Asiapac Books, a long-time pioneer in the local comics scene, is introducing a brand new initiative to promote local creators. Launching this May 17 will be Singapore’s first ever creative directory for local comic artists and writers. This digital database will contain the biographies and collected list of works from active and veteran comic creators in Singapore.
Taking inspiration from poetry.sg and prose.sg, this digital database will be an important way to bring local comic lovers together. Comix.sg will help to publicise local creators and their work, as well as open up comic lovers to the extensive collection of local comics. As the local comics industry continues to grow, it can be easy to lose comic creators within the cracks, especially indie creators who may not have a big online presence. Many comic creators in Singapore also work in isolation from each other, and are fairly dispersed. Having a single place to view the many local creators will not just be convenient for comic lovers, but can help creators maintain connections with each other. In addition, comic creators can make use of this database to learn more about each other. It is the hope that with this platform, one can bridge the gaps between creators and improve the collective presence of local comics in Singapore.
“People may not know much about the local comics scene here, but we have seen for ourselves that it is vibrant, unique, and full of extraordinary works and talent,” said Chong Lingying, manager of Asiapac Books. “Comics should not be seen as a niche interest in Singapore, or only for children. Comics are for everyone, and an essential part of Singapore's cultural identity.”
As part of Asiapac Books’ Singlit Comics Den digital event, comic creators will get the chance to sign up for this database as well as join a private zoom hangout with each other on May 16, 6pm. On May 17, the website will go live during a livestream launch party, and will be open to all comic appreciation lovers!