Inaugural Tryon Comic & Art Expo celebrates creativity

Published 1:11 pm Monday, June 9, 2025

By Storme Smith

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Comic creator Levi Erickson signs a copy of his comic for a young fan.

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Local artists, fans unite for a day of comic book magic

TRYON—On Saturday, June 7, the Tryon Fine Arts Center hosted the inaugural Tryon Comic & Art Expo, a one-day event dedicated to celebrating the worlds of comic books, cartooning, and sequential art. The expo brought together a lineup of artists and writers, offering attendees a unique opportunity to meet and engage comic creators.

Among the special guests were multimedia artist Ryan Oakley and Stephanie Williams, a prominent writer for both Marvel and DC Comics. The expo attracted creators from all over the Southeast, including Eraklis Petmezas, Christine Brunson, Miss Molly, Jeremy Massie, Henry Eudy, Regis Perez, Lisa Peterson, John Burgin, Brandon Hendricks, Noah Ray, Cameron Norbert, Brian Pruitt, Chris McJunkin, Brian Wingrove, Lizabeth Kriston, Levi Erickson, and Ryan Holgerson. Mirrorball Gallery also hosted a talk by artist Fernando Porras on Saturday in conjunction with the Expo.

Representatives from the charity Drawn to Help, led by local cartoonist Steve Barr, were also in attendance, providing iconic statues of classic cartoon characters that delighted attendees seeking memorable photo opportunities. The local charity showcased its collection of beloved characters, including Batman, Mike and Sully from Monsters, Inc., a pair of Ninja Turtles, Lisa Simpson, and a pair of Smurfs.

Mike Heston of the Doggystyle Hot Dog stand ensured guests were well-fed while many attendees and guests enjoyed exploring the nearby restaurants and shops.

Storme Smith, comic creator and event organizer, expressed excitement about the expo’s success.

“We’re thrilled to have so many great comic creators visiting Tryon, Smith shared. “Comics and sequential art have influenced so many of us over the years and are a great way to get kids interested in reading and keep adults engaged as they get older.”

Cameron Norbert, a comic artist from Atlanta, shared his enthusiasm for the event.

“It was easily one of my favorite experiences tabling at a convention,’ Norbert said. “Everybody was relaxed and genuine, and the vibe was incredibly hospitable.” He also touched on the unique atmosphere of the expo, mentioning that many attendees shared their experiences as first-time convention-goers, expressing curiosity about the art form rather than the typical interactions found at conventions.

Several other artists also noted that the atmosphere was unlike any convention they had previously attended, praising the visitors’ eagerness to engage with creators and learn about their work.

“I was seeking an exposition or showcase of what we comic creators do for a living. It’s nice to have a local show that puts the focus on the books and art,” Smith added.

Smith thanked the TFAC staff and volunteers for their support throughout the event, remarking on the positive feedback from both vendors and attendees who were captivated by the facility and its picturesque views.

Smith expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, Mirrorball Gallery, Greenlife Inn, Steve Barr, and Drawn to Help for their contributions.

“It was wonderful to hear kids talking about how much fun it was to have something like this in Polk County,” said Smith, who hopes to make the expo an annual tradition.

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