New Baby Productions

This blog has moved

2010-04-09T16:43:00.003-04:00

This blog is now located at http://elmentalfources.com/blog2/.

For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to
http://elementalfources.com/blog2/?feed=rss2.

NEWS FROM THE APOCALYPSE: All three VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE books now available as ebooks (multiple formats) at Smashwords

2010-04-09T09:44:00.000-04:00

NEWS FROM THE APOCALYPSE: All three VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE books now available as ebooks (multiple formats) at Smashwords

Michigan Comics Crossover???

2010-04-08T16:21:00.000-04:00

During the last couple of years that I have been working as a comic book publisher, I have surprisingly found that there is an abundance of talent in the industry right here in my resident state of Michigan. For fear of leaving someone important off of the list, I will not be naming these talented individuals. But they comprise a practical Who's Who of artists, writers, and dedicated small pressers.

I wonder... has anyone every attempted to rally these forces together for an independent comics crossover? An interesting topic for discussion...

Eric Mullarky
New Baby Productions
www.NewBabyProductions.com

Free ELEMENTAL FOURCES if you review VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE

2010-03-22T13:03:00.001-04:00

I would like you to review our VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Prologue preview comic and be rewarded in the process. The first 25 who review the comic will receive all six issues of our ELEMENTAL FOURCES comic mini-series for free at DriveThruComics.com! Here's the process:

Head to this LINK. Download and read the comic. It is free!
Post a review on the DriveThruComics site about the comic, good or bad. All feedback and criticism is important. What did you think of the story and/or the art? Would you buy the graphic novel when it is completed? We really want to know!
Email me at eric@elementalfources.com to let me know that you put up a review.
You will receive an email with a coupon code to use at DriveThruComics to download the ELEMENTAL FOURCES books. Reviews are appreciated on those as well.

Thank you,
Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.NewBabyProductions.com

Phoenix Convention 7 Pictures

2010-03-08T08:51:00.000-05:00

VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE writer Derek Gunn was signing copies of the graphic novel preview mini-comic this past weekend at the Phoenix Convention 7 in Dublin Ireland.

Derek had this to say:

The preview mini comic went down very well and I got terrific feedback especially about the quality of the artwork.

VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Prologue free at DriveThruComics!

2010-02-27T08:13:00.000-05:00

That's right... FREE!!! Click the image above.

Reviewers for VA Preview Mini-Comic Wanted!

2010-02-25T09:04:00.003-05:00

Are you a reviewer of comics and graphic novels who posts to multiple review web sites or magazines? If so, we here at New Baby Productions could really use your help in our push to increase awareness of our VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE graphic novel project scheduled to be released next year. I would like to send you a copy of our preview mini-comic, which hopefully you could then review. Head to http://bit.ly/cajkUj to sign up for your free copy.

Vampire Apocalypse Mini-Comics have arrived!

2010-02-20T07:54:00.001-05:00

Find out how to get your copy: LINK

Eric Mullarky
New Baby Productions
http://www.newbabyproductions.com/

VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Mini-Comic Available for Retailers

2010-02-15T16:38:00.002-05:00

Our mini-comic was just sent to the printers and should be arriving sometime within the next week. We are producing this as a preview to our VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE graphic novel that will be available next year. I was thinking that I would like to get it to comic shops, at least locally, to give away as part of Free Comic Book Day or any other comics or horror-related events this year. Due to timing, I will not be working through Diamond and will be working with the stores on my own.

If any retailers would like a copy of the mini-comic to look at, or would like copies for their store, please vist http://bit.ly/cajkUj. If you are an individual who is interested in a copy, make sure to ask your retailer to sign up.

Thanks!
Eric Mullarky
New Baby Productions
http://www.newbabyproductions.com/

About Vampire Apocalypse
     VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE will be a 140-page full-color graphic novel based on the critically acclaimed Vampire Apocalypse book series written by Derek Gunn. New Baby Productions licensed the graphic novel rights to the novels. The graphic novel is scheduled for an early 2011 release.
     VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE is a profound re-imagining of the vampire genre that adds a touch of science fiction to the formula. In a dystopian near-future world, war has left the earth depleted of resources. Fuel is rationed, states close their borders, towns die, and technology stagnates. As Americans struggle to cope with these problems, a sinister clan of vampires emerges from the shadows and begins to take over community-after-community. They offer power to those who will join them, and death to those who don’t. The vampires use a serum and subservient Thralls to control the population, wall the cities off, and breed humans as stock. Thralls are humans who have been bitten but have not fully become vampires. They have enhanced speed and strength and are used to guard the vampires during the day when they could be vulnerable to attack.
     VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE combines familiar themes and elements from such past vampiric successes as Underworld, 30 Days of Night, and Blade. The novels have been optioned for a film.

About Free Comic Book Day
     As the name implies, Free Comic Book Day is a single day when participating comic book specialty shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their shops. Free Comic Book Day is held the first Saturday in May each year and is administered by a panel representing all parts of the comic book industry: retailers, publishers, suppliers, and Diamond Comic Distributors. Each year, publishers apply to provide comic books at cost to retailers, who in turn give them away for free. Diamond handles marketing and logistics for the event, shipping comics to shops and handling marketing and PR for the event.
     The VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE mini-comic will not be made available to retailers through Diamond, but will be made available at New Baby Productions' expense for the Free Comic Book Day event or other comics or horror-related events.

