I went to MOCCA for the first time in four years this weekend. Like others, I was really sorry to see the Puck Building have to go from the event. The first MOCCA had a magic about it, for many obvious reasons, but the setting added a kind of Hollywood fairyland look. And yes indeed, it was HOT this year, and all the drink machines emptied by the beginning of the second day.
The consensus I got from a number of exhibitors was that it was more of a visiting and networking show than a selling opportunity. I'm sure some sold well and went home with bucks to stuff in the mattress. Sadly, many cartoonists I remembered from previous shows didn't come this year, but I got to meet some new people, so that's cool. I sold way more at the Hawthorne Con in May, but I got to meet some kids who were big Patty-Cake fans at MOCCA, which is always a boost when you know your book doesn't sell well. I sure didn't make back my table, but I at least made back my chair. Sometimes I think people believe I'm more mainstream and commercially successful than I am. Ah well, I keep trying, but from my vantage point, I'm just a struggling indie creator still.
The talk of the show was the evil cancellation of Nicklelodeon Magazine. I don't have to say much about that here, I've said it other places (including THE BEAT) and many many people have weighed in, save to say that I don't love businessmen. I just want to thank the guys again for many wonderful years and fun projects. Dave and Chris, of course, but also unsung heroes like Tim Jones, for whom I did many jobs. I don't remember everything I did for Nick, it was a lot! (Sorry, none of my stuff got selected for the Nick Mag site, but trust me, lots more folks had work in magazine than have been named. Mark Crilley, Bobby London, Ernie Colon, the great Mark Martin, the list just goes on and on...)
Hope MOCCA is cooler next year! And the tablecloths arrive on time! But I had my Nickelodeon blanket, and I suppose it was appropriate to use that instead.