The solution to the independent creator being overshadowed by both of the "big two" (Marvel and DC) at Comic-Con is to host your own convention. That's exactly what IMAGE is doing with IMAGE EXPO this coming February. According to a press release from Image Comics, IMAGE EXPO will be a "three-day celebration of creator-owned comics" and will be hosted at the Oakland Convention Center located in downtown Oakland, CA on February 24th, 25th and 26th.
The show will feature a variety of well-known creators, and some of the guest stars include several of the founders of IMAGE Comics. The star guests of the show will include Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Jim Valentino and Marc Silvestri. Additionally, the show will feature appearances from several other IMAGE books like Jonathan Hickman, Brian K. Vaughan, Fiona Staples, Rob Liefeld and more.
Possibly the most interesting aspect of this show is the fact that the show floor will be open to all independent creators, meaning all creator-owned comic makers are invited to attend to show off their hard work and sell their books. Registration for the show is currently open. If you're an independent creator and are interested in showing off your book, you can contact info@ImageComicExpo.com for information on how to sign up for an exhibit.