About New Baby Productions
     New Baby Productions is an independent comic book publisher formed in 2008 by Eric Mullarky with the intent to self-publish his Elemental Fources series. The follow-up series, Elemental Fources: Brothers in Arms, will be released in 2010. Please visit our web site, http://www.newbabyproductions.com/, for more information.

ELEMENTAL FOURCES: BROTHERS IN ARMS Coming Soon!

2010-02-15T09:09:00.005-05:00

Our prequel to ELEMENTAL FOURCES is just about done! Art has been completed by Johan Manandin and lettering is just about finished by Jaymes Reed. Find cover artwork below by Toni Justamante.

Now I am just looking at all the possibilities of how to release this. Off-set printing was used for our previous EF series, but I was left with a large inventory. So, how should BiA be released? Print-on-demand? Exclusively through electronic means (pdf, iPhone, etc.)? Both? Also, would one large one-shot be better than a three-part mini-series? I would definitely appreciate feedback.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
http://www.NewBabyProductions.com/

Advertising Space Available on VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Mini-Comic

2010-01-31T20:09:00.003-05:00

   We are seeking potential advertisers for a preview mini-comic for our upcoming horror-genre graphic novel, VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE. This preview mini-comic will be be distributed to Detroit-area comic book shops (and select other shops throughout the world) free-of-charge to be given away to adult comic book and graphic novel readers as part of the national Free Comic Book Day celebration on Saturday, May 1, 2010.
   The entire back cover of the mini-comic is available to place an advertisement. So, if you are a company or service in Michigan that wishes to reach out to fans of horror, books, comics, vampires, etc., please contact me about advertising so that we may negotiate a mutually beneficial plan.

About Vampire Apocalypse
   VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE will be a 140-page full-color graphic novel based on the critically acclaimed Vampire Apocalypse book series written by Derek Gunn. New Baby Productions licensed the graphic novel rights to the novels. The graphic novel is scheduled for an early 2011 release.
   VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE is a profound re-imagining of the vampire genre that adds a touch of science fiction to the formula. In a dystopian near-future world, war has left the earth depleted of resources. Fuel is rationed, states close their borders, towns die, and technology stagnates. As Americans struggle to cope with these problems, a sinister clan of vampires emerges from the shadows and begins to take over community-after-community. They offer power to those who will join them, and death to those who don’t. The vampires use a serum and subservient Thralls to control the population, wall the cities off, and breed humans as stock. Thralls are humans who have been bitten but have not fully become vampires. They have enhanced speed and strength and are used to guard the vampires during the day when they could be vulnerable to attack.
   VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE combines familiar themes and elements from such past vampiric successes as Underworld, 30 Days of Night, and Blade.

About Free Comic Book Day
   As the name implies, Free Comic Book Day is a single day when participating comic book specialty shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their shops. Free Comic Book Day is held the first Saturday in May each year and is administered by a panel representing all parts of the comic book industry: retailers, publishers, suppliers, and Diamond Comic Distributors. Each year, publishers apply to provide comic books at cost to retailers, who in turn give them away for free. Diamond handles marketing and logistics for the event, shipping comics to shops and handling marketing and PR for the event.
   The VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE mini-comic will not be made available to retailers through Diamond, but will be made available at New Baby Productions' expense for the Free Comic Book Day event.

About New Baby Productions
   New Baby Productions is an independent comic book publisher formed in 2008 by Eric Mullarky with the intent to self-publish his Elemental Fources series. The follow-up series, Elemental Fources: Brothers in Arms, will be released in 2010. Please visit our web site, http://www.newbabyproductions.com/, for more information.

ELEMENTAL FOURCES feedback from Israel

2010-01-24T17:47:00.002-05:00

Arie, a comic book fan in Israel, recently purchased copies of ELEMENTAL FOURCES #1-6. He had the following feedback:

It was pretty good. Loved the interaction of the team, that they're not perfect, and that the characters in the book have different and distinguishable personalities. I'm looking forward to more - because it's good, and because the ending didn't seem like a real ending - the current arc seems unfinished.

Plus the occasional comedy is nice.

The separation of the two plots was weird at first but is nice - the team's plot and the detective's plot, since people can read one without spoiling the other, or read one without reading the other.

Even though the art is a bit rough, and even though there were several panels that were a bit confusing - just a bit, the art is pretty good - the layouts are nice, emotions on people's faces, how even in a crowd of people everyone is distinguishable and easy to spot, so it doesn't turn into a mess, the dynamic and fitting lettering, the double cover (back and front) is a very nice idea.

It seems like in every issue there's something that keeps you interested - some twist or surprise, which is very nice, the shading using lines seems very fitting to the book and adds something to the art, and I love that there seems to always be something in the background - which adds realism to it (even though I didn't like the use of photos as a background in a part of the first issue - I think).

Loved the dialog - you have a great product. Please keep it up. Looking forward to it.

Kickstarter Pitch Video - VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Graphic Novel

2010-01-07T11:22:00.002-05:00

My pitch video for our VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Graphic Novel project on Kickstarter:
LINK

Writer Derek Gunn on the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Graphic Novel

2010-01-06T19:46:00.001-05:00

Writer CJ Hurtt on the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Graphic Novel

2010-01-05T09:16:00.000-05:00

Letterer Dan Streeting on the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Graphic Novel

2010-01-05T09:05:00.001-05:00

Become a graphic novel character!!!

