Always eager to see art at comic cons, my friend Tony and I ventured to DuPage Mighty Con in Wheaton, Illinois. We even stumbled upon cool outdoor art along the way.
Featuring everything related to comics, science fiction, fantasy and pop culture, DuPage Comic Con is an annual convention dating back at least 10 years. More than 100 exhibitors display and sell comics, graphic novels, art and other merchandise.
Upon entering a DuPage County Fairgrounds building, we immediately saw our talented artist friend, Jamie Koala. A long-time favorite of ours, Jamie wowed us with her newest creations. Jamie not only creates awesome art, she turns some into jewelry, clothing and more. She also gave Tony one of her designed shirts he pre-ordered. After catching up for several minutes, we let Jamie get to the rest of her waiting fans.
We also saw Paul Barile, a versatile creative friend. Paul showcased many of his books. A writer for decades, Paul is a novelist, playwright, poet, essayist and more. He also has been called the King of Coloring Books.
© Paul Barile
On the way to the event, Tony spotted colorful fire hydrants. Knowing I love such outdoor public art, Tony found a few more and stopped for pictures. A quick internet search revealed the fire hydrant art dated back to 2023. Coinciding with the arrival of Andy Warhol Portfolios: Life in Pop Art at the College of DuPage McAninch Arts Center, the Wheaton Warhol Pop Art Fire Hydrant project featured 20 colorfully painted fire hydrants inspired by legendary artist Andy Warhol. Public art like this proves even mundane utility objects can become works of art, adding beauty to the landscape.
While photographing one of the hydrants, I came across a historical marker for May Theilgaard Watts. A writer, teacher and more, Watts was instrumental in the creation of Illinois Prairie Path, a 61-mile trail in northeastern Illinois.
— John Wroblewski, online writer
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