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major comic con scaled to a high school
Live Street Art, one aspect I was seriously looking forward to. Everyone was invited to add their own artistic vision.
High School of Art and Design gave us 2 days, 5 floors, discussion panels, 2 sections of Artist Alley / vendors, portfolio reviews only part of Fanfaire 2026. Live street art, food / beverages, cosplay round out why I consider this a major comic / fan con.
Main highlight: experiencing everything the students are capable of. Losing track of time / missing a panel on the list is always a good thing when I attend a con. Yeah, that easily happened in Artist Alley. Great conversations with student creators on several topics, including their thoughts on AI / where they find inspiration. I remember one student's creation: a tiger crying with "Please Help Me, I am in pain." Not really an emotional person, 2 days later, it went straight for the heart. Plus, it could have different meanings for the pain. Another student did an animated film, based in the future with a great story. The cave scene was very realistic.
Live, interactive Street Art was top on my list. Alumni Association had 2 outlines; everyone was invited to add their creativity with markers / paint. The interactive aspect seriously elevated Fanfaire almost above major comic cons. It made you feel a serious part of this event.
I have to mention 2026 mascot, Squibbles!!! One of the CUTEST, coolest mascots I have ever seen. Trust me, almost never use that "C" word. Even at merchandise table, gave feedback on Squibbles. Was the perfect way to represent and sum up Fanfaire 2026.
Discussion panels focused on a variety of topics. From Content Creation / Visual FX to Star Wars / Pokemon, these panels were more than just information. Several were educational, not only for students but all ages. This is a major reason you may want to attend both days. The Visual FX panels is why I wish could have covered Sunday.
Cosplay competition / features added to the major con feel. It was cool looking at everyone and what their imaginations create in this area.
Portfolio workshop was another top priority. Even though it was focused on students, I still learned a few things, especially creating an image (art / photo) to tell a story. Made me think about making slight adjustments to street level photography.
Video / game tournaments increased the fun / interactive aspect. Gemblender had demos at their table and full games in one hallway.
Before I forget: long / impressive guest list including comic artists (risk of stating obvious), animators, media, cosplay and more. You can't have a major con without this aspect. Fanfaire doesn't have the usual "wall" or follow any formula. No big stages to separate celebrities / guests from people attending.
There are a few ways I can tell an event exceeded any expectations. How does Fanfaire rate in this area: Almost forget to eat? Check! Lose track of time with great experiences in Artist Alley? Yeah, definitely. Need to step outside for 1 or 2 breaks? Check again! End up spending more time than planned and enjoying every second? Covered. Great conversations, meeting new and cool people? Oh yeah, serious check here.
I can easily recommend Fanfaire NYC any year. Easily worth your money. Not only on admission, but you will drop some cash without even thinking about. Supporting the students / school is only part of the reason. Amazing / incredible creations and student artists, overall experience, different aspects of major comic / fan cons, a few surprises.
Make sure to scroll down for video review / photos / video tour of Artist Alley.
Main highlight: experiencing everything the students are capable of. Losing track of time / missing a panel on the list is always a good thing when I attend a con. Yeah, that easily happened in Artist Alley. Great conversations with student creators on several topics, including their thoughts on AI / where they find inspiration. I remember one student's creation: a tiger crying with "Please Help Me, I am in pain." Not really an emotional person, 2 days later, it went straight for the heart. Plus, it could have different meanings for the pain. Another student did an animated film, based in the future with a great story. The cave scene was very realistic.
Live, interactive Street Art was top on my list. Alumni Association had 2 outlines; everyone was invited to add their creativity with markers / paint. The interactive aspect seriously elevated Fanfaire almost above major comic cons. It made you feel a serious part of this event.
I have to mention 2026 mascot, Squibbles!!! One of the CUTEST, coolest mascots I have ever seen. Trust me, almost never use that "C" word. Even at merchandise table, gave feedback on Squibbles. Was the perfect way to represent and sum up Fanfaire 2026.
Discussion panels focused on a variety of topics. From Content Creation / Visual FX to Star Wars / Pokemon, these panels were more than just information. Several were educational, not only for students but all ages. This is a major reason you may want to attend both days. The Visual FX panels is why I wish could have covered Sunday.
Cosplay competition / features added to the major con feel. It was cool looking at everyone and what their imaginations create in this area.
Portfolio workshop was another top priority. Even though it was focused on students, I still learned a few things, especially creating an image (art / photo) to tell a story. Made me think about making slight adjustments to street level photography.
Video / game tournaments increased the fun / interactive aspect. Gemblender had demos at their table and full games in one hallway.
Before I forget: long / impressive guest list including comic artists (risk of stating obvious), animators, media, cosplay and more. You can't have a major con without this aspect. Fanfaire doesn't have the usual "wall" or follow any formula. No big stages to separate celebrities / guests from people attending.
There are a few ways I can tell an event exceeded any expectations. How does Fanfaire rate in this area: Almost forget to eat? Check! Lose track of time with great experiences in Artist Alley? Yeah, definitely. Need to step outside for 1 or 2 breaks? Check again! End up spending more time than planned and enjoying every second? Covered. Great conversations, meeting new and cool people? Oh yeah, serious check here.
I can easily recommend Fanfaire NYC any year. Easily worth your money. Not only on admission, but you will drop some cash without even thinking about. Supporting the students / school is only part of the reason. Amazing / incredible creations and student artists, overall experience, different aspects of major comic / fan cons, a few surprises.
Make sure to scroll down for video review / photos / video tour of Artist Alley.
video review
video tour: artist alley
Cafeteria
Gymnasium part 1
Gymnasium part 2
Gymnasium part 3
