News, Ted Washington, Uncategorized
Alternative Press Expo…. What You Should Know
Puna Press attended the Alternative Press Expo this year and it was an incredible time.
WHAT IS IT?
The Alternative Press Expo (APE) is an event that happens annually, spotlighting over 300 small presses, self-publishers, and creators working on the alternative and independent side of comics, poetry, and art. The awesome two-day event brings together like-minded artists and writers as well as enthusiastic attendees who get to peruse the rows of tables and check out books, comics, posters, t-shirts, artwork, and more.
WHERE IS IT?
APE goes down annually in San Francisco. This year it was held at the Fort Mason center – which is the location that it was initially held at in 2000 when the Expo first moved from San Jose to SF. It was previously held at the Concourse Exhibition Center.
WHY IS IT SO COOL?
Well, here’s a bit of a breakdown:
- San Francisco in general is an inspirational place for artists. Tons of vibrant street art, independent bookstores, bars where beat writers used to frequent. There’s a certain energy that can be felt.
- For creative types who are bummed out because they think the publishing industry is dying, APE is revitalizing. Whether it’s discovering that this world even exists, or seeing in person the thriving community, it’s good to know how many people are really invested in independent publishing.
- APE demonstrates the capability of individuals to go after their visions. Many of the exhibitors simply had an idea and then went after it. For the dreamers out there it goes to show that the endeavor you’re dreaming about is possible. And easier than you think. Take the first step. Jump into it.
- It’s rewarding to see people admire our hard work. Puna Press is proud of the work it produces. The artists and writers who work with us are extremely talented. Having both attendees and fellow exhibitors stop by our table and notice a specific detail, acknowledge the beauty in a piece of poetry, or laugh at a comic… it’s a joyous thing.
All in all, the Alternative Press Expo is such a unique event – one that we love to partake in. The world is already filled with too much normal. So here’s to APE… to the weird and wonderful.
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