ASHEBORO – Show off your coolest superpowers at the first annual Asheboro Public Library Comic Con, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 13.

 

Hosted by Asheboro library Youth Services, the family-friendly event will feature 13 comic book authors, illustrators and other creators (as of this writing — there may be more) who will demonstrate their techniques and display their work, which will be available for purchase.

Because every hero needs a sidekick, Randolph County Animal Services and Ruff Love Rescue of Thomasville will be on hand to share information about pet adoption and feature some of their furry friends. 

There also will be a costume contest with prizes for different age groups; special visitors; giveaways; and other surprises. The event, best for ages four and up, is free and the public is invited.

Authors, artists and other creators include: 

• Will Boyer, illustrator of Gospelman Ministries, Super Milo and Hip Hop;
• Rodney Bennett, writer and artist at Vision Alive Studios, Legend of Black Starr;
• Kev Lyerly, K.L.A.W.S. of Kreation artist;
• John Czop, Marvel Comics illustrator;
• Rick Davis, Marvel and DC comics illustrator;
• Chris Rigo, Beardy Weirdy's Comics and Toys;
• Hector Miray, author of Faith and Fandom book series;
• Dan Johnson, writer and editor-in-chief at Red Line Comics Studio;
• Marshall Lakes, artist and graphic novelist, Marshall Lakes Art;
• Jo Knorpp, UNCSA filmmaking graduate with a concentration in animation;
• Jennifer McCollom, special effects makeup artist;
• John Tompkins, professional cosplayer and prop builder.

The TeenZone will feature the work of local teen artists, and a Youth Services booth will share all the scoop on this summer’s Summer Reading activities.

At 10:30 a.m., Jo Knorpp will screen her own short film, followed by a Q&A. At 11:30 a.m., Rodney Bennett will present an art creation demonstration. John Thompkins will bring his Indiana Jones mobile museum. 

The library is located at 201 Worth Street. For further information, call 336-318-6804.

Caleb Sigmon to bring ‘Fun Factory’ to Randleman library

RANDLEMAN – Get an early jump on Summer Reading as master illusionist and storyteller Caleb Sigmon brings “The Fun Factory Starring CJ & Fidget” to the Randleman Public Library, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, May 18.

It’s fun for all ages when audience members help an incredible factory come to life as gears turn, games unfold and toilet paper goes flying through the air!

The high-speed show is guaranteed to capture attention with lots of music, interactive play, and a valuable lesson that audiences will take away with them: that we are strongest when we work together. Stick around afterwards for an exclusive meet and greet with characters from the show.

Sigmon is a veteran performer who travels across the nation sharing theatre and magic. He is especially noted locally for his always-popular performances as the Cat in the Hat and the Grinch. 

The performance launches “All Together Now,” the library’s Summer Reading initiative, which keeps kids reading while school is out so that they don’t experience “summer slide” when they return in the fall.

It’s free and the public is invited.

The library is located at 142 W. Academy Street. For further information, call 336-498-3141.

Transform plastic bags with artist Cassandra Liuzzo in Asheboro library event

Cassandra Liuzzo

ASHEBORO – Create beautiful art and useful objects from plastic bags in an Asheboro Public Library Community Craft & Learn event, 4-6 p.m. Monday, April 24.

Join mixed media fiber artist and art educator Cassandra Liuzzo to transform single-use materials that would otherwise be thrown away. The project is inspired by compassionate work being carried out at local resource center Keaton’s Place, which is reusing plastic bags to make bedrolls for people experiencing homelessness.

All ages and abilities are welcome, and no registration is required. Participants are encouraged to bring their own crochet hooks and scissors to supplement those provided.

Liuzzo is founder of Shelf Life Art & Supply Co., a new and used art supply store in Greensboro. Her work has been exhibited in galleries such as the Center for Visual Artists in Greensboro, the Catherine Smith Gallery in Boone and Brooklyn Fireproof in New York. She holds a bachelor of science in art education degree from Appalachian State University.

The library is located at 201 Worth Street. For further information, call 336-318-6804.