We made a short trip to Southern California to visit William Stout last week. We photographed a bunch of recently completed artwork, filmed Bill coloring in some of his new ink pieces using watercolor, and discussed his new Comics three-volume set.
Bill is like ten artists in one. He can do anything and everything! Each time we visit we come up with a new project to start. I’ll give you an example. As Vicky and I were leaving Bill’s studio I noticed a large stack of recently finished originals that he completed for a project. Vicky and I immediately started brainstorming a book idea. I asked Bill if we could take the art home with us to photograph, and before we knew it we were the caretakers of over 100 originals while driving home and talking about the our approach to the new book.
We aim to bring you a fresh library of new Stout books!
The Art of Arthur Adams Kickstarter campaign from Flesk will launch on Tuesday, May 2nd.
We will reveal all of the details and the live link about this long-awaited book on that day.
We can’t wait to share the all-new cover to the book that Arthur has drawn. We spent years putting this book together with Arthur and are eager to get it out to the world. Thanks!
All of the Kickstarter pledges and Flesk online store pre-orders for Carbon 5 by Mark Schultz have been shipped. Thank you so much for making Mark’s latest art book collection a success!
We have approximately 80 copies left of the hardcover signed edition that is limited to 800 copies. This fifth volume in his Carbon art-book series features new drawings and paintings, all created within the last two years.
For those who may want to pick up a copy, here is the link to learn more:
New graphic novel by Jeffrey Alan Love in development from Flesk!
A note from Jeff:
“I finished painting the pages for my next graphic novel with Flesk Publications last week. Whenever I finish a project I immediately think that I should redo it, as I’ve learned so much in the making of it, and I could do a better job of it now. There’s so much left to learn, and I hope I have the years left in my life to grow as an artist and writer in the ways that I hope to. Next up is working with a letterer to find a type that integrates with the art, painting the cover, and then letting John Fleskes work his magic.”
The book is currently being designed. We will announce a release date as soon as we are done.
Photographing Daniel Warren Johnson sketchbooks! We have been slowly working on a new DWJ book. We don’t have any details or a release date to share yet, but rest assured it is in development.
The Flesk Publications list detailing every book and print I have published, as well as a few other projects I played a role in. This covers everything through June 2023 (with more titles to be added soon). The total comes to 115 books, 59 prints, 7 enamel pins, 7 stickers, and 3 magnets.
2023 Flesk Titles
1. Carbon 5by Mark Schultz June 2023 Introduction by Mark Schultz. Designed and edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-070-1. $24.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 56 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 800 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-071-8. $40.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 56 pages.
2. Giltby J.A.W. Cooper Details to be announced in the coming months.
3. Barren Landsby Brynn Metheney Details to be announced in the coming months.
4. The Art of Arthur Adams Details to be announced later this year.
5. The Art of Rachel and Terry Dodson Details to be announced later this year.
2022 Flesk Titles
A note about 2022. Due to unprecedented supply chain issues that included paper shortages and extended transit times for cargo shipments, many of our titles that we intended to publish in 2022 were pushed to 2023.
1. Xenozoicby Mark Schultz (Second printing.) January 2022 Introduction by J.G. Jones. Designed by Randall Dahlk and John Fleskes. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-037-4. $34.95 cover price. 7.5 x 10 inches, 352 pages.
2. The Art of Tyler Jacobson January 2022 Introduction by John Fleskes. Designed and edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-054-1. $49.95 cover price, 11.5 x 12 inches, 160 pages. Deluxe signed in slipcase. ISBN: 978-1-64041-055-8. $99.95 cover price, 11.5 x 12 inches, 176 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. A. Drizzt Vs. Demogorgon print. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Exalted Angel print. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. Signed bonus print. 8.5 x 11 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. 3 bookmark set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
3. Franklin Booth: Silent Symphony September 2022 Essay by Alice A. Carter. Designed and edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-061-9. $49.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-062-6. $75.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304pages. A. The Woodland print. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Echos print. 13 x 17 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. Flute print. 13 x 17 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. Organ print. 13 x 17 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. E. 3 bookmark set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. F. Portfolio consisting of a set of five bonus mini prints in printed envelope. 8.5 x 11 inches. Exclusive to Flesk supporters.
4. Alkeme: The Art of Brad Kunkle September 2022 Designed and edited by John Fleskes and Brad Kunkle. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-057-2. $69.95 cover price, 11.5 x 12 inches, 320 pages. Hardcover Signed Deluxe Edition. ISBN: 978-1-64041-058-9. $125.00 cover price, 11.5 x 12 inches, 320 pages. The Hardcover Deluxe copies available to the public are signed numbered from 53 to 452. Book numbers 453 to 500 are reserved by the artist and publisher as personal copies and for contributors. Hardcover Collector’s Edition Set. The book is hand-gilded on the first page in 22 KT gold by Kunkle. Includes Behold, History Without a Past 20 x 30 inch signed and numbered print. The print and book numbers match. This print is exclusive to this Collector’s Edition. Book number 1 is reserved for Brad Kunkle. Book number 2 is reserved for the publisher. Book numbers 3-52 are available to the public for this Collector’s Edition.
5. Lupente: Flesk Artist Showcase September 2022 Introduction and essays by John Fleskes. Designed and edited by John Fleskes. Design assistance by Vicky Lien. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-059-6. $39.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 176 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-060-2. $59.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 176pages.
2021 Flesk Titles
1. Al Williamson: Strange World Adventures by John Fleskes June 2021 Forward by William Stout. Introduction by Rick Veitch. Designed, edited and written by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-039-8. $39.95 cover price, 9.75 x 13 inches, 128 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-040-4. $49.95 cover price, 9.75 x 13 inches, 128 pages. A. Golden Sorceress print. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Bonus print. 8 x 6 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
2. Mark Schultz: Carbon 4 June 2021 Introduction by Mark Schultz. Designed and edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-035-0. $24.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 56 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 800 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-036-7. $40.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 56 pages. A. Bonus print. 8 x 6 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Carbon 4print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches.
3. Xenozoicby Mark Schultz June 2021 Introduction by J.G. Jones. Forward by Mark Schultz. Designed by Randall Dahlk and John Fleskes. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-037-4. $34.95 cover price. 7.5 x 10 inches, 352 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 800 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-038-1. $49.95 cover price, 7.5 x 10 inches, 352 pages. A. Tigress print. Signed and numbered. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Dark Portal print. Signed and numbered. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. Epic print. Signed and numbered. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. Bonus print. 8 x 6 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
4. The Al Williamson & Mark Schultz Astounding Sketchbook June 2021 Designed by John Fleskes and Mark Schultz. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback, saddle-stitched. ISBN: 978-1-64041-042-8. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16-pages. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
5. The Drawings of Edwin Austin Abbey August 2021 Essay by Alice A. Carter. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-045-9. $39.95 cover price. 6.25 x 9.5 inches, 400 pages. Hardcover deluxe edition limited to 1000 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-046-6. $49.95 cover price, 6.25 x 9.5 inches, 400 pages.
6. Covenant: The Art of Allen Williams August 2021 Designed by Arpad Terek. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-044-2. $39.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 144 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-043-5. $59.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 160 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. Includes quarter binding with spine stamp.
