Spain, Final Part

Posted by Bob Greenberger on March 21, 2010

Monday the 8th had me speaking to the University of Granada students about the American comic book market; its origins and current status. Prior to arriving, I prepared a PowerPoint presentation and script, revised it once or twice and then had the titles on my slides translated into Spanish by our kids’ former nanny, Paz. I sent it ahead to Alejandro and Edu for review and both were suitably impressed so I felt good.

The University was considering adding a series of courses on comics so this was a test. They expected only 30 or so people to sign up for the week-long series of lectures but got 80 or so to pay for the privilege.

Edu spoke first, about how to prepare portfolios. The 75 people filling the lecture classroom were silent, absorbing everything. There was a flood of questions afterward. I gather it went well, but without a translator, all Deb and I could do was people watch.

Shortly after 12 it was my turn and everyone filed back in and sat still as I went through the presentation. Edu translated for me and I found myself mentally editing the script down, making it easier for him and compressing details. I had my own flood of questions including the chances for Spanish talent, which discipline might be most in need (to me, good colorists), many questions about comics for women and the chances for women as working professionals, plus we covered new technologies and marketing.

The con itself, though, kicked off Thursday. After the tour of the Alhambra, the Americans and many of the artists and publishers also coming to the con were treated to a get-to-know-you luncheon on an outdoor terrace at our hotel. There we met the first of our student interpreters, on hand to put everyone at ease. When I went to introduce myself, they laughed and said they knew, apparently, looking up the Americans on the net to prepare.

There were three conference rooms with one hosting a series of professionals’ only panels and the other two rooms were for the pros to mix and talk, network and do business. Instead, most congregated at the bar. WAIT! There is more to read… read on »