This year was the 10th Malta Comic con. I was lucky enough to be invited as a guest. It was a really good one. The event was really well organised, considering that there was a last minute switch of venue. The organisers have found a really good balance of comics and pop culture. There is a strong emphasis on engaging young people and families with a gaming area or cosplay, for example. This is important for the continuing life of the event, catch them early and there is a future audience and creators. Over the decade I’ve travelled to Malta comic con I’ve observed this development. Young people attending who are now making and exhibiting there comics. It’s great to see (And also makes me feel old :).
I think this is the core success of MCC. The organisers have looked outward for exhibitors and recognition, but have really nurtured a home base. Its part of the Malta cultural events calendar, every year its attended by a various politicians and dignitaries, and is a regular national news item. Talking to people who attended over the weekend, it’s an event that is really anticipated throughout the year.
So ten years, a decade, the Decima. I’ve been to every event, along with my friend Tim Perkins. So I’ve seen the growth of the event, and the number of exhibitors and guests. In 2009 Myself, Tim, Dave Lloyd, Warren Pleece and Mike Collins were driven around in a mini bus. Now its two large coaches to ferry everyone around. I definitely miss the intimacy of those early years, we could hang out with the organisers and guests, as the event has grown this isn’t possible.
It’s still an amazing time though. This year my regular crew of Guillermo Ortego and Chris Thompson were onboard, so we traveled together and hung out during the event. Guillermo was a walking feast for Mosquitos and during a trip to Valletta had most of his ankles stepped of flesh. The actually con was great, I sold some stuff which was nice. I was part of another drawing challenge and did worse than the previous year. The two days sped by, it seemed to be over before I had even sat down.
On the Monday we had a day around Malta, and for once I remembered to bring a hat so didn’t get burnt in the November sun. Drinks in the evening and then London the following day.
I would like to thank MCC organisers for getting me involved and inviting me this year. Finally I would like to thank all the volunteers who over the weekend, and the decade have put in so much work to sure the event runs smoothly and people like me have a good time. Thank you, you are all amazing.
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