Online Salon with The Interstitial Arts Foundation

   
I recently received word from Interstitial Arts Foundation board member Kris McDermott that the topic of their upcoming online salon is THE comics collective The Chemistry Set...

The comic that caught our eye was one by Phillipine artist Andrew Drilon, called Mang Tomas the Story Hunter – in which the Hero mutters, “INTERSTITIAL FICTION – KISS MY GUN!” We’re not sure if he’s giving us a shout-out or a slam, but we loved it! And then, of course, we wanted more.

He – and many of the other writer/artists on the site – approach graphic storytelling from a joyous mix of perspectives. I’m particularly intrigued by Drilon’s incorporation of Filipino archetypes and myths into his stories, but other series – Steven Goldman’s Styx Taxi, and Elizabeth Genco’s Scheherazade also use the handy vehicle of myth to explore some exciting intersections between visual and literary culture.

So visit the site and come back to discuss your impression of this project. Is the graphic novel/comic book the most interstitial form of pop culture going today, and if so, what is its future? What else have you encountered like “The Chemistry Set”? Does multiculturalism aid and abet interstitiality – and vice versa? Our conversation will begin here on December 8 and continue for a week. Hope to see you there!

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 8-Saturday, Dec. 15
WHERE: This thread @ the IAF message board
WHAT: Discuss The Chemistry Set – we call ‘em interstitial; do you?

Needless to say, I'm tickled. Andrew Drilon is a stunning talent - if you haven't checked out his Kare-Kare Komiks yet, you're in for a treat! Andrew recently took 2nd place at 2nd Philippine Graphic/Fiction Awards.  He's definitely a creator for fans of mythic arts to watch. 

My latest favorite from Andrew: Grinwit.

Comments

[Ellen Kushner]

Thanks so much for posting this! The Salon turned into a really exciting conversation - almost a seminar in new comics, as moderator Kris McDermott remarked. It's all up here for all to read at leisure:

http://p081.ezboard.com/The-IAF-Salon/finterstitialartsfrm30