Cape & Cowl Con: Unveiling Berkeley's Premier Comic Book Celebration
Step into a world where the vibrant pages of comic books leap to life, where creativity knows no bounds, and where a passionate community gathers to celebrate their shared love for sequential art and pop culture. This is the essence of Cape & Cowl Con, an independent convention that has rapidly become a beacon for enthusiasts across the Bay Area and beyond. Born from the vision of Cape & Cowl Comics, a beloved brick-and-mortar store in Oakland, this annual event embodies the spirit of discovery, connection, and pure, unadulterated fandom.
More than just a convention, Cape & Cowl Con is a testament to the thriving comic book scene in Northern California. It's a place where established artists rub shoulders with emerging talents, where rare collectibles find new homes, and where every attendee, from seasoned collectors to curious newcomers, can find something to spark their imagination. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a highly anticipated yearly gathering, Cape & Cowl Con continues to evolve, offering unique experiences and fostering a sense of belonging that truly sets it apart.
Table of Contents
- The Genesis of Cape & Cowl Con: A Community Vision
- More Than Just Comics: The Diverse Offerings of Cape & Cowl Con
- The Evolution of a Con: Finding the Perfect Home
- Spotlight on Guests: Artists, Writers, and Makers
- Partnerships Powering the Con: Vault Comics and Local Breweries
- Beyond the Con: Cape & Cowl Comics – The Store
- Immersive Experiences: Stepping into the Caped Crusader's World
- Why Cape & Cowl Con is a Must-Attend Event
The Genesis of Cape & Cowl Con: A Community Vision
The story of Cape & Cowl Con is intrinsically linked to its namesake, Cape & Cowl Comics, Oakland's very own "super rad comic book store." Established in 2015, Cape & Cowl Comics quickly became a cornerstone of the local community, known for its diverse inventory and its commitment to fostering a vibrant hub for comic enthusiasts. Beyond just selling comics, the store hosts a variety of events all year long, including "drink and draws," signings with artists and writers, book clubs, and Free Comic Book Day celebrations. This consistent engagement with the community laid the groundwork for something bigger: an independent convention that could bring together the best of the comic world under one roof. The idea for the first-ever Cape & Cowl Con was met with immense excitement, marking a natural expansion of the store's mission to celebrate and promote the art form it so passionately champions. It was a vision born from a genuine desire to serve the community, providing a dedicated space for creators, vendors, and fans to connect and share their passion.More Than Just Comics: The Diverse Offerings of Cape & Cowl Con
What truly sets Cape & Cowl Con apart is its incredibly diverse collection of offerings. This isn't just a place to buy new comic books; it's a treasure trove of creativity and unique finds. Attendees can expect to discover everything from published original art, showcasing the raw talent of illustrators, to vintage comic books that transport collectors back to the golden age of storytelling. The con embraces a wide spectrum of artistic expression, with vendors sharing not only traditional comic-related merchandise but also unconventional items like "erotic candles," demonstrating the broad and inclusive nature of the event. Beyond the sheer variety of goods, Cape & Cowl Con also offers exclusive merchandise, such as the "Dracula #1 Cape & Cowl Comics exclusive Nimit Malavia variant" and the "_Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 Cape & Cowl Con Maria the Wolf" variant, making it a prime destination for collectors seeking unique additions to their collections. The focus extends to comic supplies, game supplies, Funko Pops, digest paperbacks, and even cookbooks, ensuring there's something for every interest within the pop culture sphere. This commitment to diversity ensures that every visit to Cape & Cowl Con is an adventure, full of unexpected discoveries and opportunities to engage with the broader creative community.The Evolution of a Con: Finding the Perfect Home
The journey of Cape & Cowl Con has seen it grow and adapt, always striving to provide the best possible experience for its attendees. The very first Cape & Cowl Con, announced with "super excited" anticipation, found its initial home at Gilman Brewing Company in Berkeley. This location provided a fantastic backdrop for the burgeoning event, blending the relaxed atmosphere of a brewery with the energetic buzz of a comic convention. The success of the early cons demonstrated the need for a space that could accommodate its growing popularity and diverse offerings. As the event matured, the organizers were keen to find a venue that could truly embody the spirit of the con and provide ample room for its expanding roster of artists, vendors, and fans. This pursuit of the "perfect" home reflects the organizers' dedication to enhancing the attendee experience year after year, ensuring that the convention continues to be a highlight on the calendar for comic enthusiasts.From Gilman to Faction: A Journey of Growth
