The COMP Magazine CAKE 2018 - A Review in Photos

CAKE 2018
Chicago Alternative Comics Expo
Center on Halsted
3656 N, Halsted Avenue
Chicago, IL 60613

Hosted once again by the Center on Halsted, CAKE continues to prove an important inspiring element in the exploration of art and comics. Unlike the mega-cons held at McCormick Place or out in Rosemont, this place just feels like a family gathering. Most artists presenting are in early career, tend to toil in the shadows, yet regularly create works that offer poignant commentary with insight not found in most mainstream comics. This year, featured established talents Tony Breed, Audrey Niffenegger, Nicole Hollander, Fiona Smyth, and Eddie Campbell were present. A couple personal highlights was meeting Jim Woodring. The man holds the rare ability to produce remarkable works without voice or thought bubbles that remind of early 20th century seminal works like Krazy Kat by George Herriman. Also, Chicago native, Nick Drnaso’s recent release “Sabrina”, set to be placed in the pantheon of great comics (and art) was quickly picked up and read. Drnaso’s “Sabrina” offers succinct commentary that cannot be overlooked when considering contemporary America. Read in one sitting (I plan to take another gander tonight), this thoughtful exercise made me reevaluate the importance of personal communication in our digital age. If you are interested in diverse, experimental, and provocative margin walkers, this is the place to check out next spring.