JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Bottle Works Executive Director Matthew Lamb promised comics enthusiasts and fans of legendary comic artist and Johnstown native Steve Ditko “some special moments” at this year’s Ditko Con.
“We are pulling out all the stops,” he said.
The biennial gathering that celebrates the life and work of Ditko, who’s known for creating Spider-Man, Dr. Strange, Mr. A, The Question and many more, will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 27 at Bottle Works in the Cambria City section of the city.
New this year are the debut of 15 pieces of Ditko’s original artwork to be displayed at Bottle Works’ Ditko Studio; a videographic art installation from the forthcoming “DITKO” documentary from Magonia Films that Ditko scholar Zack Kruse is set to direct with animator and educational content producer Matt White; and the Disney Legends Award given posthumously to the local artist.
Lamb said he couldn’t divulge what the art is yet because he wants visitors to be surprised, but touted that and the new installation and award as special treats for visitors.
The videographic installation was conceived by and constructed by White.
“The idea is that through video, animation and still images, we can create a captivating entry point for Ditko’s art,” White said in a release. “Something that speaks to everyone and invites them to explore who he was.”
Kruse added in a statement that the installation is designed to be flexible so it can grow with Bottle Works’ celebration of Ditko.
Trailers for the film can be found at www.ditko.net.
Guest artists at this year’s Ditko Con include Javier Hernandez, Will Murray, Jack C. Harris, Khoi Pham, Zack Kruse, Jim Rugg, Tom Scioli, Don Simpson, Robert Sodara and Sam Johns.
Several members of the Steve Ditko estate will also be in attendance, as well as Johnstown’s Spider-Man and hero enthusiast Bruce Wechtenhiser, among other guests.
Lamb said there are numerous vendors, including comics tables, and three panels featuring members of Ditko’s family, colleagues and those continuing his legacy.
“Being able to celebrate his life and legacy with people that worked with him or know him is pretty special,” Lamb said.
There are varying levels of admission ranging from $10 to $200, with the higher tiers including many extra perks for fans.
For more information, visit www.bottleworks.org and follow the event at the Bottle Works Facebook page.