2009-12-29T15:38:00.000-05:00

After a lack of anything happening with the IndieGoGo project, I quickly shifted my focus to getting an invite to use Kickstarter, which has a much larger reach than IndieGoGo could have given us. After weeks of begging, searching, and pleading, I finally came across the great Rick Marson who supplied an invite. I will post a link to his project once he gets it started.

Now I would like to invite you, my friends, your friends, my family, and your family to support VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE on Kickstarter as we gather funds to help make this book better than I ever could have done on my own:

There is a great list of rewards available to those that support us:

Pledge $5 or more
(A) Behind the scenes updates, including pages as they are finished.
(B) PDF version of VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE upon completion

Pledge $25 or more
(A) Copy of the preview mini-comic upon completion (target April 2010)
(B) Hard copy of the graphic novel at project completion (target late-2010/early 2011)
(C) Kickstarter Backer-exclusive print

Pledge $100 or more
(A) 3 copies each of the preview mini-comic, graphic novel, and exclusive print
(B) Name in special "Thank You" section of credits
(C) Invitation to book release party

Pledge $500 or more
(A) 5 copies each of the preview mini-comic, graphic novel, and exclusive print
(B) Name in special "Thank You" section of credits
(C) Invitation to book release party
(D) Half-page of space in the graphic novel for an advertisement of your business, service, whatever!

Pledge $750 or more
(A) 10 copies each of the preview mini-comic, graphic novel, and exclusive print
(B) Name in special "Thank You" section of credits
(C) Invitation to book release party
(D) Have your name and likeness incorporated into the graphic novel as an original character!

And while you are at it, look through the other projects listed at the Kickstarter site. There is a lot of cool opportunities for supporting independent projects and getting some interesting rewards in the process.

Thank you,
Eric Mullarky
New Baby Productions
www.NewBabyProductions.com

Sale on ELEMENTAL FOURCES

2009-11-26T07:27:00.006-05:00

I know that all we've been talking about lately is the upcoming VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE graphic novel, but it's important not to forget about our ELEMENTAL FOURCES series. Starting today and going through the end of the year, I will be offering issues of the series for 50% off on our web site!!! A perfect holiday gift for that comic book lover in your life.

And if you are more interested in ebook versions, DriveThruComics will have them for sale as well. Issues will be available for only 50¢ each!

Product	Price	Discount Link
Elemental Fources #1	$0.50	http://comics.drivethrustuff.com/index.php?discount=92550
Elemental Fources #2	$0.50	http://comics.drivethrustuff.com/index.php?discount=68051
Elemental Fources #3	$0.50	http://comics.drivethrustuff.com/index.php?discount=93155
Elemental Fources #4	$0.50	http://comics.drivethrustuff.com/index.php?discount=12126
Elemental Fources #5	$0.50	http://comics.drivethrustuff.com/index.php?discount=34380
Elemental Fources #6	$0.50	http://comics.drivethrustuff.com/index.php?discount=96419

With big plans ahead for the ELEMENTAL FOURCES series in 2010, this is a great chance to catch up on the cheap. For whatever reason, you must use the above links to receive the full discount.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
http://www.newbabyproductions.com/

Welcome Dan Streeting to the VA Team

2009-11-21T01:00:00.000-05:00

I would like to announce that Dan Streeting has joined the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE creative team. Dan will be using his unique style to letter the graphic novel and provide assistance with other elements of the book design. He is a local guy here in Michigan, so I am very excited by the collaborative efforts he can provide.

Take a look at his website for samples of his previous work:

It's very exciting how this project is coming together!

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
http://www.newbabyproductions.com/

Zazzle Sale

2009-11-20T09:41:00.000-05:00

Order the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE T-shirt!

One in 10 adult book buyers read comic books, Simba study finds

2009-11-16T23:16:00.002-05:00

Interesting information from the most recent issue of the Southern Review of Books (http://www.anvilpub.net/southern_review_of_books.htm):

33. One in 10 adult book buyers read comic books, Simba study finds

Simba Information, which this year published "Overview of the U.S. Comic Book and Graphic Novel Market," continued the analysis in its monthly periodical, Book Publishing Report, which reveals that one in 10 adult book buyers read comics and 70 percent of those adults who have read comics in the previous 12 months also bought at least one book.

Nearly overlooked for decades, the burgeoning market for graphic novels and comic books has led retailers to pause and address the industry in new light. But while the oft-misunderstood niche has made strides, media industry forecast and analysis firm Simba Information's report, "Overview of the U.S. Comic Book and Graphic Novel Market," informs publishers and retailers alike that properly utilizing the segment requires finesse.

"Graphic novels are unlike any other segment of publishing, but are often mislabeled as just another category within children's book(s), so they miss the chance to really shine," said Warren Pawlowski, analyst for Simba Information's Trade Books Groups.

Showing marked increases in their presence on bestseller lists, graphic novels have almost become their own industry at a time when growth in traditional publishing has slowed. The basis for numerous films, television shows, and other forms of media, graphic novels have grown in both sales and influence. "More works of art to bridge the fine line between the literary and visual mediums, graphic novels appeal to the largest audience possible and have untold potential because of it," said Pawlowski.

"Overview of the U.S. Comic Book and Graphic Novel Market" details the many nuances of this industry, providing publishers and retailers who wish to expand, showcase, or begin to look at graphic novels a definitive source for doing so. "Attention has been drawn to the high-concept releases of the last year, both in film and literature, but viewers and readers should be reminded that everything explored in them was likely seen in graphic novels and comic books decades ago," Pawlowski said. "The niche that graphic novels have been forced into has exploded, and what could never be found elsewhere is being seen there in droves."

