British Invasion at Baltimore Comic-Con this weekend

 

. . . .  from the official press release . . . . . .

The British Embassy Joins Forces with the Baltimore Comic-Con to Celebrate 'The British Invasion'

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - September 6, 2012 - Ever wondered where the genius behind many of the favourite comic books in the 1980s came from? Captain America and many other of your favourite comic books were actually enhanced by 'The British Invasion' of the comic book world. The British Embassy in Washington will be celebrating this theme at Baltimore Comic-Con, this weekend, showcasing what is great about the comic book, science-fiction, and creative industries in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The team from the British Embassy will be exhibiting in the lobby of the Baltimore Comic-Con, and its booth will feature images of characters portrayed during the long history of creativity in the UK - from the early days of Doctor Who to the present, to Game of Thrones and British contributions to American creative arts. Come experience why Creativity is GREAT in the UK and to take a fresh look at the longstanding British Invasion of American comics.

James Barbour, Press Secretary, British Embassy, says:

"Comic books have long been a part of our culture. We are thrilled that a "British Invasion" theme was chosen for this year's Baltimore Comic-Con, adding to the excitement that the Queen's Jubilee and the London Olympics have brought to the UK this year. Spider-Man, which was one of my favourite comics growing up, is currently and has previously been drawn by British artists, adding to the celebration of American and British comics this weekend."

In the 1980s, a number of British writers and artists started producing work for American comics and brought a fresh take that appealed to fans and critics alike. This has been coined the 'British Invasion'. British creativity in the industry is kept alive today by creators including Brian Bolland, Mark Buckingham, and Barry Kitson. All three will speak on a panel themed around the 'British Invasion.'

About the British Embassy

The Embassy and our other posts in the US work to develop and sustain the important and long-standing relationship between the UK and the USA. This involves dealing with a wide range of political, commercial, security and economic questions of interest to the UK and the US.

The Baltimore Comic-Con has lined up a number of Brits to attend, many speaking on panels about their work and the strength of the British creativity.

Scottish comic book artist Frank Quitely will also be taking part in the convention, speaking in his own spotlight panel. In addition, Northern Irish comic book writer Garth Ennis will be the featured participant in a special discussion.

The UK has the largest creative sector per head in the world, and British artists have excelled in the areas of music, computer games, fine art, and film.