
From luchadors to lowriders, the world of Latino comics is about to hit Modesto
The Latino Comics Expo, coming to the Modesto Junior College West Campus on March 15-16, isn’t just another comic-con (not that there’s anything wrong with those), MJC instructor Theresa Rojas said.
The importance of the San Francisco-based expo, which was founded in 2011 and is making its first visit to Modesto, is that it highlights Latino creators and Latino-friendly content, said Rojas, who is the event’s site director and teaches literature, creative writing, comparative media and more.
These creators see the value of connecting with readers who aren’t used to seeing themselves in comics. And the expo, which will feature scores of exhibitors, workshops, panels and more, is a huge opportunity for members of the Latino community to see themselves reflected in print and digital works, Rojas said.
“I think Latinx (a gender-neutral term sometimes used instead of Latino or Latina) creators are one the best-kept secrets in country,” she said, “and part of my mission is to get these works more accessible not just to my students but to everyone.”
Read more: https://www.modbee.com/news/local/education/article227203139.html
Source: The Modesto Bee
Schedule of Panels
12:00pm: “Spotlight on David Gonzalez” Native Californian and creator of the phenomenal HOMIES figurine craze shares highlights of his career and how he balances art and business. Moderated by Javier Hernandez1:00pm: “Zine Making Workshop” Cathy Camper (Lowriders in Space) and Isabel Ann Castro (St. Sucia) will present a fun, hands-on introduction to zine-making. All ages and skill levels welcome.2:00pm: “Spotlight on Gilbert Hernandez” The co-creator of the award-winning, seminal “Love and Rockets” series discusses his art in this career-spanning interview. Moderated by Dr. Frederick Luis Aldama
3:00pm: “Para Los Niños- Kids Comics!” A lively discussion on creating comics and books for the youth market. With Rhode Montijo (The Gumazing Gum Girl, The Halloween Kid), Cathy Camper (Lowriders in Space) and Jose Cabrera (Bunny and Ardilla). Moderated by Dr. Frederick Luis Aldama
4:00pm: “Spotlight on Rafael Navarro” The Daytime Emmy Award winning storyboard artist and creator of the cult comic book, Sonambulo and co-creator of Guns A’ Blazin’ joins us for a conversation and live drawing demo! Moderated by Dr. Theresa Rojas