7. Frank Cho: Pencil and Ink August 2021 Introduction by Thomas E. Sniegoski Designed and edited by Frank Cho and John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-049-7. $24.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 128 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-050-3. $39.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 128 pages. This edition was made specifically for Bud Plant and Diamond Comics Distributors. Deluxe signed edition limited to 2000 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-051-0. $49.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 128 pages. Includes 2 bonus 8.5 x 11 inch mini-prints. A. Ballpoint Beauty Roses print. Signed. 18 x 14 inches. B. Ballpoint Beauty Cow Skullprint. Signed. 18 x 24 inches. C. Drawing Beautiful Women Coverprint. Signed. 18 x 24 inches. D. Ballpoint Beauty Dino Buddiesprint. Signed. 13 x 19 inches.
8. Naughty and Nice: The Good Girl Art of Bruce Timm September 2021 Introduction by John Fleskes. Designed by Randall Dahlk, John Fleskes and Bruce Timm. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-047-3. $39.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 256 pages. Includes 2 bonus 8.5 x 11 inch mini-prints. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-048-0. $59.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 256 pages. Includes quarter binding with spine stamp. Includes 2 bonus 8.5 x 11 inch mini-prints. A. Bookworm print. 13 x 19 inches. B. Gun Noir print. 13 x 19 inches. D. Sorcery print. 13 x 19 inches. E. The Fightin’ Femmes print. 13 x 19 inches. F. Cowgirl print. 13 x 19 inches. G. Smoking print. 13 x 19 inches. H. Golden print. 13 x 19 inches.
9. The Call of Cthulhu: A Mystery in Three Parts by H. P. Lovecraft Illustrated by Gary Gianni October 2021 Designed and edited by Marcelo Anciano. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-052-7. $19.95 cover price, 6.25 x 9.5 inches, 112 pages. Hardcover with Jacket limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-053-4. $44.95 cover price, 6.25 x 9.5 inches, 112 pages. Includes signed tipped-in plate.
10. Alien to Zombie: An ABC Book of Monsters and Spooks By Mark Chiarello and Kevin Somers November 2021 Written by Kevin Somers. Illustrated and designed by Mark Chiarello. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-056-5. $18.95 cover price. 7.75 x 9.5 inches, 32 pages. Includes quarter binding with spine stamp. A. A-Z print. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. 6sticker set. 4 inches tall. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. 3 magnet set. 4 inches tall. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. E. Boo Plate. Signed bonus print. 4 x 6 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. F. Bonus sticker. 4 inches tall. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. G. Bookmark. 2 x 6 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. H. Bonus temporary tattoo. 2 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
2020 Flesk Titles
1. The Mountain of Smoke by Jeffrey Alan Love March 2020 Designed and Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-028-2. $34.95 cover price, 11.75 x 9 inches, 128 pages. Deluxe signed edition limited to 500 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-029-9. $44.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 128 pages. Includes quarter binding with spine stamp. A. Barbarian print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. The Dragon’s Gift print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. The Long Watchprint. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. 6 postcard set in specially designed envelope. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. E. Bonus print. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
2. Notes From the Shadowed City by Jeffrey Alan Love June 2020 Designed by Jeffrey Alan Love and John Fleskes. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-030-5. $19.95 cover price, 6 x 9 inches, 160 pages. A. Bonus print. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
3. The Thousand Demon Tree by Jeffrey Alan Love June 2020 Cover design by Ben Norland. Interiors designed by Jeffrey Alan Love and John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-018-3. $24.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 96 pages. A. Bonus print. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
4. The J.A.W. Cooper Genesis Collection June 2020 Designed by J.A.W. Cooper and John Fleskes. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-027-5. $39.95 cover price, 7.5 x 10 inches, 224 pages. First 250 copies came with a free signed and numbered 6×8 inch mini-print of Cooper’s gouache painting “With Bells On!”
5. The Art of Frank Cho: Twenty-Year Retrospective by Frank Cho August 2020 Introduction by John Fleskes. Designed, edited and written by Frank Cho and John Fleskes. Cover design by Arpad Terek. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-016-9. $39.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 336 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-015-2. $59.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 336 pages. This edition was made specifically for Bud Plant and Diamond Comics Distributors. Deluxe signed in slipcase. ISBN: 978-1-64041-015-2. $59.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 336 pages. A. Jungle Swing print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Vampirella Resurrection print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. Who Goes There print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. Jungle Tales print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. E. Unexpected Guest print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. F. 8 postcard set in specially designed and signed envelope. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. G. Bonus print. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
6. The Big Tease by Bruce Timm August 2020 Designed by John Fleskes and Bruce Timm. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-031-2. $39.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 208 pages. Includes bonus 8.5 x 11 inch mini-print. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-032-9. $49.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 208 pages. Includes quarter binding with spine stamp. Includes 2 bonus 8.5 x 11 inch mini-prints.
7. Spectrum 27: The Best in Contemporary Fantastic Art November 2020 Year in Review and Grandmaster introduction by by John Fleskes. Edited and designed by Katherine Chu and John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-034-3. $39.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-64041-033-6. $49.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages.
8. The Big Teaseby Bruce Timm (Second printing.) November 2020 Designed by John Fleskes and Bruce Timm. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-031-2. $39.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 208 pages. Includes bonus 8.5 x 11 inch mini-print. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-041-1. $49.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 208 pages. Includes 2 bonus 8.5 x 11 inch mini-prints.
2019 Flesk Titles
1. Bomb’s Away: A Terry Dodson Sketchbook Collection March 2019 Designed by Terry Dodson. Paperback with 4 inch french flaps. $20.00 cover price, 6 x 8.25 inches, 32 pages.
2. Art of Gary Gianni for George R. R. Martin’s Seven Kingdoms August 2019 Introduction by Cullen Murphy. Afterword by George R.R. Martin. Edited and designed by Marcelo Anciano. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-022-0. $49.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Includes quarter binding with spine stamp. Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 500 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-023-7. $200.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 326 pages. Includes 22 bonus pages. Signed by George R. R. Martin and Gary Gianni.
3. Ballpoint Beauties By Frank Cho September 2019 Introduction by Steven Morger. Designed by Frank Cho and John Fleskes Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-020-6. $19.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 120 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-019-0. $29.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 120 pages. Deluxe signed in slipcase limited to 2200 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-026-8. $60.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 120 pages. Includes quarter binding with spine stamp. A. Reclining print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. End print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. Lost World print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. Cow print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. E. 7 postcard set in specially designed envelope. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
4. Spectrum 26: The Best in Contemporary Fantastic Art November 2019 Year in Review by John Fleskes. Grandmaster introduction by Dan Dos Santos. Tribute by Arnie Fenner. Edited and designed by Katherine Chu and John Fleskes. Cover design by Arnie Fenner. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-025-1. $39.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 336 pages. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-64041-024-4. $49.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 336 pages.
5. Ambedo December 2019 Introduction by Tran Nguyen. Designed by John Fleskes and Tran Nguyen. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-64041-017-6. $39.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 208 pages. A. The Cerulean Girl print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Forbidden Forest print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. Spin the Dawn print. Signed and numbered. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. Bonus print. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. E. A Place We Once Homed II enamel two pin set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. F. 10 postcard set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. G. 2 bookmark set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
2018 Flesk Titles
1. The Illustrated Call of Cthulhu by H.P. Lovecraft with over 100 pencil drawings by Gary Gianni March 2018 Designed by Marcelo Anciano. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-003-9. 6 x 9.125 inches, 128 pages. Includes quarter binding with spine stamp.
