Singapore Comic Con 2025 (SGCC) - Booth Highlight - A Gamut Of Kawaii Merchandise By Fuzzballs (L1-AA170)

Popular merchandise brand Fuzzballs has grown by leaps and bounds since it's humble beginnings on Tumblr in 2013. Its creator Marc Sach has managed to keep his ever-growing fans interested and invested with his cute, rotund fuzzball creatures by expanding the brand's reach through various licensing deals. Now, you can see Fuzzballs' designs on a gamut of merchandise like t-shirts, plushies, pins, stationery, games and even a colouring book.

Fuzzballs is bringing its trademark kawaii factor at this year's local pop-culture party, the Singapore Comic Con (SGCC). The event will be held at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre on 6 and 7 December 2025.

To ensure that geeks attending SGCC do not miss the Fuzzballs colourful booth, Red Dot Diva had a short chat with Marc about his brand, and his adorable little creatures:

Red Dot Diva: How did Fuzzballs get started?
Marc: I started Fuzzballs as a silly webcomic back in 2013, which exploded online with requests for our cute characters on merch. We started selling at comic cons in the uk in 2015 and from there have continued to grow thanks to our social media sticker success with over 2 Billion sent to date! We’re now in loads of retailers across the globe and bringing out unique brand of pop culture cuteness to Singapore. The fuzzballs are all about making friends, going on new adventures and eating yummy snacks.

Red Dot Diva: For those not familiar with Fuzzballs, how would you describe your aesthetics and style of the brand?
Marc: We’re a kawaii pop culture brand that’s a mix of east meets west. The fuzzballs love anime, video games and of course yummy food and we riff on that in everything we do. We’re very relatable and fans always have a favourite character who reminds them of themselves.

Red Dot Diva: Where do you find your inspiration to keep on producing new creations?
Marc: A lot of our inspiration comes from our fans, they constantly tell us what they want to see next or cool ideas. But mostly it really comes from our own love of pop culture and having fun with it.

Red Dot Diva: Do you have a favourite part of your creation process? And Why is that so?
Marc: I love meeting the fans, whether it’s the first time and seeing their eyes light up as they laugh at my stupid drawings or the 100th time as they tell me what they love about their favourite character and how it always makes them smile. I also just love to draw what makes me happy and what I think others will enjoy.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fuzzballs (@fuzzballs)

Red Dot Diva: You have a Fuzzballs colouring book published with Waterstones. How was the process to get published like? Any tips?
Marc: Our publisher, Quarto approached us. They’d seen how successful we’ve been, other products we have in retailers and just how much the fans love what we do and knew a colouring book would be a perfect fit for our range of characters and adventures.

Designing the book was very tough as there’s over 96 pages of original artwork and I wanted to make sure we had easy designs so people could relax but also complex ones so people could focus. My tip would be to just make it yourself first, we did that originally with sample books for fans and that gave us a good understanding of how to make a book when our publisher approached us.

Red Dot Diva: Is this the first time you will be boothing in Singapore? Do you has a bucket list on what you want to do when you are here?
Marc: This is our 3rd time in Singapore and our 2nd at SGCC. We can’t wait to be back to see new and old fans alike with an even better booth and even more products! You’ll be seeing us in Singapore a lot more in the future too. As for bucket list, just trying out more yummy food, enjoying the beautiful weather and meeting the kind and amazing people. I do love bike rides around the Marina Barrage too!

Red Dot Diva: What can people expect to see and buy at your booth at this year’s SGCC?
Marc: We will have a catalogue on our socials, but deep breath, we will have t-shirts, coasters, lots of stickers, plush toys, our colour book, our card game Fuzzballs Pizza Thief, loads of enamel pins, mystery bags which are perfect for first time fans wanting a lot of cute things, tote bags to carry it all home in, badges, note pads, our brand new desk pads, and loads more things. So make sure you come by and check out our cuteness overload!!




SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2025
Where: Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre
Date: 6 & 7 December 2025 (Sat and Sun) with special Preview Night on 5 December 2025 (Fri)
Time: 10 AM to 8 PM on 6 & 7 December 2025
Admission: Refer to details at SISTIC - https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/sgcomic1224


----------------------------

RELATED SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2025 ARTICLES

Singapore Comic Con 2025 Ramps Up With Comic Book Guests Including Joe Rubinstein, Adi Granov, Sean Phillips, Rian Gonzales and more!

