DIAMONDSTEEL COMICS PRESENTS
Recent Press Release
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
24/11/2015
St Andrews Day launch for Scottish Superhero
Saltire graphic novel set to take on Batman and Spiderman
This St Andrews Day, 30th November, sees the launch of the appropriately titled “Saltire” graphic novel, a two hundred page comic book that centres on Scotland’s first superhero. A mix of history, legend and modern superhero dynamics, the critically acclaimed new release is already being compared to Braveheart, Lord of the Rings and Marvel’s Avengers.
Written by Glaswegian John Ferguson and illustrated by Fife artist Claire Roe, the lavish artwork portrays an epic tale amid a mythological Scotland, the big, blue, ginger main character battling the might of empire and the villainous characters of Scottish folklore through some breathtaking set pieces.
With appearances at the Dundee Literary Festival and the Edinburgh Book Festival behind him, author Ferguson is excited about the upcoming launch. “I can’t wait. This book is a genuine competitor to Batman and Spiderman and it’s illustrated by some of the most talented artists in the country. Superhero fans are going to love it but it’s also attracting a lot of interest from all over the world because of the Scottish connection.”
The new release, titled “Saltire: Immortal Guardian” is part of an ongoing series that takes the protagonist from ancient times, through the most iconic moments in Scottish history, all with an added twist. Ferguson says “The series tells a pseudo-history of Scotland, it’s a great way to mix fact with fiction and add an extra dimension that the reader might not expect without taking away from the realistic feel of the narrative. Both superheroes and the story of freedom have universal appeal so this isn’t just a book for the Scottish market.”
Two years in the making, the book’s pages have been meticulously inked, coloured and lettered to compete with the standard set by Marvel and DC comic books and Ferguson believes the skill set in Scotland is second to none. He continues “Our art team is supremely talented and the Saltire franchise is just part of a very vibrant creative scene in Scotland. Doing well internationally, critically and commercially, just shows the quality of what we are producing and how far we can go.”
Saltire: Immortal Guardian will be available in stores nationwide from November 30th and Saltire creator John Ferguson will be at a variety of signings over the St Andrews Day weekend.
Saltire – Immortal Guardian
A power grows to the south, a power bent on destruction...
When a peaceful land is faced with the might of a vengeful enemy, its legendary guardians must stand as one or kneel before a tyrannical foe. Not human, not spirit or shadow, it will bring despair.
As chaos reigns over a desolate time, embattled warriors confront the carnage of a belligerent God in a desperate conflict to protect the innocent. With courage shaken, faith tested, and hope extinguished amidst the fires of war, the immortal protector awakens to face the ultimate battle for freedom.
...to fight, to endure, to survive.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics Twitter: @saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
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Clare Ferguson 07500 903 699 / 01334 840363
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
27/08/2015
POPULAR SUPERHERO PROMOTES LITERACY
Comic book series launches to schools across Scotland.
Struggling to get children to pick up a book? Comic books and graphic novels might be the key to boosting literacy in youngsters, particularly boys. Comics are gaining a new respect in education, with researchers and literacy experts across the globe making a strong argument for graphic story telling within the teaching environment. Often aimed at struggling readers, comic books are typically packed with action and adventure, featuring dynamic characters and engaging language. Now the team behind the Scottish superhero, Saltire, have launched their series on the school eBook system for the new academic year.
‘Comics are intriguing to children not because they are simple, but because they are dynamic,’ says Dr Chris Murray, a comics expert and head of English at the University of Dundee. ‘Not only do they tell exciting adventure stories, but because the individual panels show only fragments of the action, readers have to use their imagination to fill in the gaps. This engages children, and challenges them.’
Emergent readers and older children, who struggle with literacy, are finding comics a great confidence-builder. Series creator John Ferguson says “We are delighted to see the books enter the education system and see graphic novels as an excellent gateway to literacy for a new generation. “
He continues “This is dramatic and dynamic storytelling with action and superheroes at its core. It interweaves Scottish mythology and history with superhero dynamics. It’s going to engage the attention of children across a wide spectrum of reading abilities.”
The hugely successful Saltire series has been translated into Gaelic and Scots language, prompting an Arts and Culture award nomination for promotion of native languages.
Ferguson is enthusiastic about this direction for his graphic novels “We hope to make the Saltire series easily accessible to young Gaelic speakers and encourage more Scots language education through such a modern and popular medium.”
