Filed under: About Thought Bubble, News, Thought Bubble 2013 | Tags: Comics, Leeds comic con, Leeds comic festival, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Sequential Art, Small Press, UK Conventions, Webcomics
Hello!
As some of you may have heard, tables for our convention went on sale yesterday, and had completely sold out within 2 hours, which is pretty spectacular really.
We really are amazed at how quickly the available spaces were booked up. This is unprecedented, even given the demand that we normally experience – last year took around 6 weeks to sell out – and we had assumed that, while it would be quicker this year, they wouldn’t be gone in less than a day. We’d estimated that at the very least it would take about 3 weeks, which would still have been a record time!
The fact that the tables sold out in such a short time just shows how quickly (and extensively) the comics community is growing in the UK, and we think that’s something to be celebrated. Since Thought Bubble started back in 2007 we’ve seen new faces every year, both in terms of creators and readers of comics, and that’s great – it’s an exciting time to be involved with such a vibrant medium, especially one with such passionate people involved in its ongoing evolution and expansion.
We’re aware that some exhibitors who wished to attend have missed out, and if you’re among them then we’d ask that you sign up to our reserves/cancellation list, so that we know who you are, and to let us judge the numbers more accurately. We’d also like to offer our apologies to those who are disappointed about not being able to secure a space – we hate turning anyone away, and, given the massive demand for tables this year, we are actively pursuing further convention space.
Though we are not in a position to promise anything definite at the moment, things are looking positive and we are hopeful that we will be able to provide more tables to exhibitors at this year’s Thought Bubble, if it’s at all feasible. We will do our very best, and will keep everyone posted with regular updates. We’re hoping that we’ll be able to find a solution that lets us open up the convention even more, allows more exhibitors and more attendees to pass through our doors, and helps us to introduce hundreds of new readers to the medium that we love.
We really can’t begin to express how important all our exhibitors and guests are to us, and we are eternally grateful for you all supporting Thought Bubble, and we hope you’ll continue to do so in the future. We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who’s booked a table, or signed up to the reserves list so far, and to those who have attended previous year’s Thought Bubbles.
We couldn’t do it without you.
Filed under: About Thought Bubble, Film and Sequential Art, Small Press and Independent Friends of Thought Bubble, Thought Bubble 2011, What is Sequential Art? | Tags: Comics, Kayla Hillier, Leeds comic con, Leeds comic festival, Leeds comic workshops, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Sequential Art, UK Conventions, Webcomics
Hello! We’re back!
Back after an exhaustingly good time at the MCM Expo down in the big ol’ city known as Londinium. While there we announced some new guests for TBF11, and generally had a jolly old time with Team Comics, as well as handing out some lovely new Thought Bubble flyers along the way. But we are now ensconced in the lofty spires of Thought Bubble Towers once again, and we have work to do, so let’s get this party/blog post started!
First up – tickets for this year’s convention are now up on sale, first 500 weekend passes sold confer guaranteed entry to our party on the Saturday night, and full details as to pricing and purchase options can be found on the website! We’ve changed things up a bit with the festival and convention expansion, so be sure to read all the details – makes life a lot easier for everyone.
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Next up, news of a competition for all of you out there with their sights set on being the next big thing in comics. The publisher Myriad Editions has launched a competition for aspiring graphic novelists and are looking for a first-time GN in progress, with the winner working with the publisher to complete the title. The writer who comes first in the competition also stands a chance of being offered a contract and seeing their title published.
On the judging panel will be author Ian Rankin, Guardian cartoonist Steve Bell, author and cartoonist Ed Hillyer, graphic novelists Hannah Berry and Bryan Talbot, and Myriad Editions creative director Corinne Pearlman.
Full details on the Myriad Editions website.
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News has also reached us of a new arts event in Leeds taking place this month! The north’s first applied arts fair, LOOP Arts Fair, will take place June 17th-19th at Marshalls Mill, Leeds.
Keynote speaker on the Friday is James Jarvis “Born in London in 1970 and raised on a diet of Richard Scarry, Hergé, Judge Dredd and Albert Camus, Jarvis studied Illustration at the University of Brighton and the Royal College of Art, graduating in 1995. Since then he has gone on to establish himself as a graphic artist of international repute.In 1998 Jarvis designed the iconic toy figure ‘Martin’, unwittingly helping start the ‘designer’ toy phenomenon.” And they’ve also got open studios, talks, live art, workshops, printshops from TOY, Analogue Books, Drew Millward, Lizzie Stewart, Best Joined Up, Kibbo Kift and more! Tickets are on sale through their website.
