Last Friday, September 8, took place the meeting between the Mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni, the Minister of Culture and Sport, Miquel Iceta and a group of young people to talk about the Bono Cultural Joven.
The place chosen was the bookstore Norma Cómics.
A group of former students and teachers of the Joso, accompanied by the head of studies, Josep Maria Polls, attended as a representative part of young comic creators.
Under the attentive listening of the mayor and the minister, both emerging and established artists contributed their ideas to the authorities, creating a relaxed and enriching atmosphere.
At first, the politicians focused on the Bono Cultural Joven and talked about literature in general, showing their concern about how it is less and less consumed by children and teenagers.
It is here where the topic of comics as an enhancer of reading came up, considering it also literature in itself and not as a substitute or a by-product of it.
The comic was proposed not only as an element of entertainment, but also of learning.
We all know that a picture is worth a thousand words, and in a comic there are many images, so it is logical to think that it will always be easier to learn anything that is supported by images.
Another important topic that we discussed was that we have to disassociate the idea that “comics equals reading for children”.
In other countries, such as France, it is very normalized that there are comics for all age ranges.
In the neighboring country, the whole family goes to the bookstore and each member comes out with his or her comic book.
In our country there is certain ignorance, even with derogatory touches, in that thought that “that is for children”.
In the same context, we talk about libraries.
Normally, the comics are located in the children’s section.
We emphasize the importance of order between genres and target audience on the shelves, with a clear differentiation, in order to get out of the topic and make it known that comics are for everyone.
Another measure that was proposed was to give more support to artists, giving visibility and aid, not only when they have succeeded but also to those who are starting, encouraging exhibitions, signings, news, etc., making our work known.
We left there with the hope of having been heard and that our profession will finally be valued as it deserves.
The comic is a complete form of artistic expression, it helps, entertains, teaches.
It makes people laugh and cry.
It is for everyone.
And, for us to enjoy them, there must be production.
Precariousness does not go with production.
Let’s value this incredible art that represents us so much.
The Joseras who attended this meeting were: Josep Maria Polls, Moy R., Carlos Moreno, Paula Aranega, Maria Sagrera, Cloe and Dunia Navinés and Romina Molist.
The Bono Cultural Joven is a government subsidy for young people born in 2005, which grants 400 € for cultural consumption.
If you turn 18 this year, you have time to apply until September 30.
*Many thanks to Romina Molist, Cloe Navinés and Paula Aranega for helping out as chatty reporters🙂 💞
