Thought Bubble, Yorkshire’s award-winning comic art convention, has announced the programme for this year’s festival – a week of films, workshops, talks and more taking place in Harrogate, Leeds and across Yorkshire.
The festival takes place between 11-17th of November, with the comic convention opening its doors at Harrogate Convention Centre on the 16th.
Introduction
Thought Bubble, Yorkshire’s celebrated comic art convention, has unveiled its exciting programme for this year’s festival, which features an extensive array of films, workshops, and talks across Harrogate, Leeds, and other parts of Yorkshire.
Scheduled from the 11th to the 17th of November, the much-anticipated convention will open its doors at the Harrogate Convention Centre on the 16th, ready to mesmerise attendees with a unique blend of creativity and culture.
Secrets of the Majestic and Artistic Exhibitions
The highlight of this year’s festival is the debut exhibition of Secrets of the Majestic, an anthology of short comics from various indie creators, curated by Chris Mole and Gary Moloney. The anthology pays homage to the famed Majestic hotel toilets, making it a unique and intriguing addition.
Additionally, visitors can explore Adrift On A Painted Sea by graphic novelist Tim Bird, which will be displayed alongside paintings by his mother, Sue Bird. This personal touch adds depth and provides a glimpse into the familial artistic bond.
Face to Face: Creative Portraits and Make Mine Manga
Joel Meadows, the editor-in-chief of Tripwire magazine, will showcase photographs from his new book Face to Face: Creative Portraits. The exhibit spans over thirty years of his work, documenting the intertwined worlds of comics, TV, and film.
Complementing this is the Make Mine Manga exhibition. This free library exhibit, open to all, invites the curious and devoted manga fans to delve into the fascinating world of Japanese manga.
Engaging Talks and Social Events
The festival will host engaging talks including one titled Banned Books with The Bookish Type, where publisher and librarian Harry-Anne, along with her guests, will delve into the history and current state of book bans.
Comic creators E.M. Carroll and Emma Ríos will hold a double signing event at Gosh Comics. Meanwhile, Theo Parish will discuss his graphic novel Homebody in a session called Rainbow Age, offering profound insights into his creative journey.
Returning Favourites and Special Collaborations
Making a much-anticipated return are the social drawing jam Pints and Pencils and the Comics Forum academic conference, both promising an engaging and interactive experience for attendees.
This year’s notable collaboration is with Vice Press, celebrating the 40th anniversary of James Cameron’s The Terminator. A new, officially licensed film poster by Florey will be unveiled, with exclusive variants available only at a special screening at Everyman Harrogate.
Exploring Palestinian Art and Identity
In a groundbreaking exhibition, Enter the Mulberry Tree and Fly Free, curated by writer and journalist George Khoury, showcases the work of twelve Palestinian comic creators. This exhibition is the first of its kind outside the Middle East and North Africa.
Held at Left Bank Leeds, the exhibit explores themes of personal identity and geopolitics, offering compelling and profound perspectives on Palestine’s cultural and social landscape.
Guest Line-up and Ticket Information
This year’s guest line-up at the comic convention includes over thirty new names, such as Charlie Adlard, Nick Brokenshire, Kristyna Baczynski, Becky Cloonan, and Dani. The convention will span the final two days of the festival.
Tickets, which provide access to all convention events including panels, workshops, and signings, are on sale now with special options for families and students. Notably, tickets for under 12s, carers, and over 65s are free, encouraging broad participation.
Anticipation and Final Remarks
After achieving record attendance last year, the organisers are optimistic about a sell-out event this year. Festival Director Martha Julian shared her enthusiasm, highlighting the diverse and engaging programme that awaits attendees.
“We are thrilled to announce this year’s festival programme,
Events will occur across Yorkshire, with more to be unveiled soon. There’s something for everyone, from workshops and exhibitions to film screenings and guest talks.”
Conclusion
Thought Bubble 2024 promises a rich tapestry of cultural and artistic experiences, offering something for every attendee.
With its diverse programme and celebrated guest line-up, this year’s festival is set to be an unmissable event for comic enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Thought Bubble 2024 promises a rich tapestry of cultural and artistic experiences, offering something for every attendee.
With its diverse programme and celebrated guest line-up, this year’s festival is set to be an unmissable event for comic enthusiasts and art lovers alike.