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Finally, we’re welcoming a new Friend of Thought Bubble into the fold! This week’s super friend is the awesome Kayla Hillier, a Canadian comic creator now living here in Blighty. There’s a selection of her work below (click the images to embiggen), and a description of the lady herself in her own words under that. Give them a gander, eh!
Kayla Marie Hillier has been livin’ large for a little more than a quarter of a century. She hails from a small town – nay, village – of 600 people called Stoney Point or Pointe-aux-Roches which is found in the most southern part of the Canadian province of Ontario.
She spent 18 years of her life there where she became BFFs with the internet although she was limited by her dial up connection. Shhhhh shhhhhh beep bop boo beep shhhhhhh-
She left the nest to pursue “higher education” in the Niagara region at Brock University where she achieved a degree in both Philosophy and Film and managed to write well over 100 articles for the Canadian University Press. She left Toronto about a year ago to return to Manchester, England – as the country managed to woo her with an impressive display of overcast skies.
She digs comics, so she makes some of her own. Her work includes the now completed webcomic GALAVANT which documents her travels throughout the UK over a period of 3 months – she’s also involved in Julia Scheele’s 69 Love Songs, Illustrated project.
Kayla’s one of my favourite people in comics, and I’d really recommend checking her stuff out, or come along to Thought Bubble 2011 and say hi to her in person!
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That’s all for now, back soon with more TBF11 news and other shenanigans.
- Clark
Filed under: About Thought Bubble, Art by Guests, Minterviews, News, Thought Bubble 2010, What is Sequential Art? | Tags: Bunny, Comics, Huw Davies, Leeds comic con, Leeds comic festival, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Sequential Art, Small Press, Webcomics
Hey guys! Things are really cooking here at Thought Bubble towers - it’s just over three weeks until the opening of this year’s Festival and all hands are on deck to make this year our best ever. And apparently nautically themed. Who knew?! To tide you over on those agonising last few moments before 2010′s events finally arrive we’ve got a new minterview for you!
This week we had a lovely old natter with Huw “Lem” Davies, creator of the brilliant Bunny, who is part of the greatest team ever known – the Friends of Thought Bubble!
To start off, do you think you could give us an idea of how you first got into sequential art?
I was interested in comics in general reasonably early I think. Of course the Dandy and Beano featured, alongside a dusty old hard-backed annual of Hotspur comics from the 70s that’s particularly dear to my heart. The Hotspur was especially interesting because it felt much more grown up, a bit darker, more rounded. And it had pictures of passenger jets that looked like Concorde flying through thunderstorms, which obviously the Dandy didn’t. I am sure that informed some part of my comic-drawing brain.
The longer I try and work out what actually made me think “Yes, I would like to draw comics”, the less certain about it I get. I know I used to draw primitive “comics” when I was 10 or so, but I can’t remember why. I think I just assumed that reading comics were fun, and drawing was fun, and obviously if I combined the two it would be double plus fun. And, what do you know, I was right in that assumption.
It was certainly more fun that whatever you’re supposed to do on long caravan holidays anyway.
Was there a discernible transition from making comics for fun to seriously producing them? Is it still double plus fun to do?
Not really, I think it just gradually happened over time by doing things which were a little more serious. They’re still double plus fun to do, else I think I would have given up ages ago.
Do you still read comics as well as produce them? Any favourites?
Oh yes, both online and off thanks to the local library carrying quite a broad selection of trades.
Stopping short of listing a whole lot of books that I’ve liked, I’ll just single out Northlanders Vol 1 by Brian Wood & Davide Gianfelice. It’s a great blend of beautiful art, great storytelling and it feels like a bit of a history lesson as well. I feel that Brian researches things properly and it makes the work stand out.
Is there any work, not necessarily in the medium of comics, that you consider an influence on your own?
Music is a big deal to me when making things, comics especially. I think it helps me concentrate and focus on the visual language I’m trying to use. Gosh, that sounds awfully pompous and Arty. But it’s all about getting into the right head-space, the right mood inside and kicking all the brain machinery into gear to make things work.
You’re appearing at this year’s Thought Bubble, what will you be bringing to the convention?
If everything goes according to plan I will be bringing little Bunny mini-comics covering the first three chapters of The Continuing Voyages, Bunny book collections, random mini-comics and hand-made Bunny figurines and soft toy mascots! Maybe some posters and stickers? And perhaps a little something unusual to go along with them, a game of intrigue and chance perhaps? Keep an eye out for a watermelon.
What was it that prompted you to select (the admittedly adorable) Bunnies as your signature characters?