Singapore Comic Con 2025 (SGCC) - Booth Highlight - Irresistably Adorable Figurines By Moon Rabbit Sculpts (L1-AA113)

Singapore Comic Con 2025 (SGCC) - Interview with Comic Book Artist Riccardo Federici (Guest Hosted By Fat Snake Comics)

----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!

Singapore Comic Con 2025 (SGCC) - Interview with Comic Book Artist Riccardo Federici (Guest Hosted By Fat Snake Comics)

You might not know this, but besides getting an art, Italian artist Riccardo Federici was a student at the Architecture faculty in “The Sapienza” University of Roma. At the same time while he was there, he also studied about physiology. The blend of these knowledge bases are evident in Riccardo's drawings of characters, featuring extremely detailed and realistic anatomy.

Since 2005, Riccardo has worked on comics with major publishers including DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Dynamite Entertainment, Dark Horse, Blizzard Entertainment and others. One of the acclaimed comic book series Riccardo is known for is "Saria", a gothic fantasy tale in collaboration with writer Jean Dufaux and artist Paolo Eleuteri Serpieri. 

Riccardo also creates original artworks for private collectors and conducts workshops on concept design, painting and illustration in Europe. He is the first comic book artist to have his works exhibited at the Roma Biennale, alongside leading contemporary painters and photographers.

This will be the first time Riccardo Federici is featured as a guest at Singapore Comic Con, so Red Dot Diva was eager to have a little chat with him before he arrives for the event.

Red Dot Diva: While learning more about you on the internet, I found out that you started out in Architecture, and then grew an interest in painting, oils, sculpting, was this a normal progression of your art to illustrations and comics?
Riccardo: I've always had a passion for figurative art in general. Since I was a child, I've always drawn, painted, and designed everything. The important thing for me has always been to do something that felt natural. Therefore, I can say that there has been no transition or change. Architecture may have enriched me in terms of functionality and rationality, but it isn't something that, at least in my case, goes in a different direction than other figurative arts.

Red Dot Diva: You are also the first comic book artist to be showcased at the Roma Biennele. Tell us about what you displayed and what did you work on /collaborate for the event?
Riccardo: I participated in the Rome Biennale with an illustration I created as the cover of a French comic I worked on several years ago: Saria. To participate in the exhibition, I had to pass two selection phases, and when I was chosen among the participants, it was a tremendous honor for me. Comics and illustration, unfortunately, are often considered something that doesn't fall within the realm of art, and it was truly exciting to receive such a prestigious recognition.

Red Dot Diva: Which comic book project did you enjoy drawing the most, and why?
Riccardo: This is a difficult question, as I don't usually get attached to the work I do. However, thinking about it, I can say with certainty that "The Last God" series by Phillip Kennedy Johnson is perhaps the work that has excited me the most. It's a fantasy story reminiscent of a Dungeons & Dragons adventure, set in a rather ruthless, corrupt, and intricate fictional world. For this series, I created 12 issues, a cover, and designed every element depicted: from the characters to the settings, the objects, and so on. I love inventing and designing. Furthermore, Phillip is a fantastic person and writer, intelligent and very collaborative, allowing artists to interpret and express themselves freely.

Red Dot Diva: In your opinion, what is the best thing about being a well known comic book artist?
Riccardo: Many things, and among these, you have the opportunity to create important projects in different sectors such as film, TV series, video games.

Red Dot Diva: What will you be looking forward to most when you are here as a guest of Singapore Comic Con? On a food trail or local coffee hunt, perhaps?
Riccardo: Actually, I don't know: I'm very curious to get to know Singapore and the people who live there. I'd love to explore Singapore's less touristy aspects, those considered more traditional. I'm certainly very curious about the food, and it would be fantastic to draw and paint with local artists over a relaxing dinner.