2. Hellboy: Into the Silent Sea Studio Edition by Mike Mignola and Gary Gianni April 2018 Hellboy by Mike Mignola. Commentary by Gary Gianni. Designed by John Fleskes and Gary Gianni. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-004-6. $50.00 cover price, 10 x 13 inches, 144 pages. Includes quarter binding with spine stamp. Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 100 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-005-3. $100.00 cover price, 10 x 13 inches, 144 pages. Signed by Mike Mignola and Gary Gianni. Includes a drawing by Gianni. A. Page 6 print. Signed. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Page 11 print. Signed. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. Page 15 print. Signed. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. Page 25 print. Signed. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. E. Page 30 print. Signed. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. F. Cover print. Signed. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. G. 3 print set. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
3. Mark Schultz:Carbon 3 by Mark Schultz August 2018 Introduction by Mark Schultz. Designed and edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-009-1. $24.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 56 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 600 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-008-4. $40.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 58 pages. A. Asha in the Deep print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Gothic Hannah print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. Our Lady of the Red Planet print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. Under the Volcano print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. E. 6 postcard set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
4. The Thousand Demon Tree by Jeffrey Alan Love August 2018 Cover design by Ben Norland. Interiors designed by Jeffrey Alan Love and John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-010-7. $29.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 96 pages. Deluxe signed edition limited to 800 copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-011-4. $40.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 96 pages. A. Lone Warrior print. Signed. 11 x 17 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. Story Splash print. Signed. 13 x 19 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. Cover print. Signed. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. 6 postcard set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
5. The Art of Brom Publisher Edition: New Witch Jacket September 2017 Introduction by Arnie Fenner. Afterword by John Fleskes. Designed by Brom. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover with new jacket. ISBN: 978-1-64041-012-1. $29.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 224 pages.
6. Spectrum 25: The Best in Contemporary Fantastic Art November 2018 Year in Review by John Fleskes. Grandmaster introduction by Arnie Fenner. Tributes by Bill Carman and William Stout. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-64041-006-0. $35.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-64041-007-7. $45.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages.
7. Pastoral by J.A.W. Cooper December 2018 Interiors designed by J.A.W. Cooper and John Fleskes. Cover design by Jay and Shannon Doronio Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-013-8. $35.00 cover price, 11.5 x 12 inches, 128 pages. Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 100 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-64041-014-5. $200.00 cover price, 11.5 x 12 inches, 128 pages. A. Safe PassagebyJ.A.W. Cooper print. Signed and numbered. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. FruitionbyJ.A.W. Cooper print. Signed and numbered. 18 x 24 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. 2 print set. 10 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. D. Stag and Leg two piece enamel pin set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
2017 Flesk Titles
1. Line of Beauty: The Art of Wendy Pini. Art by Wendy Pini. Words by Richard Pini. April 2017 Introduction by Richard Pini. Designed by Arpad Terek. Edited by John Fleskes and Richard Pini. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-88-1. $50.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-87-4. $100.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 320 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. Includes quarter binding with special onlaid plate on the front cover boards.
2. The Marvel Art of Arthur Adams May 2017 Introduction by Jeff Loeb. Designed by Arpad Terek. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1933865-94-2. $30.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 80 pages.
3. Drawing Beautiful Women: The Frank Cho Method Publisher Edition with New Jacket May 2017 Introduction by Mark Schultz Edited and designed by Frank Cho and John Fleskes. Hardcover Publisher Edition with new jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-61-4. $35.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 136 pages. A. 4 print set. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
4. The Story of Harvey Dunn, Artist: Where Your Heart is… by Robert Karolevitz May 2017 Forward by Robert R. Karolevitz Edited by Lynn Verschoor. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-0-9666544-2-4. $40.00 cover price, 12.5 x 9.75 inches, 208 pages. Published by the South Dakota Art Museum. Packaged by John Fleskes and Flesk Publications with the director of the museum, Lynn Verschoor.
5. J.A.W. Cooper: Familiars, Flora & Fauna, and Viscera October 2017 Words by J.A.W. Cooper Designed by J.A.W. Cooper and John Fleskes. Edited by John Fleskes. All three hardcover books in slipcase. $60.00 cover price. A. Familiars Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-95-9. $25.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-002-2. 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages. B. Flora & Fauna Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-96-6. $25.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 80 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-001-5. 9 x 12 inches, 80 pages. C. Viscera Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-97-3. $25.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-64041-000-8. 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages. D. Shapeshifter print. Signed and numbered. 18 x 24 inches E. Sticks and Stones print. Signed and numbered. 18 x 24 inches F. 5 postcard set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. G. Frog, Goat, Monkey, Sphinx enamel pin set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
6. Spectrum 24: The Best in Contemporary Fantastic Art November 2017 Year in Review by John Fleskes. Grandmaster introduction by George Pratt. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-98-0. $35.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-99-7. $45.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages.
2016 Flesk Titles
1. Terry Dodson’s Bombshell’s Sketchbook Collection Two July 2016 Designed by Terry Dodson and John Fleskes. Hardcover. $25.00 cover price, 7.75 x 10.25 inches, 48 pages.
2. The Nexus Chronicles by Steve Rude July 2016 Introduction by John Fleskes. Designed by John Fleskes and Steve Rude. Cover designed by Mike Jones and Steve Rude. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1933865-76-8. $50.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Included a free Nexus full size 17 x 22 inch newspaper strip
3. Arthur Adams Monsters Attack!!! (Second printing.) July 2016 Designed by Arpad Terek. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-84-3. $20.00 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
4. Mark Schultz:Carbon 2 July 2016 Introduction by Mark Schultz. Designed by John Fleskes and Mark Schultz. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-91-1. $24.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 56 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 600 copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-93-5. $40.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 58 pages. A. 2 print set. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
5. Elfquest: The Art of the Story. Art by Wendy Pini. Words by Richard and Wendy Pini. August 2016 Introduction by Heather and Rob Beschizza. Designed by Arpad Terek. Edited by John Fleskes and Richard Pini. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-86-7. $50.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-87-4. $100.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 320 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages and a free bonus print. Includes quarter binding with special onlaid plate on the front cover boards. A. 2 print set. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. 5 postcard set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. 3 bookmark set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
6. Notes from the Shadowed City by Jeffrey Alan Love September 2016 Designed by Jeffrey Alan Love and John Fleskes. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-933865-92-8. $24.95 cover price, 6 x 9 inches, 160 pages.
7. Storms at Sea Deluxe Edition by Mark Schultz September 2016 Introduction by John W.G. Christensen. Designed by John Fleskes and Mark Schultz. Edited by John Fleskes. Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1933865-69-0. $100.00 cover price, 13.5 x 10.5 inches, 82 pages. A. 2 print set. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
8. Spectrum 23: The Best in Contemporary Fantastic Art November 2016 Year in Review by John Fleskes. Grandmaster introduction by Rebecca Léveillé-Guay. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-89-8. $35.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-90-4. $45.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages.
2015 Flesk Titles
1. Arthur AdamsMonsters Attack!!! July 2015 Designed by Arpad Terek. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-84-3. $20.00 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
2. Surrender, My Sweet by Bruce Timm July 2015 Designed by John Fleskes and Bruce Timm Paperback limited to 1000 copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-83-6. $25.00 cover price. 5.5 x 7 inches, 64 pages.
3. Flesk Blank Sketchbooks July 2015 Frank Cho Cover. $7.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 48 pages. Terry Dodson Cover. $7.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 48 pages. Iain McCaig Cover. $7.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 48 pages. Mark Schultz Cover. $7.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 48 pages. Bruce Timm Cover. $7.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 48 pages.
