Local comics artist Gareth Hinds sits to discuss various projects, his process, etc. Signing his latest: Romeo & Juliet. Thurs 11/7 7:30PM
Librarians discovered Gareth Hinds in the guise of his shuffling slouching inky and murderous monster Grendel. Hinds' 2007 interpretation of the Beowulf saga won fans and strong reviews with his lush and muscular reworking of the hero's tale. His Grendel steals the show from the title character though, leaving his greasy imprint and bloody footsteps through out the first half of the story.
Beautifully painted, rich in color and mood, Beowulf became a must-have for public libraries, with a story strong enough to capture the interest of reluctant readers, (with plenty of gore and conflict) yet adding the gravitas of classic literature to the collection. It is the broccoli of the library shelves: it's good for you! And if mom makes you eat it, hey, it can be pretty good! If you add some of this to your plate mom might let you also have some (modern era) superheroes as well.
Subsequently Mr Hinds has adapted The Odyssey, King Lear, The Merchant of Venice, and now Shakespeare's iconic tragic love story. He's now working on Shakespeare's 'Scottish Play'. Come talk with him about process, materials, inspirations etc. -- in our Children's room at 7:30, Thursday 11/7. Our friends at Politics and Prose will be selling books if you want a signed copy.