I think they were a meme, way back when. How it happened I’m not actually too sure.
Was the production of accompanying Bunny collectibles something you’d always had in mind, or did it stem from a desire to branch out and make something a bit different?
I think it comes down to really enjoying making things. I enjoy working out how items come together, how to refine the process, how to make them look just as I want them to. Problem-solving, essentially.
Do you enjoy attending events like Thought Bubble?
I love Thought Bubble and conventions/shows in general because they’re fun and they’re work, and it’s so rare that you get to combine them. It’s great to meet existing readers, introduce some new ones to the rather confusing world of Bunny, getting to see old friends and catching up with comic-creating colleagues.
The only bad part is there is never, ever enough time. Sometimes it’s hard to leave the table and walk around a bit as a pedestrian and see the immense creative sea that stretches as far as the eye can see (or at least until the end of the hall). I generally leave feeling inspired… and very tired.
The UK small press scene does seem to be growing ever more rapidly, have there been any noticeable changes to the community since you started?
To be honest I haven’t been involved at all in the UK small press scene at all until recently. I only did one UK convention and I was more involved in the US webcomic scene, so I’m really only just discovering just what’s out there on my doorstep so to speak. It’s all terribly exciting!
Finally – thought bubbles or caption boxes?
I have to admit to being fond to both. I require a lawyer to comment further.
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Mad props to Lem for talking to us, if you want to talk to him too then come along to the convention next month!
In other comics news we’re super excited that Solipsistic Pop – the biannual and best UK comics anthology ever – is launching volume three on November 12th at The Black Heart in Camden.
Volume 3 comprises an 80 page comic extravaganza for the discerning sequential art fan, featuring 30 original and exclusive stories from 26 of the finest comic artists living in the UK. Every imaginative, inventive and inspiring graphic tale within Solipsistic Pop 3 is uniquely tailored to be accessible to readers of all ages. An alternative comics primer for adults and children alike. Each anthology Includes a free Solipsistic Pop pencil for readers to create their own comic! Plus! An A3 poster & set of stickers designed by Philippa Rice.
There’s limited print-run of 500 copies, so be sure to nab one for yourself, and if you can’t make it to the launch party then it’ll be getting an official unveiling for the general public at Thought Bubble, where you’ll be able to meet most of the contributors too. Get them to sign it!
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Finally, it’s the MCM Expo this weekend, running from 29th – 31st October at the Excel centre in London, we’re going to be there with our friends from Travelling Man, and we’re bringing copies of our lovely brochure with us, including the full 2010 festival programme! Come say hi if you’re popping along, and if you see us at the after-party maybe we’ll let slip some super secret Thought Bubble 2011 news. Mystery, intrigue, comics! YAY!
- Clark
Filed under: About Thought Bubble, Art by Guests, Minterviews, News, Small Press and Independent Friends of Thought Bubble, Thought Bubble 2010 | Tags: Comics, Leeds comic con, Leeds comic festival, Leeds comic workshops, Leeds International Film Festival, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Philippa Rice, Sequential Art, Small Press, Webcomics
Greetings bubblers! There are now only five weeks until this year’s Thought Bubble Festival (18th – 21st November), and to celebrate we have a fresh minterview for you, and some Thought Bubble news as well. We spoil you, do we not?
This week we talked to Philippa “The Juzzard” Rice, whose wonderful webcomic My Cardboard Life continues to entertain us here at thought bubble towers on a regular basis. Philippa’s entry into the Friends of Thought Bubble roster can be found here, and more of her work can be seen on her blog. Let’s rap!
To start off, do you think you could give us an idea of how you first got into sequential art?
I didn’t start making comics ’til I’d graduated from my animation degree and was looking for more accessible ways to tell stories. Prior to that, I always enjoyed reading comics. The first comics I read were probably from the comics section in the Sunday Times called “The Funday Times” which I used to collect in a ring-binder.
Was the transition from animation to static storytelling an easy one?
It’s a nice transition I think. And easier than say, animation to picture books. Because even though comics are static, the story can move through time quite quickly.
I have used animation in a few comics. It’s fun to have a moving panel or two but I’m not sure if it works really. As soon as there’s something moving in there, it distracts your eyes from reading the comic in the proper order. I’d like to experiment with that more at some point though.
So, what prompted the initial choice to create characters from cardboard and other materials, as opposed to simply drawing them?
Just experimenting with different techniques really. When I first wrote about Cardboard Colin I imagined him being painted, which seems a bit strange now.