In addition to providing an overview for this segment of publishing, the report provides a detailed analysis of the three major brands bundled within the graphic novels category: graphic novels, manga and comic books. The report also features a thorough overview of the leading books and publishers, including price analyses as well as profiles for the major players detailing publishing strategies for the past and future and current production figures.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
http://www.newbabyproductions.com/

Call for Boycott of Comics Buyer's Guide Magazine

2009-11-13T09:50:00.004-05:00

Nominees have just been announced for the Cover Us! The Great CBG Cover Contest. And strangely, Federico's cover has been left out. There are some good pieces. However, I don't want to sound like a sore loser, but Federico's piece was far better than a couple of the nominees chosen. Judge for yourself:

Cover Us!: Vote for your favorite potential CBG cover here!
	We've been accepting entries for *"Cover Us! The Great CBG* Cover Contest" for the past few months and have now sorted through all the entries to arrive at a ballot of five nominees. One of these five covers, which you can pick here, will be used as the cover of an issue of Comics Buyer's Guide** in 2010 and the winner will also receive $100.

Nominee #1:

Nominee #2:

Nominee #3:

Nominee #4:

Nominee #5:

Federico's Cover:

I have a feeling that some sort of politics are coming into play here...

Sponsorship Opportunities Available for VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Preview Comic

2009-11-12T13:39:00.000-05:00

As we near completion of the Prologue Chapter of the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE graphic novel, it becomes time to think about our planned mini-comic preview. I would like to get this promotional comic into the hands of as many people as possible... maybe via Diamond's Free Comic Book Day? To help offset some of the costs, I am offering sponsorship opportunities for other companies or individuals to help promote their place of business, services, or products while helping us to promote the VA graphic novel.

This opportunity could be perfect for a comic store or news/review site looking to build their online presence, another publishing company looking to promote their comics, or a comic book convention looking for a new way to reach the masses. I am open to any and all suggestions and will be open to negotiations regarding pricing.

Please contact me at eric@elememtalfources.com if you are interested.

Eric Mullarky
New Baby Productions
www.NewBabyProductions.com

VA Poster Available

2009-11-06T16:24:00.006-05:00

Order the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Graphic Novel cover image poster now.
Great art by Federico Combi!

All prints and posters are 40% off at Zazzle.

Letterer Needed for VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE

2009-11-02T11:37:00.002-05:00

As we get closer to completion of the art for the Prologue chapter of the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE graphic novel, I thought that I would begin my search for a letterer.

Find more information about this project at:
LINK

This will be a 120-140 page graphic novel that will be produced over the course of the next year. Because of the subject matter and the painted-style art that will be used, I am looking for a letterer that can think outside the box and will provide a unique approach to adding the words, balloons, captions, etc. to the pages. Other graphic design duties will include setting up cover pages in such a way as to make readers grab the book off the shelf.

Please send samples of your previous work and your remuneration requirements to eric@elementalfources.com.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.NewBabyProductions.com

VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE Cover!

2009-10-30T10:53:00.003-04:00

I just received the cover image from Federico for the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE graphic novel:
I love it! What do you think?

We were going to enter this in the Comics Buyer's Guide contest, but their rules may not allow us to participate.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.NewBabyProductions.com

NERO Revealed!!!

2009-10-10T22:40:00.002-04:00

Concept Art by Federico Combi

Derek Gunn's FALLOUT (Vampire Apocalypse Book 3)

2009-10-07T08:07:00.001-04:00

From Derek Gunn's blog:
What's New?: I've got FALLOUT in my hands!

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.NewBabyProductions.com

VA Page 1 Art

2009-10-06T11:12:00.004-04:00

I just received the first page of art from Federico for the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE graphic novel and had to share. I am super excited by how this project is turning out.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
http://www.newbabyproductions.com/

Vampire Apocalypse T-shirts!

2009-10-05T22:37:00.002-04:00

make custom gifts at Zazzle

ComicMonsters.com Vampire Apocalypse Interview

2009-09-17T16:34:00.002-04:00

I just did an interview with "Decapitated" Dan Royer over at ComicMonsters.com regarding the VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE graphic novel project.

LINK

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.NewBabyProductions.com

‘VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE’ SERIES OPTIONED FOR GRAPHIC NOVEL

2009-09-13T22:56:00.005-04:00

Press Release
For Immediate Release
‘VAMPIRE APOCALYPSE’ SERIES OPTIONED FOR GRAPHIC NOVEL
New Baby Productions Enters the Horror Genre with Adaptation of Derek Gunn’s Hit Novels

