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The vibrant world of Quebec's comic book scene finally has a place to call its own, setting up shop in the Sainte-Foy Historical Interpretation Centre. Nestled within the charming heritage setting of an old presbytery, this haven for the 9th art boasts walls adorned with eye-catching art, proving that this intimate space once upheld by religious dogma is now a breeding ground for artistic expression.
"Our mission is to celebrate the rich history and contemporary vitality of the comic book medium," explains Thomas-Louis Cote, general director of Quebec BD. "There are many folks who have only recently discovered comic books, thanks to big names like Paul and Michel Rabagliati, but they don't realize the incredible history of the 9th art in Quebec."
A Centennial Journey of Drawn Evolution
The ground floor boasts an impressive exhibition, complete with original comic strips and caricatures, offering a panoramic view of the medium's evolution in Quebec. The exhibit, accessible free of charge, highlights the influence of American cartoons, the emergence of counterculture during the 60s and 70s, and traces the lineage of Quebec comic books that have made their mark on both the Canadian and international stages. Visitors can expect to encounter fascinating artifacts from the early 20th century to the present day.
For instance, it was in Quebec that the first comic strip featuring speech balloons appeared in the francophone world, more than a decade before it became commonplace in France. The series Les aventures de Timothee, created by Albéric Bourgeois, is just one example of the innovative roots of Quebec comic books.
The exhibit also delves into the roles women have played in the Quebec comic book scene, from pioneer Yvette Lapointe, the first woman to pursue a career in comic book art, to contemporary laureates such as Julie Doucet, winner of the Grand Prix at the Angoulême International Comics Festival in 2022.
"The diversity of styles and genres available now certainly wasn't there even 20 years ago," explains Thomas-Louis Cote. "Comic books have come a long way, and today, they are even studied in CEGEP programs. This originally popular yet underrated art form is finally starting to receive its due recognition."
A Home to Celebrate the 9th Art
The Comic Book House's main goal isn't to elevate comic books to lofty pedestals but rather to make them accessible to all. Beyond the regularly rotating exhibition, the House will play host to a rich calendar of events, including book launches, workshops led by Quebec authors, and interactive activities, to name a few.
"Adults and children will find a place here," assures Thomas-Louis Cote. "We aim to create a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to everyone, regardless of age or background."
Establishing a local hub also offers the unique opportunity to shine a light on talented artists who may not be as celebrated in Quebec as they should be. "Artists like Yannick Paquet, who has drawn Superman and Wonder Woman, attend comic events all over the world," continues Cote, "but we don't see him in literary events in Quebec. Denis Rodier, an accomplished comic artist who worked on The Death of Superman and The Bomb, deserves recognition here in Quebec as well."
With Comic House, these achievements will finally receive their much-deserved celebration, giving a voice to Quebec's comic book scene and showcasing its rich history and thriving creativity to the world.
"The Comic Book House, situated in Quebec's Sainte-Foy Historical Interpretation Centre, aims to celebrate the history and contemporary vitality of French comics," Thomas-Louis Cote explains.
"Visitors can explore an exhibition that follows the evolution of comic books in Quebec, from early 20th-century creations to recent works that have made an impact on Canadian and international stages," he adds.
"Beyond the exhibition, the House will host workshops, interactive activities, and book launches, making comic books accessible to both adults and children," Cote continues.
"The Comic Book House will also highlight lesser-known Quebec artists, such as Yannick Paquet and Denis Rodier, who have worked on major international projects but have yet to receive recognition in their home province," he concludes.
