2nd WOMCOM Conference (Ljubljana, Slovenia)

The 2nd WOMCOM Conference took place on October 11-12, 2024, at Kino Šiška in Ljubljana, Slovenia, marking the conclusion of the Women Power in Comics (WOMCOM) project. This two-day event, hosted as part of the Tinta Comics Festival, focused on the future of comics, explored the role of women creators, and examined the power of comics as an emancipatory tool for social change.

The conference brought together a diverse group of female artists, publishers, editors, and researchers from across Europe and beyond, offering an in-depth look at both the artistic and activist sides of the comics scene. Through presentations, lectures, and masterclasses, the participants reflected on the current state of comics production, discussed the importance of fostering solidarity and creativity within comics communities, and highlighted initiatives that contributed to diversity and inclusion in the medium.

Key themes of the conference included:

• Building Comics Communities & Futures: Focused on how artistic collectives, publishers, and platforms can foster original production, solidarity, and infrastructure in the comics world.
• Artistic Practice and Activism in Comics: Examined how comics can serve as a tool for societal change, empowering marginalized voices and challenging traditional gender norms.
• Global Perspectives on Women in Comics: Explored how major comics festivals and collective initiatives are addressing gender issues and amplifying the voices of female creators.

The first day featured a thought-provoking lecture by Dr. Nicola Streeten on the themes of generosity, reciprocity, and conviviality in comics, followed by presentations on comics journalism and independent publishing. A key highlight was the panel Comics Communities, which brought together a global group of experts to discuss solidarity and collaboration within the comics world.

On the second day, the conference featured a diverse program of masterclasses and presentations by renowned artists like Nina Bunjevac and Anna Haifisch, alongside discussions on the future of comics collectives and initiatives, such as the Stripotetke collective from Serbia and the Ukmukfukk Zine Festival from Hungary.

This event was a crucial step in fostering collaboration across borders and highlighting the powerful role that women in comics can play in driving social change. The conference was part of the larger WomCom project, co-funded by Creative Europe, aimed at empowering women comic artists and promoting gender equality within the comics industry.

The conference was moderated by Dr. Eszter Szép (HU) and Pia Nikolič (SI), with Anna Júlia Benczédi (RO/HU) providing drawn documentation throughout the event.

Photos: Tina Stariha & Masa Pirc