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Festival to introduce Bristolians to queer comic artists
LGBTQ+ comics are becoming increasingly popular. The astronomical success of Heartstopper – adapted into a Netflix series – reflects the potential market.
While large-scale comic art festivals like Thought Bubble do feature LGBTQ+ creators, there are few spaces dedicated solely to queer comic creators.
Nate Adam saw this gap in the market and wanted to build something for Bristol’s large LGBTQ+ and creative communities.
is needed now More than ever
So, he set up the Pride Comic Arts Festival which he has now been running for four years alongside co-organiser Chris Locke.
Exhibitors at the festival represent a diverse array of comic book artists, zine makers and writers
Nate explained that the Pride Comic Arts Festival is for exhibitors of comic books, graphic novels and zines who identify under the LGBTQ+ umbrella.
Each year, the application process for exhibitors begins in March with an aim to make tables as affordable as possible. A diverse range of applicants is welcomed, from published professionals through to newcomers making zines in their bedrooms.
The festival’s reputation continues to grow, with application numbers rising from 20 in their first year to 90 this year.
A spectrum of sexualities and gender identities are represented in comics exhibited at the festival
The festival has seen many exhibitors apply to take part again year-after-year.
“The biggest feedback we get is that it’s a safe space. We want our exhibitors to meet people who can help them in their professional careers, or even just help develop their vision,” Nate told Bristol24/7.
Festival co-organiser Chris Locke added that their priority is to make the event as accessible as possible for people, however they identify, and disability inclusive.
Bristol Pride Comic Arts Festival prides itself on accessibility
In previous years visitors have travelled from as far as Portsmouth and Plymouth.
Chris said attendees frequently say the Festival is their happy place. He explained: “We’ve hosted some exhibitors that I personally respect greatly. Being told people heard about us, and wanted to come to the point they travelled far, is a huge compliment. For me, seeing people happy, and having them express that to us, is a huge highlight.”
Chris and Nate hope that the Pride Comic Arts Festival can soon become a Community Interest Company which will hopefully help them to get more funding.
Nate said: “We want to make it sustainable. Attracting bigger names, and being able to pay for their travel and accommodation, will help to really put us on the map. We want to make it a weekend event (and) create a full-rounded experience by putting on social events around the city.”
The Pride Comic Arts Festival will take place on 21 September at The Station on Silver Street. Entry is free.
All Images: Nicky Ebbage
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