Independent artists found a space to share their work, meet fellow creatives, and connect with audiences at Komiket All Originals, an event dedicated to showcasing original artwork. Even as the final hour approached on one of the month’s busiest Saturdays, with a major mall sale drawing shoppers, the event continued to attract visitors browsing the different creations on display.
Komiket is a non-profit community that organizes comic art markets. What began as a venue for komikeros to share their work and sell new comic issues has expanded into a gathering of independent creators offering everything from stickers, keychains, and charms to zines and other handmade merchandise.
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A Different Side of the Komiket Experience
Unlike its usual markets, where fans can shop for merchandise inspired by popular culture, Komiket All Originals centered on artwork conceived and created by the artists themselves. The result was a varied showcase of individual styles, interests, and ideas, with each table offering something different from the next.
The event remained worth exploring even near closing time, as a small stream of visitors continued to browse the displays. Local komikeros stood alongside one another to present their latest work, giving attendees the chance to discover artists and pieces they might not encounter through mainstream retail channels.
Among the more distinctive offerings were works inspired by the macabre, fitting for the Halloween season approaching at the time. These darker creations stood out among the many styles and products on display, reflecting how independent artists can turn personal interests and niche themes into original pieces for an audience.
Making Art, Sharing Ideas
Beyond browsing and shopping, visitors could also participate in activities designed to introduce them to different creative practices. Local artist Granciale led one of the day’s final workshops, introducing attendees to Artist Cards, Editions, Originals (ACEOs) and Artist Trading Cards.
The session gave participants a chance to make their own small-format art cards, which could later be sold or exchanged with other artists and collectors. One participant drew a little waiter and traded the card with another attendee for a forest wanderer reminiscent of Bilbo Baggins from “The Hobbit,” turning the workshop into an opportunity for both creative experimentation and connection.
Events like Komiket help make the local art scene more accessible by giving independent creators a place to present their work directly to potential buyers and fellow artists. That access matters in a country where creative talent does not always come with an established platform or a ready market. Supporting these spaces helps keep original Filipino art visible, gives emerging artists room to grow, and allows audiences to discover work beyond what mainstream shelves and screens typically offer.
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