Red Dot Diva: Please also share with the fans what they can purchase at your booth.
Riccardo: At my stand it will be possible to obtain signatures, commissioned works, purchase prints of some illustrations and also my original works of art relating to comics and illustration. I hope that my fans will be happy to stop by my stand, I will certainly be happy to meet them and thank them for their support of my art.

Can't help admiring Riccardo's sick skills as evident in this video:

Riccardo Federici is hosted by Fat Snake Comic's booth (L1-AA01- 12) at SGCC 2025! Do give him a warm Red Dot Island welcome by drop by the booth. You can buy his prints and art, and get your comics signed!


SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2025
Where: Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre
Date: 6 & 7 December 2025 (Sat and Sun) with special Preview Night on 5 December 2025 (Fri)
Time: 10 AM to 8 PM on 6 & 7 December 2025
Admission: Refer to details at SISTIC - https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/sgcomic1224


----------------------------

RELATED SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2025 ARTICLES

Singapore Comic Con 2025 Ramps Up With Comic Book Guests Including Joe Rubinstein, Adi Granov, Sean Phillips, Rian Gonzales and more!

Singapore Comic Con 2025 (SGCC) - Booth Highlight - Irresistably Adorable Figurines By Moon Rabbit Sculpts (L1-AA113)

----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!

Singapore Comic Con 2025 (SGCC) - Booth Highlight - Irresistably Adorable Figurines By Moon Rabbit Sculpts (L1-AA113)

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) which will be held at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre on 6 and 7 December 2025 has invited prominent international guests for the event. However, for Red Dot Diva, it is at the Artist Alley where you find surprises and lovely creations from mostly local artists and crafters. One of the boothers at this year's SGCC is Moon Rabbit Sculpts, owned by small business owner and designer Alicia Chong.

The intricate clay sculpts by Moon Rabbit Sculpts are so colourful and whimsically adorable. Those cute little cats, and dragons! Oh my. Red Dot Diva had to find out more about the creator behind these cute figurines, and here's the short interview with Alicia:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Moon Rabbit Sculpts (@moonrabbitsculpts)

Red Dot Diva: Your sculpts are adorable! When did you learn how to sculpt figurines and what made you decide that this is the type of craft that you wanted to do as a business?
Alicia: Thank you! :) I actually picked up this artform within an interest group in my university. We were hosting like a free-for-all type of art exploration group where we experimented with and taught people the basics of various artforms. I took a liking to clay sculptures - initially I wanted to make miniatures to use in Dungeons & Dragons. But then I continued making them just because I enjoyed it, and eventually I gained more confidence to create more as a business.

Red Dot Diva: Which is your most intricate sculpt to date? And what challenges did you face making it?
Alicia: I made a customised sculpt with two large figurines sitting on a tree stump. It was a dragon and a pet cat - and I think this was the biggest size of sculpt I’ve ever made. It was quite challenging to create because it was super intricate, I added quite a lot of fur details as well as texturing on the wooden stump. It was also a bit top heavy so it actually fell over in the oven. I had to redo parts of the base and the stump because of that! Still, I am really proud of the result, it’s one of the most special pieces I’ve ever done.

Red Dot Diva:Looking at the pic of that creation, it looks fantastic! (Pic below)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Moon Rabbit Sculpts (@moonrabbitsculpts)

Red Dot Diva: How do you keep new ideas flowing, while ensuring that you don’t stress out and you give yourself ample self care?
Alicia: I spend a lot of time looking at animal videos online to relax, and as you probably realised most of my works are animal-themed. I love seeing pets do dumb things. XD I also realised I had to go out and experience things to get inspiration - I used to create in a vacuum which can make my art more repetitive.

Red Dot Diva: Any tips for newbies who are starting up boothing at events?
Alicia: Before you think about boothing, spend time practising and exploring your favourite artforms first! You may discover new things about your likes, your style and your capabilities - don’t restrict yourself. Be realistic: try and build up a portfolio doing the things you like first to get a feel for making/designing on a larger scale. Also don’t be shy to promote yourself when you do booths! You got to be your own biggest supporter!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Moon Rabbit Sculpts (@moonrabbitsculpts)

Red Dot Diva: What can we expect from your booth at SGCC 2025?
Alicia: Please look forward to my Pokémon-themed keychains, necklaces and brooches. I’ll try to capture the cute charms of your favourite Pokémon! Oh, and not to mention my new line of Pokémon Floating Buddy sculptures - which I created as a little fidget toy for your desk. I’ll also be bringing along plenty of original animal characters as wearable art. Please come say hi - don’t be shy!
Red Dot Diva: I will definitely be dropping by to say hello and admire your creations!