Saltire will join an extensive collection of literature on the RM eBooks system, available in all Scottish schools and for use within their eBook library.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Twitter: @saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
Clare Ferguson
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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07500 903 699
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
17/08/2015
BIGGER, BLUER and BADDER.
Scottish superhero sensation launches remastered deluxe edition of bestselling graphic novel at Glasgow event.
Since its release in 2013, home grown Scottish superhero series “Saltire” has seen great success, featuring at the Edinburgh Book Festival, gaining multiple award nominations and outselling major international superhero franchises within Scotland.
Now the team behind the big, ginger hero have remastered the popular origin story “Saltire Invasion” and will be launching the deluxe edition this weekend at Glasgow Film and Comic Con. The book has been completely reworked since its original release and creator John Ferguson is excited about the new title.
“This is the perfect version of a hugely popular book, the origin story of the main character. Saltire fans have been looking forward to this for a while and the launch is going to be a lot of fun.
It’s a cool event with lots of Film and TV stars so we had to make sure Scotland’s superhero was there too. Artists Claire Roe and Lauren Knight have done a great job of reimagining the book and we’re delighted with the results.”
Anticipation for the new book is growing with over 25,000 views of the online Saltire trailer as fans send Scotland’s superhero viral. The popularity of the series has spread rapidly with the author believing that success could become international. “We want to take Saltire’s popularity across the Atlantic.” says Ferguson. “A lot of reviewers and fans compare the series with the American superhero franchises and the sweeping worlds of Game of Thrones or Lord of the Rings so we think it will appeal to a wider audience.”
The critically acclaimed series is three books into Ferguson’s planned eight book story arc of the immortal protagonist and a compendium of the first three books is next on the agenda for the hardworking author. Ferguson continues “We’ll be unveiling the iconic cover art for the compendium at the Comic Con. It’s an amazing image by artist Alex Ronald and we’ll be giving away free posters of the art at the event as a thanks to all the fans for their support.”
The Saltire Invasion Deluxe Edition graphic novel hits bookstores and comic book shops the week after Glasgow Film and Comic Con with Ferguson appearing for signings at selected bookstores.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Twitter: @saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
Clare Ferguson
07500 903 699
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Artist creates iconic image of Scottish superhero
New fine art painting of hit comic book character released
Glasgow artist Kevin McGivern has given an iconic new look to Scotland’s best selling superhero, Saltire. In a piece created to celebrate the success of the award winning graphic novel trilogy and the fortieth birthday of its creator John Ferguson, McGivern has taken the superhero out of traditional comic book illustration and into fine art.
The image, commissioned by Saltire publisher Diamondsteel Comics, shows the immortal, big, blue, ginger protagonist standing behind a thoughtful looking Ferguson and the author is delighted with the finished work. “Kevin is a wonderful talent and seeing Saltire in a fine art piece is quite breathtaking. The reaction of the fans has been very cool too, seeing their appreciation has made it a fun project for everyone.” said the writer.
McGivern who has worked previously on a variety of pop culture icons in fine art including Kevin Spacey, Andy Murray and Ronaldo said, “The response has been very humbling. I’m so pleased John is happy with it and the Saltire fans seem to really like it.” The self taught artist has found compliments about the image overflowing on social media with messages from comic book fans around the world being hugely positive.
The final image will be included as an exclusive in the new Saltire graphic novel release later this month and prints of the unique work will be available from the artist at the same time. The Saltire series continues to be a huge success as the books outsell major American superhero franchises within Scotland and the series launches internationally later this year.
The creative team behind the Saltire graphic novel series will be guests at the Showmasters Film and Comic Con at Braehead Arena August 22nd and 23rd where they will be launching their latest Saltire title.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
Clare Ferguson
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SCOTTISH SUPERHERO IS BACK IN NEW GRAPHIC NOVEL
ONLINE TRAILER GOES VIRAL AS FANS ANTICIPATE SALTIRE SEQUEL
Scottish superhero hit, Saltire, is back with a brand new graphic novel. And this time he’s planning on taking over the world, at least creator John Ferguson is.
The big, blue, ginger protagonist returns in Saltire: Annihilation and the author is ready to take the superhero franchise to the next level. “This year we want to take Saltire’s popularity across the Atlantic. With the reviews and fan reaction over the last eighteen months we think it’s time we let the big guy loose on an international audience.” says Ferguson.
