Vanissa W. Chan / Pigmint Art

Vanissa Chan is a Blacksburg native / Hokie Alum who moved to New York City in the fall of 2005 to embark on her dream to experience the starving artist lifestyle. Having overcome many strange, peculiar, and somewhat shocking New York-esque situations (shootouts, robberies, and a murder), Vanissa's story is unique and humorously absurd. Before becoming a Teaching Fellow working with the city's challenged special needs population, Vanissa freelanced as an artist, falling for many naive traps, and jumping on the bandwagon of her clients' pipedreams. While mistakes were plenty (and costly), a little bit of fortune was also granted to Vanissa through the kindness of perfect strangers who slowly transitioned into closely-knit friends. This little bit of fortunte allotted a bit of media attention for Vanissa, like having her very first comic, Nicodemus, published in a pet newspaper, having herself and her artwork being featured in a music video, being advertised for opening an art gallery at her own apartment, and having a part in a documentary series about Brooklyn-based artists.

Originally drawn as teenagers, over the past year James & Ophelia have evolved into the star youngsters surviving the challenges of romance and friendship in Vanissa Chan's self-published 101 comic series. Their latest gig involves hundreds (maybe even thousands) of costumes, wild in color and in taste, multifaceted in culture and in function. When asked about the obstacles she faces in her new job, Ophelia replied, "My life is full of challenges. I believe that in order to grow, merely surviving isn't enough. You have to learn how to persevere."

James' comment was a little less philosophical. "The work is hard, but I know what it takes to succeed. The best part about the job is that it gets me the chicks. And I dig chicks," he said, while giving his signature wink into the camera.

While their past work has gained them both fame and fortune, the public anxiously awaits what the future has in store for the young stars. When asked about future projects, Ophelia replied, "Well, really, it's up to the illustrator, Vanissa Chan. She's the one who calls the shots. After the Costume Party project, I think she is thinking about another 101 series. Something along the line of 'redflags' when it comes to dating."

"Vanissa has high expectations for both 'Ophie' and I," James commented. "One thing I don't like about working for her is that she makes me look like a complete asshole when it comes to relationships. While I may not be the best guy, that doesn't really help me out when it comes my personal romantic relationships. As far as working for her goes, I think that you don't always like the people you work for, but as long as there is respect, I think that is what matters."

The 101 series currently consists of two comics, Romance 101 and Friendship 101. Both comics are slowly infiltrating the comic stores of New York City. Staple-bound, averaging 30-35 pages with full color covers, they are also available .. for $10 a copy.

Future 101 series are in the making - keep your eye out for RedFlags 101, Love 101, and Love is Freedom.

Now, just out, a kid-appropriate coloring book featuring James & Ophelia. Images from Romance 101, Friendship 101, Love 101, Red Flags 101, and the James & Ophelia Costume Party included. Order now while supplies last!!!

Sausage Party: Ophelia as a hotdog and James as a meatball kabob