Preview by Brad Balfour, Arts Editor
What: Comic Arts Fest 2026
When: Friday, April 24, 2026 – Sunday, April 26, 2026
Where: L’Alliance New York
22 E 60th St./55 E 59th St
Society of Illustrators
128 E 63rd St
Some of the world’s most celebrated graphic novelists and comic book artists can be found this weekend at L’Alliance New York (22 E 60th St./55 E 59th St.) and the Society of Illustrators (128 E 63rd St.). There will be conversations, masterclasses, screenings, book signings, parties, and workshops featuring some of the world- renowned artists such as Charles Burns, Elene Usdin, Felipe Smith, Julie Rocheleau, Benjamin Lacombe, and more. This year’s Comic Arts Fest 2026 is curated by publisher Rodolphe Lachat.
Opening night includes a screening and talk titles “Charles Burns: 100% Noir” on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 7:30 pm. It will be followed by the Opening Night party.Legendary underground comics artist Charles Burns (Black Hole) with speak about his career and how he developed his instantly recognizable work, from supernatural unease to stories of adolescence and contamination, often in stark black and white. The discussion precedes a screening of “Fear(s) of the Dark,” a horror anthology with shorts from Burns and other cult-classic comic artists.
Another talk features Frank Quitely on Saturday, April 25th, at1 0:45 am. “From Glasgow to Gotham: Frank Quitely and the Art of Modern Superheroes” presens leading comics artist Quitely discussing his journey from the Glasgow indie comics scene to shaping modern superhero mythology, including his collaborations, artistic process, and approach to character design. This masterclass will be moderated by Comic Arts Fest curator Rodolphe Lachat.
The documentary “Children of Captain Africa” looks back to the 1980s, when the Captain Africa series featured one of the first African superheroes, inspiring a new generation of African comic artists. This documentary is followed by a conversation with writer/director Xavier Fournier and artist Greg Anderson Elysée.
Throughout the weekend, Tinker Lounge will feature a pop-up Comic Arts Fest Artist Alley & Bookstore: a hub for book signings and meetings with authors, as well as exclusive books and merchandise for sale. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase.
The show also features workshops from Felipe Smith (Peepo Choo) and Family Friendly workshops for aspiring writers, artists, and readers.
To learn more, go to: https://lallianceny.org/event/comic-arts-fest-2026/