Billed as a sweeping superhero epic, the series is portrayed as “Caledonian cool” by its fan base, looking to help Scotland lose the tartan cringe and begin a new era of modern cultural relevance to a worldwide audience. Ferguson says “The series is set in an immersive pseudo history of the country with Annihilation taking place in the dark ages. It is an expansive story with a cinematic feel and uses many of Scotland’s myths and legends to extend the Saltire Universe, and it’s time the rest of the world got to enjoy its success.”
The last few months have been busy for series publisher Diamondsteel Comics and their comic book creation with award nominations for Arts and Culture, Best British Comic, Illustrated Book of the Year and recently representing graphic arts at the City of Design Award ceremony. With the books being translated into both Scots and Gaelic language, there is a new understanding of the comic book medium and its place in creating a modern image for Scotland.
Launching on April 4th, the new title comes at a time when all things Scottish and creative are framed within the country’s current cultural debate. Ferguson says “The trend to reassess Scottish culture is great. What we’ve created is a confident reflection of Scotland, something the country is often quite shy to do unless it’s nostalgia based.”
The new book, the final stanza in the opening Saltire saga, promises readers a thrilling conclusion, and to reveal some of the awesome hero’s vulnerability. Ferguson insists those who understand the Scottish psyche won’t be disappointed. “We step away from the traditional parodies of Scottishness which is why it’s been embraced by thousands of fans, excited by a dynamic and iconic Scottish hero. The books encompass many aspects of the Scottish personality and Saltire’s weakness is part of that, hinted at in the first book but laid bare in the new title.”
After the critically acclaimed Saltire Invasion left fans desperate for more, expectations for the new title are high. “Annihilation is a dramatic set piece and puts you right back in the action through to the breath-taking conclusion.” continues the writer. “A lot of reviews and fans compare the series with the current American superhero franchises and the sweeping worlds of Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings. Hopefully that’s what will make the books successful internationally.”
Anticipation for the new book is growing rapidly with over 25,000 views of the new Saltire trailer online as fans send Scotland’s superhero viral. It looks like this big, blue, ginger superhero really is ready to go global.
Saltire: Annihilation hits stores on 11th April, with Ferguson and artist Claire Roe in attendance at DeeCon in Dundee April 4th for an exclusive pre-release launch and signing.
Saltire – Annihilation Pt.1 & 2. Full Colour Graphic Novel by John Ferguson. Art by Claire Roe, Coloured by Lauren Knight. Cover by Jim Devlin. Published by Diamondsteel Comics Ltd.
As blood thins and silence echoes, a fresh torment builds behind the southern wall.
When heroes fall, who will stand against an unyielding force and the brutal terror from the earth?
The freedoms of a nation laid bare before a cruel and tyrannical foe, for as one battle ends another must begin.
To fight, to endure, to survive...
VIRAL VIDEO -https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=881662325198119&set=vb.614853831878971&type=2&theaterNEW TRAILER -https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=912854312078920&set=vb.614853831878971&type=2&theater
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
Clare Ferguson
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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From Origin to Annihilation. Saltire - Scottish Immortal protector
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Local Comic Book Writer Creates Nationwide Hit
Scottish Superhero Series Written In St Andrews
St Andrews based author John Ferguson has found himself with a new comic book sensation on his hands with his Saltire superhero graphic novels. The titles, set in Scotland, have been selling out all over the country while receiving award nominations and critical acclaim from within the comic book industry and beyond.
The series was launched at last year’s Dundee Literary Festival and interest was high to see what exactly Scotland’s first comic book superhero would entail. One year on and Ferguson was headlining the same event with fans and critics keen to find out more about the Saltire franchise. Ferguson says “The reaction of fans and critics has been fantastic. To be nominated for Best British Comic for our first book alongside titles like Judge Dredd is remarkable, and to find reviews are even stronger for the second book is an amazing testament to everyone who works on the titles.”
Ferguson wrote the first book, Saltire Invasion, in St Andrews in 2012, introducing readers to the iconic main character, Saltire, during the Roman invasion of Scotland. The big, blue, ginger protagonist became an instant Scottish competitor to Batman and Spiderman, selling out in major bookstores and comic shops and proving a huge success at the Scotland Comic Con at Glasgow’s SECC. Ferguson continues “We see Saltire as a competitor to the mainstream comic book superheroes, but still quintessentially Scottish. He’s here to take on Superman and the Avengers while giving fans an iconic figure that is Caledonian cool, not tartan cringe.”
