December 12, 2003 - Tim Bruckner, acclaimed sculptor for DC Direct, has extended his exclusive agreement with DC Comics for one year. Bruckner is currently working on a new WONDER WOMAN STATUE based on designs by Adam Hughes.

"DC Direct is really hitting its stride," says Bruckner. "There's a sense of discovery, of challenge, of trying to do new things in new ways and generate excitement. I wouldn't even consider upping again if it weren't for Georg Brewer. He has an unerring eye, the patience of a saint and the diplomatic skills of a Disraeli. It makes what I do easier and better. That's a primary motivation for me, to know that relationship continues, with the help of Ed Bolkus and Shawn Knapp."

"Tim is an integral part to the success of our line," says Georg Brewer, DC's VP - Design & Retail Product Development. "His efforts on The KINGDOM COME and BATMAN: HUSH action figures helped bring the talents of Alex Ross and Jim Lee to sculptural life. Tim is a versatile talent, equally at home with statues or action figures, and we're going to throw some new challenges his way in the coming year."

Upcoming DC Direct items sculpted by Bruckner include:

The HAWKMAN MINI-BUST (JUN030262) is available for advance reorder and is scheduled to arrive in stores on December 17.

The MARTIAN MANHUNTER MINI-BUST (AUG030264) is available for advance reorder and is scheduled to arrive in stores on February 18.

The BATMAN: HUSH BATMAN ACTION FIGURE (NOV030298), the BATMAN: HUSH HUNTRESS ACTION FIGURE (NOV030299), the BATMAN: HUSH JOKER ACTION FIGURE (NOV030300), and the BATMAN: HUSH POISON IVY ACTION FIGURE (NOV030301) are available for advance reorder and are scheduled to arrive in stores on May 19.