GrandCon unveils final details of Grand Rapids' first comic book and board game convention

Comic fans, gamers and curious onlookers: your GrandCon badge pickup begins Friday, September 20 at 10:00 a.m. 

This weekend marks the start of Grand Rapids' first joint comic book and board game convention. There will be a medley of talented game designers, artists and authors such as Jeff Grub, Tracy Hickman, Laura Hickman, Mark Nelson, Scott Rosema and Bill Stout. Conference participants also have the opportunity to mingle with local artists who have paved their path to success right here in Michigan.

GrandCon creators Brian W. Lenz and Marc H. Specter have confirmed that there are over 200 scheduled events at the conference, which will include a massive 1000+ game library, tournaments, vendors and seminars that will offer unique opportunities to learn from the best in the industry.

Lenz and Specter have arranged a Creature Design Class this Friday with monster master Marc A. Nelson. It’s a semi-private seminar where $35 gets you four hours of tutoring in creature creation, art supplies included.

“You’ll be taught how to take the concept from your brain to the page,” Specter explains. “Nelson will walk you through the process of creating a specific creature in your head. You’ll walk out of class with a fully realized concept done, and the top four students will receive a gift certificate from Jerry’s Artorama.”

There’s also a special Friday night movie presentation with Bill Stout, which will be handled by GrandCon’s official sponsor, Celebration Cinema. Viewers will watch and discuss his design work on the cult classic Masters of the Universe, for $10.

GrandCon is donating 30% of ticket-sales to the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation.

“We’ve already raised $500 to start, we’re shooting for $6,800, but we’re definitely hoping to see $10,000 raised for Helen DeVos by the end of this weekend,” says Lenz. 

Lenz and Specter have already held two special dinner events to raise money for the foundation, and they’re hoping that convention ticket and event sales will help them exceed their goal. 

“If you’re scared of getting stuck in downtown traffic this weekend, come to GrandCon,” jokes Specter. “The parking is free and tremendous!”

GrandCon is offering a handy convention schedule for portable devices. Simply send an e-mail to [email protected] or visit their website!