Collage might actually be more straight-forward than drawing to be honest, because I don’t have to do any pencils, I just cut the pieces out, stick them down, draw the faces and other details on and that’s it.
How long does it take to create a new character? Does the physical making of them take longer than thinking them up?
It really depends on the character. Cardboard Colin doesn’t take long, but Silvia Foil is a nightmare to cut out. She blunts my scalpel. Cardboard Carl probably takes the longest because he’s made up of three different materials. Cardboard body, Denim jeans and a fabric beard. I remake them for every panel they appear in, so if it’s a comic with six panels and Carl is in every one, it will take lots of hours.
Thinking them up doesn’t feel like it takes very long, because I write things down in my sketchbook when I think of them.
What are your favourite comics at the moment? Are there any you consider an influence on your own work?
I just finished reading My Brain is Hanging Upside Down by David Heatley. That was a goodun! I like autobio comics, they can be so touching plus they’re guaranteed to be original.
Most of my influences come from picture books or animation rather than comics. Like the way Lauren Child mixes together loads of different patterns and textures in the Charlie and Lola books. I’m a big fan of unusual materials or techniques, as in animations by Jan Svankmajer and Caroline Leaf. Also I enjoy any kind of silliness. I love those old silly symphonies cartoons, and also Spongebob Squarepants.
You’re appearing at this year’s Thought Bubble, what will you be bringing to the convention?
At the last few conventions I’ve done I’ve had a diorama on my table. A 3D model of the My Cardboard Life characters in a shoebox. At MCM Expo it was a picnic, at UK Web & Mini Comix it was a tea party. My idea for Thought Bubble is that the My Cardboard Life characters are going to be having their own mini convention inside that shoebox and they’ll have mini versions of the comics, mugs, badges and prints that I’ve got on my table, plus some other surprise items (surprises for me too since I haven’t made them yet).
Are the characters in the shoebox environment ‘life-size’ versions of their online counterparts? How big are they in ‘real-life’?
Well the actual size of the characters in the comics varies a bit from panel to panel, but they are generally the same size as the models in the dioramas. Pauline is about 7cm tall and Colin is 4.5cm. The only real difference about the models is that Colin’s got wire legs and arms instead of ink lines.
Do you enjoy attending events like Thought Bubble?
I do! It’s a novelty for me to meet real, actual people who read my comics. Plus it’s a massive inspiration boost to see everyone else’s work.
Have you noticed any changes in the UK community since you started creating comics yourself? Is it different to those in other countries from what you’ve seen?
This is a tricky question! It’s difficult for me to judge. In the past two years that I’ve been making comics, it does seem like the UK comics community is changing and growing, and that people are talking about comics more, but perhaps I just feel that way because I’m gradually getting more involved myself.
No, what am I talking about, UK comics are going through the roof! Look at all the stuff that’s going on, I’m seeing events and workshops appearing all over the place. Look at Solipsistic Pop! It’s amazing. I don’t really know about the communities in other countries, but let me tell you, UK comics are hot news, and we are going to show them!
Finally – Thought bubbles or caption boxes?
If they both asked me out on a date I’d go for the thought bubble. He’s kooky yet considerate.
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Thanks to Philippa for talking to us, and you can see her talking in person on a panel as part of the Thought Bubble programme which was released recently (segue!).
This year the festival has even more wonderful (and mostly free) events taking place around our centre-piece one-day comic convention! For full details check the website and if you’re planning on attending any of our limited place events then please e-mail thoughtbubbleinfo[at]googlemail[dot]com as soon as possible to book a space and avoid any disappointment!
This year we’ve also expanded the number of screenings being shown in association with Leeds International Film Festival, featuring a number of exclusives that you’ll have to see to believe! Yay!
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Related to this, our friends at Leeds Central Library’s Your Space are running a regular series of free manga meets for people under the age of 20. Full details on the flyer below.
That’s your lot for now, last few minterviews coming soon, and we’ll have some last minute Thought Bubble 2010 surprises for you as the start of the festival draws ever closer! Zounds!
- Clark
Filed under: About Thought Bubble, Thought Bubble 2010, What is Sequential Art? | Tags: Comics, Leeds comic con, Leeds comic festival, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Sequential Art, Signings, Small Press, UK Conventions, Webcomics
Hey gang!
It’s just over two months until the start of this year’s festival and we’re well on the way to bringing you the best Thought Bubble yet!
This week we received the lovely news that we will once again be getting funding for this November’s events from the Arts Council. A proper post with the details of this will be forthcoming, but in the meantime it will suffice to say that we’re over the moon! (Literally – we blew the money on a multi-stage launch vehicle and are currently in orbit over the sea of tranquility.)
