Discovering SPX – A Mission for the Future

I found out about Small Press Expo (SPX) just a day before it happened, but something told me I needed to be there. Making the trip down to Maryland, I had no idea just how much this event would impact me.

Walking into SPX, I was blown away. Never before had I seen so many independent creators in one place, all pushing forward in the same direction I aspire to. It was as if there were 500 people just like me, but they had already made it, proving that this dream was possible. The energy was infectious, and I left feeling more inspired than ever.

One of the highlights was reconnecting with Kristen Gudsnuk, an artist I admire and had met at New York Comic Con the year before. I was eager to show her my progress on Lab Partners, and getting that moment was another push in the right direction.

While I couldn’t stay for the after-parties, SPX had already given me what I needed. A clear mission. Seeing this thriving space made me determined to return as a vendor, to stand among these creators, not just as an observer, but as a peer.

This was more than just attending a convention. It was proof that I belong in this world, and I’m ready to take that next step.