Every two years, the Toronto Comic Arts Festival unites hundreds of exhibitors with thousands of visitors. Preceded by four nights of book signings, launch parties and discussion panels, TCAF 2010 descended upon the Toronto Reference Library May 7-9 in order to celebrate comic books as a legitimate form of artistic and literary expression.
Hardly a superhero in sight, the festival floors were packed with alternative comic vendors from around the world. Literally standing behind their word, these artists, authors and publishers were able to share their stories by utilizing the greatest power at their disposal—unabashed geekish enthusiasm.
Most of the participants meticulously crafted their responses, signings and discussions to hook every potential reader. For example, Dash Shaw, author/artist of BodyWorld personalized each book by doodling one-of-a-kind drawings in front covers and colouring specific pages to make them stand out.
Our C&G rep was lucky enough to catch Shaw before his spotlight at The Pilot bar just down Cumberland Street. Dash Shaw, who has visited Toronto as one of his last stops on a North American tour, made it clear that he knew his stuff very well. Shaw studies comics with a keen eye, finding hints of influential artists in his peers’ work and incorporating the best of what he admires into his own.
The spotlight on Dash Shaw and Paul Pope is only one of the many TCAF events that packed an impressive crowd. Each of TCAF’s events boasted an impressive attendance despite wind, rain, or the dreaded snow. This year, TCAF offered many panels studying comic making and its relationship with other arts. From children’s lit to Shakespeare, this year’s festival had it all, including a discussion about the connection between comic books and video games—a panel perfectly suited to the interests of C&G reps and fans.
It was amazing to see such a diverse crowd at this year’s festivities, many of whom had caught international flights in order to make this high-profile comic book event. The Toronto Reference Library quickly filled in the afternoons, milling with people who were related only by a shared love for comics and art. There were plenty of people and publishers present that should be monitored for future greatness. Among the many, a few especially stands out:
The aforementioned artists, authors, and publishers are only a few among many who should be watched for on the comic horizon.
The Toronto Comics and Arts Festival is a biannual event sponsored by The Beguiling. Comic fans are strongly advised to check it out. If this is something you may be interested in, be sure to check out the TCAF website. The site contains a comprehensive list of all exhibitors present at this year’s event, and will contain information about future TCAF plans.
TCAF: www.torontocomics.com
The Beguiling: www.thebeguiling.com