It's official: Comic Con International got off with a big bang yesterday as the Chuck Jones Gallery welcomed Marvel artist, Simone Bianchi, he of the magnificent paintings and drawings of Thor and Batman, to a reception held in his honor.  

Erin Liddell (left), senior art consultant at the Chuck Jones Gallery–San Diego and Scott Dicken (center), VP retail–Linda Jones Enterprises, greet artist Simone Bianchi at the gallery last night.

Too many choices!

Bianchi makes a point while speaking with his adoring fans and collectors.

Holding the attention of his collectors was not a problem for the artist, Simone Bianchi, at last night's opening reception for him at the Chuck Jones Gallery, 232 Fifth Avenue (just 1/2 block from the Convention Center), San Diego.

The Marvel Comics artist, Simone Bianchi, signs the gallery's show sign (a tradition!) at last night's reception in his honor at the Chuck Jones Gallery in San Diego's historic Gaslamp District.

 It's "thumb's up" as Marvel Comics artist, Simone Bianchi, poses with two of his most ardent collectors during the reception held in his honor at the Chuck Jones Gallery in San Diego.

Yes, yes, I know, the man with the "Don't Press Your Luck" t-shirt looks really angry, but I guarantee you that he is not–he's just a devoted, passionate fan and collector of the art of Simone Bianchi (shown seated in the black beret.)

We'd be remiss if we did not share with you a few photos (BTW, all of these photos are courtesy the multi-talented Dean Diaz, a longtime employee of Linda Jones Enterprises and all-around wit), of some of the people attending this year's Comic Con International.  Enjoy!