Chula Vista is home to the first South Bay Zine Fest which will be held at Illusion Hall on Third Avenue on Feb. 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Zine Fest’s mission is to show original stories and art from local creators to residents of South San Diego including Chula Vista, San Ysidro, Otay, and Bonita. The event is free and suitable for all ages.
Founded by Maxwell Scheller from Chula Vista, the “Game Boy Camera Guy,” he said this will be like an “artists alley” at Comic Con with creators that have original stories and art that they have self-published and will have their work on display.
Scheller said zines are original publications from independent creators. A zine is a small-circulation self-published work that can be in print or online. It often features original or appropriated texts and images, and is usually produced through noncommercial means. Zines appeal to niche audiences and are characterized by their “do it yourself” ethos and independent spirit.
“I think that we are going to get a good turnout,” he said. “This event is for people who want to see original arts and stories from independent creators. There are many original comic books here. I have a zine of my own.”
Scheller said Zine Fests happen all over. San Diego, Los Angeles, Kearney Mesa, and have been growing in different regions, but they have not held one in South Bay before.
“So, I figured if I bought a venue, had artists show up, and they can show off their works. Many creators have signed up who have things to say about what is going on in the world, and this is the place to see what they have to say,” he said.
Scheller said he also has panels for this event, with three panels lined up so far.
“I have come up with stories and art made by a Nintendo Gameboy camera from 1998,” he said. “I am like only one of a few that does this. That is an example of what can be shared at the event. Many who have signed up have their own zines, magazines, comics, and original art.”
