Graphic artist Christopher Ventura of Waipahu took first place in a Spider-Man art contest sponsored by Sony Pictures and Jelly’s Hawaii.

Contestants were asked to create their rendition of the superhero slinging his web through Honolulu, using any medium.

"The Aloha Tower was the first thing that stood out as being iconic to Honolulu," Ventura said. "Having Spider-Man showing the shaka sign right next to the Aloha Tower was the best way to show Spider-Man in Hawaii."

Ventura, 31, said he was in the third grade or so when he read his first Spider-Man comic book, which was given to him by an older cousin. He continued following the Marvel character throughout his childhood but lost track of the superhero as he got older. With all the hoopla over "The Amazing Spider-Man 2," which hits the big screen May 2, he recently started reading the comics again.

Ventura said his favorite Spider-Man movie is the 2002 version directed by Sam Raimi and starring Tobey Maguire — "(although Andrew) Garfield is doing a pretty good job."

"I really love all the Marvel stuff," he said. That includes Iron Man, who tops Spidey as Ventura’s favorite superhero because "he doesn’t have any powers."

"I thought it’s kind of cool … he built himself up to be a hero … and as an artist, building your skills all the time, … no superpowers included, pretty much just hard work … I can relate to that character a little better," said Ventura, who works for Ideal808 Inc.

His primary medium is pencil, paper and markers, but because this was his first contest, he decided to go with Photoshop. It took him about 16 to 18 hours to make his winning piece.

To hone his artistic skills, Ventura challenged himself a little over three months ago to post a drawing to his Instagram account (hi_im_ceevee) daily. So far he has kept up his task.

Ventura’s artwork beat 17 other entries. He will get VIP passes for an advance screening of "The Amazing Spider-Man 2" plus official movie memorabilia and gift certificates.

Second place went to Dwayne Acoba of Pearl City, third place to Kenneth Amor of Waipahu, and honorable mention to Ron Catiggay of Ewa Beach and Kodie Archeta of Mililani.

To view the winning pieces go to www.jellyshawaii.net.

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WOOD CRAFT: Ben Wood’s column will return May 2.