Do check out Moon Rabbit Sculpts at SGCC 2025, Booth L1-AA113!


----------------------------

RELATED SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2025 ARTICLES

Singapore Comic Con 2025 Ramps Up With Comic Book Guests Including Joe Rubinstein, Adi Granov, Sean Phillips, Rian Gonzales and more!

Singapore Comic Con 2025 (SGCC) - Interview with Comic Book Artist Riccardo Federici (Guest Hosted By Fat Snake Comics)

----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!

Singapore Comic Con 2025 Ramps Up With Comic Book Guests Including Joe Rubinstein, Adi Granov, Sean Phillips, Rian Gonzales and more!

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) is all set to host a geek party again this year, and Red Dot Diva has already begun her countdown. The region's premier pop culture convention will held at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre on 6 and 7 December 2025. The convention will span two levels (Level 1 and B2) with three halls at Level 1, providing more comics, booths and pop-culture fun for everyone. What is even more special is that for the first time ever, SGCC will have a Preview Night held on 5 December 2025 (6 PM to 10 PM) for VIP ticket holders, media, and invited guests.

Attendees of Preview Night can expect to have exclusive access to selected guests, watch a curated segments on stage and a first-hand view of the showfloor. Check out the SGCC's Ultimate Preview Night programme below:



For the comic book fans, SGCC has already rolled out the list of international guests, which includes several veteran and emerging comic book creators. Amongst them are returning A-listers like Eisner Award-winning artist Joe Rubinstein as well as artist and conceptual designer Adi Granov. Glenn Fabry, Martin Simmonds, Kael Ngu, Mico Suayan, Stephen Segovia and power couple Carla Cohen and Lucio Parrillo will also be back for the event.

Joining them are British artists Sean Phillips and Jacob Phillips. Due to a conflict in their schedule, the father and son duo had to miss the show last yeas, so dear fans, you can rejoice! They will be able to make it to Red Dot Island this time around. Sean Phillips' illustrious and award-winning career spans five decades, with his works found in books by all of the major comic book publishers. Sean has drawn for Hellblazer, Batman, X-Men, Marvel Zombies, and Stephen King’s The Dark Tower. Currently, he is drawing for the long-running Criminal series written by Ed Brubaker and coloured by Jacob Phillips.

Fans would also have the chance to meet many other comic book guests like:
* Rian Gonzales - whose art is riot of colours and infused with chibi-ness,
* Italian artist Giulia Pellegrini who also loves LARPing,
* Indonesia-based Rudy Ao who is known for his photorealistic art pieces,
* Eisner Award-winning Simon Bisley who is best known for his work for DC Comics' Lobo, and
* South Korean artist JeeHyung Lee who has worked with both DC and Marvel, as well as being the writer and illustrator of the supernatural thriller comic GUMAA.

Power Ranger fans can get to meet two celebrities this year - red ranger Jason Flaunt, and for her very first time ever to SGCC - pink ranger Erin Cahill. Erin is also known as the voice of Chloe "Karma" Lynch in Call of Duty: Black Ops II. Her appearance is specially brought to you by Retro Experience. To nab ticket packages for the meet and greet with Erin, head to the link at Eventbrite - https://www.eventbrite.sg/e/power-rangers-time-force-sgcc-2025-tickets-1124358098339?. Fans who want to meet Jason Flaunt can head to SGCC's website to get their tickets.



For the full SGCC 2025 guest list, click on this link: https://www.singaporecomiccon.com/guest


TICKETING INFORMATION

There is a range of tickets options for SGCC 2025, including Preview Night, early access to the shows and merchandise bundles. 1-day tickets are priced at SGD 38 per person, while the 2-day access is priced at SGD 68 per person.

