Washington D.C. is no stranger to conspiracy plots, deception, and maybe even a spy or two, but another group of conspirators have surfaced in the area, this group made up of artists and writers who’ve joined forces to create comic books and graphic novels.
DC Conspiracy traces its roots to a bar called Dr. Dremo’s Taphouse, which would later inspire a series of anthologies. Founded in 2005 as a sort of social network, the collective shuns the creation of rules, officers, agendas, or formal elections.
Michael Auger is a member of Conspiracy and by day works as an art teacher, graphic designer, art director, and freelance artist. He started drawing as a kid wallpapering his room with drawings and illustrations while in high school.
“I attended the Columbus College of Art and Design in Ohio on a four year merit scholarship. I graduated in 1998 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and returned to the Washington D.C. area where I set up my freelance business Michael Auger Studios,” he said.
Conspiracy, in addition to their comic and graphic novels, also organizes counter culture festivals which combine live rock music, freak shows, and comic book vendors.
“I am actively involved in the local Washington D.C. art scene and first connected with the DC Conspiracy at one of the early Counter Culture festivals they hosted. The DC Conspiracy excels in balancing fun and productivity and I really enjoy the dynamic of this group of talented people,” said Auger who describes his style as offbeat.
Look at Auger’s website and you’ll find a diverse selection of vibrant eye catching art. Auger says some of his favorite influences are Tim Burton, Neil Gaiman, Matt Groening, Jim Henson, and Bill Waterson to name a few.
“My artwork is unapologetically bold, colorful, and fun. The assorted characters I create usually have both an off-kilter quality as well as childlike charm and appeal to the young at heart,” said Auger.
Auger is currently is working on a comic with fellow conspirator Matt Dembicki, a graphic novel for American University, and a number of t-shirt designs for various clients.
“I enjoy being a freelance artist. I create artwork for people all over the world, most of who I never meet face to face, and the projects are always so unusual. It’s a great feeling to bring other people’s ideas to life,” said Auger.
More of Auger’s work and contact information can be found at www.arty4ever.com. DC Conspiracy publishes “Magic Bullet” a free bi-annual comic newspaper available at Metro stations, comic book stores, and bars. More information on DC Conspiracy can be found on their Facebook page www.facebook.com/the.dc.conspiracy.
- Auger's sculpture Dapper Arachnid
By Daryl Buchanan
MoCoVox News--
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