Several weeks ago I decided I was going to travel to Orlando for this Horror Convention. I was a little hesitant of the idea at first. The weather was pretty awful and the idea of being trapped with costumed enthusiasts seemed that it was going to take its toll. Brian Oakley (a talented animator friend with a fondness for musicals and clowns) encouraged the idea. He convinced me after several “This is going to be Awesomes!”. Bill was on his honeymoon, so why not. I will make this about business, I said to myself. So I packed a bag, made sure there were some demo reels and cards in it. After the bag check, we left for Spooky Empire’s “Ultimate Horror Weekend”.

When we arrived to the Wyndham Orlando. There were weirdos everywhere! Slashers, Zombies, Killer Clowns, Half naked ladies of all genres, I could not help but smile. These folks were into this! These costumes were absolutely incredible. There was a line of them wrapped around the building. I made my way into the line and joined them. I guess I could have passed for a thirty something wolf man. Better than Zach Galifianakis. Once in the Hotel, the spectacle continued. Celebrities only several feet away, wonderful art and more interesting costumes.

So the highlights of the weekend were meeting Kristin Bauer (Pam, from True Blood). She was really nice. I gave her a Dripsblack sketchbook. I heard that she was an artist.

The Lance Henriksen Q&A was great. I have been a fan of his work. Tons of Near Dark questions. Met the Chiodo Brothers. Brian lost it! We chatted for a bit. They have our reel now. Maybe we will work on the Killer Klowns sequel! Fingers crossed. The Killer Klowns Q&A was fun!

Brian also met Mariana Klaveno (Lorena, True Blood). I think she has a crush on him…? There were tons of other cool people and neat events. Malcolm Mcdowell was there. Jake Busey was hanging at the pool party while I believe RATT was playing. Sensory overload! I think they were all orange! Wait! Brian ordered a drink from long legged lady.

The Panels were also informative. I met some nice folks in the Horror Film world. I also met some great artists. One of those was this very talented comic book artist, Amanda Rachels. Amanda was out promoting and supporting her book “ Clown Town”.

For more information about Amanda's work, please visit: http://www.inversepress.com/

I also purchased a print from Mike Groves. Beaker!

You can check out Mike's work at: www.poopbird.com

I had a blast that weekend! I recommend it to anyone who enjoys horror and science fiction. You will definitely enjoy it!

For more information about Spooky Empire visit: http://www.spookyempire.com