To check out the details and purchase tickets to SGCC 2025, click on this link: https://www.singaporecomiccon.com/sgcctickets

SGCC also has a special perk for families. Kids under 8 can enter the show for free (maximum of two kids under 8 per ticket)! So, you can have a kick start in nurturing your kids' love for all things pop culture.

This year's SGCC limited edition merchandise includes a colourful SGCC x Artgerm T-shirt and Bomber Jacket by the popular Stanley "Artgerm" Lau. If you are a huge fan of Artgerm, this is something not to be missed!



SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2025
Where: Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre
Date: 6 & 7 December 2025 (Sat and Sun) with special Preview Night on 5 December 2025 (Fri)
Time: 10 AM to 8 PM on 6 & 7 December 2025
Admission: Refer to details at SISTIC - https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/sgcomic1224

-------------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) - Interview With Comic Book Legend Joe Rubinstein

Josef “Joe” Rubinstein is a comic book legend who has inked a multitude of characters. He has also worked with all of the major comic book publishers.

When he knew he had fallen deeply in love with comics, Joe considered Neal Adams to be his main idol. At age 13, he managed to work in Continuity Studios running errands. Continuity Studios is a studio started by Neal Adams and Dick Giordano that focused primarily on comic-based products. He caught the attention of Dick Giordano and was mentored by him during his early years working on comic books. A few years later, at about age 17, he got his first professional comic book gig. Comic book lovers will also be familiar with Joe's acclaimed ink work in Marvel Comics’ “The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe” as well as the 1982 four-issue Wolverine miniseries by Chris Claremont and Frank Miller. So as you can see, Joe has been in the business for a very, very long time.

At Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2024, Joe Rubinstein will be making an appearance as a special guest of Fat Snake Comics. He is eager to meet and interact the local and regional fans, so do not miss the opportunity to visit Booth L1-AA218, and give him a warm welcome, Red Dot Island-style!

Even though Joe has a very busy schedule, he found the time to answer Red Dot Diva's nosy questions. Thank you so much, Joe!

Red Dot Diva: Your extensive portfolio acquired throughout the years, like X-Men, Wolverine, Star Wars, Action comics, X-files, etc, is the who's who list of pop-culture's greatest works. Which franchise(s) is/ are your favourite(s)?
Joe: I really like all the versions of the JLA. They are well drawn with a mix of funny and drama.

Red Dot Diva: Comic book readers may be more familiar with your inks, but you also showcase fantastic oil paintings and portraits on your social media. Would you consider doing a project with your oil paints or maybe a creator owned work, if the opportunity presents itself?
Joe: Absolutely. I would love to collaborate with a creator and paint some paintings. It would be a lot of work, but I'd consider it. I'm just waiting to be asked.

Red Dot Diva: Which character would you have liked to have worked on but have not had the chance to do so yet?
Joe: I loved James Robinson's SANDMAN, but I never worked on it.

Red Dot Diva: As an industry veteran, has comics writing / creation changed in recent times, and how so? In your opinion, is it for the better? Or for worse?
Joe: It looks like a lot of comics are all created digitally. I would hate for the old-school art skills to be lost. I still ink with a brushes and nibs. And I still take classes in painting so I am always learning and improving.

Red Dot Diva: Having been an industry veteran, what are the key qualities that help a creator enjoy a long lasting career doing comics or related projects?
Joe: Be good at what you do. Take classes. Practice. And then get lucky with a gig that turns into a career defining legacy.

Red Dot Diva: Have you visited Singapore before? What are you looking forward to most while you are here as a guest of Singapore Comic Con?
Joe: It was an honor to be invited. Thank you Eric Chong for hosting me on this trip. I am looking forward to meeting the comic fans in Singapore and seeing if their interests are the same as fans in the US. After the con, I hope to stop into an art museum or just tour through the city.


Meet your favourite comic book creators and artists, including Joe Rubinstein at Fat Snake Comics/ Pink Ponk Comics - SGCC 2024 at Booth L1-AA218.

