The Patron #1 Cover A Christian Ward | Image Comics

The Patron #1 Cover A Christian Ward | Image Comics

The Patron #1 Cover A by Christian Ward launches a chilling new creator-owned thriller from acclaimed writer Christian Ward and artist John J. Pearson. Blending psychological suspense, murder mystery, and the high-stakes world of fine art, this gripping debut asks one terrifying question: What is the true price of artistic greatness?

GREAT ART NEVER DIES... OR DOES IT?

For decades, the enigmatic Mr. Cherish has built a reputation as one of the world's greatest patrons of emerging artists. Every creator he champions becomes an overnight sensation—but there's one disturbing pattern no one has noticed.

They all die.

Cherish has perfected the deadly art of turning promising young talent into priceless legends, orchestrating tragic "accidents" before profiting from the skyrocketing value of their work. But when his latest target, painter Matty Barnes, refuses to follow the script, the hunter suddenly becomes the hunted.

As investigators close in and a ruthless collector enters the game, Cherish's carefully constructed empire begins to unravel in a blood-soaked battle where art, obsession, greed, and murder collide.

Perfect for fans of The Department of Truth, Something Is Killing the Children, and prestige crime thrillers, The Patron #1 delivers a sophisticated blend of horror, mystery, and psychological suspense.