On Sunday, August 19th, Minnesota's comic community came out to support the 7th annual Autoptic Festival. Autopic celebrates independent artists and creators and showcases publications and artwork that feature original, creator-driven content, and compelling DIY-aesthetics. This year's festival included MCAD MFA Alums Dennis Madamba '14, Kyle Harabedian '13, Sishir Bommakanti '18, Alex Mitchell '16, Kristin Tipping '16, Niky Motekallem '16, John Bivens '16 as well as mentors Robert (Bob) Algeo '11, Zak Sally, and Tom Kaczynski. From Autopic, "Minnesota’s vibrant comics community supports several local conventions and comics events, but Autoptic has distinguished itself for its focus on small press and independent print media. Founded in 2012, The Autoptic Foundation is an all-volunteer run organization based in Minneapolis, MN with a commitment to the promotion, exhibition, and advocacy for independent creator-owned artwork and creative expression of all kinds. With a primary focus on comics, zines, posters, and other printed materials, The Autoptic Foundation realizes its mission by organizing and producing free exhibitions, readings, and other events that allow independent creators to connect directly with other like-minded artists and their audiences." The weekend of events included a gallery show at Light Grey Art Lab, a packed day of panels and readings by special guests at Moon Palace Books, and the culminating Autoptic Festival. Photography by Yi Wan For more information: Autopic Robert (Bob) Algeo John Bivens Sishir Bommakanti Kyle Harabedian Tom Kaczynski Alex Mitchell Niky Motekallem Dennis Madamba Zak Sally Kristin Tipping Categories All Alumni Events Professional Practices Student Activities