----------------------------

RELATED SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2024 ARTICLES

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) - Meet Comic Book Guests Like Mike Zeck, Michael Gaydos, Ram V and Giuseppe Camuncoli
(Update: Francesco Manna, Michael Gaydos, OSHRed, Sean Phillips and Jacob Philipps will no longer be attending as guests for SGCC 2024)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Meet The Monster Bunnies By Raven Collectibles (L1-AA201)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Genforcer Is All Ready to Protecc You! ( L1-AA180-181)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Merthewiz and Rhinomee Return With New Merchandise (L1-AA174)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Delight In Rachel Tan-Hwee's (RattanHwee) Colourful and Whimsical Art (L1-AA95)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Artist Highlight - Marvel At Rudy Ao's Photo Realistic Artwork (L1-AA218, Fat Snake Comics)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Meet Eric Chong, Avid Comic Collector And Owner Of Fat Snake Comics

----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Meet Eric Chong, Avid Comic Collector And Owner Of Fat Snake Comics

Local comic book fans are already familiar with Pink Ponk Comics, located at a cosy corner of Katong Plaza. One of the owners of Pink Ponk Comics is Eric Chong, an avid collector of comic books who grew up reading stories in that medium. Curious about what specific comicsEric has in his collection? You can gawk at his amazing and valuable comic book collection at this 2021video by Straits Times. Oh, one more thing - you might also know him as one of the co-creators of beloved local comic book character, Mr Kiasu.

Pink Ponk Comics has been making their presence felt at Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) - Red Dot Island's largest pop-culture event of the year. Their booth at past events had featured a number of overseas and regional comic book artists, like Ivan Tao, Marco Santucci, Emma Wu and Maria Laura Sanapo, providing fans with ample opportunities to meet their favourite illustrators.

This year, Pink Ponk Comics' involvement at SGCC will be through Fat Snake Comics (FSC), a new company also owned by Eric Chong. On their SGCC 2024 guest list are the veteran comic book creators Mike Zeck and Joe Rubinstein, as well as Rudy Nurdiawan (aka Rudy Ao) and Roland Amago.

Despite the rush to prepare for SGCC 2024 this weekend, Red Dot Diva managed to steal a few precious minutes of Eric Chong's time for a quick Q&A:

Red Dot Diva: You already own a local and well loved comic book store called Pink Ponk? Why did you start up Fat Snake Comics?
Eric: I guess it is God's Calling. After the passing of my beloved Mother in July 2024, I felt a spirit telling me to setup an online comics store, and I decided to name it Fat Snake Comics. My mother was born in the Year of the Snake and she was, you could say, overly chubby. My Dad always teased her about her weight, and so I decided to call the store Fat Snake Comics in memory of her.
The setting up of FSC will not only serve the local and regional comic communities on a separate platform, but more importantly, Fat Snake Comics will allow me and my siblings to remember and honor our Mum, who has sacrificed so much to care and love us unconditionally and against all odds.
Red Dot Diva: Thanks for sharing this. It's really touching.

Red Dot Diva: How is it like to own a comic book store?
Eric: The feeling is priceless. It has been my childhood dream to own a comic book shop, since I am someone who frequents so many comics shops, both local and foreign. I always feel great walking into a comics shop, as I can meet up with other comic book nerds, and to buy and sell comics. The feeling of owning one is even better. I have so many beautiful comics around me, which makes me extremely happy, and it helps take away all the worries and stress in life.

Eric meets Joe Rubinsten at NYCC 2024

Red Dot Diva: What has your experience been like working with veteran guests (e.g. Mike Zeck, Joe Rubinstein) for a big show like SGCC?
Eric: It is my honour that both Mike Zeck and Joe Rubinstein have agreed to be guests at Fat Snake Comics' booth. Initially I was a bit nervous, because I am speaking to two highly respectable and top level artist in the comics industry. But, when I spoke to them, negotiating about the terms and conditions of their agreements, I soon discovered that that they were both of them very nice, humble and easy to work with.

