Kolkata’s ‘Craft of Comics’: An Immersive Experience

In November and December 2025, Kolkata showcased a vibrant array of art events and exhibitions. Among them, The Craft of Comics at the Birla Academy of Art and Culture truly captured attention. Comics often get dismissed as a medium mainly for teenagers, usually found at local pop-ups or book fairs. Many people think of comics as only for children. However, this perception is outdated. Comics have long been recognized as a serious art form, and this exhibition aimed to showcase that.

The exhibition was not just about showing off colourful pages; it was about diving deep into the craft, the thought processes behind characters, and the hard work that goes into each panel. As one of the co-curators, Sujaan Mukherjee, pointed out, “Why would someone leave the comfort of their home to visit a gallery and see comics?” This question led the curators to design an exhibition that was not just for viewing, but for connecting with the art form.

The Heart of Craftsmanship

The essence of The Craft of Comics lay in its commitment to exposing the intricate world of comic creation. The craft behind characters and storylines took centre stage, encouraging visitors to engage, ask questions, and see the nuances hidden behind the panels. Each comic tells a story, and this exhibition invited audiences to look beyond the surface.

The event didn’t just aim to display work; it created an interactive atmosphere. Visitors had the chance to participate in workshops led by comic artists, providing a hands-on experience. For example, on November 15, a workshop titled “History in Comic Art” was hosted by Argha Manna. This intimate gathering allowed participants to explore how comics can bring historical narratives to life. Attendees left not only with a better understanding of storytelling techniques but also with their own creative pieces inspired by history.

Another workshop, “The Graphic Novel Blueprint” led by Sankha Banerjee on December 7, focused on how to create compelling narratives. This hands-on approach made the craft of comic art feel accessible and engaging.

Engaging Conversations

The exhibition also held numerous talks and guided walkthroughs, adding depth to the experience. Topics ranged from “Visualising Mahabharata: Text, Image, History” to “Life in Comics: Stories and Experiences.” These discussions featured artists and historians, creating meaningful dialogues around the comics portrayed. The audience was encouraged to delve deeper into the art form and appreciate the narrative layers involved.

The works presented at the exhibition were nothing short of extraordinary. Featured artists included Appupen, Amruta Patil, and Chitra Ganesh, each showcasing a unique style and perspective. For instance, Sarbajit Sen’s striking use of khoyer (catechu) as a colour difference highlighted individuality in artistry. In contrast, Sankha Banerjee’s research into the excavation of Hastinapur brought a historical richness that resonated with many. Furthermore, Argha Manna presented his workspace as part of the exhibition, providing insight into his creative process.

More Than Just Spectators

What was noteworthy about this exhibition was its emphasis on the audience as active participants. Visitors were not merely looking at art; they became involved in the creative process. As one walked through the different displays, they contributed to the understanding and interpretation of each comic’s narrative. The exhibition transformed visitors into meaning-makers, making the experience rich and engaging.

The Birla Academy of Art and Culture deserves sincere appreciation for hosting this exhibition and making the art of visual storytelling accessible to everyone. The response was overwhelmingly positive, particularly among the youth, which speaks volumes about the relevance of comics in contemporary culture. The exhibition resonated with many, particularly students, and reinforced the comic as a legitimate and powerful storytelling medium.

Conclusion

“The Craft of Comics” significantly elevated the conversation around comics as an art form not just for children but for all ages. It proved that comics can convey depth, narrative, and creativity.

As Kolkata continues to be a hub for artistic expression, events like this reflect the city’s evolving cultural landscape. If you missed this immersive exhibition, keep an eye out for future events that celebrate the magic of storytelling through art.

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