Afro Comic Con 2018
Wow. Seems like so long ago but it was only a couple of weeks ago. I actually caught the flu right after so this post is a bit delayed.
Β Afro Comic Con was amazing. I had a wonderful time and my comics and my art were warmly received. That being said I still have bittersweet emotions around the event because I keep hearing mixed messages about how the event is managed and produced. There seems to be a few instances of artists/writers feeling disrespected or the overall event is poorly run. Full disclosure I really like the event met the organizers last year a few weeks before it took place and helped to promote and market the show. Iβd like there to be more shows for Black and or African artists in the East bay of northern California but there really arenβt enough. Iβd also like folks to sit down and talk about building the community they want to see and participate in instead of tearing down one that is new, struggling and trying very hard to accommodate a lot of folks. I hate to hear negative stuff about Afro Comic con because there is a need for more representation in the comics and visual arts arena in Oakland and the Eastbay. Now that that is out of the way I am super grateful to all the attendees who came and showed me love and support. I am thankful to all the cool and talented fellow artists and creators that gave me so much encouragement as well. Letβs build the community so that there are many many opportunities for Black comix artists and indie publishers to showcase their work. This year I was honored to be on a panel with Aya De Leon and Aziaye Jama-Everett Β talking about Self-Publishing and Publishing in general. That was a great experience and while lightly attended I believe we were able to help answer some important questions for folks.
The cosplay was outstanding again this year. I didnβt get a chance to take as many photos as I wanted but there should be a wide selection available online. I really enjoyed talking to so many unique and enthusiastic people coming by my table. I want to thank the volunteers who covered my table while I was in the panel and all the organizers who set up and provided support to the artists. Your efforts did not go unnoticed. Thank you. And Thank you to Expressions college for hosting the event again.
This year I tabled at the Community kids day as well and that was amazing. Oakland really showed up and supported everyone. Thank you to Chapter 510 for providing the space and support staff. It was a very inspiring day.
Letβs make next yearβs Afro Comic con even more awesome. Here are a few photos from both days and more can be found on my Flickr page, here https://www.flickr.com/photos/storm1sky/albums/72157675103981768
