Independent Comics: From Regional Stories to Global Shelves
Panel · Day 3 · Sat 24 October 2026, 1:45 pm – 2:45 pm · Aljada, Sharjah
Independent Comics: From Regional Stories to Global Shelves is a panel exploring how original comics rooted in regional cultures reach international audiences. Featuring Mo Abedin (Sandstorm Comics), Shannon Eric Denton, and Marko Matijašević (Pigment Collective / Argent Comics), the discussion highlights the creative and publishing strategies that connect local stories with global readers.
Key points include developing comics inspired by the Arab world, producing fine-art editions and expanding original worlds into books, toys, and other media, and the role of publishers in supporting talent and collaboration. By the end of this session, attendees will understand how independent comics move from local inspiration to global distribution and discover practical insights for creators and publishers.
- Shannon Eric Denton — Artist / Writer / Director / Producer
- Marko Matijašević — Founder & Creative Director — Pigment Collective / Argent Comics
- Mo Abedin — Comic Book Creator / Editor-in-Chief, Sandstorm Comics