4. Pridelands by Daren Bader and Lance HaunRogue. August 2015 Art by Daren Bader. Written by Lance HaunRogue. Designed by Arpad Terek. Paperback limited to 500 copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-82-9. $20 cover price, 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
5. Tribes of Kai by Daren Bader and Lance HaunRogue. August 2015 Art by Daren Bader. Written by Lance HaunRogue. Designed by Arpad Terek. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1933865-70-6. $24.95 cover price, 8 x 12 inches, 80 pages Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-71-3. $50.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 96 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. A. 2 print set. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
6. The Book of Giants by Petar Meseldzija August 2015 Designed by Petar Meseldzija and Arpad Terek. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-67-6. $34.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 160 pages Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-68-3. $60.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 176 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. A. Bonus print. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
7. Mark Schultz: Portfolio: The Complete Various Drawings August 2015 Introduction by Zander Cannon. Forward by Mark Schultz. Designed by John Fleskes and Mark Schultz. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-933865-72-0. $50.00 cover price, 11.5 x 12 inches, 272 pages. Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 1000 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-73-7. $100.00 cover price, 11.5 x 12 inches, 274 pages.
8. Storms at Sea by Mark Schultz August 2015 Introduction by John W.G. Christensen. Designed by John Fleskes and Mark Schultz. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1933865-66-9. $24.95 cover price, 8 x 11.5 inches, 80 pages
9. Imagery From the Bird’s Home: The Art of Bill Carman October 2015 Forward by Bill Carman. Designed by Bill Carman. Edited by Bill Carman and John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1933865-74-4. $40 cover price, 9.5 x 11 inches, 192 pages Publisher hardcover edition limited to 300 copies. ISBN: 978-1933865-75-1. $50 cover price, 9.5 x 11 inches, 208 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages.
10. Spectrum 22: The Best in Contemporary Fantastic Art November 2015 Year in Review by John Fleskes. Grandmaster introduction by Gary Gianni. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-80-5. $35.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-81-2. $45.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages.
11.The Art of Elfquest. Art by Wendy Pini. Words by Richard and Wendy Pini. December 2015 Introduction by John Fleskes. Designed by Arpad Terek. Edited by John Fleskes and Richard Pini. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1933865-78-2. $50.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages Deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1933865-79-9. $100.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 306 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages and a free bonus print. Includes quarter binding with special onlaid plate on the front cover boards. A. 2 print set. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. B. 5 postcard set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. C. 3 bookmark set. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
12. Elfquest Coloring Book. Art by Wendy Pini December 2015 Designed by John Fleskes and Richard and Wendy Pini. Paperback. Free exclusive for Kickstarter supporters. 9 x 12 inches, 32 pages.
13. The Art of The Dam Keeper December 2015 Designed by Pamela Hsu and John Fan. Edited by John Fan and John Fleskes. Written Contributions by Roland Kelts. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-85-0. $40.00 cover price. 7.5 x 9 inches, 168 pages.
2014 Flesk Titles
1. Wayne Thiebaud: Works on Paper 1948-2004by Michael Zakian January, 2014. Introduction and essay by Michael Zakian. Designed by John Fleskes. Edited by John Fleskes and Michael Zakian. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-882705-11-5. $40.00 cover price. 11.75 x 10 inches, 112 pages. Packaged and designed for the Weisman Museum of Art, Pepperdine University.
2. Masquerade: A Terry Dodson Sketchbook July 2014 Paperback, $15.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16 pages.
3. Monterey Now: Warren Chang October 2014 Introduction and interview by Charlotte Eyerman. Paperback, ISBN: 978-1-933865-65-2. $20.00 cover price. 8.5 x 9 inches, 32 pages.
4. Spectrum 21: The Best in Contemporary Fantastic Art November 2014 Year in Review by John Fleskes Grandmaster introduction by Terri Windling. Tribute by William Stout. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-57-7. $35.00 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-58-4. $45.00 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages.
5. Drawing Beautiful Women: The Frank Cho Method November 2014 Introduction by Mark Schultz. Edited and designed by Frank Cho and John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-59-1. $19.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 120 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-933865-60-7. $29.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 120 pages. Hardcover publisher edition with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-61-4. $34.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 136 pages. Hardcover publisher signed edition with jacket in slipcase limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-62-4. $50.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 136 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. Studio Edition. ISBN: 978-1-933865-63-8. $150 cover price, 12 x 17 inches, 140 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. Studio Edition signed and limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-64-5. $200.00 cover price, 12 x 17 inches, 142 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. A. 4 bonus prints. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
2013 Flesk Titles
1. Illustrating Modern Life: The Golden Age of Illustration from the Kelly Collection January, 2013 Introduction and essay by Michael Zakian. Richard Kelly interview by David Apatoff. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes and Michael Zakian. Hardcover with Jacket. ISBN: 978-1-882705-10-8. $40.00 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 112 pages. Packaged and designed for the Weisman Museum of Art, Pepperdine University.
2. Spectrum Fantastic Art Live 2 May 2013 Introduction by Cathy and Arnie Fenner. Artist introductions by Ari Berk, Bobby Chiu, Gregory Manchess, George Pratt, Bob Self and Greg Spalenka. Afterword by John Fleskes. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-48-5. $29.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 80 pages.
3. Bombshells 7: A Terry Dodson Sketchbook July 2013 Paperback. $15.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16 pages. Packaged and designed for Terry Dodson.
4. The Art of Brom August 2013 Introduction by Arnie Fenner. Afterword by John Fleskes. Designed by Brom. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover Trade Edition with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-49-2. $44.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 208 pages. Hardcover Publisher Edition: Fantasy cover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-50-8. $49.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 224 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. Hardcover Publisher Edition: Nude cover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-51-5. $49.95 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 224 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. Hardcover deluxe signed edition in slipcase limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-52-2. $250.00 cover price, 9 x 12 inches, 225 pages. Includes 16 bonus pages. A. 5 print set in envelope. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
5. Brom: Sketches, Drawings and Musings August 2013 Designed by Brom. Paperback, saddle-stitched. ISBN: 978-1-933865-53-9. $15.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16-pages.
6. Carbonby Mark Schultz July 2013 Introduction by Mark Schultz. Designed by John Fleskes and Mark Schultz. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-54-6. $24.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 56 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 600 copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-55-3.$40.00 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 57 pages. A. 3 print set. Signed. 8 x 10 inches. Exclusive to Kickstarter supporters.
7. Xenozoicby Mark Schultz (Third printing with new cover.) August 2013 Introduction by Craig Elliott Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-31-7. $39.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 352 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-56-0, $75.00 cover price, 8.5 x 11 inches, 353 pages.
8. Beyond the Known Forest, She Talks with Birdsby Mark Schultz July 2013 Signed print. $50.00. 18 x 24 inches.
9. Naughty and Nice: The Good Girl Art of Bruce Timm 2013 Teaser July 2013 Designed by John Fleskes and Bruce Timm. Paperback signed edition limited to 1000 numbered copies. $15.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16-pages.
10. The Art of Elfquest & Line of Beauty: The Art of Wendy Pini Teaser July 2013 Designed by John Fleskes and Richard and Wendy Pini. Paperback signed edition limited to 1000 numbered copies. $15.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches. Includes 16 bonus pages and a free bonus print.
