2010 Festival of Cartoon Art

Every three years Ohio State University and the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum puts on the Festival of Cartoon Art, a weekend of presentations, lectures and panels on the art of cartoonist both past and present. The festival is self-described as “a unique celebration of cartoons and comics featuring exhibitions, presentations by top creators, panel discussions, an academic pre-conference, and other special programs.” This is a big deal in the cartooning community and something I am very much looking forward to attending for the first time when it takes place in Columbus, OH, October 14-17. Circumstances have prevented my being able to go to previous festivals, and it being only every three years meant a long wait until I had another chance. I’m all booked for this one, however. The 2010 presenters include:

• Steve Breen
• Roz Chast
• Tony Cochran
• Jan Eliot
• Matt Groening and Tom Gammill
• Dave Kellett
• Paul Levitz
• Dan Piraro
• Jen Sorensen
• James Sturm
• Gene Luen Yang

There are several other events and activities over the weekend as well. A full schedule of events can be found here. The Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum is the new handle for the fantastic collection of original cartoon art and publications that has resided there for many years and is a true cartooning treasure.