Cross Comix

Women creators take the spotlight at Cross Comix Festival on September 12 & 13

Founded nine years ago, Cross Comix will transform De Doelen in Rotterdam into a lively hub of visual storytelling. This year, the festival highlights how women creators have transformed the comics medium in the fifty years since Claire Bretécher became the first woman to win a major comics award (Angoulême, 1975). From groundbreaking pioneers to leading voices of today, the festival theme ‘How Women Changed the Narrative of Comics’ puts the women who reshaped the medium in Europe in the spotlight.

Guest Speakers for Friday, September 12

The main program speakers on Friday, September 12 are: Aimee de Jong (NL), the award-winning Dutch graphic novelist whose adaptation of Lord of the Flies has been published in over 25 countries. Merel Barends (NL), illustrator and comic artist, will present her VR experience Oranova at the festival. María Medem (ES), illustrator and graphic novel maker from Seville, author of Land of Mirrors. Judith Vanistendael (BE), known for La Jeune fille et le nègre and Les Deux Vies de Pénélope. Vera van Wolferen (NL), animator and illustrator; her film Down in the Dumps premiered at Berlinale 2025.

Explore the international Makers Market with over 100 creators, attend the Small Press Award winner ceremony, take part in inspiring workshops, or visit the Zine Kiosk featuring the best zines from around the world. Attend the Swap party, discover a range of international exhibitions, performances, parties, and book presentations or listen to a scientific panel about comix. The week prior to the festival artists will be painting live in the central hall of Rotterdam Central Station. Whether you're a longtime fan, a comics creator, or new to the world of visual storytelling, Cross Comix offers a unique experience where artists and audiences come together.