Say what? A comic book festival run and organized by ladies!? It really exists! The Short Run Comix and Arts Festival on Saturday, November 15 at Washington Hall, is probably the coolest, most fun, and inexpensive thing to do with your weekend in Seattle. The main event is free and open to the public and features a ton of amazing indie comix, small press and emerging artists, cartoonists, publishers, zinesters, authors, animators and more! This DIY-centric festival has plenty that is pleasing to the eye and the brain.
The comic book industry is heavily dominated by men, and it’s refreshing that there’s a festival (which has existed since 2011!) that is created, run, and organized by talented and creative ladies, and also allows other creators to gain exposure and become more integrated into the art and comic book world. The organizers and board of directors are deeply connected in non-profit, event planning, fundraising, comics and art, and teaching as to provide the best event for those traveling to the festival this November.
This year the festival is celebrating John Porcellino, mini-comic book legend, and his documentary, along with other artists that are traveling from all over the world to take part in events, workshops, readings, screenings, panels, and murals all around Seattle. Porcellino is particularly interesting because he hasn’t given up his DIY roots. He is celebrating the 25th anniversary of his self-published comic King-Cat Comics and his upcoming first full-length graphic novel, The Hospital Suite, published by Drawn & Quarterly.
The line-up is huge this year! The artists are continually amazing and inspiring, and the amount of things you can do leading up to, and after the event are endless. If you are in the area, I strongly suggest you check it out, meet some awesome people, and get inspired! Events start on Monday November 10th at the Seattle Public Library, and last until Thursday November 20th at the Richard Hugo House.
Short Run organizers Janice Headly, Eroyn Franklyn, and Kelly Froh
Photos by Alex Stonehill & poster created by John Porcellino
