LICAF Brings the Fanzeen Jordanian Comic Exhibition 2026 to Bolton This June

The Lakes International Comic Arts Foundation (LICAF), facilitated by the British Council in Jordan, is thrilled to announce the Fanzeen Jordanian Comic Exhibition 2026. The free exhibition comes to the North West, showcasing powerful work by young and emerging artists from Jordan. Hosted at Bolton Central Library during usual library opening hours throughout June, it is a key part of the Festival of Libraries.

The Fanzeen Jordanian Comic Exhibition 2026 features an anthology of comics. All created by artists who interviewed disabled individuals to tell their real-life stories. Focusing on themes of disability and neurodiversity, the collection provides a vital platform for self-expression. It demonstrates how comic art can challenge perceptions and break down barriers in a positive way.

Fanzeen is a collective originally launched in Amman, Jordan, in 2018. It was founded by high-profile creative Mike V. Derderian. His aim was to support creative expression and artistic freedom.

Alaa Qattam, Head of Arts at the British Council in Jordan, said: "The Fanzeen exhibition is a testament to what happens when art is placed in the hands of young people with something meaningful to say. The British Council's arts programme exists to find new ways of connecting with and understanding each other through the arts, and inclusion and disability sit at the very heart of that mission.

"We are proud to have facilitated this work alongside Mike Derderian, these exceptionally talented artists, with the vital support of Bunayat Centre for Special Education and Jordan Assembly for Art and Disability (JAAD), whose dedication made these stories possible. Comics have a unique ability to humanise experience, and we hope UK audiences find in these pages the same courage and creativity that moved us all. Sincere thanks to our partners, supporters and friends in the UK who made today possible."

Julie Tait, Founder and Festival Director at LICAF, said: "We are thrilled to bring the Fanzeen exhibition to the UK. It continues our work at LICAF in highlighting the diversity of comics globally and our focus on the Middle East, a region which receives less light when it comes to comic art.

"At LICAF, we are thrilled to be celebrating the accessibility of comics with this anthology created by young up-and-coming artists. It demonstrates how comics can explore and reveal contemporary issues like living with disabilities, incisively and with meaning and expression, reaching all kinds of people from all kinds of backgrounds.

"Mike is an inspirational leader and has created a unique environment in Jordan in which to nurture and mentor young artists, and we are excited to be partnering with him and the British Council on this important initiative."

The Fanzeen Jordanian Comic Exhibition 2026 is facilitated by the British Council in Jordan. It is a collaborative effort with the Festival of Libraries. This initiative builds on LICAF's 13 years of experience in bringing together communities, artists, and fans. The exhibition is free to attend throughout June 2026, with visitors encouraged to check library opening hours.