April 19, 2005 > Manga, Art and Graphic Novel Expo

by Lance Dwyer

Rena Dein, an organizer of the Manga, Art and Graphic Novel Expo said many people could not believe an event like this could ever come to Fremont. Judging by the numerous phone calls regarding the show, the community's disbelief is turning into anticipation.

The Manga, Art and Graphic Novel Expo will take place Saturday, April 30. Although the show is geared mostly toward teenage anime and Japanese art enthusiasts, Dein said this event has something for everyone.

In addition to various displays of Japanese art, there will be many opportunities to experience a different culture through several different mediums. For instance, Japanese music will be played both by a DJ and a live acoustic band.

It is difficult to place the event under any particular label because it offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. Dein admitted that finding an appropriate title was a challenge since organizers wanted a title that would encompass all the event had to offer. Manga, according to Dein, is Japanese for comic. A graphic novel is essentially a full-length novel comic book.

Attendees will have the opportunities to enjoy a vast collection of artwork in all forms while shopping for comics, games, toys, books, arts supplies and much more. The event will also have an interactive element where participants can paint murals and learn Japanese words and characters.

Manga, Art and Graphic Novel Expo
Saturday, April 30
9:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Fremont Teen Center
39770 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont
(510) 494-4600

Admission is $9
Children under age 13 are asked to attend with a parent.