11. Naughty and Nice: The Good Girl Art of Bruce Timm Big Pocket Edition (Second printing.) September 2013 Introduction by Jim Steranko. Designed by Randall Dahlk, John Fleskes and Bruce Timm. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-47-8. $29.95 cover price. 7.5 x 10 inches, 256 pages.
12. An Evening with Flesk Prime print October 2013 Print signed and numbered limited to 50 prints. $100.00, 17 x 24 inches. Signed by Terry Dodson, Petar Meseldzija, Mark Schultz, Jim Silke and Thomas Yeates. (Only 25 listed for sale to the public)
2012 Flesk Titles
1. The Art of Craig Elliott January 2012 Introduction by Iain McCaig. Foreword by John Fleskes. Designed by Craig Elliott. Hardcover Red Cover Edition with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-39-3. $29.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 68 pages. Hardcover Bra Cover Edition with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-39-3. $29.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 68 pages. Hardcover Nude Cover Edition with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-39-3. $29.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 68 pages.
2. Naughty and Nice: The Good Girl Art of Bruce Timm January 2012 Introduction by Jim Steranko. Designed by Randall Dahlk, John Fleskes and Bruce Timm. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-40-9. $50.00 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe edition in slipcase limited to 1000 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-41-6. $100.00 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 304 pages.
3. Warren Chang: Narrative Paintings January 2012 Introduction by Thomas Valenti. Essays by Max Ginsburg and Steve Hauk. Designed by Todd Casey. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover with Jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-43-0. $45.00 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 112 pages.
4. Spectrum Fantastic Art Live!2012 commemorative show book May 2012 Introduction by Cathy and Arnie Fenner. Artist introductions and interviews by Tray Batey, Christopher Golden, Lorne Lanning, Christopher Paolini and William Stout. Afterword by John Fleskes. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Hardcover with Jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-45-4. $29.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages.
5. Naughty and Nice: The Good Girl Art of Bruce Timm 2012 Teaser July 2012 Designed by John Fleskes and Bruce Timm. Paperback Signed edition limited to 1000 numbered copies. $15.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16-pages.
6. James Bama: Personal Works December 2012 Essay by John Fleskes. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Hardcover with Jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-42-3. $45.00 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 144 pages. Includes bonus 8.5 x 11 print.
7. Jim Silke Sketchbook Volume One December 2012 Introduction by Jim Silke. Designed by John Fleskes and Jim Silke. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-46-1. $19.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages.
8. Naughty and Nice: The Good Girl Art of Bruce Timm Big Pocket Edition December 2012 Introduction by Jim Steranko. Designed by Randall Dahlk, John Fleskes and Bruce Timm. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-47-8. $29.95 cover price. 7.5 x 10 inches, 256 pages.
Production assistance provided for the following sketchbook for Terry Dodson 1. Bombshells 6: A Terry Dodson Sketchbook July 2012 Paperback. $15.00, 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16-pages.
Total 2012 page count is 976 pages.
2011 Flesk Titles
1. Mysterious Islandsby Gary Gianni July 2011 Designed by John Fleskes and Gary Gianni. Back cover design by Jim Keegan. Paperback signed edition limited to 1000 numbered copies, saddle-stitched. ISBN: 978-1-933865-37-9. $10.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16 pages.
2. Al Williamson Archives Volume Two July 2011 Introduction by Victor Williamson Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-34-8. $19.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages.
3. Mark Schultz: Various Drawings Volume Five July 2011 Introduction by Fred Perry. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-35-5. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 800 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-36-2. $34.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
4. Xenozoicby Mark Schultz (Second printing.) July 2011 Introduction by Craig Elliott Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-31-7. $39.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 352 pages.
5. Naughty and Nice: The Good Girl Art of Bruce Timm Teaser July 2011 Designed by John Fleskes and Bruce Timm. Paperback signed edition limited to 1000 numbered copies. $25.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16-pages.
6. Flesk Prime August 2011 Designed, edited and written by John Fleskes. Jacket design by Randall Dahlk. Hardcover with Jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-38-6. $24.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 64 pages. A. An Evening with Flesk Prime print. September 2011 Print signed and numbered limited to 50 prints. $100.00 cover price. 17 x 24 inches. Signed by Elliott, Gianni, Meseldzija, Schultz and Stout. (Only 25 listed for sale to the public)
Production assistance provided for the following two sketchbooks for Terry Dodson 1. Reveriesby Terry Dodson July 2011 Paperback signed edition limited to 500 numbered copies. $25.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16-pages.
2. Bombshells 5: A Terry Dodson Sketchbook July 2011 Paperback. $15.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16-pages.
Total 2011 count is 240 pages and 1 print.
2010 Flesk Titles
1. Blue Bookby Mark Schultz March 2010 Designed by John Fleskes and Mark Schultz. Paperback signed edition limited to 1000 numbered copies. $10.00 cover price. 5.5 x 8.5 inches, 16 pages.
2. James Bama Sketchbook: A Seventy-Year Journey, Traveling From the Far East to the Wild West May 2010 Introduction by Arnie and Cathy Fenner. Essay by John Fleskes. Designed, edited and written by John Fleskes. Cover designed by Randall Dahlk. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-24-9. $24.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 144 pages.
3. William Stout: Hallucinations by William Stout July 2010 Forward by William Stout. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-25-6. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-26-3. $29.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
4. Al Williamson Archives July 2010 Introduction by Angelo Torres. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-29-4. $19.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages.
5. Harvey Dunn: Illustrator and Painter of the Pioneer Westby Walt Reed August 2010 Introduction by Lynn Verschoor, director, South Dakota Art Museum Forward by Saul Tepper. Preface by Walt Reed. Afterword by Charles J. Smith Hardcover with Jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-19-5. $50.00 cover price. 12.5 x 9.75 inches, 304 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe edition in slipcase with special upgraded book binding, bonus art (unpublished experimental painting “Romance,” from the 1920s) and the proof of an undated photo of Harvey Dunn bound in on special signature double page. Signed by Walt Reed. Limited to 350 numbered copies (100 copies sold through Flesk, 250 reserved for the South Dakota Art Museum and Illustration House, NYC.) ISBN: 978-1-933865-20-1. $125.00 cover price. 12.5 x 9.75 inches, 304 pages.
6. The Legend of Steel Bashawby Petar Meseldžija October 2010 Written and illustrated by Petar Meseldžija. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-30-0. $19.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages.
7. William Stout: Inspirations by William Stout November 2010 Forward by William Stout. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-27-0. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 650 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-28-7. $29.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
8. Xenozoicby Mark Schultz November 2010 Introduction by Craig Elliott Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-31-7. $39.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 352 pages.
9. Jungle Girlsby Jim Silke December 2010 Designed by Jim Silke. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-32-4. $24.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 84 pages. Hardcover signed and numbered deluxe edition with jacket limited to 500 copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-33-1. $44.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 84 pages
Total 2010 page count is 1124 pages.
2009 Flesk Titles
January 23, 2009 marked my first full time date running Flesk Publications. Prior to this, I held a full-time position at a tech company for a decade. This explains the growth in the number of titles released from this year forward.
1. Twenty-Thousand Leagues Under the Seaby Jules Verne adapted by Gary Gianni January 2009 Introduction by Ray Bradbury. Designed and Colored by Jim & Ruth Keegan. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-933865-08-9. $24.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe edition limited to 600 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-09-6. $34.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 64 pages. Hardcover super deluxe with original art limited to 40 copies. (Prices varied based on artwork.)
