Lancaster University has announced “The Power of Graphic Novels/ Comics” – a free networking event in October for regional and UK schools (Heads/ Principals, Headmasters, Headteachers, Teachers, Trustees), libraries (librarians, event and education staff), and graphic novel and comic artists/authors/illustrators.

Working in partnership with the Lakes International Comic Art Festival, the event will be led by Comics Laureate Charlie Adlard and Dr Natasa Lackovic(Lancaster University, Co-Director of ReOPeN, Lancaster’s graphic novels and comics research, outreach and pedagogy network.

Launched earlier this year, ReOPeN aims to brings together scholars working in different disciplines and any interested party with a shared interest in comics, graphic novels and illustrated books.

Its ambition is to serve as a connective tissue among academia, authors working in those unique media, art organisations/ industry, teaching, learning and research at any educational level (higher education, schools) and community needs.

The network’s web page and social media will showcase related art and writing as well as news and engagements involving university and wider community via a frequently updated blog. Future plans include seminars, public lectures and joint research projects.

ReOPeN will promote relevant events, including those by the Comics Laureate, Charlie Adlard, sponsored by Lancaster University and Professor Benoît Peeters, working in collaboration with LICAF, which will be hosting the LICAF Academic Sessions 2017 on Friday 13th October, the first day of its three-day Festival Weekend, kindly supported by Lancaster University.

The aim of the Power of Graphic Novels/ Comics event in Lancaster at the Storey on Thursday 12th October 2017 is to bring together all the above-mentioned groups to network and get connected with Lancaster University and LICAF towards future collaborative initiatives and projects.

A “Comic Power” e-mailing list and a dedicated space or page on Reopen’s web site will be created after the event with all the provided contact details, to maintain the group and ignite future developments around graphic novels and comics.

• The Power of Graphic Novels/ Comics 1.30pm – 3.00pm Thursday 12th October 2017 The Storey, Meeting House Lane Auditorium, Lancaster LA1 1TH Free but booking essential – book here

• More about the ReOPeN Project at http://wp.lancs.ac.uk/reopen

• LICAF Academic Sessions 2017 – more information and booking link | The ticket price of £35 includes lunch at the Brewery Arts Centre, evening drinks reception and ticket to the Gala Opening Night event “Quick on the Draw” with the legendary Sergio Aragones