The second day of the 20th anniversary edition of the Herceg Novi Comic Festival (HSF) was, traditionally, dedicated to the city centre. At the main town square, one of the Festival’s favourite programmes took place — free live drawing for fans and T-shirt drawing, alongside a rich fair of new regional comic book releases and a programme promoting environmental awareness through the ninth art.

A large number of visitors of all generations took the opportunity to receive an original drawing and dedication from leading comic book artists from the region and around the world. The direct interaction between creators and audiences once again proved to be one of HSF’s most valuable experiences, as did the encounters between artists who have come to Herceg Novi this year from 25 countries.

At the same time, an educational programme for young visitors was held at the City Library — a free drawing school and comic book and illustration workshop for children over the age of 10, led by prominent regional art educators.

The afternoon brought exclusive artist presentations. Riccardo Secchi, writer of the cult comic book Alan Ford, spoke to the audience about the challenges of working on one of the most influential comic book series in this part of Europe. The programme continued at Hotel Novi, where Montenegrin and regional creators presented their work.

On the Festival’s second musical night, Forte Mare Fortress was once again packed to capacity. The programme opened with San Gvida sa Hokaida, a band from the Bunt Rock Festival, setting the stage for a performance by one of the defining groups of the Yugoslav new wave — the legendary Film, led by Jura Stublić.

American artist Terry Moore, an Eisner Award winner — the highest honour in the world of comics — praised HSF highly, highlighting the warmth and hospitality with which the festival guests have been welcomed in Herceg Novi.

“Since we travel a lot, we get to compare different places, and I can safely say that this is one of the friendliest, most relaxed and best cities we have ever visited. The atmosphere is completely international — I hear so many different languages around me, and it’s clear that people have come from everywhere. This weekend, Herceg Novi is literally the centre and heart of comics in Europe. Everyone is here, and this is simply the place to be,” Moore said.

Speaking about his experience at the Festival, he highlighted its distinctive, direct concept, which puts people, art and genuine communication at the forefront.

“We have the opportunity to talk to fans, draw whatever they ask us to draw, and spend time together while we’re here at the festival. That’s how I meet people and make friends. I have so many friends in Europe even though I don’t live here, and that’s precisely because of festivals like this. When I get home, I’ll tell my fellow artists who haven’t been here yet that this is a fantastic festival — a place where you really feel like you’ve discovered something special, away from the usual destinations around Europe. On top of that, you’re looking out at this beautiful sea, surrounded by so much history, signing work literally beneath an ancient fortress. Honestly, it doesn’t get any better than this,” Moore said.

Dani, a Greek-born artist who works with some of the world’s leading comic book publishers, said that HSF stands out for its family-like atmosphere, with art firmly at the centre of the event.

“I have to admit that I’m pleasantly surprised — I expected mostly a local audience, but I’ve met visitors from France and all over the Balkans. I didn’t expect the festival to be this multicultural. It’s wonderful to see how excited people are while watching you draw,” Dani said.

Comparing American and European comic book conventions and festivals, she added: “In my experience, Europe is more focused on the artistic side, while in America it’s an industry with a different pace and approach to work. From the very first day, I’ve been fascinated by the organisation, the exhibition and the genuine interest of the people. Gatherings like this give us an opportunity to meet one another, talk about the creative process, but also allow someone who may not have followed art before to see what’s happening and fall in love with comics. The best thing is that everything here is dedicated exclusively to art and comics, rather than pop culture, the huge entertainment industry, celebrities and video games.”

One of the programmes of the 20th HSF is an exhibition of works by young Montenegrin comic book creators at the “Josip Bepo Benković” Gallery. Among the talented artists whose work is on display are Sara and Silva Dervanović, who are proud to be part of this major regional and European event.

“As far as the Montenegrin comic book scene is concerned, I have nothing but praise for the enormous talent and the large number of young people interested in continuing and developing the ninth art. The scene is exceptionally rich and diverse, which was particularly evident at the exhibition at the Josip Bepo Benković Gallery. We were thrilled by the range of artists, different styles and generations,” said Sara Dervanović.

“A festival like this means a great deal to us, both for our work as creators and for communicating with other artists. More than 150 guests are attending this edition alone, which speaks volumes about the scale of the festival. I can freely say that HSF is the biggest and best festival in the Balkans — and I’m not saying that just because it’s ours. We are incredibly proud and happy because this is a huge opportunity for Sara and me, as well as for all the other young creators,” said Silva Dervanović.

Sunday at HSF: Live Drawing at Škver, Rambo Amadeus at Forte Mare

On the third day of the 20th HSF, the caravan of the ninth art moves to Škver. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., comic book fans will be able to get drawings from comic book artists or add new regional releases to their collections at the terrace of Jadran restaurant and bar. A promotional segment, “Ecology and the Ninth Art”, will also take place throughout the day.

Children over the age of 10 will have the opportunity to try their hand at comic book drawing at a workshop led by leading regional comic book educators, beginning at 11 a.m. in the trophy hall of PVK Jadran. The same venue will host presentations by creators from the regional and international comic book scene who are guests of this year’s anniversary edition.

The third day of the comic book festival will culminate with a concert by Rambo Amadeus at Forte Mare Fortress. The artist, who has achieved cult status throughout the former Yugoslav region through his sharp lyrics and masterful improvisations, will perform with his quintet.

Rambo’s opening act will be another musical sensation from Montenegro, Gorostas, led by talented Herceg Novi musician Jovo Čeprnić.

Admission to all programmes is free, and the organisers encourage visitors to arrive on time and secure their place, as capacities are limited and audience interest is enormous.

The complete programme is available on the Festival’s website: stripfestival.me