To keep you full of comic-related cheer in the run up to Thought Bubble 2010 here are some details of related events that are taking place soon!
First and foremost is the, er, first Leeds Alternative Comics Fair, which will be held at A Nation of Shopkeepers in Leeds on Saturday 18th Sept 2010, from 12-6pm.
It will be free to enter, and the bar itself is open until 3am, serving good food and a large selection of drinks. A number of excellent exhibitors will be showing off their wares, and a communal table – featuring comics from many more creators – will be present for perusal.
The Thought Bubble team will be about, in a rare example of our attending a comics event for purely social reasons. It should be a most enjoyable afternoon!
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Next up is Posy Simmonds in Conversation with Paul Gravett at the National Media Museum in Bradford on Tuesday 28th September, 7.35pm.
Posy Simmonds, writer of the Guardian’s original Tamara Drewe comic strip will be interviewed by comics expert Paul Gravett on her extensive career as a cartoonist, writer and illustrator, and the ever-popular Drewe character.
(Tickets £5, £4 concessions)
This event will be followed by a screening of Tamara Drewe at 8.40pm.
(Tickets £6.50, £4.50 concessions.)
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Finally, we want to see your comic art for the New NORTHERN SEQUENTIAL ART COMPETITION hosted by Travelling Man and Thought Bubble. The deadline is approaching fast so don’t miss out!
All entries will be showcased in a digital exhibition at venues in Leeds and the surrounding area for a period of two weeks prior to Thought Bubble taking place.
The panel of judges (including 2000 AD Editor Matt Smith, Imagine FX Editor Claire Howlett and Marvel Spider-Man Editor Steve Wacker) will select two runners up and a winning entry from each age group, the overall winner in each category will receive £200 of graphic novels and a private tutorial with a leading writer or artist based in the North of England.
To view the application form click here.
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That’s it for now, fresh minterviews on the horizon though! Check back soon…
- Clark
Filed under: About Thought Bubble, Minterviews, Small Press and Independent Friends of Thought Bubble, Thought Bubble 2010, What is Sequential Art? | Tags: Comics, Kristyna Baczynksi, Leeds comic con, Leeds comic festival, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Sequential Art, Small Press, UK Conventions, Webcomics
Howdy Hey! A fresh minterview for you all to devour with your eyes. This week we’re talking to the super-cool Kristyna Baczynski, a previous Thought Bubble competition winner, whose entry into the Friends of Thought Bubble canon can be found here. I’d highly recommend checking out her website for further ocular delights! Spect-ocular!
To start off, do you think you could give us an idea of how you first got into sequential art?
Sure, I reckon the seed was planted right back in my formative years – as I’m sure it is for most folks. Reading picture books: illustrations telling a story.
My mum would take us to the library once a week to check out some new pulp; a most treasured activity. It was here that I became enchanted with seeing an image illuminate a story – words transform into being; communicating with pens, paint and paper.
Do you think the general association with children’s stories is perhaps why comics are viewed with a certain amount of derision in some circles?
I think the idea that comics are any less valid as a communicative device than text-only books is ridiculous. Also, the thought that children’s books have nothing to offer if you aren’t a child is pretty demoralising.
Whether it’s a newspaper, hardback novel or broadsheet newspaper there’s still the same amount of shit you have to wade through to reach something you can connect with and find meaningful. Children’s book, comic or otherwise – there’s always a gem to be found – it just takes some looking.
If someone can dismiss a tome simply because it has an air of juvenility, then they are going to miss out on a heap of beautiful things. And by this breath cinema should then be equally scorned. It too combines language and image – but we don’t see cinema as being wholly tainted as juvenile and frivolous. It, too, has the potential to be profound, absorbing and immersive.
Comics are as versatile, descriptive and limitless as any other communicative tool – simultaneously linguistic, visual and most importantly valid.
…Nerve touched.
I do hate it when comics are dismissed as ‘kiddie’ stuff. Do you still read comics to this day? Do they continue to be a source of inspiration to you?
Absolutely – I read comics almost every day. And am continually inspired by their writing and ingenuity.
Your work tends to be infused with a sense of whimsy and a slightly idiosyncratic sense of humour, does this reflect you as a person?
An obscured and refracted reflection, yes… I am hopelessly enamored with language and wordplay, it is true.
You’re appearing at this year’s Thought Bubble, what will you be bringing to the convention?
An amalgamation of avidity and unerring anxiety. But also a spread of new zines, prints, comics, apparel, oddities and assorted occular goodies.
