ShortBox has been an excellent outlet for publishing fun and fine comics since its inception in 2016. Operated by ex-comics-blogger Zainab Akhtar, it started as a quarterly mail-order box but has evolved over the years into different formats. However, what has been constant throughout is Akhtar’s keen eye for curation, seeking out exciting cartoonists from different backgrounds who possess distinct styles. In recent years this curation has been taken to another level with the ShortBox Comics Fair.
ShortBox Comics Fair is essentially a digital comics fair. Think of it like a zine fair, but without geographic limitations and completely digital. Running annually in October, participating artists from around the world come together to spotlight fresh new comics.
2022’s edition sees a total of 100 exhibiting artists. Collectively, they offer a broad range of styles, stories, and storytelling methods. Browsing the fair, you’ll discover personal memoirs, imaginative fantasy, creepy horror, LGBTQI+ narratives, and heaps more. With such variety, the fair offers a unique perspective on comics.
Shortbox Comics Fair is a fantastic way to discover new artists. Not only can you find your new favourite creators by browsing the fair, but the exhibitor page also includes links to the artist’s online presence. As a result, not only does it become an outlet for discovery but a launching pad for you to find more exciting work.
Exhibiting artists retain full rights and ownership of their comics and receive 100% of the sales after the payment processing fees. As a result, ShortBox Comics Fair is an excellent way to support independent artists and their work.
I wouldn’t dawdle, though. ShortBox Comics Fair is only running from October 1st to 31st. If you miss out, you’ll have to wait until next year.
Discover all the comics available at the fair. You can also discover ShortBox’s publishing slate on the publisher’s website.
Have you checked out the ShortBox Comics Fair yet? Which comics caught your eye? Share them in the comments below or via Facebook or Twitter.
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