Both Mike Zeck and Joe Rubinstein are very passionate and proud of their works but they are not arrogant at all. They are thoughtful and so kind to me. I suggested that they should be specified "break times" for them during the show, but they insisted on spending more time at their respective booths so the fans will not miss them and for them to mingle with the fans. Now that is what I call "Very Pro", lor. Respect!
Red Dot Diva: Oh gosh. I cannot wait to meet them this weekend. My heart warms up hearing you speak about how they are like. I've met a few big time comic book pros myself and 99% are absolutely lovely, kind people, and you come away from the experience on an absolute high!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fat Snake Comics (@fatsnakecomics)

Red Dot Diva: What do you aspire to achieve with Fat Snake comics at SGCC and beyond?
Eric: Firstly, I hope that FSC and her guests will have a fun-filled and successful show, just like back in 2022 and 2023.

I am blessed to be able to travel to comic cons each year in USA, and the opportunity to meet most of my childhood favourite writers and artists. My heart skipped a beat when I got to shake Frank Miller's hand. For my fellow comic books kakis who are not able to do the same, I hope through FSC, they will be able to meet and talk to their favourite writers and artists here at SGCC.

I hope SGCC 2024 would allow more people to know about the new online comics book store, Fat Snake Comics. The store is not just about buying and selling comics or arts; it also has a vision of revitalising the local comics market and community through shows like SGCC and other events similar events. It is my hope that the fans and collectors will appreciate and support FSC's vision, so that everyone will benefit in the end, as FSC will be able to keep bringing in top writers and artists, both local and foreign, and together, we can make collecting comics and art a joy.
Red Dot Diva: This sounds ambitious, but absolutely lovely. Comic books are for everyone. It is such a special medium that fuses text and images, and I too hope that more people would enjoy the myriad of stories told in this form through FSC's initiatives. See you at SGCC this weekend!


Meet your favourite comic book creators and artists at Pink Ponk Comics/ Fat Snake Comics' SGCC 2024 booth at Booth L1-AA218.

----------------------------

RELATED SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2024 ARTICLES

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) - Meet Comic Book Guests Like Mike Zeck, Michael Gaydos, Ram V and Giuseppe Camuncoli
(Update: Francesco Manna, Michael Gaydos, OSHRed, Sean Phillipes and Jacob Philipps will no longer be attending as guests for SGCC 2024)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Meet The Monster Bunnies By Raven Collectibles (L1-AA201)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Genforcer Is All Ready to Protecc You! ( L1-AA180-181)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Merthewiz and Rhinomee Return With New Merchandise (L1-AA174)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Delight In Rachel Tan-Hwee's (RattanHwee) Colourful and Whimsical Art (L1-AA95)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Artist Highlight - Marvel At Rudy Ao's Photo Realistic Artwork (L1-AA218, Fat Snake Comics)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) - Interview With Comic Book Legend Joe Rubinstein

----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Artist Highlight - Marvel At Rudy Ao's Photo Realistic Artwork (L1-AA218, Fat Snake Comics)

If you are not familiar with Indonesian artist Rudy Nurdiawan's (aka Rudy Ao) portfolio, you might think that his photo realistic pieces of superheroes and movie characters are AI-generated. You can rest assured that Rudy Ao is the real deal. He draws and paints his portraits by hand using different oils, acrylic paints, copic airbrush markers and pencils.

In the 2010s, when Rudy was living in Singapore, Red Dot Diva would bump into him at various comic book fan meet ups and art shows. It was hypnotising just to watch him draw his amazingly detailed sketches and commissions on site. You will have the chance to see him work too at Singapore Comic Convention (SGCC) 2024. Rudy is a guest of the pop-culture convention, and will be hosted by Pink Ponk Comics/ Fat Snake Comics.

As Red Dot Diva was preparing for this pre-SGCC interview with Rudy, she found an older article of a Q&A with the artist circa 2011. Click here to read more about Rudy's artistic background. She also reminisced about the time Rudy drew for her a commission of naked Wolverine in Hugh Jackman form. Hahaha. The art print still sits right beside her work desk for mental stimulation.

Rudy, Red Dot Diva and Nekkid Wolverine

Before Red Dot Diva and her friends get to reunite with Rudy Ao this weekend, here is a new interview with the man himself:

Red Dot Diva: Hey Rudy! It has been so long (over a decade?) since you have returned to Singapore as a guest for an event. We miss you! I know it’s been many years, but what have you been doing since you returned to Bali? And, what do you miss most about Singapore?
Rudy: Yes! It has been a long long time! I miss hanging out with so many of you. I went back to Bali in 2012, I worked in architectural company while continuing to do comic covers and commissions. I quit that job in 2013, and decided to be a full time professional artist. What I miss most about Singapore is the food! And somehow, strangely enough, I miss Orchard Road too.

