Chimera's Comics to Host 24 Hour Comics Day

Article submitted by Carmelo Chimera

Making a graphic novel could take teams of people weeks or even months to create. Or it can take just a single day. And on Saturday, October 4th, you can see it happen live.

24 Hour Comics Day is an international event that challenges artists and writers to make a 24-page comic book in just 24 hours. The event, in its 10th year, will be hosted by venues in over 40 countries across four continents - including right here in La Grange, Illinois at Chimera’s Comics.

Chimera’s Comics, a comic book and collectibles specialty store with locations in La Grange and Oak Lawn, is inviting twelve local artists to come take the challenge.

“We’ve always wanted the store to be a place the encourages creativity and community,” said Carmelo Chimera, a southside attorney and co-owner of the store. “This event is the ultimate chance to bring people together to show what a positive impact art can have on our lives.”

The store will be open for 24 hours straight, and fans are invited to come watch the artists work, enjoy food and drinks provided by neighboring businesses, and take part in a whole day’s worth of events.

“There’s going to be something for everyone,” said Chimera. “We’ll have face painting for kids during the afternoon, live music in the evening, and plenty to eat.”

A number of local comic book professionals are coming to provide encouragement and tips to the participants, as well as meet with fans. These professionals include Mike Moreci (“Hack/Slash”, “The Roche Limit”), Matt Waite (“Shinku”), Cory Hamscher (“Avengers Academy”), and Gene Ha (“Top 10”).

“I think it’s going to be exciting to be in that environment of such much creativity,” said Steven Brown, co-owner of Chimera’s Comics. Brown will be taking the challenge himself. “I’ll be working on a prequel to ‘Magnificent,’ a graphic novel I’m working on with [Chimera],” said Brown. He added, “With luck, the prequel will be released next May on Free Comic Book Day.”! !

Throughout the day, the store will also be hosting a silent auction to support The Port Ministries. The Port is a not-for-profit food pantry and homeless shelter that provides free meals, health care, and education programs in the back-of-the-yards neighborhood of Chicago.

“It’s great to see how many businesses have come together to donate and make this silent auction happen,” said David Gonzalez, The Port’s director of development. David, who is also an artist and graphic designer, will be taking the 24-hour challenge as well.

Chimera’s Comics has also partnered with the La Grange Business Association’s Family Wellness Expo to bring in art therapy workshops during the day.

The event will have something for everyone, and with the store being open for a full day there will be plenty of time to make it in. Remember, a lot can happen in a day.

For more info, visit chimerascomics.com or 24hourcomicsday.com.