     Bloomfield Township, MI, September 14, 2009: Publisher New Baby Productions announces that a graphic novel adaptation of Derek Gunn’s acclaimed Vampire Apocalypse novel series is in the works. “I'm really thrilled with this new direction as I always felt that (Vampire Apocalypse) really lends itself to this format,” stated Gunn. Vampire Apocalypse was published in September 2006, and has been optioned by producer/screenwriter Richard Finney to be a feature film. A script has already been penned by Finney and Franklin Guerrero Jr. Fallout, the third book in the series, will be released this October from Black Death Books.
     According to Gunn, “The stories are set in the near future in a world grown insular after a brief war has left the world depleted of resources. Fuel is rationed, states close their borders, communities die, and technology stagnates. As the world struggles to cope with these problems, the vampires come from the shadows and quietly begin to take over community-after-community. They offer power to those who will join them, and death to those who don’t. It doesn’t take long and, after a brutal but brief war, they take control. They use a serum and Thralls to control the population, wall the cities off, and breed humans as stock. The Thralls are humans who have been bitten but have not fully become vampires. They have enhanced speed and strength and guard the vampires during the day when they could be vulnerable.”
     “In recent pop culture, vampires have been turned into beings that should be loved. Derek Gunn returns vampires to the blood-thirsty dangerous monsters that they should be,” stated New Baby Publisher Eric Mullarky. “This is the perfect story to launch New Baby into the horror genre.”
     This new adaptation will be scripted by CJ Hurtt, an eclectic writer whose work has run the gamut from mainstream to horror to slipstream to political drama. His horror prose has been published in Lighthouse Magazine and Horrorfind.com; and his comic work has been showcased in the political drama One Last Song published by Brainscan Studios. He is the current Fiction Editor of Dark Recesses Magazine.
     Assisting on the writing duties will be Gunn, an Irish author whose work has been widely praised on both sides of the Atlantic. His latest novel, The Estuary, was released in June 2009, and has been receiving some great reviews, including commendations from Fangoria, Flamesrising.com, and Horrornews.net. Gunn is a member of the International Thriller Writers Association and the Horror Writers Association.
     Argentinean artist Federico Combi will be providing the art for the graphic novel. Combi fancies himself a “Fine Arts Technician;” an illustrator and artist specialized in multiple concepts and artistic esthetics: fantasy art, pin ups, stories, children’s albums, youth novels, adult novels, paleo art, comics, and storyboards. He has worked for producers on several continents. Mullarky said that “Frederico’s realistic painted style will bring a unique visualization to this project that you will not want to miss.”
     Vampire Apocalypse: the Graphic Novel is scheduled for an early 2011 release. A mini-comic preview edition will be available at various conventions during 2010 to start the pre-release marketing. Project updates will be posted on the New Baby Productions web site.
     New Baby Productions is an independent comic book publisher formed in 2008 by Eric Mullarky with the intent to self-publish his Elemental Fources series. The follow-up series, Elemental Fources: Brothers in Arms, will be released in 2010.

Want to Be a CBG Cover Artist?

2009-08-11T15:24:00.004-04:00

I received the following in an email today and thought some readers might find it interesting.

If you are unable to see the message below, click here to view.

Presents

New Artists! Longtime artists! Check this out!

• Display your drawing and design skills by entering your original super-hero creation in the great CBG Cover Us! contest.

• One Grand-Prize winner will see his or her original art on a 2010 cover of Comics Buyer's Guide — the world's longest-running magazine about comics. That winner will also receive $100.

• Experts will narrow entries to the Top 5.

• CBG readers will choose the winner.

• Entry fee is $20. More information, rules, and the cover template appear at the contest website: http://www.cbgxtra.com/.

• Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to see your original super-hero grace the cover of Comics Buyer's Guide!

Deadline to Enter: November 1, 2009

Various, including Chicago Comic-Com...

2009-08-02T05:09:00.003-04:00

It's been too long since I've last posted. I apologize. Things have been pretty busy around here. First off, we're moving. Not far, about 15 minutes away. But moves are always hectic. It will really be nice to have a yard again, and that will be super nice for the little one.

Less than a week to Wizard's Chicago Comic-Con! I am super excited for this show. I attended Wizard World Chicago a couple of years ago as a fan, and I was amazed by its awesomeness. And now I am exhibiting! Catch me at Booth #4434 and pick up the con exclusives for issues #4-6.

Art on the ELEMENTAL FOURCES: BROTHERS IN ARMS three-issue series is coming along very nicely. I think it may even look better than our first series! Here is a preview:

I have also started looking into a new graphic novel project for New Baby Productions. It looks very promising and will really set the tone for where I would like this company to head into the future. That's about all the info I can give until the contracts are signed.

See you in Chicago!

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.ElementalFources.com

What would be an interesting post title???

2009-06-27T13:34:00.002-04:00

Wizard World Philly was last weekend. If that is the last Philly show, as some are speculating, I am glad that I was a part of it. This was by far the most successful convention I have exhibited at. The WW Philly exclusives were a hit. I still have some copies left and have made them available through our web site store. On top of all that, I met some other great creators and tons of cool fans. It is greatly appreciated that so many people came over and checked out the book and talked for a while. I am really looking forward to Wizard's Chicago Comic Con in August to see more of you.

I have a smaller, local show in a few weeks: Mid Summers Expo in Detroit. I am not sure what to expect, but it will be nice to see some of the Michigan folk supporting their local creators.

Other than that, there isn't much to report on. New Baby Productions is sort of at a crossroads in determining what to do next. A follow-up to Elemental Fources is planned as well as a trade version of the original series. But I would really like to bring in some partners before too much money is spent and my wife breaks my neck. I'm also looking at licensing as a way to grow the company, which is creating all kinds of idea$ in my head.

Until next time, take it easy.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.ElementalFources.com

Philly in One Week

2009-06-12T12:08:00.002-04:00

I apologize for the lack of updates. I haven't had a lot of time to post updates.

Last week, my wife and I headed to Las Vegas for the Licensing International Expo. In an attempt to reach more potential readers, I thought it would be a good idea to see if we could acquire any licenses for some well-known proerties from movies, television, video games, and books that would make good comic book series for New Baby Productions.