The evolution of Cape & Cowl Con's venue is a clear indicator of its success and growth. After its initial run at Gilman Brewing Company, the con sought out new horizons. The organizers were thrilled to announce a "new home" that was "perfect," as their friends at Faction Brewing welcomed them to their "glorious event space." This move signified a significant step forward, allowing the independent convention to expand its footprint and accommodate an even larger array of exhibitors and attendees. However, the connection to its roots remains strong, as evidenced by the announcement that "we are heading back to Gilman Brewing Company on August 25th" for the 2024 Cape & Cowl Con. This flexibility in venue, moving between renowned local breweries like Gilman and Faction, showcases the con's adaptability and its commitment to finding the ideal setting to host "the very best comics, artists, and makers our community has to offer!" The ability to return to beloved locations while also exploring new ones ensures that each iteration of Cape & Cowl Con offers a fresh yet familiar experience, catering to the growing demands of its dedicated fanbase.Spotlight on Guests: Artists, Writers, and Makers
A comic convention is only as good as the talent it attracts, and Cape & Cowl Con consistently delivers on this front. The organizers make a point of inviting an impressive lineup of "great guests" each year, ranging from celebrated artists and writers to innovative makers from the community. These guests are the lifeblood of the convention, offering attendees unique opportunities for interaction, insight, and inspiration. Fans eagerly anticipate the announcements of who will be joining the con, with organizers often teasing that "more guests will be announced leading up to the event, so stay tuned for..." This build-up of anticipation adds to the excitement, encouraging attendees to keep a close eye on updates. The opportunity to meet creators, get autographs, and even commission original art directly from the source is a major draw. The con serves as a vital platform for these individuals to showcase their work, connect with their audience, and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the comic book industry.Welcoming Renowned Talents
Cape & Cowl Con prides itself on featuring a diverse array of talent, ensuring that there's something to excite every type of fan. The convention has a history of attracting notable figures from the comic book world, as evidenced by the call to "check out all of the cool guests who joined us in 2023." While specific names for the main con are often revealed closer to the date, the broader ecosystem of Cape & Cowl Comics also brings in high-profile individuals for special events. For instance, "Ben Crane and Andy Alves are coming to Cape & Cowl Comics on Saturday, October 26th from 1pm to 3pm" for a signing event, highlighting the caliber of creators associated with the brand. These appearances, whether at the main convention or at the store, provide invaluable opportunities for fans to engage directly with the minds behind their favorite stories and characters. The commitment to bringing in both established and emerging talent ensures that Cape & Cowl Con remains a dynamic and enriching experience for everyone involved, reinforcing its reputation as a must-visit event for anyone passionate about comics.Partnerships Powering the Con: Vault Comics and Local Breweries
The success and expansion of Cape & Cowl Con are significantly bolstered by its strategic partnerships, which bring together key players in the comic book industry and the local community. A major collaboration that has elevated the con's profile is its partnership with Vault Comics. As "AIPT can exclusively reveal Cape & Cowl Comics and Vault Comics are partnering as Vault will be sponsoring Cape & Cowl Con," this alliance underscores the convention's growing influence and the trust placed in its vision by major publishers. Vault Comics' sponsorship, evident in "Cowl Con 3 'the very best comics, artists, and makers our community has to offer!' presented by Vault @capecowlcomics," provides crucial support and adds a layer of industry recognition. Beyond publishing, the con's venues themselves are integral partnerships. The recurring collaborations with local breweries like Gilman Brewing Company and Faction Brewing are not merely about securing a space; they contribute to the unique atmosphere of the event. These venues offer a relaxed, accessible environment that encourages mingling and community building, differentiating Cape & Cowl Con from more traditional, often sterile, convention centers. These symbiotic relationships are fundamental to the con's identity, blending the world of comics with local culture and enterprise.Beyond the Con: Cape & Cowl Comics – The Store
While Cape & Cowl Con is a highlight, it's essential to remember that it stems from the enduring legacy of Cape & Cowl Comics, the physical store. "Established in 2015, Cape & Cowl Comics is..." more than just a retail space; it's a community hub. Located at "1601 Clay Street, Oakland, CA 94612," and also accessible "online at www.capeandcowlcomics.com," the store serves as the year-round heartbeat of the local comic scene. It boasts a significant online presence with "2,246 likes · 6 talking about this · 1,057 were here" on social platforms, indicating a strong, active community. The store's commitment to fostering a vibrant comic culture is evident in its diverse calendar of events, which includes "drink and draws, signings with artists and writers, book clubs, free comic book day, and more." These regular gatherings ensure that the spirit of connection and discovery, so central to Cape & Cowl Con, is maintained throughout the year.Oakland's Super Rad Comic Hub
