What a whirlwind of creativity, connection, and comic brilliance! Last week was an absolute joy as I dove headfirst into the Lakes International Comic Art Festival and the Encounters Film Festival. Two incredible events, one unforgettable week, and guess what? It’s not over yet!
Mark your calendars: on 19th October at 4pm, I’ll be at the Liverpool Literary Festival chatting all things Anfield Road. Come along, bring your questions, and let’s talk stories, streets, and Scouse soul. You can grab your tickets.
The Lakes was pure magic. Huge thanks to the amazing Julie Tait for the invite and for curating a festival that genuinely shifts how people see graphic novels. It’s about showing unexpected audiences that comics aren’t just entertainment—they’re powerful, world-changing art.
I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with the brilliant Andrew Sumner, and together we took a mental stroll through the streets of Liverpool. The crowd was fantastic—full of energy, ideas, and love for the medium.
Among the highlights:
- William Potter, whose Geezer comics with Philip Bond are an absolute riot.
- Simone Lia, sharing her beautiful new book How To Make Life Better, When It Feels Like It’s Getting Worse—a gem of a read and the perfect Christmas gift.
- Martin Rowson, turning political satire into performance art with his Trump sculptures made from bin bags and rubbish. Genius.
- And the ever-inspiring Annabelle and Benoit from La Belle Adventure, who ran the shop with style and heart. If you’re in Edinburgh, do yourself a favour and visit their store—it’s a treasure trove.
While at Encounters, thanks to the brilliant Izzy Coombes and Dave Taylor-Matthews, I had the chance to reconnect with some truly lovely folks. It was such a treat to catch up with Sarah Cox from Aardman, always a joy and Greg Basterfield from Gosh! Comics, whose enthusiasm is infectious. A big shoutout to Milo Baker, who was my right-hand legend during the session. Couldn’t have done it without you! Here are some photos from both events. Photos from Encounters by Chris Williams.
So many brilliant minds, so many unforgettable moments. I’m still buzzing—and I can’t wait to keep the momentum going in Liverpool. See you there!
Liverpool Literary Festival
Victoria Gallery & Museum 17–19 October Marking its 10th anniversary, this year’s festival features Chris alongside literary heavyweights like Emma Jane Unsworth, John Higgs, and Juno Dawson. Secure your tickets now.
MCM London Comic Con
Excel London. 24th-26th October. Chris will be tabling. We will be in Artist Alley on table J-09.
Folkestone Illustration Festival
Folkestone, Kent 6–9 November Chris leads a masterclass and joins a panel with Astrid Goldsmith at Folkestone’s first-ever Illustration Festival. A must for aspiring illustrators and animation fans. Details on the Festivals Insta.
SE London Book Festival
Morocco Bound, London Bridge 9 November | 14:00 Chris joins a powerful lineup including Diane Abbott, Evie Wyld, and Vince Cable. Free tickets available — but they’re going fast! Book your ticket for Chris’s event and support the festival’s food bank initiative.
Wantage Literary Festival
The Beacon, Wantage Saturday 1 November | 10:00 Chris presents Anfield Road in a heartfelt session full of laughter, grit, and northern soul. Tickets £13.50 via TicketSource
Kracken Comics
Bebington Saturday 29th | 7pm. Chris will talk through his book plus a reading. More information on the Kracken insta.
Haven’t read Anfield Road yet? Now’s the perfect time to dive in. Grab your copy here or experience it live at one of these unforgettable events. Or perhaps watch a reading online?