The Expo was a little overwhelming and was certainly bigger than I had expected. There was quite a lot gearded towards children's properties. It's too bad I do not want to make comics for kids. I would have a lot of options. No licensing deals were made, but I did come away with a few ideas that I have been pursuing.

The big news is that Wizard World Philly is one week away! I have never been to this particular show. I did go to the Chicago show a couple of years ago, so I am excited to be exhibiting at a Wizard event. I can't wait to meet some more creators and fans. I would really like to start collaborating with some of the other indie publishers out there to gain some reputation for New Baby Productions.

If you are at the show, stop by booth #124 and say hi. If you say that you read this blog, maybe I'll give you a free comic.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.ElementalFources.com

Wizard World Philly up next!

2009-05-21T23:16:00.002-04:00

Our next convention will be Wizard World Philly, taking place June 19-21 at the Philadelphia Convention Center. Find us at Booth 124.

Wizard World posted a nice article about the exclusives I will have for sale. Check it out here: LINK

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.ElementalFources.com

Motor City Comic Con Report

2009-05-20T22:58:00.005-04:00

This past weekend was the Motor City Comic Con, of which I had a publishers booth at. I had a good time. It was nice to start seeing familiar faces... creators I've met at other cons and fans who purchased Elemental Fources books in the past and stopped by to pick up the rest of the series. The MCCC variants on issues #4, 5, & 6 didn't go over as well as I expected, so I am offering the few remaining copies for sale through the web site bookstore.

Kurt Anthony Krug stopped by to introduce himself. Kurt interviewed me for the Oakland Press article last year, but this was the first time we had met face-to-face. We had a nice chat about Tom DeFalco, whom he had just interviewed for Mania.com: LINK Kurt is going to be providing a back-up story for our follow-up series to EF.

Speaking of Tom DeFalco, the highlight of the con was being able to shake the hand of the man who got me into comics. A very nice man, Mr. DeFalco signed my copies of Fantastic Four #360 and Amazing Spider-Girl #30 and provided some encouraging words for our comic book publishing venture. It was a real pleasure to give him complimentary copies of Elemental Fources.

The New Baby Productions booth was adjacent to Randy Zimmerman's Flint Comix booth. Mr. Zimmerman is a guy I can learn a lot from. He has been in the comic book industry for many years and had a lot of interesting stories to tell me about Diamond from his days as Editor-in-Chief of Arrow Comics. His latest venture, Flint Comix & Entertainment is taking off. A free publication that is distrubted locally in Flint, it carries a unique blend of comic strips, cartoons, and comic book style stories from local, as well as national artists. It is paid for entirely by the advertisers. Great concept... I see this sort of thing moving into other markets very soon.

Mr. Zimmerman was kind enough to give me copies of his Spank the Monkey: On the Comic Market series. Although almost 10 years old, this three-issue series is still relevant today. Mr. Zimmerman uses his Spank the Monkey character to provide some history on comics book, explain what is wrong with the industry, and offer some suggestions on fixes. No punches are pulled as he rips on Diamond, publishers big and small, creators, and even fans. Anyone in the industry or a fan of the industry SHOULD read these books. Order them directly from the Arrow Comics web site.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
www.ElementalFources.com

New Baby Productions Forums

2009-05-11T22:43:00.002-04:00

I want to invite you to join and participate in the new forums I have set-up on the web site: http://elementalfources.com/forums/. I have set this up for us to discuss our work on Elemental Fources and any other projects you may have going on (Thanks for the idea Brian!). Invite your friends, recommend changes or new topics, and have fun!

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

New Baby Productions

http://www.elementalfources.com/

Tom DeFalco and me on the same list!?!

2009-04-07T21:26:00.009-04:00

Last week I picked up the mini-flyer for the Motor City Comic Con at the local comic shop. When I actually looked at it when I got home, I was surprised to see:
My name is on the same guest list as some comic book favorites of mine: Ron Frenz, Guy Davis, and Tom DeFalco! What a weird feeling. Ron Frenz has been the artist on Marvel's Spider-Girl, a title I have followed closely, and Guy Davis has worked on Dark Horse's B.P.R.D., a series I love.

But Tom DeFalco is King. He is the reason I started reading comics and a reason why I continue to do so. 17 years ago, I picked up this book off the comics rack at the local gas station:

FANTASTIC FOUR #360. The Human Torch and The Thing battle the alien Dreadface in a story about jealousy, friendship, trust, and action. Written by Tom DeFalco.

I was hooked. I immediately started picking up each new issue of FF and eventually went back and purchased as many back issues as I could possibly afford. The FF stories that Mr. DeFalco crafted have been widely criticized, but to me are some of the greatest storylines with the Richards clan... Lyja the Skrull, Franklin from the future, Invisible Woman as leader, Ant-Man joins the team. Really great stuff.

When I got back into comic books a few years ago, I came across Spider-Girl, Mr. DeFalco's flagship title in the MC2 universe. Again, I was hooked. He brought in many aspects of the FF, Spider-Man, and Avengers stories that he wrote during the 90's.

I can't wait to shake the man's hand and thank him.

And speaking of Motor City, I just want to remind everyone that I will have exclusive inverse-color cover versions of Elemental Fources #4-6 for sale. Each version is limited to 75 copies each.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

Social Networking, DriveThruComics, & S.P.A.C.E.