The production HQ (dining table) will be thriving come November.
A fine selection! Have you always worked in multiple media?
Why, thank you.
Not always multiple media. It always starts with mechanical pencils, micron pens and paper – but the more I work the more I tend to turn my hand to. Staving off boredom and stagnancy with adventure and exploration.
Do you enjoy attending events like Thought Bubble?
Absolutely. Thought Bubble 2009 was my first step into the world of conventions and fairs – a day which was so unutterably wonderful, I am forever convinced of my enjoyment for such events.
They manage to summon a treasury of interested, enthused and engaging people, which is rare and heartening… especially to studio-bound recluses.
We do attract an awesome bunch of attendees it has to be said. Any important lessons learned from your first outing?
That a fearful attitude is nothing but a hindrance. Staying indoors drawing is a solitary occupation that can make you a hermit. Going out and meeting a bunch of like-minded and talented denizens is the perfect antidote.
Do you think the UK small press community is welcoming to débutantes? How easy did you find it to establish yourself on the scene?
If there is a ‘scene’ I’m unaware of it, or already a happy member. It’s something quite abstract really, and I don’t know who, what or where it is… I’m just here drawing, printing, blogging and emailing. And I’m very lucky that some people have noticed my work and said some very lovely things. I am indebted to them all.
By making your own comics, you are already a member.
Finally – Thought bubbles or caption boxes?
There is a necessity for both, and a certain loveliness to be achieved with none. Honestly, though, I think I’m a caption box kid.
…I’m going to be shunned as a defector now, aren’t I?
Rats.
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While we’re never ones to call for ostracism following the denouncement of the humble thought bubble, we do find that those who partake in the act tend to meet their comeuppance. Mark my words. My ominous, ominous words…
In other news, our friends over at Comika are having an exhibition! If you’re in our nation’s fair capital you should go check it out. You know you want to. Details on the flyer (below)
That’s all for now! Check back soon for another minterview. See ya!
- Clark
Filed under: About Thought Bubble, Film and Sequential Art, Thought Bubble 2010, What is Sequential Art? | Tags: Anime, Comics, Leeds comic con, Leeds comic festival, Leeds comic workshops, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Sequential Art, Small Press, UK Conventions, Webcomics
Alright guys, this is a big one, we’ve got a lot to get through and we’re losing daylight here people. Read like you’ve got a purpose! WHAT IS YOUR MAJOR MAL- sorry, sorry, started channeling R Lee Ermey. Again. Seriously though, we’ve got a whole bunch of news for you in this here post, and it’s all pretty dang BIG.
Ok, We’re now able to officially reveal the two TOP SECRET newly announced side-projects that Thought Bubble has had up its sleeves for this year.
The first is the Northern Sequential Art Competition – a contest we’re running in association with Travelling Man comic shops, Imagine FX, and 2000AD – open to all artists/writers (12 years old +) in the United Kingdom. There are some great prizes on offer, and we can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with. ALL entries will also be displayed as part of a digital exhibition in venues across Leeds and the surrounding areas in the two weeks prior to this year’s Festival. To the drawing boards!
The second is related to the first (and is something we’ve been wanting to do for a while now), namely compiling a Free Comic Book Day Anthology. This will feature big name contributors from across the sequential art spectrum, as well as our competition winners, and will be launched on May 2011′s FCBD! Thought Bubble will bring the comics to YOU. (Yes, you)
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Next up is the heartening news that Thought Bubble 2010 is well on the way to full lock down – we finalised the programme for this year’s festival at the weekend (and it’s looking pretty spiffy if we do say so ourselves), and there should be some shiny new flyers and brochures winging their way across the country soon.
A few things to be said on this note – first is that pre-order tickets are selling fast. If you want guaranteed entry to the Saturday evening’s after-party (as conferred by the first 500 pre-booked tickets) – with music provided by Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie’s Team Phonogram and the Thought Bubble Soundsystem – then don’t delay. We’ll put out an announcement once they’re gone.
The second is that we’re now running very low on exhibitor tables for the Saturday convention. If you’re still planning on attending with your wares then get in touch quick to bagsie one of the remaining few. Again, an announcement will be made when they’re all gone.
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In related event news, our friends at the Anime League are running their Alcon again next month and it should be a blast!
Alcon will run from the 9th-12th September at De Montfort University in Leicester!
