One of the great secrets of American comics is how rich the Athens GA comics scene is. Home to University of Georgia and SCAD alumni, this college town is home to a diverse array of talent, with cartoonists as diverse as Drew Weing, Eleanor Davis, Joey Weiser, and Lee Gatlin. It may not be America’s biggest comic book production center, but it definitely ranks among the best. The best place to discover this treasure trove of talent is the semi-annual mini-comic anthology published by the community ‘Bezoar’.
Bezoar serves as a perfect resource for comics being produced not only in Athens but in the Southeastern United States. Regional showcases like this remind us that the best art is created in such talented and diverse communities. This Halloween, Bezoar #5 was released with a monster romance theme.
Some of Athens’ best, like Gatlin, Weiser, Abby Kaysen, David Mack, and Kron Waldrip, come together regularly. Also on display are various cartoonists from around the Southeast, including Rich Tommaso and Josh Nickerson. Joining us for the first time in this issue of the anthology are Audrey Meeker and Sarah Kirkpatrick.
Perhaps the most exciting contribution comes from the late, great Patrick Dean. Dean was one of the shining lights in Athens comics until he passed away in 2021 from complications from ALDS. He was a prolific artist throughout his life and helped create the FLUKE Mini-Comics and Zine Festival with Robert Newsome. He may be gone, but his spirit remains a big part of the Athens comic scene. The two previously unpublished illustrations here show what a great artist he was.
Bezoar #5 is out now and below is a preview of what to expect.
Art: Joey Weiser Sarah Kirkpatrick and Jay Domingo
Art: Rich Tomasso Art: David Mack
Bezoar #5 and previous issues can be purchased here.
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