2009-04-05T11:01:00.003-04:00

In an attempt to stay connect with current readers, potential readers, creators and other industry professionals, I have added some Google social networking applets to the site. It will be very interesting to see who uses them.

New Baby Productions has partnered with DriveThruComics.com to offer digital versions of our comics for the pdf-inclined. I am very excited by all the features and options that their web site has, so I may sign an exclusive deal with them down the road. Wowio just hasn't been bringing in much revenue, and the company changes that they had several months ago still leave me uncertain about what could happen. Eagle One Media is also selling pdf versions of EF, but I just received an email from them this week stating that they haven't had one sale of our books.

Finally, S.P.A.C.E. is two weeks away! I am excited for this show for a few reasons:

This show is all small publishers like New Baby Productions. No competion from the big guys and attendees are there specifically to look at small press.
This is the first show where we will be displaying all six issues of the Elemental Fources mini-series. That should help sales, in theory. In addition, I will have new postcards for this con season and a couple of very nice prints for sale.
I will meet more small press publishers and creators like myself, including several of the guys that I stay in contact on the Small Press Palaver email group.

It should be a fun time.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

Comic Related Feature

2009-03-23T20:40:00.002-04:00

Elemental Fources has just been featured over at Comic Related:
http://www.comicrelated.com/display.php?item=996

Thanks to Chuck Moore!

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

They're here....

2009-03-21T08:09:00.002-04:00

Issues #4-6 of Elemental Fources arrived from the printer yesterday (the picture above shows only a very small sample of all the boxes that showed up on my doorstep), culminating a project that has been over a year in the making. I have learned a lot and have enjoyed the whole process. I really hope that I can continue to create comics well into the future.

The complete mini-series is available from our web site bookstore.

Other Elemental Fources items have been showing up in recent weeks as well. I ordered a retractable banner to create attention at the various cons I'll be showing at this year:

I have also acquired a boat load of promotional postcards that look 100% better than the ones used last year. And I have also had prints made of the pieces done by Lauren St. Onge. These look awesome and will be for sale at the cons.

I will try to be a little better about providing regular updates, especially as con season nears.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

Issue #4, 5, & 6 (and Con Exclusives)

2009-02-28T23:34:00.002-05:00

I just sent issues 4, 5, and 6, of Elemental Fources to the printer. See the cover images below, and watch for issues to be added to the EF Bookstore very soon.

I was also able to work out the ability to create variant covers, so I will be offering exclusive versions for each of the large cons that I will be attending this year. I'll post those cover images as we get closer to each con. Rest assured, they look very cool.

Speaking of big cons, I have added Wizard World Philly to our list. So New Baby Productions will be exhibiting at both Wizard World conventions this year. And for those that don't know, Wizard's Chicago show has been renamed the Chicago Comic-Con.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

Various News

2009-02-16T07:05:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to provide some updates on some things going on with Elemental Fources.

Our letterer, Jaymes Reed, recently interviewed me for ComicNews.info. Check out the great interview at http://comicnews.info/?p=4027.

Chris Herbert sent me a preview of the May 2009 Enemi Entertainment Independent Publishers Catalog. Wilhelm, Normandy, Aden, and Finola appear right alongside various other chracters from comics distributed by Enemi, including Chris' Lazerman (HBComics), Witch Hunter (Monarch Comics), Vengeance (Enemi), and more! I really can't wait to see this in print.

Finally, I have found a printer for issues #4-6 of EF and will be sending everything to them in the next couple of days. So those issues will be available very soon! They are doing the covers via digital printing, which will allow for variant covers. I have already planned some exclusive "inverse" covers to be made available at some of the bigger cons we will be attending this year. I woll keep you posted.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

Free Copies of EF for Retailers

2009-02-06T08:56:00.002-05:00

From my post at the Comic Book Industry Alliance forums:

As part of our ongoing marketing efforts to get Elemental Fources in front of retailers and comic book readers, I am offering up the first three issues of the series for free. The first 50 comic book retailers that email me their store information will receive complimentary copies. With the recent Diamond announcement concerning publisher minimums, it is a great time to jump on the small press bandwagon!

Elemental Fources is distributed by Haven Distributers and can be ordered from the Enemi Entertainment Independent Publishers Catalog. The series was recently reviewed in Comics Buyer's Guide (#1651). National advertising and multiple convention appearances are in the plan for 2009, so this is the perfect time to see what the series is all about.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher
New Baby Productions
eric@elementalfources.com

www.ElementalFources.com

Elemental Fources Review in CBG #1651

2009-01-20T19:45:00.004-05:00

I have been rushing home each day during the last week to check the mail. When was the new issue of Comics Buyer's Guide going to arrive??? Finally, today, it was there! The review by Kurt Anthony Krug that I have been anticipating for many months has seen print. Getting Elemental Fources reviewed in a national publication is an excellent promotional tool, and I am very anxious to get some results. Check out page 53 of CBG #1651 (on sale 1/21/09) for the excellent review.

Mr. Krug is a local writer who also crafted the great article about New Baby Productions that appeared in the Oakland Press newspaper back in September. Click here to read that article.

I highly encourage everyone to point out the CBG review to your local comic shop and ask them to order copies.

Retailers, I would like to remind you that Elemental Fources is available from Haven Distributors and can be found in the Enemi Entertainment Independent Publishers Catalog. And if you are not comfortable ordering from them (why?!?), contact me to discuss bulk pricing, promotional material, store appearances, etc.

