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THE AD THAT CHANGED MY LIFE – A one-time offer for Marvel addicts!
- Posted by PETER A DELUCA AKAPD
- On May 19, 2018
- article, EDUCATION, how to book, how to draw, how to draw book, self taught drawing
My Journey with X-Men and Marvel Comics Art: A Nostalgic Reflection
Discovering the X-Men VHS and Marvel Magic
In the late ’80s, a chance encounter with the X-Men: Pryde of the X-Men pilot on a local TV channel, likely a Fox affiliate, sparked my lifelong love for Marvel’s mutant heroes. I vividly recall calling my friend Mario, buzzing with excitement over the cartoon’s thrilling finale. Shortly after, an ad for a Marvel offer caught my eye, featuring the X-Men VHS, a signed Marvel Universe poster by Stan Lee, and How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way. While I’m not sure which element sealed the deal, this package ignited a passion for comics and art that shaped my childhood.
The X-Men: Pryde of the X-Men VHS That Changed Everything
When the X-Men: Pryde of the X-Men VHS arrived, it blew my mind. The fast-paced story, bold character designs, and Stan Lee’s iconic narration hooked me instantly. From Wolverine’s grit to Kitty Pryde’s heart, every frame pulsed with energy. This VHS turned me into a dedicated X-Men reader, following the comics through the groundbreaking Grant Morrison New X-Men run, which boldly deconstructed the franchise’s mythos. That single tape transformed me into a diehard fan, chasing mutant stories for years.
Falling in Love with How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way
The surprise gem in the package was How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way. As a young artist devouring how-to-draw books, this VHS and book combo was a revelation. I became obsessed with John Buscema’s inking techniques, rewatching the inking segment to decode his brush mastery. That Christmas, I begged Santa for the art supplies featured in the video—pens, brushes, and ink—to emulate Marvel’s style. This resource fueled my fascination with comic art, laying the foundation for countless hours spent sketching my own heroes.
A Stan Lee-Signed Marvel Universe Poster: A Treasured Keepsake
The signed Marvel Universe poster by Stan Lee was the crown jewel of the offer. It proudly hung on my wall, a daily reminder of Marvel’s vibrant world. Stan Lee’s signature made it feel personal, connecting me to the creative genius behind Spider-Man, the X-Men, and more. This poster wasn’t just decor—it was a symbol of my growing love for comics and storytelling.
Why This Marvel Offer Mattered
This Marvel offer was more than a purchase; it was a gateway to creativity and fandom. The X-Men VHS introduced me to a universe of complex characters, How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way inspired my artistic journey, and the Stan Lee-signed poster tied it all together. For any comic fan or aspiring artist, these treasures from the late ’80s remain a nostalgic touchstone, capturing the magic of Marvel’s golden era.
Keywords: X-Men VHS, Pryde of the X-Men, How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way, Stan Lee signed poster, Marvel Universe poster, X-Men comics, Marvel comics art, comic book fandom
AKAPAD is a versatile thinker known across Philadelphia, Europe, and even in the vast Multiverse as The Electic One. By day, he excels as an IT Mastermind, assisting individuals, both big and small, with a wide range of simple and complex solutions. In contrast, he is also a talented illustrator, a passionate comic book enthusiast, a creative content creator, and an active live streamer. Additionally, his podcast, “AKAPAD The Film Buff Podcast,” boasts an impressive catalog of over 500 episodes available on nearly every major platform.