Described as "Downtown Oakland's very own super rad comic book store!" and "Oakland's newest and most radical brick and mortar comic," Cape & Cowl Comics has carved out a unique identity. It's not just a place to purchase "comic supplies, comics, convention & store exclusives, cookbooks, dice, digest paperbacks, Funko Pops, game supplies," but a dynamic space where fandom thrives. The store's reputation is built on its curated selection and its active role in supporting local artists and creators. They frequently host events that bring the community together, as seen in "videos from Oakland's newest and awesomest comic book store." This consistent engagement and dedication to the local scene make Cape & Cowl Comics the perfect foundation for an event like Cape & Cowl Con. The store's ethos of celebrating diverse artistic expression and fostering community directly translates into the inclusive and exciting atmosphere found at the convention, making both the store and the con integral parts of the Bay Area's vibrant pop culture landscape.Immersive Experiences: Stepping into the Caped Crusader's World
Cape & Cowl Con isn't just about browsing and buying; it's about experiencing the magic of comics firsthand. The convention often features unique, immersive exhibits that allow attendees to get closer to their favorite characters and stories. A notable example of this was the display celebrating Batman's 75th anniversary, where "Ben Affleck’s Batman costume, cape and cowl displayed" from *Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice* gave fans a "first chance to get a closer look" at the iconic ensemble. Such exhibits provide a tangible connection to the cinematic and comic book universes, offering a rare opportunity to see authentic props up close. This commitment to providing engaging, memorable experiences elevates Cape & Cowl Con beyond a typical vendor hall, transforming it into a destination for true fans seeking deeper interaction with the lore they love.The Batman Cowl & Cape Legacy Project
Further enhancing the immersive aspect, Cape & Cowl Con has showcased unique artistic interpretations of iconic comic book elements. A particularly fascinating project involved "DC Comics and Vice team[ing] up to give 20 acclaimed artists a white latex reproduction of Batman's famous cowl and cape and asked them to design what they envisioned the Caped Crusader." This initiative transformed the iconic costume pieces into canvases for artistic expression, offering fresh perspectives on a beloved character. The display of these redesigned cowls and capes at the con not only highlighted the incredible talent of the participating artists but also invited attendees to contemplate the enduring legacy and adaptability of Batman's image. Moreover, the con has embraced cutting-edge technology, announcing that "this year, with the help of virtual reality, they can be Batman." This innovative use of VR allows fans to step directly into the shoes of the Dark Knight, providing an unparalleled level of immersion and interaction. These kinds of forward-thinking attractions underscore Cape & Cowl Con's dedication to delivering truly unique and unforgettable experiences that resonate deeply with the fan community.Why Cape & Cowl Con is a Must-Attend Event
For anyone with a passion for comics, art, and community, Cape & Cowl Con is an indispensable event. It’s not merely a place to acquire collectibles; it’s a vibrant celebration of creativity and shared interests. The con's commitment to featuring "the very best comics, artists, and makers our community has to offer!" ensures a high-quality experience, whether you're looking for published original art, vintage comic books, or exclusive variants like the *Dracula #1* or *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1* exclusives. The consistent presence of "great guests" and the opportunity for direct interaction with creators provide invaluable insights and memorable moments. The evolution of the event, from its initial home at Gilman Brewing Company to its expansion at Faction Brewing, and its return to Gilman for 2024 (scheduled for Sunday, August 25, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM at 912 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA, 94710), demonstrates its dynamic growth and commitment to finding the perfect setting. With "2024’s Cape & Cowl Con will feature over 30" vendors and artists, the scale of the event continues to impress. The strong partnership with Vault Comics further solidifies its standing in the industry. Ultimately, Cape & Cowl Con embodies the spirit of its parent store, Cape & Cowl Comics, which serves as "Oakland's newest and awesomest comic book store" year-round, offering events like "drink and draws" and artist signings. This synergy creates a holistic experience for fans. So, whether you're a seasoned collector, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about the world of comics, "hope to see you at the next con!" Join the community, explore the diverse offerings, and immerse yourself in the unparalleled energy of Cape & Cowl Con. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate all things comics and pop culture.
Cape & Cowl Comics
Cape & Cowl Comics
Grab your cape and cowl: It’s time for Tucson Comic-Con | Arts: Feature