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

Web Site Tweaks

2009-01-15T10:30:00.003-05:00

I played around with the web site a little last night, updating, combining, and adding content while removing some items that were acting too much like a placeholder.

Who's Who pages have been added that showcase our creators and the characters of Elemental Fources for potential readers. I am hoping to expand this information in the future.

In addition, I've created a page linked off of the Bookstore page that lists retailers carrying Elemental Fources. The list is small at the moment, but should start growing. Retailers, contact me to get your store listed.

Also added were two new cons that New Baby Productions will be attending this year: S.P.A.C.E. in Columbus in April and Wizard World Chicago in August. I am really looking forward to both shows. S.P.A.C.E. is a show that everyone has nice things to say about. As a fan, I attended Wizard World Chicago two years ago and had a blast. We are looking to add at least a couple more cons to our calendar for the year. I really wish I would have thought about NYCC sooner.

The Comics Buyer's Guide review should show up any day now!

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

Enemi May 2009 Catalog Cover

2009-01-08T20:04:00.003-05:00

I just found out yesterday that some Elemental Fources characters will appear on the May 2009 edition of the Enemi Entertainment Independent Publishers Distribution Catalog. The cover will be drawn by Chris Herbert, who creates the comic book series Lazerman with his brother Alan through their company, HBComics. I have had some correspondense with Chris, and he is a great guy who works very hard at promoting Lazerman. Him and Alan are a great asset to the indie publishing scene, and I look forward to possibly working with them in the future.

Be sure to check out their comic. It sounds like a lot of fun and I plan on getting copies ASAP. In Chris' own words:

The series is about a comic book geek, who in a bizarre twist of fate, actually ends up getting superpowers himself. Naturally he does what ANY comic geek would do…he decides to become a superhero just like in his comics. Unfortunately for him, in real world things don’t quite work like they do in the comics.

I have posted some cover images below.

HBComics.com

Comics Buyer's Guide #1651

2009-01-02T09:11:00.002-05:00

See Brent Frankenhoff's post at http://www.cbgxtra.com/default.aspx?tabid=42&view=topic&forumid=33&postid=48863:

Brent Frankenhoff Posts: 3297	Posted: 1/2/2009 5:38:03 AM
	Just to quickly add to the post from Eric Mullarkey (aka buxfan) above, you'll find a review of *Elemental Fources* in CBG #1651 on sale in early January.

Although he spelled my name wrong, I am super excited. Being reviewed in a national magazine like Comics Buyer's Guide should really help sales.

Eagle One Media & Mid Summers Expo

2008-12-31T09:29:00.007-05:00

Two important notes for today:

New Baby Productions has partnered with Eagle One Media to offer digital downloads of the Elemental Fources comics. Check out their Comic Book Digital Download Store for books from several publishers, including IDW, Alterna, Moonstone, Chimaera, Rorschach, Antarctic, and many others:

This is very similar to what is already being done with Wowio, but I like the idea of getting in at the beginning of a project. It will be interesting to see how the results vary between the two services.

I just signed up for a table at the Mid Summers Expo (comic, toy and pop culture convention) in Detroit, taking place on July 11, so long from now. I had a lot of fun at the XcapeCON 2 in Flint last month, and a lot of the same people will be participating. It should be a good time. I will provide more details as the event comes closer.
In addition to Mid Summers, I am planning to set-up at Motor City Comic Con in May. Other than that, nothing else is planned for 2009 at this time. I want to try to hit more cons this year to promote Elemental Fources. Possibilities include: SPACE (Columbus, OH, April); Wizard World Chicago (Chicago, IL, August), Fan Expo Canada (Toronto, ON, August), Pop Culture Con (Cincinnati, OH, September), and Mid-Ohio-Con (Columbus, OH, October). Any other cons I should seriously consider as a small indie publisher? Maybe something closer to the beginning of the year?

Eric Mullarky, Publisher

New Years Resolution

2008-12-27T08:42:00.008-05:00

My 2009 New Year's Resolution for New Baby Productions is to keep a better schedule of providing updates on our comics, creators, and other projects. And what better way to do that than with a blog integrated into our web site. Others are doing it with success and the Blogger software allows for readers to easily participate with their own comments and links.

2009 will be an exciting year for the company, as Elemental Fources hits comic book stores through our distribution agreement with Haven Distributors/Enemi Entertainment. Haven has partnered with Enemi to bring a full service distribution solution to the indie market. They offer a catalog tailored exclusively to small publishers, bringing quality books to 2,300 indie-friendly stores across North America.

As of this moment, artwork for Elemental Fources #6 is almost complete. With issues #1 through #3 already available, subsequent issues will be sent to the printer when orders for the first three come in. One of the limitations with being a small press is that we can not get too far ahead of ourselves. Printing is expensive and money must be saved for advertising to allow us to compete with the other books out there. Updates will be provided as books become available. We will also be seeking out opportunities for new series and trade editions.

Speaking of advertising, be sure to check out Comics Buyer's Guide #1650 for our ad. Advertisements will also appear in future issues of Comics Buyer's Guide and various Twomorrows publications. Be sure to let us know what you think of our marketing attempts.

Additionaly, creators that are participating with New Baby Productions will also be working on some big projects with other comic companies. Penciller J.C. Grande has a new series coming out from Image. And letterer Jaymes Reed will be working with Bluewater.

So keep checking back as we move forward in 2009 and beyond!

Eric Mullarky, Publisher