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Comica & SelfMadeHero Present: Judith Vanistendael
Posted: September 6, 2010
The Flemish New Wave is currently unleashing some amazing graphic novels, so watch out for a Flemish focus at Comica 2010 this November. For example, both Randall C.‘s Sleepyheads from Blank Slate and Brecht Evens’ Wrong Place from Drawn & Quarterly will blow your socks off. Ahead of November’s full festival season, Comica Festival is partnering with publishers SelfMadeHero to celebrate the release of another Flemish comics gem, Dance By The Light of The Moon, by inviting its acclaimed author Judith Vanistendael to London for a special launch event, with support from The Flemish Literature Fund and Flanders House.
Originally published as two books and nominated for the prestigious Angoulême Festival Grand Prix, Dance By The Light of The Moon is a moving love story inspired by her relationship with a political refugee from Togo. It began as a response to the publication of a short story, Message from the Fortress, written by the author’s father, Geert Vanistendael. In it, her father gives vent to his feelings about the relationship. At first angry with her father, the author publicly responded by reclaiming the story in this semi-autobiographical novel. Vanistendael creates comics ‘about life as it really is’ and her captivating, light brush style has invoked comparisons with Craig Thompson’s epic graphic novel Blankets. This is a beautiful, unexpected story, told from the heart, which reaches far beyond the love story that originally inspired it.
Come and meet Judith Vanistendael, who will be talking about her work with Comica Festival Director Paul Gravett and answering your questions at Bar Music Hall, 134 Curtain Road, London EC2A 3AR (nearest Tube: Old Street) on Wednesday 22 September from 7pm, followed by a drinks reception and signing session. Doors open at 6.30pm and to attend, please RSVP to Doug Wallace: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 020 7487 4385.