Filed under: About Thought Bubble, Art by Guests, Guests 2009, Small Press and Independent Friends of Thought Bubble, Thought Bubble 2010, What is Sequential Art? | Tags: Comics, Kristyna Baczynski, Leeds comic con, Leeds comic festival, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Paul Duffield, Richard Starkings, Sequential Art, Small Press, Tony Harris, UK Conventions, Webcomics
Hello Thought Bubblers! There are only 193 days left until the start of this year’s festival, that’s a mere 4,632 hours! Time is flying. Literally. Today we have for you some exciting news of guests for this year’s convention, as well as another entry into our rapidly growing list of Small-Press and Independent Friends of Thought Bubble (or FRIENDS Inc). Don’t waste another precious second considering this sentence, simply scroll down and enjoy the ride. However, please remain seated until we’ve come to a complete stop.
This week’s Friend of Thought Bubble is the splendid Kristyna Baczynski, a local artist of wide reknown whose work is just marvelous, as proved by its winning one of our competitions in days of yore (2008). Further examples of this excellentitude can be seen below. Proof, if proof be need be, that there are some mad skills in effect.
Kristyna Baczynski makes pictures.
Pictures in sequence.
Pictures that move.
Pictures that stay put.
Kriss-Tenn-Er Bah-Chin-Skee
Kristyna self-publishes ‘zines and comics as well as creating throngs of illustrated wrongs which can be found in all sorts of places including poster designs, music videos, fancy books and bespoke prints.
Contributing and collaborating whenever she can -
Kristyna’s work is regularly featured in Nib-Lit comics paper, and appears in the very recently released (and amazing) Solipsistic Pop vol 2 – an anthology which contains her ‘Sapling’ comic. She planted a Sycamore tree the day it was completed.
Whilst drawing she listens endlessly to Kate Bush, Kiss and Costello.
Whilst dining she enjoys sweet potatoes, satay broad beans and strawberry laces.
Work and witticisms can be found on her blog.
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Info on some early professional guest confirmations now! We have high hopes that the line-up for this year’s convention will be our biggest, best and most diverse yet, and these names seem to suggest that this will be the case…
First up is Paul Duffield, currently illustrating Warren Ellis’ webcomic Freakangels to widespread acclaim (and rightly so, the art’s freaking beautiful)!
Next is Richard Starkings, legendary letterer, founder of Comicraft, and creator of the brilliant Hip Flask and Elephantmen!
Last, but by no means least, is Tony Harris, artist on Eisner award-winning series Starman and Ex Machina!
We’ll be announcing many, many more names as we approach the festival dates, so be sure to check back regular, like. You know you want to!
I’m off to make the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs, byeeee!
- Clark
Filed under: About Thought Bubble, Art by Guests, Small Press and Independent Friends of Thought Bubble, Thought Bubble 2010, What is Sequential Art? | Tags: Bunny, Comics, Huw "Lem" Davies, Leeds comic festival, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Sequential Art, Small Press, Webcomics
Hello! Has it been a week already? Well, as promised, here’s a new profile for the Small Press and Independent Friends of Thought Bubble (or Masters of the Friendiverse) portfolio, and also some information on a fantabulous new anthology which you should all check out. Would you like to know more? If so – simply read on, Macduff.
This week we’re extremely happy to be dusting off, and rolling out, the red carpet for Huw “Lem” Davies, a Leeds local whose lunatic tales of leporidaen life are lovely! Just take a look at the gallery (below), and I’m sure you’ll agree. If not, then there is simply no helping you.
Lem is a twenty-something, Leeds-dwelling graduate in Fine Arts with an
emphasis on sculptures that go beep. Somehow this has translated
reasonably well to the science of creating comics.
In-between drawing a webcomic called Bunny – which features a family of
small marshmallow like creatures on a mission to understand their world
and ours – and sewing together plush toys for a living he can be found
drawing covers and introductory comics for short-story anthologies about
Robots in the Wild West, stories about lonely cosmonauts for the 69 Love
Songs Illustrated project, and small bleak comics about sleepwalking
into a city made almost entirely of rather forbidding spires for his own
amusement.
You can also follow Lem’s work on twitter, and via his blog. I recommend you do, it’s seriously worth it.
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In other Small Press news, the time is fast approaching for the launch of Solipsistic Pop volume 2!
Solipsistic Pop is a biannual anthology designed to spotlight the best in alternative comic art from the UK. It features diverse, beautiful, twisted and peculiar comics that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. Comic artists old and new are encouraged to contribute.
Volume 2 contains 64 pages of sequential art from some of the best comic artists, illustrators and designers working in the UK today. With a 12 page newspaper insert, gorgeous gatefold cover and specially designed tote bag, it’s a must have for any comic fan.
