- Comicstreet returns in 2026 for it’s 10th anniversary in a brand new location after a decade of successful shows on the Queen Street Mall
- The festival is bigger than ever, running over two days and featuring 60 local and interstate comic creators
- Organised by original co-founder and comics artist, Samantha Calcraft, and a newly assembled committee dedicated to bringing to life a variety of new local art events
Comicstreet, Brisbane city’s longest-running independent comics market turned festival, is celebrating it’s 10th anniversary this year by taking over The Edge at State Library Queensland for two days over August 22 – 23rd. After a decade of successful shows on the Queen Street Mall, the event is making a bold move to host its biggest and best event yet.
“Comicstreet has been a passion project for me since 2016. It’s really exciting to be able to have a team that’s just as dedicated as I am for this huge milestone for what started as a small event,” states Comicstreet co-founder, Sam “Mamath” Calcraft. “We’ve had applications from devoted local artists who have been featuring at Comicstreet since the beginning, as well as from new and up-and-coming talent. It’s great to see the local comics and art community grow with us.”
Returning artist, Carlo Angelo is excited for the 10th anniversary of an event that spurred on their artist career, “As someone who has done artist alleys at conventions and local art markets, Comicstreet started it all for me. I enjoy the eager creativity this community encourages.”
In addition to the long-running comics market, the festival will now also include workshops and other activities to encourage creativity amongst practicing artists, hobbyists and newcomers alike. Artists enjoy coming together and celebrating each other, with the creator of Black Crown, James Patterson, stating, “Being amongst these wonderful people is beyond joyful. It is such a privilege to continue to bear witness to the growth of this amazing artform in Brisbane.”
Nick Rees of Side Eye club agrees, adding, “Over the past decade it has continuously prioritised new artists and has been such an important part of the art and comics community here. Comicstreet is easily my favourite art event in Brisbane.”
For the festival’s 10th Anniversary, the decision was made to incorporate Comicstreet into a not-for-profit organization, allowing the event to feature more local artists and exhibitions, and better spotlight Brisbane’s local independent comic creators. With personnel ranging from comics artists to experienced convention staff, Comicstreet Committee Inc is ready to take the Brisbane comics and art scene to another level.
The event has played a pivotal role in many artists’ careers, including Tea “Cutiesaurus” Coe’s who has participated at every Comicstreet market and grown as an artist alongside the event, “Watching Comicstreet evolve every year is heartwarming. It’s one of the best events to get a variety of different approaches to local art and comics, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Nat Karmichael—principal of Comicoz, a publisher of Australian comics, and recipient of the 2024 Jim Russell (Silver Stanley) Award for his contribution to Australian cartooning—praises the longevity and dedication of Comicstreet, “I congratulate the organisers on the occasion of Comicstreet’s tenth anniversary. For me, Comicstreet remains the standout of all Australian comic festivals.”
ENDS
MEDIA CONTACTS
Christine Chien accounts@comicstreet.com.au
Samantha Calcraft hello@comicstreet.com.au