#fotp2017

Some zine hauls from the #fotp2017 tag on Instagram

by Bec

Sunday 12th February, Melbourne Town Hall

Having now attended three Festival of the Photocopier zine fairs I can predict that my body will respond in a time tested manner. A few hours before I will get a little short of breath and I can’t eat which equates to a minimal breakfast on the morning. As I trudge up to the town hall with my backpack full of zines I see how many people are already waiting in line to get in and set up and I realise how different Melbourne is to Adelaide in sheer number of zinesters. 11am ticks by and my heart beats faster as I scurry in with zine pal George Rex to nab a table and display my zines, hopefully not taking up more than my half. Because I am nervous I then proceed to drink about a litre and a half of water before the crowds roll in at noon and then have to leave poor George to man the table as I zip out to the loo about five times throughout the rest of the day.  

Having said all that it is my actual favourite day of the year. It is pretty much everyone I love in one room. This year seemed to be even busier than last, some tables having a hovering crowd of three people deep, all keen to fill their bags with zines. Not only was I lucky enough to sit next to George who always makes a killing with her great zines, but I made a new table buddy friend in Christian Roux, whose live comic drawing on the day showcased how some people are just bursting with talent.

In my short breaks of whipping around the tables to do some personal shopping I was very pleased to pick up these lovely zines, all which I read within about four hours of getting home.

Josh and I had an incredible time at FOTP 2017! I missed out on the Zine Fair last year because was I too sick, and while I was dealing with a nasty chronic illness and pain flare up - I'm so happy that I was able to attend. Working alone from home is ideal for my condition, but it leaves me a little lonely sometimes, so it was so nice to meet all you incredible beans face to face. Everyone at zine fairs are always so kind and supportive. I was blown away that a few people recognised my work from things their friends had bought, from my online shops, and from Sticky Institute!

I didn't make it to all the stalls at the Zine Fair unfortunately but I did come home with a nice little stack of zines, pins and stickers to add to my collection, and then stopped off at Sticky afterwards to pick up a few incredible comics.