Contributors include Kristyna Baczynski, Becky Barnicoat, Adam Cadwell, Stephen Collins, Joe Decie, Marc Ellerby, Sally Hancox, Anne Holiday, Tom Humberstone, Philippa Johnson, Daniel Locke, Lizz Lunney, Jack Noel, Mark Oliver, Luke Pearson, Octavia Raitt, Anna Saunders, Julia Scheele, Matthew Sheret, and Matilda Tristram.
The first volume received rave reviews (for good reason), so be sure to get your hands (or other appendages) on the sophomore issue. Awesome.
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That’s it for this week, but we’ll be back in seven(ish) days time with some more sequentially goodness, so you won’t have to wait too long. Of course, if you’re really impatient, you could store yourself in carbonite for seven days and then get a friend to begin the thawing process (and aid your recovery from the associated hibernation sickness) just before then. But that would be silly.
Put the bunny back in the box.
- Clark
Filed under: About Thought Bubble, Art by Guests, Small Press and Independent Friends of Thought Bubble, Thought Bubble 2010, What is Sequential Art? | Tags: Comics, Joe List, Leeds comic con, Leeds comic festival, Leeds Thought Bubble comic festival, Sequential Art, Small Press, UK Conventions, Webcomics
Howdy Thought Bubblers! We’re back in business with a bumper edition of the blog bringing you a small press profile (below), info on some up ‘n’ coming events (below), more YouTube frolics (below) and a lengthy opening sentence (here). There’s only 222 days remaining until this year’s festival, and according to numerology that particular set o’ digits signifies we’re on the right path. Reassuring to say the least.
First up is the latest in our series introducing you to some of the crème de la crème of the UK’s comix community, members of this exclusive club are inducted into the Small Press and Independent Friends of Thought Bubble (or Defrienders of the Earth) for all of time. This week we’re welcoming into the ranks the awesomely talented Joe List, hijacker of the Guardian’s Saturday output with consistently hilarious results, and producer of fine comic wares, as can be seen in the handily placed gallery (below).
Joe List is designer and illustrator from Cheshire.
He is better known for his work on The Annotated Weekender, a blog where, each week, he doodles onto the Guardians Weekend Supplement. His first comic book, Freak Leap, was released last year and features a series of abrupt adventures in glorious black and white vectors. He has recently put together a mini comic, GUTS, which is a collection of sketch book comics
Joe enjoys running away from fights, stamping on things, and letting people know how they have nice shoes.
If you’d like Joe to compliment your footwear then he’s on twitter, and also has a handy site from which you can see his work.
I thoroughly endorse Joe’s comics, The Annotated Weekender is a regular source of mirth and is single-handedly helping to save the newspaper medium (I assume).
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Next up, some info on forthcoming attractions which UK comics fans should be excited about…
April 22nd-25th sees the inaugural UniComics Festival – a celebration of all kinds of comics for everyone. The four day festival features sequential art superstars Pat Mills, Dave Gibbons and Kevin O’Neil, and a broad spectrum of work drawing upon and inspired by comics – from film and story-boarding to illustration and theatre performance, encompassing opportunities for learning, networking and idea sharing. UniComics is presented by the University of Hertfordshire and you can find out more at their site, following them on twitter, or their Facebook.
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The MCM Expo have just released their guest list for this May’s comic village (which includes us!), and it looks set to be a good one. From the 29th – 30th May at Excel London we’ll be in attendance with a table, new flyers for this year’s Thought Bubble, free stuff/prizes, and smiles. Lots of smiles. Like the UniComics festival (above), the Expo’s comic village also has an aim in common with Thought Bubble, one which should be encouraged: to allow creators of all styles, mediums and levels to join together in one equal space and promote the good word of sequential art. The Expo and its visitors provide a unique fusion event for comic creators and fans to gather and share in sequential art goodness with those new to the medium! Come say hi, howdy, or hello! (Other greetings may be acceptable, depending on context).
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Finally, we’ve put up some more videos from 2009′s Thought Bubble on our YouTube channel, including Bryan Talbot’s excellent talk on the history of anthropomorphism in British comics, and the “Do Zombies Read Comics?” panel from last year’s convention (featuring Ben Templesmith, Charlie Adlard, Sean Phillips, and Antony Johnston). Both well worth your time and the effort of a few clicks of your mouse.
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… And that’s it for now, next week we’ll be back with another Small Press profile, I vow to you that they’ll be weekly for the foreseeable future, and my word is my bond people, so you know I mean business.
Geronimo!
- Clark
