Deadpool creator and comic book legend Rob Liefeld is stepping up to help those in the comic book industry who need help right now. The coronavirus outbreak has impacted virtually every industry, but the comic book world has been impacted particularly hard. Taking to Instagram, Leifeld revealed that he will be auctioning off original art to help out. Have a look.
“Comic books gave me my career! I love this art form so much and it’s time to give back! I’ll be auctioning off one original sketch every day here on Instagram with proceeds going towards comic book stores in need! They need our help now more than ever in these difficult times! Spread the word as we will start this on Wed. Night! I will be offering the most popular characters from comic books and anime in order to raise the most $$$! I’ll have more details, stores and sketches to share! Watch this space and spread the word! WHO DO YOU WANT TO SEE ME DRAW??” Liefeld said in his post.
At present, comic book shops are shut down all over the world, particularly in the U.S. Not only that, but Diamond, the largest comic book distributor in the industry, has announced it isn’t taking new titles for the time being, and the company has also halted payments to vendors. To say the least, things are looking dire right now.
With that, smaller shops are in great danger of having to close their doors permanently. Rob Liefeld is doing what he can to help prevent that, if possible. In a separate post, the writer and artist revealed his first piece of art, which features DC’s Harley Quinn and Marvel’s Deadpool, Liefeld’s most iconic creation.
“TONIGHT, 6pm pacific! I’m auctioning off this #Deadpool #HarleyQuinn sketch with ALL PROCEEDS going directly to @zeuscomics in Dallas!” Liefeld said. “If you are the winning bid, you will pay them directly through digital means! I’m merely the conduit to help raise money for these comic book stores in these difficult times! They are the backbone of our industry! I’m playing for Zeus Comics tonight as they were so kind in hosting me last year and I could not been more impressed with how kind and professional they were! Great staff, great fans! Let’s help them out.”
Even before the COVID-19 outbreak, the comic book industry, in many ways, was struggling to adapt to the changing climate. Ironically, comic book movies and TVs shows dominate the pop culture landscape, but the books themselves aren’t selling at the same rate. And smaller shops have had to contend with a marketplace that is shifting increasingly online.
To keep up with the auctions, head on over to Rob Liefeld’s Instagram.
So what do you think? What characters would you like to see Liefeld draw for his auctions? What would you bid on if you have the extra cash? Join in on the conversation over on Facebook or Twitter!