2. William Stout: Prehistoric Life Muralsby William Stout January 2009 (indicia states January 2009, but it arrived in stores in February) Introduction by Ray Harryhausen. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-10-2. $39.95 cover price. 10 x 12 inches, 144 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe edition limited to 600 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-11-9. $49.95 cover price. 10 x 12 inches, 144 pages. Hardcover super deluxe with original art in slipcase.
3. Major Thrill’s Adventure Bookby Gary Gianni July 2009 Designed by Gary Gianni and John Fleskes. Paperback, saddle-stitched. ISBN: 978-1-933865-18-8. $15.00 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 32 pages.
4. Mark Schultz Various Drawings Volume Four August 2009 Introduction by Brendan Burford. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-16-4. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 800 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-17-1. $29.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
5. Al Williamson’s Flash Gordon: A Lifelong Vision of the Heroicby Mark Schultz June 2009 Introduction by Sergio Aragonés. Text by Mark Schultz. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-12-6. $29.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 256 pages. Hardcover edition with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-13-3. $44.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 256 pages.
6. New Dinosaur Discoveries A-Z by William Stout December 2009 Written and illustrated by William Stout. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Hardcover. ISBN: 978-1-933865-23-2. $14.95 cover price. 6 x 8.5 inches, 64 pages.
7. Dinosaur Discoveriesby William Stout December 2009 Written and illustrated by William Stout. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Edited by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-22-5. $24.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 144 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-21-8. $39.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 144 pages.
Total 2009 page count is 752 pages.
2008 Flesk Titles
1. The Prince Valiant Pageby Gary Gianni June 2008 Introduction by Robert Wagner. Foreword by Mike Mignola. Edited and designed by Gary Gianni and John Fleskes. Cover design by John Fleskes, Gary Gianni and Jim Keegan Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-04-1. $29.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 112 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe edition in slipcase limited to 1000 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-05-8. $39.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 112 pages. Hardcover super-deluxe signed edition limited to 50 numbered copies and containing a tipped in Prince Valiant strip preliminary in pencil by Gianni. (first 50 copies of the hardcover signed deluxe)
2. Xenozoic Tales by Mark Schultz July 2008 Regular print. $19.95 cover price. 18 x 24 inches Deluxe Signed print limited to 100 numbered prints on special thick archival paper. $99.95 cover price. 18 x 24 inches.
Total 2008 count is 112 pages and 1 print
2007 Flesk Titles
1. Franklin Booth: Painter with a Penby John Fleskes (Third printing.) July 2007 Introduction by Roy Krenkel. Foreword by Walt Reed. Essay by John Fleskes Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Cover design for third printing by Randall Dahlk. Interiors designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-0-9723758-0-1. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 112 pages.
2. Mark Schultz: Various Drawings Volume Three August 2007 Introduction by Michael Ryan. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-02-7. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 1000 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-03-4. $29.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
3. Steve Rude: Artist in Motionby Steve Rude and John Fleskes December 2007 Introduction by Mike Baron. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-1-933865-06-5. $39.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 208 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe in slipcase limited to 1000 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-07-2. $74.95 cover price. 9 x 12 inches, 208 pages. Hardcover super-limited edition to 13 roman numeral copies with bound in original watercolor artwork in a unique clam shell tray case.
Total 2007 page count is 256 pages.
2006 Flesk Titles
1. Mark Schultz: Various Drawings Volume Two July 2006 Introduction by Gary Gianni. Commentary by Mark Schultz. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-933865-00-3. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages. Hardcover Signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 1000 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-1-933865-01-0. $29.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
2. James Bama: American Realistby Brian Kane October 2006 Written and designed by Brian M. Kane in cooperation with Mr. Bama. Introduction by Harlan Ellison. Foreword by Len Leone. Hardcover with jacket. ISBN: 978-0972375-88-7. $34.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 160 pages. Signed deluxe edition in slipcase limited to 1000 numbered copies. ISBN: 978-0972375-89-4. $74.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 160 pages. Includes James Bama: American Realist, A flim by Paul Jilbert bonus DVD.
Total 2006 page count is 208 pages.
2005 Flesk Titles
1. Mark Schultz: Various Drawings Volume One July 2005 Introduction by Mark Schultz. Designed by Randall Dahlk. Paperback. ISBN: 0-9723758-6-4. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages. Hardcover signed deluxe edition with jacket limited to 500 numbered copies. ISBN: 0-9723758-7-2. $29.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 48 pages.
Total 2005 page count is 48 pages.
2004 Flesk Title
1. Joseph Clement Coll: A Legacy in Line by John Fleskes July 2004 Introduction by Gary Gianni. Foreword by John Fleskes. Essay by Nick Meglin. Designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 0-9723758-3-X. $24.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 208 pages. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-9723758-4-8. $39.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 208 pages. Hardcover Deluxe Signed edition with jacket limited to 300 numbered copies and signed by Fleskes, Gianni and Meglin. ISBN: 0-9723758-5-6. $49.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 208 pages.
2. Franklin Booth: Painter with a Penby John Fleskes (Second printing.) 2004 Introduction by Roy Krenkel. Foreword by Walt Reed. Essay by John Fleskes. Interiors designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-0-9723758-0-1. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 112 pages.
Total 2004 page count is 208 pages.
2003 Flesk Title
1. Joseph Clement Coll: The Art of Adventure by John Fleskes July 2003 Introduction by Al Williamson and Mark Schultz. Essay by John Fleskes. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 0-9723758-1-3. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 168 pages. Hardcover edition with jacket limited to 800 copies. ISBN: 0-9723758-2-1, $39.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 168 pages.
Total 2003 page count is 168 pages.
2002 Flesk Title
1. Franklin Booth: Painter with a Penby John Fleskes March 2002 Introduction by Roy Krenkel. Foreword by Walt Reed. Essay by John Fleskes. Edited and designed by John Fleskes. Paperback. ISBN: 978-0-9723758-0-1. $19.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 112 pages. Hardcover edition limited to 500 copies. $39.95 cover price. 8.5 x 11 inches, 112 pages.
Total 2002 page count is 112 pages.
My first book!
Scanning assistance: After the release of the Franklin Booth book, Gary Gianni asked me if I could scan his art for use in an upcoming self-published book of his. I scanned the original artwork for the 40 story pages for Corpus Monstrum by Gary Gianni, published by Hieronymus Press in 2002. Jim Keegan designed the book.
I was talking with Vicky and the subject arose regarding what our top sellers were for 2022. I never sorted out a top 10 list before. Out of curiosity we pulled up the numbers and found ourselves surprised with the results.
We decided to determine the rankings based upon the quantity sold rather than the gross sales. We then combined all of the editions for each title. For instance, paperback and hardcover and limited edition sales were all combined to make one grand total for each title.
Franklin Booth is the clear winner when factoring in both total sales and the total number of books sold. This book did far better than I expected. It came as a complete surprise when the hardcover edition that we offered on Kickstarter sold out. This book served as our Flesk 20th anniversary title and we poured a lot of passion into it. The success of the collection is a testament to just how extraordinary Booth’s art is. It’s great to see how someone who left us over 75 years ago can remain so relevant to a contemporary audience. And I can’t thank Alice Carter enough for her insightful manuscript detailing Booth’s life.
There is no magic formula to knowing how any one of our books will be received. I wanted to see this book back in print and guessed that others may be interested. Bruce Timm’s personal naughty drawings remain a bestseller year after year. He is a joy to work with and we have more books in the works together. Our other book with Bruce, The Big Tease, is currently sold out. I’ll bring this back to print once the shipping and printing costs drop back down to reasonable levels.
