Contrary to popular belief, superheroes aren’t the only genre in comic books. During the 1970s and ’80s, underground comic books emerged sporting major themes of satire by innovators in the medium such as Robert Crumb and Harvey Pekar.

NIU art student Bill Mitchell’s latest comic release “PULPit” joins the ranks of the underground satires.

“Crumb was especially an influence,” Mitchell said. “He’s pretty heavy on sexual fantasy, but my appreciation was his line work and his take on politics.”

The target of “PULPit” is what Mitchell calls “consumer Christianity”.

“This is for educated skeptics. I’m not out to destroy religion,” Mitchell said. “I’m out to bring to light certain indiscretions about people who politicize religion.”

His first story, titled “Man vs. Godco”, depicts an artist, nailing a copy of “PULPit” in the manner of Martin Luther to a huge, dazzling church.

“Godco is Big Brother in a Judeo-Christian sense. It’s George Bushified, politicized, us versus them theology,” Mitchell said. “I’m convinced very few people actually read the Bible. I’ve combed through the Bible and found a lot of rich stories in contradiction to ‘Godco.’ I think when asked what would Jesus do, I think Jesus wouldn’t vote Republican.”

Bill publishes “PULPit” through his own imprint Dead Dog Press, which he hopes will last long enough to sustain a twelve-issue run.

The first issue will be on sale at a special exhibition showing Mitchell’s artwork.

Graham Crackers Comics also will carry the first issue.

Mitchell’s previous work, the hardcover “101 Uses For A Turd” sold reasonably well, said Rick Berg manager for Graham Crackers Comics. However, there is a limited audience for underground comics in the style of Mitchell’s work.

“I can only speak for this store, but we have a few customers who are totally dedicated to that sort of thing, but to 90 percent of my other customers, they just don’t care.” Berg said.

Kathy Mitchell, Bill’s wife, remains supportive of her husband’s goals.

“I’m very proud of him,” Kathy said. “Artistically, it’s creative and awesome. It’s intelligently portrayed.”