West Virginia University at Parkersburg will host the third annual Parkersburg Pop Con on Saturday, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the College Activities Center. Sponsored by Tekko and Blue Heron Campground, and supported by the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation, the event is a celebration of popular culture comics, costuming (cosplay), sci-fi, gaming, and film, and will feature national and local authors, publishers, designers and artists.
During Parkersburg Pop Con, attendees will have the opportunity to meet:
- Shawn Langley, a southern Ohio comic illustrator and concept artist. He is best known for his work on the “Earthruler” graphic novel and “Rapid City: Below Zero” comic series. Langley also produces original concept art for various authors and publications. Guests who purchased the event VIP package will receive a limited edition print and shirt featuring Langley’s artwork.
- James Hamilton, a graphic designer, photographer, and YouTube personality is best recognized for his cosplay. Hamilton has portrayed characters such as Adam West’s Batman, Han Solo and Jack Sparrow. He is also a member of the Ghostbusters-West Virginia Division and the Rebel Legion-Apollo Base.
- James Patrick, a critically-acclaimed creator and former writer for DC Comics. His work includes “Batman Confidential,” “Brightest Day: Green Arrow,” and “Joker’s Asylum II: Harley Quinn.” Patrick continues to write comics for major publishers and develop intellectual properties for Hollywood.
“Parkersburg Pop Con 2018 is a growing celebration that brings people together on campus each year so they may discover and grow their interests in the pop culture realm,” said Jackie Bennett. Parkersburg Pop Con event chair and WVU Parkersburg professional technologist.
The event is supported by the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation, a non-profit corporation that aids the college’s efforts by funding scholarships, programs for single parents, events, activities and more. Proceeds from Pop Con will benefit the college’s Riverhawk Food Pantry as well as the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation and WVU Parkersburg Alumni fund.
The schedule of events is as follows:
10 a.m.: Doors open.
11 a.m.: Opening ceremony takes place.
11:30 a.m.: – 12:30 p.m.:
- “History of Pop Culture” panel begins with Aaron Crites in Panel Room 1 located in room 1535.
- “Makeup Basics” class begins with Jackie Bennett in Panel Room 2 located in the lounge behind the cafeteria.
1 – 1:45 p.m.:
- Youth cosplay contest takes place. Guests may register for the contest at the Danger Zone located outside of the WVU Parkersburg Veteran’s Resource Center.
- “Cosplay on a Budget” panel begins with Christian Foster in Panel Room 1.
- “Super Smash Brothers” video game tournament will be presented by Multiverse Comics. Guests may register in the Gaming Galaxy area located in the WVU Parkersburg cafeteria.
- “What if They Made a Sequel?” panel begins with James Hamilton in Panel Room 2.
2 – 2:45 p.m.:
- Adult cosplay pre-judging takes place. Guests may register for the contest at the Danger Zone.
- “Comic Values and Grading” panel begins with James Patrick and Mick Williams in Panel Room 1.
- Lightsaber Academy takes place in Panel Room 2.
- “Pop Con Trivia” begins in the Gaming Galaxy area.
3 – 4 p.m.:
- “Comics are for Everyone” panel begins with Doug Anthony and Mick Williams in Panel Room 1.
- Adult cosplay contest takes place in the College Activities Center.
5 p.m.: Closing ceremony takes place.
Bennett shared that surprise vendors and guests will also make appearances. “The only way to find out who else is going to attend, is to visit the event.”
“We are excited to host the third annual Parkersburg Pop Con,” said WVU at Parkersburg Foundation Director Senta Goudy. “It will be a day of fun with the fantastic benefit of helping so many students.”
Adult general admission is $5, or $4 with a non-expired and undamaged canned good donation. Children 10 and under will be admitted free with an adult ticket purchase. Veterans and current armed force members showing a valid military ID card will also receive free admittance.
Visit www.parkersburgpop.com for more information about the event and Facebook @ParkersburgPop to see vendor and special guest announcements.
