The images and news reports coming out of Japan are absolutely heartbreaking.

If you’re an artist and would like to do something to help out, Wednesday’s Heroes has a way to contribute.

Craig at the site has started an art auction and he’s looking for donations from folks who want to participate. Details at the link. The Fraim Brothers, Mitch Byrd, Gene Colan, and Robert Pope already have stuff up with more to come.

Tom Spurgeon at The Comics Reporter has a number of related links to other ways you can help, along with announcements related to those affected by the crisis.

Robot 6 also has a nice round-up of helpful links.

Japan was a big help to the US following Hurricane Katrina and the US comics industry is very closely aligned with the Japanese manga industry, so if you can please lend a hand.

[Artwork: News photo of Sendai]