A celebration of fantasy, graphic novels and fantastic costumes took place Saturday at the fourth annual CosmicCon. The event was held at the downtown Leon County Public Library.
This year’s CosmicCon was extra special because it was the first to be held in person in two years because of the pandemic.
“It’s great to have an event like this in person again, and it’s the first of many since the pandemic,” said a library staff member, wearing a gray CosmicCon t-shirt.
The theme was not only enjoyed by staff members. Fairies and anime characters were among the fictional characters some attendees dressed as while participating in events and activities related to this year’s theme, “Fantastic Tales.”
Fans of the multimedia franchise Star Wars received a special surprise as storm troopers, and other fictional characters appeared to pose for photos. That wasn’t the only opportunity for a picture; a fantasy-themed backdrop with various character-themed masks was set up to capture those special moments with friends and family.
The day’s first activity catered to comic book lovers and allowed attendees to learn how to create their mini comic with Nathan Archer, a local artist, cartoonist and graphic designer.
The day’s second activity taught attendees how to screen print the CosmicCon logo on their choice of a tote bag or t-shirt.
Other CosmicCon events drew a younger crowd, such as the glitter slime station, which provided all the supplies needed to make and decorate their slime.
The day’s final activity was a question-and-answer with artist Rayna Sassano, founder of Lapis Lantern Studios, to discuss her artwork and creative process.
After the Q&A, Sassano stayed to interact with fans during the hands-on activity, where supplies like sharpies, markers and crayons were provided to design and laminate their CosmicCon character badges.
She was able to sit and ask her fans questions about their characters and what inspired them at the time.
“It’s an event like these make me feel thrilled with being an artist,” Sassano said.
She expressed how meaningful it is for her to have her work displayed in the library and to be able to interact with fans directly.
“The library was my first solo exhibit ever, so this is the kind of art exhibit I want to do. I wish I could go to libraries in other countries and have my artwork be there.”
Sassano’s exhibition “Illuminating Illustrations of Lapis Lantern Studio,” is on display in the library until Sept. 13.