“I feel like there’s a lot of curious people, like, who are very appreciative of art, which I feel is super important in this time and age right now. I’m feeling like a lot of people are out here to be inspired by one another, whether you’re an attendee or you’re a vendor.” That was a quote by Ren Chu, creator of Softy Time Studio, and vendor of the latest gathering of talented artists. 

Jersey City has been hit with some major creative vibes with the recent “Jersey Art Book Fair!” or JAB for short. It is a major annual event where independent creators, both locally and abroad can sell their works, from magazines, zines, music or even some artwork. This event has had far more vendors than last time it was hosted. 

The third edition of  JAB fair was held at the Mana Contemporary, New Jersey’s incredible arts center, with a major increase in slots for vendors, featuring over 200 exhibitors! These vendors ranged from New  Jersey locals to people who’ve traveled from out of state, or even the country. 

“It’s a good mix of people. A lot of publishers, bookmakers, illustrators, and comics, so it’s very diverse, which is great” says Carmen Pizarro, a JAB fair vendor and owner. Along with numerous vendors that you could interact with, you could also attend numerous workshops that could help you learn some artistic skills. One workshop was centered around making a zine with only one page, it was very welcoming to its attendees, and it even had a coffee shop!

Now then, if you’re interested in seeing more of these people, then let me enlighten you  on a couple of events that will interest you. The next earliest event you can try is the Brooklyn Independent Comics Showcase, which takes place on April 26 and 27th! Numerous artists of varying talents from the NY metro area will  come together to showcase their work here, and the best part, admissions will be free! It’ll be on  35th Street, Industry City, and will have additional tables, amenities and more!  Or, if you are an artist yourself, you can sign up for it yourself! Mind you, you’ll need to have something to show off. They can range from stickers to comics or even just your art, it’s a great way to meet with other people that are interested in the same medium you are! Not to mention, this can be a great way to start or elevate your business!