Christian Ward and John J. Pearson Make Art to Die for in The Patron
All the great artists have one thing in common…they’re dead. But why wait for a natural death when you can profit faster from murder? Writer Christian Ward and artist John J. Pearson put their own life’s work on the page in a highbrow thriller at the bloody intersection of art and commerce in The Patron. Ignition Press will begin publishing the new series on July 29th, 2026.
A true patron of the fine arts, Mr. Cherish has dedicated his life to scouting and supporting emerging artists, launching countless unknowns from obscurity into industry superstardom.
Unfortunately for these young artists, the secret to Cherish’s success is their untimely demise. Nothing makes a work of art more desirable and valuable to collectors than the passing of its creator, and Cherish has refined his ability to orchestrate spectacular tragedies without leaving a trace…before selling his dead protégés’ oeuvres for massive profits. Painter Matty Barnes is primed to become Cherish’s next ‘hit,’ but when the script is flipped on this latest murder, a shocking twist puts his empire in the crosshairs.
The Patron #1 is available in comic shops July 29th from writer Christian Ward and artist John J. Pearson, with letters by Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou. This issue features two open-to-order covers from Christian Ward and John J. Pearson, along with a 1-in-10 retailer incentive cover by Eisner Award-winning artist Anand RK and an Ignition Exclusive cover by Tula Lotay.
