Festival has fantastic line-up of artists

Organisers are thrilled to welcome the biggest names in the business from across the globe to Shrewsbury for Comics Salopia on June 1-2. People will be able to meet creators, artists, writers and publishers who have worked on titles for much-loved brands such as Marvel, DC, 2000AD and Star Wars.

Those joining the big names already signed up to attend include Andy Diggle, world-renowned editor and writer for the likes of Marvel, DC and 2000AD; Chris Ryall, president, publisher and chief creative officer of IDW; Frank Quitely, one of the most sought after comics artists in the business, who has worked on high profile titles such as New-X-Men and Batman & Robin; Chip Kidd, described by USA Today as “the closest thing to a rock star” in the graphic design industry; Sarah Graley, of Rick and Morty fame; Elsa Charretier and Yanick Paquette, a Canadian artist who has contributed to titles including Wonder Woman, Avengers, Batman and Swamp Thing.

Already set to appear are John Wagner, co-creator of the iconic Judge Dredd, and Marvel writers and artists like Kieron Gillen, Al Ewing, Tyler Kirkham and Christian Ward who between them have brought Thor, X-Men, Hulk and Venom to life, among other amazing characters.

The festival also features Shrewsbury’s very own Charlie Adlard who has received numerous industry awards for his work on The Walking Dead, Hellboy comics artists Duncan Fegredo, Laurence Campbell and Ben Stenbeck, and Beano editor and artists John Anderson, Nigel Parkinson, Laura Howell, Lew Stringer and Hunt Emerson.

Comics Salopia Chair, Councillor Jane Mackenzie, said: “Batman, Hellboy, Judge Dredd, Wolverine, Shrek, the Beano - all familiar and much-loved characters and stories, and you'll be able to discover more at Comics Salopia from the very people who have been fundamental in their creation and development.

“We’re over the moon that so many world-renowned comics stars are making the journey to Shropshire, to join the county’s own talented artists, creators and writers, for our festival.

“However the event is not just for ardent comic book fans - the programme has been carefully designed for visitors of all ages, all walks of life and all levels of interest in comics.

“Shrewsbury will be alive with the sights and sounds of the comics universe with activities everyone can enjoy at the Square, Castle, Dana Prison, University Centre, Museum and more.

“So whether you are a parent looking for something for the whole family to enjoy, a comics collector or a budding artist looking to show your work to editors, you’ll be able to find something to stimulate your imagination in our incredible choice of events that span the whole weekend and beyond.”

Many of the activities will be free to attend and money raised from the ticketed events will be going to the Share Shrewsbury charity set up by Councillor Mackenzie - helping people of all ages affected by addiction.

Attractions include a free Kids’ Zone at the library run by Redan, publisher of best-selling comics like Peppa Pig, a range of workshops, a free entry Comics Fair, film screenings, face painting, Cosplay (Costume Play) and Jedi Fight Training.

For more information about the festival, visit comicssalopia.com, follow Facebook.com/ComicsSalopia, @CSalopia on Twitter, or download the Comics Salopia app for both Apple and Android.