The books not only create Scotland’s first comic book superhero but this year’s translations into Gaelic and Scots see the inaugural superhero publications in either language, both to significant acclaim and international press. “Language is an important part of Scottish culture and we really wanted to convey that strong element of the country’s identity. The Saltire character is immortal so the books are set throughout the nation’s history and Scotland has an amazing past. It also has amazing myths and legends and we try to tap into all of that.” says Ferguson.
The recent release of the follow up graphic novel, Saltire Annihilation, an epic two part story that uses the Dark Age folklore of Scotland, expands the superhero universe into a sweeping tale of the country’s lost mythology and increases the franchises profile even further. With Ferguson making several appearances on ITV and BBC television and international reviews making favourable comparisons with Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings and Thor, the author is excited for the future. “The series will run for at least eight books as we take readers through a pseudo history of Scotland, from the Romans, through the Angles and Saxons, onto the Vikings, the Wars of Independence, and beyond. History and events are altered, and we add a mythological element that gives Scotland a dynamic feel that is very relatable to the modern superhero fan.” he continues.
Ferguson works with Fife artist Claire Roe for the stunning visual imagery of the books that have garnered comparisons to the work of major American franchises, DC and Marvel Comics. Of the artistic relationship Ferguson says “Claire is a graduate of Duncan of Jordanstone Art College and we work closely with the Comic Book Studies course there to source the best new talent before it is snapped up by the American market. It’s great that something so popular in Scotland is entirely made here.”
With two new books and a launch into the North American market coming soon, the future looks even brighter for Ferguson and his Scottish superhero.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Twitter: @saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
Clare Ferguson
07500 903 699
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Scottish Superhero Hit Goes Futuristic At Dundee Literary Festival
Saltire’s Back At Comic’s Day 2014 with Exhibition And Comic Cameo
This weekend’s Dundee Comics Day has a uniquely Celtic flavour as superhero comic book hit, Saltire, takes centre stage for its own art exhibition and in-depth Q & A session with the creative team behind the iconic blue protagonist.
With award nominations for 2013’s debut graphic novel, Invasion, and further acclaim from critics and fans for the newly released Annihilation, publisher Diamondsteel Comics has added to the buzz by announcing that Sunday will also see a cameo appearance from Saltire within the pages of the new “Tales Of The Universe” comic that launches at the festival.
Saltire creator John Ferguson says, “It’s the first time we get to see Saltire in a futuristic setting and with the story set in Dundee and illustrated by a local artist it’s a fun one for the fans. Although it’s only a short story it lets people know that his immortality can put him in any time period.” Ferguson continues, “Dundee Comics Day is a great event and Tales Of The Universe is a wonderfully diverse comic with a lot of talent and style. It’s nice for us to step away from making the next epic and get out and enjoy all the talent the weekend attracts.”
Headlining the Sunday is 2000AD creator Pat Mills and as the creator of iconic Irish comic book hero, Slaine, the festival is not to be missed for those who enjoy a heavy dose of legend and mythology within their comics. As one journalist quipped on social media, “Will the universe be able to cope with this much Celtic badassery in one place?” We’ll find out this weekend.
Dundee Comics Day is part of the Dundee Literary Festival and is on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th of October at the Tower Building Dundee.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
Clare Ferguson
07500 903 699
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SCOTTISH SUPERHERO CAUSES CONTROVERSY AS REFERENDUM NEARS
SALTIRE IS BACK IN EPIC SEQUEL TO ACCLAIMED DEBUT
Last year saw the release of the independent Scottish superhero graphic novel, Saltire: Invasion, creating a real buzz around the comic industry and selling out in Scottish retailers. Now the big, blue, ginger protagonist is back in Saltire: Annihilation. Billed as an “epic”, the sequel is causing much debate in this highly charged year for Scotland.
Saltire creator, John Ferguson, says “Like the first book it is set in a pseudo history of the country but this time it’s more immersive, more involved. Annihilation is set a few hundred years after Invasion and it’s darker, more sinister, with a wider scope and a more expansive story. It also uses many of the old myths and legends of the country to expand the Saltire Universe”.
Launching at the Scotland Comic Con, the new book comes at a time when all things Scottish are framed within the country’s current political debate.
