GSCF 2026 — Event Reflection

This past weekend was my first large convention of the year, and honestly, I’m proud I pulled it off. Conventions take a lot of work, and this one landed right as I started working with a Marketing Specialist, so my focus was split between preparing for the show and getting my studio systems ready for our strategy meetings. Even with all that going on, the event still came together.

I handled the full setup and breakdown solo, which was exhausting. I definitely took longer than most vendors, and staff even nudged me to hurry during breakdown. I’m grateful I had some friends that came out for a few hours, having even a little help made a difference, but the reality is that doing these big shows alone is still one of my biggest challenges.

A few weeks before the event, I remembered to order my large‑format prints. They arrived just in time (with rush shipping), and I’m glad I had them. I sold 4 out of 5 of my designs, proving that the test worked, and my comic sales actually just beat that in terms of sales . Without the prints, I wouldn’t have broken half of my target amount at all. The books continue to be the main selling point of my table. I also made a new edition of The Mushroom Press handout, and between me and my friends, we gave out nearly all of them.

This convention leaned heavily into superhero nostalgia; Marvel, DC, TMNT, Power Rangers, Ghostbusters, all childhood staples. Even the indie artists were leaning into 80s and 90s nostalgia. My table was 90% original content, and the fan art I brought was anime‑inspired and more current. My choices were based on what’s popular now; this event was focused on what was popular back then. That mismatch definitely affected engagement.

So now I have a choice to make. Do I want to cater to this demographic next year? More superhero nostalgia, more retro characters, maybe fan art tied to the guests attending? Or do I stay focused on original work and accept that superhero‑heavy shows aren’t the strongest fit for what I make?

I’m not sure yet if I’ll return next year, but I’m glad I went this year. It gave me clear data on what the audience wanted and what I need to adjust if I decide to come back.\