According to Ken Marantz, professor of art education at the Ohio State University from 1971 to 1991, picturebooks (which he spelled as one word) are “such rich repositories of visual art, so readily available compared with the resources housed in galleries and museums, that I believe we must take the fullest advantage of them.” Moving beyond the traditional 32-page picturebook aimed at young readers, this year’s symposium highlights comics and graphic novels as visual art geared toward middle schoolers and teens.
"Comics and the Graphic Narrative: The Future of the Movement” is the theme of this event. While superheroes are most closely associated with comics and graphic novels, this format spans all genres and introduces the reader to diverse stories and characters focusing on political, historical, societal, cultural, and popular issues. Plenary addresses will include original, interdisciplinary research in areas related to comics and graphic novels and will feature comics creators. Breakout sessions,exhibits, posters, and panels will further expand this popular topic.
Ken and Sylvia Marantz have graciously funded a biannual scholarly picturebook research symposium to be organized and hosted by the Kent State University’s School of Information. The Marantz Picturebook Research Symposium honors the couple's lifelong dedication to the art of the picturebook.
