Here’s how to win a Todd McFarlane rare original comic
Find out the history of the popular Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo didn’t always go by that name. Find out the history of this popular zoo.
- The Phoenix Zoo’s “Comic Conservation” combines comic book art with wildlife welfare.
- Todd McFarlane, known for “Spawn” and “The Amazing Spider-Man,” is among the featured artists.
- Meet the artists at a special event on Oct. 4.
A legendary Arizona comic book creator is among the artists who have teamed up with the Phoenix Zoo on a playful new display combining comic books and conservation.
The “Comic Conservation” exhibition that opened on Sept. 4 fuses the bold world of comic art with the inspiring mission of wildlife conservation. The artwork is on display in the zoo’s Wild Side Gallery through Jan. 25, 2026.
Todd McFarlane, best known for his work on “The Amazing Spider-Man” and “Spawn” comic franchises, is among the local and national contributors to the exhibition.
“People are going to see a genuine reflection of these artists and their love of nature,” said Matt Strangwayes, the Learning and Engagement Resource manager at the Phoenix Zoo. “You’re going to see some pieces that are unlike any you would see elsewhere at any art exhibition.
“There’s a lot of heart and a lot of care and love for nature that went into these works, and we’re just super excited to share them with the public.”
What is ‘Comic Conservation’ at the Phoenix Zoo?
“Comic Conservation” is a limited-time exhibition of original works from a diverse group of 15 comic artists from the Southwest and beyond. Artists from Arizona, Texas, Mexico, Canada and Australia have works on display, Strangwayes said.
What is Todd McFarlane known for?
Todd McFarlane is the creator, writer and artist of “Spawn.” He’s also known for his artwork in “The Amazing Spider-Man” comic books and as a co-creator of “Venom.”
McFarlane is from Canada, but he has planted roots in Arizona. He lives in Phoenix, and his company McFarlane Toys is headquartered in Tempe. It specializes in creating collectible action figures.
In addition to seeing the McFarlane piece on display in the exhibition, zoo visitors can enter a raffle to win a different piece of McFarlane art: a rare signed lithograph released in 2005. Only 500 copies were made, each hand-signed by McFarlane. This particular lithograph was included in the “Spawn Special Limited Edition Hardcover,” making it a rare collectible.
It costs $10 to enter the raffle, and all proceeds will benefit the zoo’s mission to “inspire and care for the natural world through education, conservation and engagement,” according to a statement from the zoo.
“Comics are a powerful and widely loved art form,” Bert Castro, president and CEO of the Phoenix Zoo, said in a press release. “Their visual storytelling and pop culture appeal make them an engaging and effective way to bring conservation messaging to the masses in a fun, approachable way.
“We’re thrilled and proud to showcase such incredible artwork ― including a piece for display by Todd McFarlane, as well as an original piece for raffle ― in our Wild Side Gallery.”
Phoenix Zoo’s ‘Comic Conservation’ event: Meet the artists
The zoo will present a special event that Strangwayes describes as “almost like a mini comic con meets a trip to the zoo.”
From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, many of the featured artists will be at the zoo to meet visitors, sell their work and do live drawings.
There will be photo opportunities, face painting and cosplayers.
The “Comic Conservation” special event is included with zoo admission.
‘Comic Conservation’ exhibit at the Phoenix Zoo
When: The exhibit runs through Jan. 25, 2026. The “Comic Conservation” event is 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4.
Where: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway.
Admission: $39.95 for ages 14 and up, $29.95 for ages 3-13, free for ages 2 and younger. The “Comic Conservation” event is included with zoo admission.
Details: 602-286-3800, phoenixzoo.org.
Meredith G. White covers entertainment, art and culture for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. She writes the latest news about video games, television and best things to do in metro Phoenix.
Other Articles
Queen Margaret University unveils new public artwork
No Comment! Be the first one.