Joe Field is a name synonymous with the heart of the comic book community, and his shop, Flying Colors Comics & Other Cool Stuff, stands as a testament to his passion and dedication to the art form. Since its establishment in 1988, Flying Colors has not just been a retail space for comics; it’s been a cultural hub, a gathering place, and a beacon for comic enthusiasts in Concord, California, and beyond.
Joe Field’s journey into the world of comics began long before he opened Flying Colors. As a child, he was captivated by the colorful pages and captivating stories found in comic books. This early fascination would eventually evolve into a lifelong passion and career.
In 1988, Joe Field fulfilled a dream by opening Flying Colors Comics & Other Cool Stuff in Concord. From the beginning, Field envisioned his store as more than just a place to buy comics; he wanted it to be a community hub where fans could come together to celebrate their shared love of the medium. With this vision in mind, Flying Colors quickly became known for its welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and diverse selection of comics, graphic novels, and related merchandise.
Field’s commitment to building a sense of community around comics was further exemplified by his involvement in creating Free Comic Book Day. In 2001, he proposed the idea of a day dedicated to giving away comic books as a means of attracting new readers and celebrating the art form. His vision was embraced by the industry, and the first Free Comic Book Day was held on May 4, 2002. Since then, the event has grown exponentially, with thousands of comic book shops around the world participating each year.
Flying Colors Comics & Other Cool Stuff has remained a cornerstone of the comic book community in Concord for over three decades. Through the ups and downs of the comic book industry, Field and his team have continued to adapt and evolve, always striving to provide the best possible experience for their customers.
One of the key factors behind Flying Colors’ enduring success is Field’s unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of inclusion and diversity within the comic book community. He has been a vocal advocate for independent creators and small publishers, and his store has always been a welcoming space for fans of all backgrounds.
Beyond his work at Flying Colors, Joe Field’s influence extends far beyond the walls of his shop. He has been an active participant in various industry events and initiatives, always eager to lend his support to causes he believes in. Whether it’s promoting literacy through comics or championing diversity and inclusion within the industry, Field has always been a tireless advocate for the medium he loves.
As Flying Colors Comics & Other Cool Stuff enters its fourth decade it will be moving to a new location after nearly 36 years. The new location is still in Concord CA. To help with the move you can join the Flying Colors Hero Society (sign up in-store or online).
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