If you loved Grand Rapids Comic-Con then you are going to really enjoy all the activities happening in this region as a part of the GRASP Comic Expo – a celebration of “Grand Rapids Alternative Small Press.”
On the eve of GRASP's expo, a huge comic-themed kick off party,
Dance Planet, presented by Vault of Midnight, will be held at downtown Grand Rapids' Pyramid Scheme.
As with nearly every dance party produced by the popular downtown comic book establishment, guests are encouraged to dress up and celebrate the art of comics while competing for prizes in categories like most original, best group, and overall best (not best overalls).
Dance Planet will feature Ann Arbor's Vault of Midnight's visiting DJ Dick Jones who will be in Grand Rapid to spin the Space Jams.
For those looking for another way to win at this kick-off event, please use the hashtag, #vomdance, to be entered for a mystery prize.
The next morning is the start of a packed two-day expo showcasing the power and creativity of independent publishers, comic artists, and the writers who make up the comic industry.
This celebration is not just a chance for small press printings to take the center stage but an opportunity for artists and comic fans to attend nearly
20 workshops and lectures.
Arriving in Grand Rapids for the GRASP Comic Expo will be national comic book writers, creators, and artists who represent the power of the small-time independent artists -- but the two-day event will also feature nationally known names like Joe Rubenstein (
Wolverine, The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe), Arthur Suydam (
Marvel Zombies, Army Of Darkness, Savage Tales), and Bob Camp (
The Ren and Stimpy Show, Spongebob: Sponge Out Of Water).
Attendees of the GRASP Comic Expo are encouraged to have fun and attend in costume but event coordinators remind folks that this is an all ages, family-friendly event so please remember that, "naked is not a costume, nor is body paint to replace shirts and/or pants. Overtly sexual costumes will not be allowed into the event."
Other than that, the sky is the limit so get out and enjoy this celebration of the beautifully small and vital art form that has provided enjoyment for generations in our region at area comic stores all around the Greater Grand Rapids area.
Admission: Tickets are $10/day or $15/weekend in advance – Visit
www.graspexpo.com/tickets/