's the combination of something cute and childish, an innocent coloring book, with something strange and potentially horrible which are pictures of zombies. As it turned out though, the zombies are actually quite tame...More cartooney and weird rather than realistically gruesome.
With today's feature, you can enter to win your own copy of Marc's Zombie Coloring Book! All you have to do is the same thing we always ask you to do: send us an email to coloringbook@zombiesandtoys.com with your name and adress included. Watch for the wrap up of this years UNDEAD BAZAAR coming to see all of our contest winners.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Wizard World Chicago
I just arrived back from Wizard World Chicago. Wow! What a blast! I will be posting a full review and pictures soon, but in the meantime, check out our Facebook page for a sneak peak. Keen readers may be able to figure out some of the things we will be giving away in future contests!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Batman: The Dark Night Rises photos
Yeah, well, it's not zombie related but I'm a dork and I'll do what I want. The company I work for has a building next to where the latest Batman movie is being filmed in PA. The Dark Night Rises will hit theaters next year, but fellow geeks excited like me can get a glimpse of the new Batmobile in action driving through a snow-filled street in August!
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