This was a very welcome surprise to see this title at the number three spot. This beautifully illustrated book is packed with Gianni’s pencil drawings. It’s a great value at only $19.95 for the paperback. Marcelo Anciano (editor and designer) and Gary Gianni poured their efforts and time into the creative design and production of this book. It was my pleasure to publish it.
Since we didn’t ship this book until 2022, I went ahead and rolled over the Kickstarter pre-orders from 2021 to combine with the 2022 sales. Even if I didn’t it would still have made the top 10. A gorgeous book and one that was a delight to work on with Tyler. His art is breathtaking. I’m delighted that he was willing to let us publish a collection of his art. We have some ideas that we are playing around with for a new book that will come out in the future.
I’m showing the cover for Spectrum 25 by Paul Bonner, but this is a combined entry for Spectrum 21-27. By grouping the sales for all seven volumes this book hits the fifth spot on the list. The sales for all editions for this series jumped in 2021 and 2022. Our distributor blew through the remaining inventory. Each volume is now sold out from our distributor and officially out of print. We have the remaining copies on our website.
No surprise here. Frank has always been a top and a steady seller here at Flesk. This book consists of all of the material that we wanted to add to his big The Art of Frank Cho book, but had to omit for space considerations. I feel satisfied and happy to have been able to share more great Cho art in this book. Frank is one of the best draftsmen in the business. His figure work is astonishing.
Even after almost a decade in print, The Art of Brom rules! We are sold out of the publisher edition and copies here at our office. The last remaining hardcovers are with our distributor and will sell out this year. Brom is a silly and really good guy who happens to draw dark subjects. I hope you have had a chance to read his novels too!
The most common question that we hear at events, in comments and through emails are, “When is new Xenozoic material coming?” My answer to you is that anything Mark wants us to publish–whenever it is done and ready–we will support him and get it into your hands. (Sorry for the politician answer.) We have had this Xenozoic book in print since 2010 and it remains one of our top sellers. This collects everything that Mark has written and drawn to date. It’s a terrific story that I enjoy reading over and over.
This book was over 15 years in the making. I met Brad when I was first starting to publish and he was first starting to become a serious painter. We always kept in touch and would visit with one another from time to time. We talked about working with one another for years. We remained patient and let the time present itself to us. The book came out exactly when it was meant to. We never rushed it and remained patient. I am thrilled with how beautiful it looks. The magic square idea that Brad came up with is brilliant and adds to how special this book is. I was reminded of something very important with this book. Brad’s collection may be the latest book that I have published, yet it remains Brad’s first. I have to work with everyone, and on every book, as if it is the first. The quality of the book always takes precedence over the release date and quantity of titles I publish in a year. I should note that if we determined this list by gross sales, this would jump to the number two spot.
I think it is pretty well known that it is tough to get published by me and that I do not take book proposals. A big part of this is because I made the conscience decision to keep this company small. That limits how much I can do in a year. When I received the email from Mark asking if I was interested in publishing this book it took me less than a minute to reply with a “yes!” Getting to work with Mark and Kevin was a dream. I absolutely love this book and am proud to have had the chance to publish it.
Honorable Mentions
Now it’s time for some honorable mentions. The Big Tease by Bruce Timm andBallpoint Beauties by Frank Cho may have been on the top ten if not for both titles selling out earlier in the year. I have plans to reprint both as soon as the supply chain issues have calmed down and shipping prices have subsided.
Next up is Covenant by Allen Williams. This book was a big seller in 2021. It’s nice to see it still being appreciated during the second year after its release. The Thousand Demon Tree by Jeffrey Alan Love was also popular. It would surely have had a higher ranking if it did not sell out at our distributor. I have plans to reprint this alongside Jeff’s next book that we will publish later this year.
The final book that I’ll note is Art of Gary Gianni for George R. R. Martin’s Seven Kingdoms. This is another magical collection put together by the editor and designer, Marcelo Anciano, and the artist, Gary Gianni. These two have packaged some extraordinary books and make quite the team. Again, this represents another time when I was lucky enough to publish a book by two people who I admire.
Back in June, Bruce Timm emailed me about a fresh stack of originals that he pulled together for me to scan for possible upcoming projects. When he mentioned that there was over 400 pieces we both got nervous about shipping them in the mail.
Vicky and I drove down to the LA area to scan and photograph the originals to make the process smoother. We arrived back home with enough material for three new Timm books. Pretty exciting!
This picture is of our makeshift office at the hotel. You can see a stack of originals on the scanner, and even more in the binder. There is another full binder that you can’t see in this picture. Bruce makes all of his art on standard copy paper. This is his favorite type of paper to work on.
Since this trip, Bruce has discovered more artwork. Another photography trip is in our future!
The first all-new book of three is planned for the fall 2023 at the earliest. I will share the details about exactly what each of these titles will focus on in the future. In the meantime, we hope you continue to enjoy The Big Tease and Naughty and Nice.
I’ve always held the belief that whatever challenges you face today are preparing you for something bigger in the future. These tests serve to build your confidence and provide you with the experience to help you to make the right decisions when it counts. Rather than look at an uncomfortable situation as a negative, I lean into it knowing that there will be a purpose revealed to me at some point when I’m ready to receive the lesson.
I also accept that as a business owner it is unhealthy to always win. Situations and scenarios should not always work to your favor. If they did, then there is no growth or learning and you may become entitled or sloppy. Things that do not work out were not meant to be. If I pursue a project and spend countless hours chasing after it, just to fall flat, I see it as my moving forward in other ways. No time is wasted and in the future there are opportunities that will arise from the failures of today.
Having this faith has always been helpful to me. That I believe it to be true allows my brain to move forward instead becoming paralyzed when faced with failure.
Over these last few years my belief in myself has been tested many times over. Since the pandemic hit these tests have arisen over and over again. As someone who has run a business for twenty years I can assure you that I don’t take any of our success for granted. It doesn’t take much to lose a business, even in the best of times. I’ve always been aware that it could all go away tomorrow, and that past success doesn’t guarantee future success.
I had all of these big plans for our twentieth anniversary with a full line of books coming out monthly throughout 2022. I quickly realized that I had to focus on adjusting and changing all of my plans. The ongoing issues that face us all continue to remind me that the flow of the river of life changes so suddenly and so often that I keep needing to change boats and paddles. Planning in advance doesn’t necessarily help. I’ve always been one who welcomes and gets a rush out of change. It keeps my brain stimulated. These last three years, since the pandemic hit, have been tough. I wouldn’t call it fun, and it has not carried the same type of usual excitement that I get out of challenges. There have been moments of high stress, which I will offer some insight into.
Prior to the pandemic the costs of business and scheduling were more predictable. I would deliver a book to the printer in Hong Kong and it would be delivered to our warehouse in California three months later. In rare cases it would take three and a half months. The shipping of a full cargo container of books would cost approximately $2500 after any processing fees and taxes and local truck delivery. During the peak of the pandemic this cost for a single container escalated to $26,000. The price is going back down now and is currently hovering at about $10,000 and it will drop more as the year progresses. I could write a full blog on the reasons why this happened and why I think the prices will eventually drop back down, but that is another topic. The focus is that our costs to have books printed and delivered skyrocketed. Especially as you factor in the paper costs rising about 40%. Imagine, a book that previously cost about $23,000 pre-pandemic to have made now costing upwards of $40,000 in less than a year.
