Embarking on a journey to the Toronto Comic Art Festival (TCAF) was not just about showcasing my work as a kids’ graphic novel author but also a family adventure filled with unexpected twists and turns. Traveling with my husband and two kids, we set off with excitement, looking forward to both the festival and visiting family in Toronto.
Our journey began with a flat tire, followed by a last-minute hotel change and a table number shuffle at the festival venue. Nevertheless, my journey to the Toronto Comic Art Festival (TCAF) was preceded by an enriching day at the World Balloon Academy on Friday, May 10. The day was packed with insightful presentations spanning various aspects of the comic industry. From panels on securing grants and navigating challenging subjects in comics to an engaging session on Creative Law 101, the academy provided a comprehensive overview of the industry's landscape. An interesting Indie Publishers Roundtable took place, where esteemed figures such as Tracy Hurren from Drawn & Quarterly, Andy Brown of Conundrum, Avi Ehrlich of Silver Sprocket, and Alexandra Finbow from Renegade Arts Entertainment shared their expertise. Their discussions delved into the current state of the industry, offering valuable perspectives on emerging trends and challenges and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of independent publishing. Another highlight was the Kickoff panel where TCAF partnered with Canada Post to celebrate their newest stamp issue featuring the works of iconic graphic novelists Chester Brown, Michel Rabagliati, Seth, and Jillian Tamaki. On Saturday, May 11, I arrived at the Toronto Reference Library, where TCAF was buzzing with energy. Once the doors opened to the public, the atmosphere was electric, drawing in hordes of comic enthusiasts eager to meet their favorite creators in person. One observation struck me immediately - there weren't many smaller children amidst the crowd. Positioned on the second floor amid a diverse array of comic genres, I realized that the younger audience (early readers) was somewhat underrepresented. It became evident that accessibility played a significant role; the waiting line to access the hall I was in (the busiest hall) might have deterred families with younger children. Reflecting on this, I pondered over potential strategies to engage with a younger audience effectively. While the kids' area and workshops were located on the first floor, setting up a table nearby could have enhanced visibility for creators targeting a younger demographic. Nevertheless, I made the most of the situation by leveraging creative tactics. Enlisting my family as brand ambassadors, they enthusiastically distributed bookmarks and stickers, igniting curious young readers on a quest to find Walsy's table. Clad in matching Walsy T-shirts, they became an unwitting marketing team, much to the amusement of attendees. Despite the initial setbacks and logistical changes, the experience proved invaluable. Engaging with fellow creators and interacting with passionate fans fueled my enthusiasm and offered valuable insights. As I reflect on my debut at TCAF, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my passion with other graphic novel creators and fans. The journey may have been fraught with obstacles, but it was also marked by moments of camaraderie, inspiration, and growth. And as I prepare to embark on my next Comic Art Festival in Montreal, held on Rue Saint-Denis from the 24th till the 26th of May, where I will take part in a panel as well as exhibit my graphic novel, "Walsy: The Red Glove", I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned and the connections forged during this unforgettable experience.
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