One of the most exciting events we attended at the convention was the Sketch Duel between legendary artist Arthur Adams and rising star John Boy Meyers. This unique format brought two talented comic book artists together in a head-to-head drawing challenge, where they created sketches based on audience suggestions within timed rounds. Hosted by Aris Quinones of Variant Comics, the event was filled with engaging conversation, humor, and stunning artwork.
Arthur Adams, a veteran artist known for his work on X-Men, Conan, and Fantastic Four, faced off against John Boy Meyers, an up-and-coming artist recognized for his contributions to Teen Titans, Wonder Woman, and Spawn. The competition consisted of two 15-minute sketching rounds. In the first round, Adams was tasked with drawing a bizarre combination—a Jack Kirby-inspired figure with Spawn’s body and a Hitler mustache—while Meyers sketched Venom. Both delivered impressive and wildly creative pieces that showcased their distinct artistic styles.
During the second round, the artists were given free rein to draw whatever they wanted. While sketching, they answered questions from Quinones about their artistic influences, experiences in the industry, and challenges like creative burnout. Meyers credited Todd McFarlane for mentoring him during his time on Spawn, while Adams shared insights about maintaining longevity in the comic book industry. The mutual admiration between the two artists was evident, as they praised each other’s work and expressed enthusiasm for potential collaborations.
By the end of the round, Meyers had created another incredible Spawn sketch, while Adams surprised everyone with a beautifully detailed Popeye drawing—an unexpected but stunning piece that captivated the audience. Adding to the excitement, the event concluded with a raffle, allowing four lucky fans to take home original artwork from the duel.
The Sketch Duel was a beautiful showcase of artistic talent, camaraderie, and fan engagement. It highlighted not only the impressive skills of Adams and Meyers but also the sense of community that makes comic book conventions so special.