Ferguson says “The trend this year to assess Scottish culture is an interesting one. Being Scottish is not a political statement but the Saltire character celebrates it in a very positive and passionate way. The negative observers have never actually read the books content. It is the very existence of a big, blue, ginger superhero that is a confident reflection of Scotland, which creates comment from some quarters”
Social Media comments like “Was this written by Alex Salmond?”, “My local comic book store is advertising a Scottish Superhero. I hate this nationalist s**t “and “Why does Scotland need its own superhero? What’s wrong with Captain Britain?” leave creator John Ferguson with mixed emotions. “I’m glad the book has created interest and debate but I hope people just enjoy it, luckily the reviews have been really positive. The Saltire series is going to run for several years, way beyond the referendum and the polarising opinions.” He continues “Any creative medium can be used to make a political statement. Superheroes are enjoyed the world over because they enter the realms of fantasy and the impossible. It’s pure escapism.” But Ferguson is not going to apologise for Saltire’s patriotic stance. “I think Scotland is an amazing country and I feel it has started to regain a sense of itself, stopped accepting its international identity, all tartan and bagpipes. If being proud of the country means Saltire has to take flack form some quarters then so be it. He has broad enough shoulders to deal with it.”
Ferguson is also interested in how the character has changed people’s perception. “It’s great how it’s been embraced by comic book fans, particularly within Scotland. It steps right away from the traditional parodies of Supergran or Bananaman. There is no tartan cringe, just a real excitement at the advent of a dynamic, iconic Scottish superhero.”
After the critically acclaimed first book in the series was nominated for “Best British Comic” at the True Believers Awards in London earlier this year, anticipation for the sequel is high. “In our opinion, this book is better in every way than what was a very well received debut.” continues the writer. “A lot of reviews compare Saltire with Thor and the worlds of Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings, and I don’t think they are far away with that comparison for Annihilation. This book takes Saltire to the next level.”
Saltire: Annihilation hits stores on 6th September with Ferguson in attendance at the Scotland Comic Con that weekend. The controversy is likely to continue as the Diamondsteel Comics release is just days before September 18th’s referendum on Scottish independence.
Saltire – Annihilation Pt.1. Full Colour Graphic Novel by John Ferguson. Art by Claire Roe, Coloured by Lauren Knight. Cover by Jim Devlin. Published by Diamondsteel Comics Ltd.
The Dark Age, a desolate time.
A power grows to the south. A power bent on destruction...on annihilation.
Not human...not spirit or shadow. Unleashed, she will bring despair.
To protect the innocent, the guardians will stand once more...
As chaos reigns before a vengeful enemy he shall rise once more...the
Immortal Guardian of a Nation.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
Clare Ferguson
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19th 2014
SCOTTISH SUPERHERO NOMINATED FOR BEST OF BRITISH
Saltire sequel announced as accolades grow for new comic book.
For nearly forty years, the Eagle Awards have been the most prestigious awards in the UK comic book world, and Scots have had their fair share of winners and nominees. Now, rebranded as the True Believers Comic Awards, for the first time, a Scottish superhero is nominated in the prestigious “Best British Comic” category, alongside such famous names as 2000AD.
Saltire Invasion was created and written by Glaswegian John Ferguson and is the first in a series based on a pseudo-history of Scotland and the adventures of a big, blue, ginger superhero. Ferguson says “We are delighted to be nominated for Best British Comic and the reaction of readers and critics has been amazing. Scottish folklore has always had a great narrative that lends itself to superhero mythology. We’ve reinvented it with a few twists for today’s market and people seem to like it.”
John will be one of the guests at this weekend’s Glasgow Comic Con where he will be announcing details of the much anticipated sequel and unveiling the cover art for the September release. “It’s going to be an exciting weekend, meeting some fans and talking about the books” says Ferguson. “We like to use new talent for our books artwork and have a close relationship with DJCAD to help us find the freshest, most dynamic illustrators out there. The new book is simply stunning and we are really looking forward to showing it off.”
Ferguson and his company Diamondsteel Comics, which publishes the Saltire series, have also just announced that Saltire Invasion is to become the first superhero comic book to be translated into Scots and Gaelic language. “We felt it was important after the success of the English version that we released Scotland’s first superhero in all three languages of the country. There’s been great enthusiasm for it from fans and we don’t expect to find Batman or Spiderman speaking in Scots anytime soon, so it’s unique.”
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Twitter: @saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
Clare Ferguson
07500 903 699
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14th 2014
SCOTLAND’S FIRST SUPERHERO CAUSES CONTROVERSY AS REFERENDUM NEARS
The recent release of a comic book claiming to be Scotland’s first superhero has caused a stir within the country’s current political debate.
