When many people think of comic books, images
of Superman, Captain America, and Black Widow likely
come to mind However, the medium encompasses a
much wider range of stories and characters, from
LGBTQ-themed narratives to graphic novels that explore societal
issues Here, in no particular order, are groups
dedicated to shining a spotlight on this diverse
storytelling form.
At # 1 is LDComics, a women-led comics
forum in the United Kingdom. The volunteer organization
is comprised of artists who host comic-related events
worldwide, while providing a platform for creators to
test new works and ideas and share their
unique perspectives. Meetings are held in cities including
New York, San Francisco Toronto Birmingham London, and
Bristol, and feature academics publishers, and fans.
In 2016, the group released the Hometown Comic
Anthology, which highlights stories about members and their
hometowns. LDComics is also featured as a chapter
in The Inking Woman, edited by LDC co-founder
Nicola Streeten and Cath Tate. The book spotlights
the history of female cartoonists from the eighteenth
century to the present day, and includes examples
of their work as well as commentary.
In the # 2 spot is the Small
Press Expo, a nonprofit created in 19 94
to promote producers of independent comics. Its annual
festival in Bethesda Maryland, the largest of its
kind in the the US provides a forum for
artists writers, and publishers to present comic art
to the public that is not accessible through
normal commercial channels. The convention includes formal panel
discussions and such offsite events as academic seminars,
book signings, and school outreach programs.
SPX runs the Small Press Expo Graphic Novel
Gift Program, which is targeted at public and
academic library systems in the Washington, DC metropolitan
area. This program focuses on promoting learning and
literacy through graphic novels and comics. Publishers contributing
to the initiative include Adhouse Books, Drawn &
Quarterly Fantagraphics, Koyama Press, and Top Shelf.
Entering the list at # 3 is the
Pop Insider, a source for news on collectibles
toys games, and entertainment. The site covers the
latest updates on the DC Comics Marvel Disney,
and Star Wars franchises, including movie release dates
merchandise, and special events. In addition, it features
reviews of graphic novels and books about the
comics industry.
Through its We Be Geeks Podcast Collective Weekly
Roundup, the Pop Insider showcases a curated selection
of podcasts across such varied interests as classic
science fiction music, and pop culture. Special guests
include creators and talent like Street Fighter actor
Miguel A. Nunez and author Gail Simone, known
for writing the Birds of Prey series. Members
of the site's editorial team regularly make appearances
on the program, as well.
Showing up at # 4 is Prism Comics,
a leading non-profit, all-volunteer organization supporting LGBTQ-friendly comic
books. Founded in 2003, it has exhibited and
presented panels at conventions around the country, including
Comikaze Mo CCA Art Festival, and the Alternative
Press Expo. Visitors to its website can explore
creator profiles, which feature photo galleries, status updates,
and real-time notifications for various events and activities.
The group's ALPHABET anthology features artists who apply
for the Prism Comics Queer Press Grant, an
award helping creators publish and promote their graphic
novels zines, and other work. This compilation also
showcases the creations of industry veterans and newcomers
Meanwhile, the organization's pop-up shop boasts a special
selection of autographed books and comics, including The
Complete Wendel by Howard Cruse and Aquaman Tempest,
signed by Phil Jimenez.
Coming in at # 5 is Uncivilized Books,
a boutique comics publishing house based in Minneapolis.
It specializes in graphic novels zines books, and
Critical Cartoons, a series that explores the history
of the genre. Among the artists on its
roster are Sophia Foster-Dimino M.S Harkness, and Jon
Lewis.
ODOD Books, the company's young reader imprint, features
such titles as It Never Happened Again, That
Night, a Monster, and the acclaimed Musnet series,
which was nominated for a Prix Angouleme. Other
accolades for the company include Best Mini Comic
in the 2019 DiNKy Awards and the prestigious
Ping Prize. Uncivilized Books is also known for
Craig Thompson's Ginseng Roots series, classified as a
combination of memoir travelogue, and essay.
Wrapping up the list at # 6 is
ComicConnect, which claims to be the world's premier
online auctioneer of vintage comic books, original art,
and pop culture memorabilia. The company offers complimentary
appraisals, comic book grading, and estate services. Founders
Stephen Fishler and Vincent Zurzolo have appeared in
multiple media outlets including Forbes, Good Morning America,
Entertainment Tonight and Time Magazine.
ComicConnect holds monthly auctions featuring such classic works
as Batman, Black Panther, and Daredevil Other popular
items include pulp magazine titles like Fantastic Adventures,
The Shadow, and Amazing Stories. In partnership with
its sister site, Metropolis Collectibles, the company regularly
attends conventions across the globe at places such
as New York Comic Con and Lucca Comics
& Games.