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The name “Comic Con” is often associated with fantastical costumes, an accumulation of fandoms across genres and a gracious community outlet to express creativity and imagination.
The same remains true for ComicCon Livermore, coming to the Bankhead Theater in downtown this Saturday (July 20) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Especially notable, voice actor and guest of honor John Morris, who voiced Andy in “Toy Story”, “Toy Story 2” and “Toy Story 3”, will be at ComicCon Livermore onstage at start time with autographs available for purchase.
“It makes me smile to see so many fans attending and enjoying these events,” Morris told Livermore Vine in an interview.
Individual expression continues to be a key factor in the ongoing success of Comic Cons throughout the world. ComicCon Livermore will showcase artists of all genres including graphic novels, manga, crime/noir, sci-fi, horror, fantasy, slice of life, adventure, humor and romance, organizers said.
“I grew up watching Disney/Pixar movies and cartoons with my younger sibling, and playing with ‘X-Men’ and ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ action figures along with Legos,” Morris reflected. “I always get excited when I see that voice actors, artists, animators and others involved in these franchises are going to attend the same events as me.”
The event will include a costume contest, face painting, photo booth, comics,= and anime.
“I really enjoy seeing the creative cosplay and interactions between fans. Some highlights for me have included ‘X-Men’, ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’, ‘Star Wars’, ‘Game of Thrones’ and (of course) Disney/Pixar cosplay,” Morris said.
Also to look forward to are King Kong Comics and Games, Towne Center Books, henna and art demonstration areas.
Kim Anderson, an illustrator, writer, and comic artist attending ComicCon Livermore will be selling poster prints and some small zine-style comics and sketchbook collections. Anderson’s preparation attests to artists’ dedication and time commitment to their craft as the event approaches.
“It starts at least a month out with the checking of the supply of business cards and past stock and whatnot, followed by the ordering of anything that is lacking,” Anderson told Livermore Vine. “Then I start plotting up any new work that I want to do and go from there. This time around that meant a lot of scanning things out of my sketchbooks and throwing myself at a couple comic ideas that have been swirling around in my head for ages.”
Anderson also anticipates the possibility of opening slots for cartoon portraits/character commissions at ComicCon.
Another artist, Jessica Nagel, expressed her sentiments on what she looks forward to, saying, “I’m really excited to just meet people, I think the best part about doing events like these is the interactions you get to have with members of the community.”
The community aspect aims to be at the heart of what the convention is.
“It’s such a positive environment, everyone I’ve gotten to interact with has just felt like a long time friend. We’re all here for one thing, and that’s enjoying comics and sharing what we love, and ultimately that’s what connects us,” Nagel said. “The community is great, we’re all very open-minded to new ideas, and are willing to help one another out, or even work on projects together. I really enjoy it and I think newcomers will too.”
“The Art of Jess” is amongst similar vendors and artists set to appear at the convention.
“Expect a welcoming smile and a place to stop and chat,” Nagel added. “I’ve got all my original artworks depicting characters from my own stories and ideas, I love to share about them and answer any questions about my process, stories and characters! Please feel free to show me your work as well, I love to meet fellow artists and storytellers, and would be delighted to talk.”
Attendees, unlike other similar conventions, can expect free admission as ComicCon Livermore is open to all without cost. For more information, visit livermorearts.org.
