What do popular and talented Canadian comic book artists, Fiona Staples (Saga, North 40) and Cary Nord (Eisner Award-winner) have in common? Both worked at Comic-Kazi, a Calgary comic book and pop culture store that began in 1994. Fiona Staples was discovered through the 24-Hour Comic Book Contest hosted through Comic-Kazi.
“A number of other talented artists have been discovered through our little shop,” manager Mary Ann Wong says. “Unfortunately, due to space issues we haven’t held the 24-Hour Comic Book Contest in a while.”
New and aspiring comic book artists and writers have an outlet with Comic-Kazi. “We feature self-published comic books to support Calgary local writers and artists. We believe in supporting local talent, and we do what we can for them.”
Visitors to the shop can look forward to Free Comic Book Day on the first Saturday of May every year as Comic-Kazi is an official sponsor of the international event. “This helps to promote new readership and spread the word about comics,” says Mary Ann. “Everyone who steps into the store gets a free comic book.”
