The Carteret Comic Con Exhibit is back again this year, and it’s already exciting comic lovers from all over.
This event, held at the Blazing Star Cultural Arts Center, 63 Carteret Avenue, celebrates comic art in all its forms.
Although the exhibit started on September 13, don’t worry if you haven’t visited yet—it’s running until October 31, 2024.
So, there’s still plenty of time to drop by and enjoy everything it has to offer.
Amazingly, it runs alongside the famous New York Comic Con, which lasts from October 17 to 20.
Because of this, the Carteret Comic Con brings together Eastern and Western comic art styles.
You’ll see well-known characters from Marvel, DC, and Manga, a Japanese comic style known for its unique anime illustrations.
And the mix of comic traditions allows visitors to see how artists worldwide approach their work.
At the heart of the exhibit, the artists themselves are the best parts.
This year, 15 artists are featured, and five of them are from Carteret, giving the event a strong local connection.
And the local talents include Shayna Jones, Edwin Duran, Sarai Ortiz, Maria Mojir, and Priya Singh.
Interestingly, Mojir and Singh are still in high school at Carteret High, which clearly shows how the exhibit supports young artists.
In addition to the local talent, there are artists from nearby towns like Perth Amboy, Woodbridge, and Linden, as well as from cities like Newark and Queens, New York.
With such a variety of artists, visitors get to experience many different styles and creative visions.
This exhibit isn’t just about looking at art, though. You can buy comics, collectibles, and artwork right from the artists.
Doing so makes the event feel more personal and allows you to take home something special.
Not to mention, the Central Jersey Arts Council (CJAC), which runs the exhibit, has big plans for the future.
They want to keep growing the event by adding workshops and maybe even meet-and-greet events with cosplayers, who are fans who dress up as their favorite comic characters.
With that in mind, they aim to improve the exhibit every year, so it’s always worth returning to see what’s new.
As for the current showcase, some of the artwork this year is truly amazing.
For example, you can check out a piece called “To Be Supreme,” done in acrylic marker on canvas by Dino ‘Commodore’ Gravato from Newark.
Another cool piece is “Mushroom Roper Miniature,” an epoxy clay sculpture by Paige Connelly from Woodbridge.
But these are just a few examples of the creative and unique works at the exhibit, which highlights the wide range of talent on display.
Plus, it’s a bonus that the exhibit is open at convenient times. On weekdays, it’s open from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.; on weekends, it’s open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
With such flexible hours, it’s easy to fit a visit into your schedule, whether you’re stopping by after work or bringing the family for a weekend trip.
According to CJAC Executive Director Elham Hussain, events like this are important not just for Carteret but also for neighboring towns.
It’s incredible how they give local artists a chance to show off their work while also allowing people from surrounding areas to discover new talent.
In the process, this serves as an excellent way to build a sense of community through art.
Mayor Daniel J. Reiman is equally proud, saying that the exhibit is a great example of how Carteret continues to grow as a hub for arts and culture.
It also adds to the excitement of other URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center events.
And you’ll be pleased to know that after the Carteret Comic Con Exhibit wraps up, there’s more to look forward to.
Right after Thanksgiving, CJAC will launch a new exhibit that’s all about celebrating the winter holidays.
They’ll transform the Blazing Star Cultural Arts Center into a Winter Wonderland, featuring a display of festive collectibles.
As the year winds down, this next exhibit will run throughout December, so it’s something to keep on your radar as the holidays approach.
For anyone who loves comics or is curious about comic art, the Carteret Comic Con Exhibit is a must-visit.
As discussed today, it’s a great way to experience different artistic styles, meet local artists, and buy new comics or collectibles.
To stay updated on all the latest exhibits and events, visit CJAC’s website at centraljerseyartscouncil.org.
Make sure to check it out so you don’t miss anything exciting happening in the Carteret arts scene.