New international comic festival in Maribor

Maribor is set to become a vibrant hub for comic art enthusiasts with the inaugural 'Primaruha!' international comic festival, scheduled for May 8th and 9th. Organized by the independent bookstores Šišklo and Mariborko, the festival aims to significantly boost interest in comics across all their diverse forms within the city. This initiative seeks not only to celebrate the medium but also to actively encourage Slovenian authors to create more comic works and to cultivate a broader audience for this dynamic art form.

The festival organizers, including Anja Zag Golob, emphasized the goal of reaching a wider demographic, including individuals who are avid readers but may not yet be familiar with the world of comics. By bringing together a curated selection of international and local talent, 'Primaruha!' intends to showcase the versatility and appeal of comic storytelling. The event promises to be a significant cultural addition to Maribor, fostering a deeper appreciation for graphic narratives and their unique ability to blend visual art with compelling storytelling.

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We are organizing it 'to increase interest in comics in all its forms in Maribor, to encourage authors to create comics and to generally increase the audience for this genre, including interest from the population that reads, but does not (yet) read comics'.

Headlining the festival are acclaimed artists Josephine Mark, Danijel Žeželj, and Matej Stupica, whose works are described as encompassing broad and engaging themes. Also featured is Joana Estrela, a 1990-born artist known for her simple, gentle, and witty creations, often employing hand-drawn techniques. The inclusion of such diverse talents underscores the festival's commitment to presenting a comprehensive view of contemporary comic art, from established international figures to emerging local voices.

'Primaruha!' represents a significant step in promoting comic culture in Slovenia, particularly in Maribor. By providing a platform for artists and engaging the public, the festival is poised to become a key event in the country's cultural calendar, fostering creativity and expanding the reach of this captivating medium. The organizers' ambition to grow the audience for comics highlights a forward-thinking approach to cultural development, aiming to integrate this art form more deeply into the Slovenian cultural landscape.

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I create works that are simple, gentle, and witty. My style is diverse, but I lean towards hand-drawing techniques.