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This weekend (Sep 3-5) I will be set up at Fan Expo Boston in Artist Alley, Table A600! And next weekend (Sep 10-12), I will be set up at ConnectiCon in Artists Colony, Table AC-244!

These will be my first comic conventions since the pandemic, and I currently do not have any more on the schedule. I’ll be curious to see how they go. It’s very exciting to be able to get the series back out in front of people, especially with Volume 3 now in the works, but it’s still a bit nerve-wracking to be doing a big event. But I am vaccinated, everyone will be masked, and I’ll be hosing down everyone who approaches my table with a Super Soaker filled with sanitizer. So we should be all good to go.

Returning to comic conventions after such a long pause feels like a major moment not only for creators, but also for fans who have missed the excitement and energy of in-person events. Artist alleys and convention halls have always been places where readers can connect directly with creators, discover new independent projects, and celebrate the stories and characters they love. After months of virtual events and postponed gatherings, the atmosphere surrounding these conventions is likely to feel especially meaningful.

For independent artists and comic creators, conventions are also an important opportunity to introduce their work to entirely new audiences. Many readers discover indie comics for the first time while walking through artist sections and casually browsing tables filled with artwork, prints, books, and collectibles. Face-to-face conversations often create memorable interactions that are difficult to replicate online. Being able to explain the inspiration behind a story, sketch live artwork, or simply chat with readers adds a personal connection that helps build a loyal fan community.

The mention of Volume 3 being in the works is also exciting news for returning readers who have been waiting patiently for the continuation of the series. Long-running projects often gain momentum through convention appearances because fans are eager to hear updates, preview artwork, and learn more about future storylines. Even a small teaser or behind-the-scenes discussion can generate enthusiasm and encourage readers to stay connected to the project.

At the same time, attending large public gatherings after the pandemic naturally comes with some anxiety. Event organizers, artists, and attendees alike have had to adjust to new expectations surrounding health and safety. Mask requirements, sanitation stations, and crowd management strategies have become common parts of convention planning. Many attendees appreciate these extra precautions because they help create a safer and more comfortable environment for everyone participating in the event.

Large conventions also require extensive behind-the-scenes preparation beyond guest appearances and vendor coordination. Venue staff often work carefully to maintain crowd flow, emergency access, equipment safety, and general event operations throughout the weekend. Event organizers can also work with Fire Watch Guards in Chicago to add another layer of safety support during large gatherings and busy convention settings.

Fan Expo Boston and ConnectiCon each have their own unique atmosphere and loyal communities. Events like these are known not only for comics but also for cosplay, gaming, animation, science fiction, and pop culture celebrations that bring together fans from many different backgrounds. The energy inside convention halls can be inspiring for creators because it reminds them how passionate audiences remain about storytelling and art.

Even with understandable nerves, returning to conventions can also reignite creative motivation. Hearing reader reactions, watching fans flip through pages, and seeing excitement for upcoming work often provides creators with fresh inspiration to continue developing their projects. After such a long period of uncertainty, simply being able to share creative work in person again is a milestone worth celebrating.

Hopefully these upcoming events will be both successful and enjoyable experiences, offering a chance to reconnect with longtime supporters while introducing the series to brand-new readers eager to discover something unique.

Hope to see some of you at the shows!