The Scottish superhero graphic novel “Saltire: Invasion” was released late last year and has been highly praised by critics across the globe. However it has caused some debate in this highly charged year for Scotland. Saltire creator John Ferguson says, ”Some of the responses to the book have been unusual because it’s patriotically Scottish. So are the Loch Ness Monster and Irn Bru but they aren’t passing a political opinion, just championing Scotland.”
He continues “The trend this year to assess Scottish culture, including the country’s flag and history is an interesting one. Being Scottish is not a political statement and the Saltire character celebrates this in a very positive and passionate way. Most observers have never actually read its content. It is the very existence of a big, blue, ginger superhero that is a confident reflection of Scotland, which creates comment from some quarters”
Social Media comments like “Was this written by Alex Salmond?” “My local comic book store is advertising a Scottish Superhero. I hate this nationalist **** “ and “Why does Scotland need its own superhero? What’s wrong with Captain Britain?” leave creator John Ferguson with mixed emotions. “I’m glad the book has created interest and debate but I hope people just enjoy it, luckily the reviews have been really positive. The Saltire books are a series that is going to run for several years, way beyond referendums, independence or any other political statement on the future of Scotland.
A recent academic article hypothesised the advent of nationally identified superheroes were a product of the political dialogue around events such as the independence referendum.
Ferguson feels this suggestion is wide of the mark. “Any creative medium can be used to make a political statement. Superheroes are enjoyed the world over because they enter the realms of fantasy and the impossible. It’s pure escapism. Saltire is no more a political commentary on Scotland than Marvel’s Thor is on Norway or Captain America is on the USA.” And Ferguson is not going to apologise for Saltire’s patriotic stance. “I think Scotland is an amazing country and I feel it has started to regain a sense of its own identity without accepting it is all tartan and bagpipes. If being proud of the country’s heritage means Saltire has to take flack form some quarters then so be it. He has broad enough shoulders to deal with it.”
As anticipation grows for the follow up graphic novel “Saltire Annihilation” the controversy is likely to continue. Diamondsteel Comics expects to release the book just days before this September’s referendum on Scottish independence.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
Clare Ferguson
07500 903 699
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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Press release october 25th
SCOTLAND’S FIRST SUPERHERO COMIC BOOK LAUNCHES AT DUNDEE LITERARY FESTIVAL
Scottish Talent Produces Competitor to Batman and Spiderman
This Sunday sees the launch of the groundbreaking new graphic novel, Saltire – Invasion, at the Dundee Literary Festival at Dundee University.
The first in a series centring round Scotland’s first comic book superhero, the dark and gritty world of the main character is a pseudo-history of the country and its mythology. Set entirely in the landscape of Scotland during pivotal moments from the past the novel will be familiar to those who enjoy the rich legends and traditions of Scotland.
Creator John Ferguson said, “I’m looking forward to the launch and really believe that Saltire will grow in Scotland to rival the wonderful superhero franchises from across the Atlantic. The reaction from the public and professionals within the comic book genre has been fantastic so far and to get the opportunity to introduce the finished book at the Literary Festival is tremendous.”
Describing his creation Ferguson continues “Saltire is an immortal being created thousands of years ago to protect Scotland and its people. He’s big, he’s blue and he’s ginger. He has Scottish values but he’s a traditional comic book superhero with a variety of super villains to contend with as the story progresses, a Scottish competitor to Batman and Spiderman if you like.”
Using an artistic team discovered through a competition at Duncan of Jordanstone Art College in Dundee the book has taken six months to illustrate and anticipation is high to see the finished results as the book goes on sale through shops next week.
The book tells the story of the legendary Ninth Legion and its attempts to expand the Roman Empire to the north, to the land of Saltire.
Saltire – Invasion. Full Colour Graphic Novel by John Ferguson. Art by Gary Welsh & Tone Julskjaer. Cover by Jim Devlin. Published by Diamondsteel Comics Ltd. When a peaceful land is faced with the might of all conquering Rome, its legendary guardians must stand as one or kneel before an oppressive empire. As the sun rises, the immortal protector awakens to face the ultimate battle for freedom.
