Chris Shepherd APPEARS AT Folkestone’s First Illustration Festival
Dates: 6th – 9th November 2025 Location: Folkestone, Kent
Folkestone is about to get a whole lot more animated—literally. This November, the seaside town will host its very first Illustration Festival, and leading the creative charge is none other than Chris Shepherd, the acclaimed director, writer, and illustrator known for his boundary-pushing work in animation and storytelling.
A Festival Born from Ink and Imagination
From whimsical sketches to bold visual narratives, the Folkestone Illustration Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of the drawn line in all its forms. Set against the backdrop of Folkestone’s Creative Quarter and coastal charm, the four-day event will feature exhibitions, live drawing sessions, workshops, talks, and pop-up installations that bring illustration to life.
At Folkestone, Shepherd will be part of a panel with Astrid Goldsmith, offering audiences a rare glimpse into his creative process. Expect candid insights, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and reflections on how illustration fuels his storytelling. He’ll also be leading a masterclass on visual narrative, perfect for aspiring illustrators and animators looking to sharpen their craft.
Why Folkestone?
Folkestone has long been a haven for artists, and the launch of its Illustration Festival is a natural extension of its creative spirit. With the success of the Folkestone Triennial and its thriving arts scene, the town is fast becoming a cultural hotspot. This new festival adds another layer—one that celebrates the power of the pen, the pencil, and the pixel.
Whether you’re a seasoned illustrator, a curious creative, or just someone who loves a good doodle, Folkestone Illustration Festival is the place to be this November.
The Anfield Road Book Tour Rolls On: New Dates Announced!
The journey continues! We’re thrilled to announce more major stops on the Anfield Road tour this September and October — with more to come.
ENCOUNTERS FILM FESTIVAL, BRISTOL
Thursday 25 September | 14:30 | Arnolfini, Bristol
Chris will appear at Animated Encounters, part of the UK’s leading celebration of animation and storytelling. Held at the iconic Arnolfini, this event brings together visionary creators from across the creative spectrum.
Expect exclusive readings, behind-the-scenes insights into Anfield Road, and a chance to meet Chris in person. He’ll be signing books and sharing the creative process behind his latest work.
The Thursday lineup includes:
- Ben Mitchell
- Dr Laura Beth Cowley
- Karni and Saul
- Dane Winn
- Blue Zoo
- Nearaja Raj
- Dan Ojari
- Ana Emdin
- Greg Basterfield
- Alan Thorn
- Laura Toofarides
And that’s just the beginning—Friday’s schedule is packed with talks, screenings, and showcases that promise to inspire. Tickets here.
Explore the full Encounters Industry & Events Programme
THE LAKES INTERNATIONAL COMIC ART FESTIVAL
26–28 September | Bowness-on-Windermere
Next stop: LICAF, a vibrant celebration of comics, graphic novels, and visual storytelling. This year’s theme—Comics Can Change the World—spotlights the medium’s power to promote literacy, education, and environmental awareness.
Chris joins an international lineup of creators, sharing how Anfield Road fits into the broader conversation about comics as tools for change. Expect live draws, interviews, workshops, exhibitions, and a bustling Comics Marketplace.
Chris Shepherd & Anfield Road Join the 10th Liverpool Literary Festival
17-19 October | Liverpool
Chris Shepherd and his acclaimed book Anfield Road will be appearing at this year’s Liverpool Literary Festival, running from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 October. And this year’s edition is extra special—it marks the festival’s 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of literary brilliance.
Set within the stunning Victoria Gallery & Museum, the festival brings together some of the UK’s most dynamic voices in fiction, poetry, and creative thought. Chris will take the stage to discuss Anfield Road, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the story’s origins, themes, and creative journey. He’ll also be signing copies—so bring your book or grab one on the day.
A Lineup That Shines
This year’s roster is nothing short of spectacular:
- Emma Jane Unsworth introduces her bold new novel Slags
- John Ironmonger explores climate change through compelling fiction
- John Higgs unpacks the wild legacy of Doctor Who in his latest release
- Nussaibah Younis presents Fundamentally, a powerful new work
- Plus appearances from Adele Zeynep Walton, Hattie Williams, Dorothy Koomson, Juno Dawson, Malik Al Nasir, and a special conversation between Mark Kermode and Jenny Nelson
It’s shaping up to be a weekend of unforgettable stories, big ideas, and creative inspiration. Don’t miss out—secure your tickets now!
Haven’t Read Anfield Road Yet?
Now’s the perfect time to dive in. This groundbreaking work continues to captivate readers, push artistic boundaries, and leave a lasting mark on the literary world. Buy your copy here.
Or perhaps watch a live reading?
