NYC Queer Comic Fair

April 23 & 24, 2022
BGSQD
New York, NY

 

 

Overview:

This was my first show of 2022. I arrived very sweaty and barely on time. It was very warm inside the BGSQD, but it is still a lovely little space full of queer books. I had a little half-table setup next to James Dillenbeck. Attendance was light but remained consistent throughout both days. I did fine on sales. It was my first time doing a show with Reed’s beautiful new Riders in a Mink Cage. I got plenty of new mailing list sign-ups and a few new subscribers to Dream Crasher on WEBTOON. I felt a little rusty transforming from my introverted anxious self into an extroverted book salesman. Thankfully it won’t be almost a year until my next show. I’ll be back for Flame Con in August and will be returning to Baltimore and Saratoga this fall.

 

 

Highlights:

• This was my first time back since tabling at the fair in 2019. I booked this table way back in 2020. It was nice to finally have the show.

• I was struck as I was packing up that I would not be seeing John Jennison at the show this year. His presence at these shows felt like something I could always count on. It made me really happy that It’s Alive Comics had a display of his work. I bought myself one of my favorite prints (pictured below).

• The crowd was small but friendly. I love queer audiences. Big or small it always feels special to be a part of spaces for queer art and stories.

• It was a good feeling when I realized that we have so many books now they barely fit on a half table display. I’m going to have to get creative for future shows.

• Kyle did an excellent job of making sure everyone was well hydrated. I know pulling off a show of this sort is no simple task, so I feel like I need to mention all the praise. A special shout-out to the late start time. I love that it’s always the queer shows that start in or afternoon.

• As positive as the experience was, I was also very ready for the show to be over when I closed up shop. Taking a day off to recover post-con has become a standard for me, and I needed it this time. I don’t know how some people do multiple shows a month. 

 

A view from the other side.

 

Would I go back?

This is my second time with this show. Yes, I would go back, though maybe it would be good to take a year or two off before I do. Gives other faces a chance to sell their wares and gives me a chance to build up a larger inventory of books.

 

And finally…

Obligatory Convention Selfie