Mumbai: Comic culture in India is evolving and needs continuous innovation claimed art enthusiasts at Indie Comix Fest 2018 which was held on Sunday at YMCA, Colaba. Storytelling, skill and creativity were exhibited by various artists from different backgrounds and appreciated by young attendees who showed a deep interest towards the Comic culture in India.
Around 25 independent comic artists, illustrators and publishers displayed their work at this fest. And their work was well perceived by large number of attendees of all age groups who appreciated art and tried to encourage this creative field. Students, young budding artists, entrepreneurs and well known industry experts interacted with attendees explaining to them the creative freedom in drawing comics through a different mode of storytelling.
It was intriguing to witness a wide range of variety as exhibits were not restricted to comic books or strips. But there were postcards, bookmarks, pamphlets, cards, digital designs, hand drawn sketches, coasters and even tiny booklets based on original comics created by these independent comic enthusiasts. Rhythm Sood, an independent comic artist said, “Comics are much more than action and fighting. Comics are a gag with light-hearted and fun stuff. We are trying to create such art for the audience.”
While Debasmita Das, 22, said, “We are glad to have a platform to exhibit our work which is just growing in terms of creativity and new ideas. We can portray values and talk about issues which are generally not spoken about.” Comic Culture in India is not dying but is growing in terms of different forms of storytelling.
Bharath Murthy, organiser of the fest said, “Comics is not just meant for kids as even adults can connect to it. It is about telling the right stories which interests the reader. This is the third edition and we want to expand and cater to a wider audience as it is a great platform to explore creative freedom.”
Students who attended this fest exclaimed they had a different exposure as it helped changed their mindset. Shoubhik Ghosh, a student from Pune said, “Though the digital exposure is gaining attraction people still like to read comic books and are interested in original content.” While Abhijeet Kini, a well known publisher said, “We have created regional comics based on stories and lives of people in Mumbai to cater to Mumbaikars.” While Renuka, another artist from Bangalore said, “Everyday is different as the art space is unique and evolving always.”