Under The Influence: A Tribute To Stan Lee @ Gallery 1988 ~ Melrose

Galley 1988 is holding a tribute show for comic book legend Stan "The Man" Lee. Lee is responsible for creating all those comic book characters that are getting turned into movies like Spider-Man, The X-Men, The Incredible Hulk, The Fantastic Four, Iron Man and countless other heroes and villains. More than 90 artist have contributed to the show putting their own spin and style on his beloved characters that countless readers such as myself love to read about.

The show is presented in part with Golden Apple Comics, which is right next door. I attended the opening night of the show and waited in line with my fellow comic book nerds not only to check out the art but to have the chance to meet Lee. The characters he created have transcended over the decades from generation to generation each using these characters as vehicles to write some of the worlds greatest stories. There are those out there who at times identify with these fictional characters,such as myself because Lee created them with those intentions. To make all of his characters relatable to the readers. I identify with Spider-Man because at the time of his inception, he was a college student working part time while trying to keep a relationship with his girlfriend. At times life imitates art and the stories crafted to be meant as entertainment transcend those boundaries and become timeless stories worthy of any classic literacy writer. I learned moral values from these fictional characters while reading some of the worlds greatest and timeless stories.

Gallery 1988 is located on 7020 Melrose Avenue and Labrea, Los Angeles, CA 90038. (323) 937-7088 - www.gallery1988.com The show ends Feb 1 and is well worth checking out. Not only can you see some great art but you can go next door and browse the comics racks. Not to mention you can grab a bite to eat afterward at Pinks hot dog stand right across the street from the gallery.