The South San Francisco Library hosted their ninth annual Small Press Comics Expo on Saturday, as a part of the Peninsula Libraries Comic Arts Fest, inviting families from across the Bay Area to celebrate comics and storytelling.
The event featured an exhibit hall with local comic creators, hands-on craft activities, and talks from special guests. Visitors had the chance to meet artists, shop for prints and books, and even win free books from renowned authors.
Many of the creators spoke about how comics have shaped their artistic journeys. “I grew up inspired by comics like X-Men and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and it’s amazing to see how much the art form has expanded,” Don Aguillo, a local artist and exhibitor said. “Being able to share that passion with the community, especially here at a local library, means a lot.”
Other artists emphasized how their creative process blends personal passions and visual storytelling. “I mostly just draw stuff that I love. I grew up really inspired by anime and webcomics, and now a lot of my stories are a mix of different things I’ve read,” Tiff Zhang, who showcased her work at the expo, said.
“I try to appeal to the new generation of kids and parents who love comics. We want every page to feel like a piece of art you’d want to hang on your wall.” Oliver Chin, another exhibitor, said.
Visitors also shared how special it was to meet creators in person and be part of the vibrant world of comics. Joi Gonzales, an aspiring artist shared her unique perspective on the medium. “I see comics as art, and they’re definitely a form of self expression,” she said. Gonzales expressed her enthusiasm for the comic scene she first discovered online. “I’ve seen a lot of these artists on social media, and it’s really nice to see the community here.”
The event also featured special talks from successful artists, such as David Pepose and Julia Wertz. Judd Winick, author and illustrator of the New York Times bestselling graphic novel series, “Hilo,” spoke about the process of cartooning and storytelling.
“I’ve always believed that comics are a way to tell a story visually. It’s not just about the words, it’s about how those words and pictures work together to create something special,” Winick said. He also took time to address questions from the crowd, offering advice to aspiring creators. “If you can’t think of a plot, don’t be afraid to borrow from others. Change the characters, change the setting, but the basic structure can give you the foundation to build something new,” Winick said.
This year’s Comics Expo brought together comic enthusiasts of all ages to celebrate the art of storytelling. The event facilitated meaningful interactions between creators and attendees, and a diverse lineup of artists and engaging activities highlighted the lasting influence of comics.