What I did in March 2020, since I predicted that the shipping and manufacturing costs would explode, is I reprinted and had a batch of our books printed just as the pandemic hit. The printers had no work and needed business. I locked in good prices on paper and had a bunch of back stock printed. By the time our stock was delivered to us in the fall of 2020, manufacturers realized that people were still buying and were desperately trying to ramp back up. That’s when the shortages began in earnest and there weren’t enough cargo containers to handle the influx of goods coming to the west coast. This decision that I made early in 2020 saved us. We had a healthy amount of stock on our back list titles and it kept us afloat. This was a calculated risk, but it turned out to be a good call.
The other thing that got us through the pandemic was our website that was set up for direct orders going as far back as 2002. I worked at book stores and comic stores back in the nineties and had over a decade of convention experience helping friends at their booths. I’ve been involved in mail order transactions since the nineties. I knew that I wanted a solid website when I started my business in 2002 and allowing for a direct ordering system online. When the pandemic hit, our website sales took off. We had a solid system in place to handle the influx of orders and the stock to meet demand.
The other thing that saved us was using Kickstarter. Getting advance support and pledges from people helped us to cover these quickly rising production costs. It was enough to cover our warehouse rent, paychecks, artist royalties, printing and the extra shipping costs. I greatly reduced my salary and even did not pay myself on some months. Our profits took a hit, but I was happy to have a business that was surviving and where all of our bills were being paid when so many others were having a tough time.
Another thing set us up for the pandemic. In the fall of 2019 I felt that a recession would hit in the spring of 2020. This was due to my observation that cheap loans were readily available to businesses and the average debt for companies was at a high point. Once a recession hits, I felt that as profits would go down, businesses would be using their limited funds to repay debt and struggle through 2020. I made sure we had no debt and increased our savings in case things went soar in 2020. I was wrong about the recession since the pandemic hit, but my decision to better position our finances set us up to invest in our back stock with the printer in 2020.
Then, in the fall of 2021 some bad news hit us. Our printer of 17 years went out of business. I had such a good relationship with them. Due to the trust, I did not pay for printing or shipping bills until 30 days after the books arrived. As you can recall, it took three months to get books printed and delivered, then 30 days later I would pay the shipper and printer using our pre-orders funds. I would print 2-3 books at a time, and print about 8-12 books a year.
Not only did so many wonderful people who I worked with for years lose their jobs at the printer, I lost this relationship that I had built up over 17 years. I tried our backup printer, but they were nowhere to be found. I tried a printer in Canada. They could not take on any new clients since they were overwhelmed. The U.S. was not an option since the costs here at home are not affordable and the printers here are not set up for high end art books. In pre-pandemic times a new printer would fight for my line of books. Now, the printers could not handle the demand and were not even replying to emails. I found a printer in Belgium for Tyler Jacobson’s book. The costs were staggering to get it printed and delivery took seven months, but we got it made and into the hands of our Kickstarter supporters. I’m so grateful that the campaign did well. It just covered all of the costs.
Then, in December 2021 one of my long-time contacts with the printer who had closed in Hong Kong emailed me. She was with a new printer in Hong Kong. She knew how particular I am about printing and set me up with a new company there. I turned in our Franklin Booth, Brad Kunkle and Lupente: Flesk Artist Showcase (this book I have not advertised yet and will tell you all about it soon), on February 1, 2022. I negotiated fair terms, they ordered the paper, got the books printed and here we are 7-8 months later and they are arriving at the Oakland port in California soon.
Early this year, I made a conscious decision to hold back on delivering any of our other books to the printer for six months. A huge risk since this greatly affects our cash flow. I knew back in December 2021 that a few things would happen this year. The first was that manufacturers would print too many goods, that consumer spending would slow in 2022 as people started to travel and go out more, and that businesses would be stuck with too much product and have to sell at a discount to clear out inventory. Then, the printers and shippers would be more eager for work again and that prices would start to drop and turnaround time would improve. I focused on making new books here in the background, then pushed almost our entire line of books to 2023. But, this would never have been possible if I did not plan for it and make adjustments and certain decisions in advance. It was a big risk. But, I have faith it will pay off for us.
Currently, the biggest challenge we face is cash flow. As I mentioned, in the past books took 3 months to get made and delivered to us. Now it is taking 7 months on average and the base costs are much more expensive. Instead of our nice cycle of 2-3 books every quarter, we have 2-3 books every 7 months. Funds are being stretched out far greater than ever before. Also, paper mills and printers are struggling with cash flow. If a printer has to wait seven or eight months to get paid from a publisher, so does the paper mill. They are running out of cash, so they are all asking for deposits to help them manage their cash flow better. This is totally reasonable and understandable. This will probably continue until late next year. These deposits have resulted in thinning out our immediate cash flow. I do think it is important for printers to take deposits, since it holds publishers accountable. Otherwise, the publisher may over order or get too far ahead of themselves. It helps both sides. The printers may also be concerned that some publishers may not be able to pay their obligations later this year.
A challenge that I foresee for the future relates to our dwindling stock on back list titles. It’s a big positive that so many of our titles are getting thinned out. Now, it’s just a matter of replenishing the stock while navigating the best time to have them printed. Reprints tend to have smaller print runs. At today’s prices it is not viable to have them made. I’m watching things closely to make a decision regarding when and what titles can be brought back to print. For instance, The Big Tease by Bruce Timm could use a new printing.
At the moment I have quite a batch of books that are done and ready for the printer. As stressful and wild the last few years have been, we have managed to make a lot of really cool books that will be released in the future. As soon as the Franklin Booth and Brad Kunkle books arrive and we ship out all of the pre-orders, I will then make a pair of new announcements and run a new Kickstarter. I don’t like to take pre-orders for more than two books at a time. It limits how many books we can print right now, since I’m just a guy running a little publishing house, but I’m here for the long haul and aim to have a robust and solid company that makes nice books well into the future. Our saving grace has always been the support of people buying our books and placing pre-orders. Each and every day I am grateful to each and every person who has ever bought one of our books. My passion for books, my enjoyment in working with the artists, and my pleasure in getting our books into the hands of people keeps me going.
I’ve also been very lucky to have Vicky here working tirelessly at the office. She started as someone who occasionally came in to help pack books nearly five years ago, to now being an invaluable part of this business, including book design, photography and website updates. Good things don’t happen without the help of good people.
The Telegraph Wire #19 cover by Arthur Adams and Mike Mignola. February-March 1985. This was a promotional giveaway from the Comics & Comix stores in the Bay Area. This Longshot and Rocket Racoon piece is a very early collaboration by these two legends!
We’ve been working hard here at Flesk on the upcoming The Art of Arthur Adams: A Forty-Year Retrospective book. This collection will show examples from each year of his career that spans from 1982 to 2022. I had a call with Arthur that lasted almost five hours last Friday to gather stories to use as captions. I have the captions for the first 100 pages typed up so far. The book has been fully mapped out and all of the art has been selected. Just as soon as I am done writing up the remaining captions, we will pour our energy into the book design. I can see it very clearly in my head, so the design work will flow nicely.
This is a really fun book to work on. We’re shooting for a mid-June delivery date to the printer, followed by a Kickstarter launch once it is on the press. I always feel much more comfortable when a book is done before launching a campaign.
Besides this book, our Rachel and Terry Dodson book is coming along very well. I mapped out their book and have one-third of their captions typed up. And, two other books that I have not even announced yet are almost done!
