Abu Dhabi launches brand-new comic book studio and invites Emirate’s fellow creatives

A new comic book studio was recently launched in Abu Dhabi with the hopes to develop a regional comic book industry that could ultimately compete on the international stage. The new studio Sandstorm located at Yas Creative Hub calls for submissions from aspiring comic book creators in the capital and wider UAE with the chance to receive expertise, support, and professional guidance. The studio’s ultimate aim is to share the locally sourced comic stories created by Emiratis or UAE residents internationally through partnerships. The launch is part of Abu Dhabi’s Dh30 billion Culture and Creative Industries (CCI) Strategy to witness comic book or graphic novel pitches in diverse genre, theme, or style from aspiring authors which then lead to the selection of most promising ideas into internationally published world-class comic books. The studio will also partner with publishers and mentors from world-famous studios who can coach the chosen authors in creating high-quality final products. Mo Abedin, an Emirati comic book author and an industry leader, has been appointed to lead Sandstorm in placing Abu Dhabi on the global comics industry map and building the region’s comics ecosystem from the heart of the UAE. Abedin expressed his excitement with the much awaited launch of the comics studio and the newfound industry support. “With Sandstorm’s inclusive ecosystem and the local and regional community’s potential, the future of Abu Dhabi’s comics industry is truly promising. We cannot wait to show the world what our creative community is capable of,” said Abedin. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi commends the capital’s bold strides in accelerating the growth of its CCI and empowering the locals to follow their passions and share their creative visions with the world. He also said that Sandstorm’s contribution to the vision will be able to provide the local community and the homegrown talent sustainable comic book industry careers and a powerful platform for their dreams and ambitions. Several international industry veterans were hired as Sandstorm content advisors including Top Cow and Image Comics veteran Matt Hawkins and global pop culture advisor Kuo-yu Liang. The first open call cycle of the commissions programmes is now open and can be applied via this link. Any UAE national or resident can apply with the link’s further instructions. Interested comic book artists and fans can get a closer touch with Sandstorm at the upcoming Middle East Film and Comic Con from March 4 - 6 as well as the chance to meet international comic book artists and experts, including Matt Hawkins. KSO/Expat Media
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