If I lived in Philedelphia I’d buy my comics at the shop that Ariell Johnson is going about making a reality. What makes her idea for a comic shop different than the average one? In part it’s that she envisions her shop as a hybrid space that combines a comic shop with a coffeehouse to provide a place for comic geeks and non geeks aline to gather and relax. The other part is Ariell Johnson herself for her enthusiasm and desire to make her Amalgam Comics and Coffeehouse a space that focuses on inclusivity and diversity, where comics and graphic novels that “go beyond the straight white male paradigm” will be featured. Johnson also wants to host special events such as movie and trivia nights, gaming tournaments, and geek inspired craft nights. Another goal is to offer summer workshops that would introduce comics as art and a storytelling medium with a focus on low income, female, and minority children.
Johnson’s secured a space in Philadelphia’s New Kensington neighborhood with plans to open in the spring. Watch her video and consider helping to support Johnson and Amalgam Comics and Coffeehouse with her crowdfunding campaign or buying your comics and coffee when the shop opens!
Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse from MoolaHoop on Vimeo.
H/T to Comics Reporter who reported on this first.