The creator and artists behind Saltire will be in attendance at the launch of Saltire – Invasion at the Dundee Comics Day as part of the Dundee Literary Festival at Dundee University this Sunday 27th October.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
John Ferguson
07766232349
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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Press release october 19th
COVER ART RELEASED FOR SCOTLAND’S FIRST SUPERHERO
SALTIRE – INVASION Comic Book Launches Next Week
Today sees the release of the cover art for issue #1 of the brand new title SALTIRE – INVASION. The first superhero comic book to feature characters, mythology and landscape from Scotland, SALTIRE – INVASION is the opening book in a series set to take readers on an epic journey.
Celebrating the country’s rich history and dynamic legends, Saltire is the immortal protector of Scotland. A superhero created in prehistory to defend the freedoms of a nation and its people.
Creator John Ferguson said “The books tell a pseudo-history of Scotland within the modern superhero genre. SALTIRE – INVASION starts the series with a twist on the legendary Ninth Legion and its expansion of the Roman empire into Scotland.”
Award winning Cover Artist Jim Devlin, known for his work on Blood Nation and Dark Ascension, has created an iconic cover for this iconic new hero. A striking blue figure of massive stature, the indestructible Saltire is red haired and bearded with Caledonian script emblazoned on his arms. Ready to thrill readers the SALTIRE – INVASION graphic novel launches at the Dundee Comics Expo on the 26th October.
Saltire – Invasion. Full Colour Graphic Novel by John Ferguson. Art by Gary Welsh & Tone Julskjaer. Cover by Jim Devlin. Published by Diamondsteel Comics Ltd. When a peaceful land is faced with the might of all conquering Rome, its legendary guardians must stand as one or kneel before an oppressive empire. As the sun rises, the immortal protector awakens to face the ultimate battle for freedom.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SaltireComics
Website: http://www.diamondsteelcomics.com
Email: info@diamondsteelcomics.com
John Ferguson
Diamondsteel Comics Limited
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Press release september 18th
Saltire, Scotland’s First Superhero
New Scottish comic book to compete with Batman and Spiderman
Dundee, Scotland 18th September 2013
Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (DJCAD) and Diamondsteel Comics have announced the launch of Scotland’s first traditional comic book superhero. The #1 issue of the brand new title, Saltire – Invasion, is set for release at the 2013 Dundee Comics Expo on the 26th/27th October.
Set within an expansive time frame amidst the natural beauty of Scotland, the Saltire stories interweave the history and legends of Scotland with the dynamic thrills of the modern superhero genre.
Created and written by Glaswegian, John Ferguson, the artistic team for the new venture were discovered through a competition at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design in Dundee to find the best emerging talent in the country. Competition winners Gary Welsh and Tone Julskjaer were given the task of bringing Ferguson’s dark and gritty superhero to life. ”They’ve done a wonderful job of capturing Scotland’s landscape along with the dynamism of Saltire, a very powerful character.” said Ferguson.
The competition was facilitated by Comics Module Leader Phillip Vaughan. “ The work that our students have done on this project is incredible, and the professionalism of the art is testament to the development of Comics Studies at the University of Dundee. Myself, along with Dr. Chris Murray in the School of Humanities, are pushing the employability of our students, and Saltire is a fine example of a live project with a tangible outcome. This week we launch the Cam Kennedy Comics Studio in the University, a dedicated space for comics students, Cam being Scotland’s real life comics superhero!”
Describing his new creation, Ferguson continues, “Saltire is the immortal guardian of the nation. He’s created in prehistory to defend the twelve clans of Scotland from the perils of the expanding world. Saltire being immortal means the comic books can take place at any time in history, sometimes the ancient world, sometimes modern history, or even in the future.
The new comic book is the first in an ongoing series that Ferguson hopes will capture the imagination of the Scottish public and beyond. “I feel Scotland really misses an iconic superhero to champion as its own. Hopefully people will see this and relate similarly to the big American franchises which everyone loves, like The Avengers or Batman.” Ferguson suggests. “The Saltire series takes a lot of the lost mythology of Scotland and gives it a modern comic book flavour as a variety of villains look to disrupt the Scottish way of life. Scotland’s heroic figures are all centuries old, hopefully Saltire can fill that void and let people round the world know Scotland is not all tartan and shortbread.”
Saltire – Invasion. Full Colour Graphic Novel by John Ferguson. Art by Gary Welsh & Tone Julskjaer. Published by Diamondsteel Comics Ltd
When a peaceful land is faced with the might of all conquering Rome, its legendary guardians must stand as one or kneel before an oppressive empire. As the sun rises, the immortal protector awakens to face the ultimate battle for freedom.
until then you can find information on our facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/saltirecomics