Red Dot Diva: Your artwork and portraits are so life-like and detailed, what does it take for someone to be able to pick up the nuances and unique features of each individual’s faces and their attitude?
Rudy: First of all, you must love and enjoy drawing faces and bodies. Everyone has their unique physical features, especially their faces, and I found this aspect the most interesting about people. Since I was young, I loved drawing portraits of my family and friends. Drew Struzan, who is well known for his photo realism art style, is one of my main artistic inspirations. Throughout my career, I continue to practise and drawing different subjects, especially comic book characters based on the movies or TV shows, so that I can nail their characteristic looks. But, as I said, you really really have to love drawing portraits!

Red Dot Diva: Having been a professional artist for many years, how do you keep the craft emotionally and creatively interesting to yourself?
Rudy: You always have to keep practising and finding new ideas. This is the era of the internet, and you can easily find a treasure of information online. Before the internet, I will frequent bookstores to browse and buy various artbooks. It wasn't easy to physically find a good artbook as reference. Now, it is so much easier to find them on the internet, and these references continue to inspire me to try new things on my artwork.

Red Dot Diva: Name one or two movies that are still your top favourites.
Rudy: I love Marvel's The Avengers movies. It was amazing to see your favourite characters that you have been drawing and seeing on paper come alive in the live action movies. And, any Batman movie. After watching a Batman movie, I am always inspired to draw more of him. He is so iconic and cool, and with his trademark costume, he looks dynamic in most poses.

Red Dot Diva: Going into the business side of things, as an artist, how do you continue being successful financially?
Rudy: Try to do the best that you can do, that is giving your best effort. When you are going full time in this field, it is also good to have a manager to help with the business side of things and helping you get more opportunities. There are always going to be different kinds of opportunities, and you would have to accept the projects after weight the pros and cons, as well as how you might enjoy doing it

Red Dot Diva: What are some practical advice you can offer to young aspiring artists who are just getting started in the "real world"?
Rudy: I am a believer that you have to truly love what you do. It's the start of the journey. After that, you have to continue to be curious... to keep learning and be open to new ideas and techniques. And to never stop practising!

Red Dot Diva: What are some of the first things you will be doing when you touch down in Singapore?
Rudy: I am really craving for fish soup noodles with milk! I have been dreaming of the taste of that dish.

Red Dot Diva: What can we expect from your booth at SGCC 2024?
Rudy: I am happy that Pink Ponk Comics/ Fat Snake Comics invited me to be at their booth. I am open and ready for any commission, signings, sketches. And I will also be showcasing how I use draw portraits with oils and acrylic. So, come look for me!
Red Dot Diva: It'd be so lovely to see you draw live again, Rudy. I still have the precious art print of nekkid Wolverine right by my study desk that I got from you back in 2014. See you soon!


Visit Pink Ponk Comics/ Fat Snake Comics' SGCC 2024 booth and marvel at Rudy Ao's photorealistic art pieces of your favourite comic book and pop culture characters. You can find him at Booth L1-AA218.

----------------------------

RELATED SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2024 ARTICLES

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) - Meet Comic Book Guests Like Mike Zeck, Michael Gaydos, Ram V and Giuseppe Camuncoli
(Update: Francesco Manna, Michael Gaydos, OSHRed will no longer be attending as guests for SGCC 2024)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Meet The Monster Bunnies By Raven Collectibles (L1-AA201)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Genforcer Is All Ready to Protecc You! ( L1-AA180-181)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Merthewiz and Rhinomee Return With New Merchandise (L1-AA174)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Delight In Rachel Tan-Hwee's (RattanHwee) Colourful and Whimsical Art (L1-AA95)

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) Booth Highlight - Meet Eric Chong, Avid Comic Collector And Owner Of Fat Snake Comics

Singapore Comic Con 2024 (SGCC) - Interview With Comic Book Legend Joe Rubinstein

----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!