It's a bird! It's a plane! No, it’s Staple! The "Independent Media Expo" is returning to Austin from April 13-14 at the Mabee Ballroom at St. Edward's University. This event celebrates independently created comics, zines, art, crafts, games, and more. There will be more than 100 artists showcasing their work, and seven hours of engaging panels and presentations.
The fun kicks off Friday, April 12, at 8 pm with a pre-party meet-and-greet at Austin Books & Comics. Then the main expo runs Saturday from 11 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from noon to 6 pm.
Chris "Uncle Staple" Nicholas, Staple's founder and lead organizer, takes pride that the expo has already played a role in nurturing the next generation of creators.
"Comics themselves can be an educational and literacy tool," he shares in an email to CultureMap. "One thing that always touches me is hearing from folks who attended, [who] were inspired to make stuff, and then became an exhibitor at the next show."
Staple! 2024 offers a wide range of engaging panels and discussions for everyone from creatives to comic book enthusiasts. Attendees can catch a timely panel on "Surviving Layoffs and Managing Your Career as a Digital Creative"; attend a Q&A with special guest cartoonist Ron Regé, Jr.; and get an inside look at "Working with a Team in Animation" from the experts at Austin's own Powerhouse Animation Studios.
For first time visitors to the expo, Nicholas recommends:
“Check the schedule and see what panels you are interested in attending. [There's a] great lineup of programming this year! Second, bring money. There will be a ton of awesome stuff there by fantastic creators and you’re gonna wanna buy it. That’s why the tickets are so cheap, so you can spend it on comics, art, zines, games and more! Third, be ready to have a good time and meet some great people. Don’t be shy! The artists are friendly and mostly don’t bite!”
With so much to see and do, Staple is a must for anyone interested in independent media arts. Grab your tickets today and join the Austin creative community in celebrating self-published, handmade, and unique works.
“I really want people to show up, get some cool stuff, and support the awesome artists that are the whole reason [Staple] exists.” says Nicholas
Tickets and more information as the expo approaches are available at $12 at staple-austin.org.
