Dieci anni di libri illustrati con l’Associazione Spine

The Association Spine, always committed to the promotion and enhancement of illustrated and independent publishing, is ready to celebrate an important milestone: its 10 years of activity. A decade of passion, commitment, and growth, which the association has decided to celebrate with a three-day event to be held from December 20 to 22, 2024, at the Officina degli Esordi headquarters in Bari.

A very rich program featuring book presentations, a pop-up market, concerts, and much more, all focused on creativity and interaction between authors, publishers, and the public.

**A Birthday to Celebrate: 10 Years of Passion for Illustrated Publishing**
Since 2014, the Association Spine has embarked on a unique journey centered on the promotion and enhancement of comics and illustrated works. A decade of events, workshops, exhibitions, and presentations have helped to introduce the beauty of independent publishing and visual storytelling to an ever-wider audience. To celebrate this milestone, Spine has decided to offer its community and supporters, as well as all curious individuals, a three-day event full of activities designed to engage every fan of comics, illustrated books, and creative culture.

**FESTIVAL PROGRAM: AN INTENSE THREE DAYS OF ACTIVITIES**

**DECEMBER 20, 2024**
The party will begin on December 20 with a series of events designed to stimulate creativity, curiosity, and dialogue.

6:00 PM - Inauguration of the Festival and Presentation of Projects in the Pop-up Market.
The official opening of the festival begins at 6:00 PM with a presentation of the projects in the Pop-up Market. Throughout the event, the spaces of the Officina degli Esordi will host publishers, authors, and illustrators showcasing their latest works and creations, offering the public a selection of books, illustrations, and independent publishing items.

7:00 PM - Presentation of "Piovono Corvi" (Bao Publishing, 2024) and book signing with author Daniel Cuello.
Daniel Cuello will present his new book “Piovono Corvi,” published by Bao Publishing. A graphic novel telling a story about choices that change the fate of individuals and the community, tinged with notes of satire and critique of contemporary society. The meeting will be moderated by Ilenia Caito, a book influencer. Following the presentation, the author will be available for a book signing.

9:00 PM - Screening of the Documentary on Tuono Pettinato, with a video contribution from Ratigher.
The evening will conclude with the screening of a documentary about Tuono Pettinato, one of the most innovative artists on the Italian comic scene. Ratigher will connect via video to discuss Tuono's world and reflect on his influence in the comic world.

**DECEMBER 21, 2024**
On December 21, the festival continues with another day full of events, meetings, and in-depth moments.

11:00 AM - "Words and Music, the most beautiful Christmas albums" – readings by Sara Mastrodomenico, with music by Molla.
A special event dedicated to Christmas albums, read and performed by Sara Mastrodomenico with musical accompaniment by Molla. A perfect moment to get into the holiday spirit and rediscover Christmas stories.

6:00 PM - Presentation of "Grafica Magazine" with Linus magazine’s art director, Sara Fabbri, and L’Espresso's art director, Stefano Cipolla. The meeting will be moderated by Giuda Carano, art director of Anestetico Urbano. **Grafica Magazine** is a publication collecting the best works in graphics and illustration, focusing on creativity and trends in visual design. An opportunity to talk about publishing, graphics, and innovation.

7:00 PM - Presentation and book signing of "Il bacio" (Oblomov Edizioni) with author Andrea Bruno. Moderated by Luca Romano.
Andrea Bruno will present his new book “Il bacio,” published by Oblomov Edizioni, a graphic novel that explores loneliness and the search for love through a unique and engaging style.

8:00 PM - Presentation and book signing with Clarice Trombella for “Sister Resist” (BeccoGiallo), moderated by Francesca Lomagistro.
The presentation of “Sister Resist. 20 stories of resistance and sisterhood in the music world,” a book that tells the stories of women who have made a difference and stood out in music, from Billie Eilish to Kae Tempest. The panels will be on display for the occasion.

9:00 PM - Concert by Missy DJ and Lyl for the Locus Muse series.
The evening will conclude with live performances by Missy DJ (Clarice Trombella) and Lyl. Tickets are available on Ticketone.

**DECEMBER 22, 2024**
December 22 will conclude with an equally exciting day:

11:00 AM - Animated readings with Gigilegge & the Mayor of Madonnella. A morning of animated readings aloud, with Gigilegge and the Mayor of Madonnella participating in a shared reading moment suitable for all ages.

12:00 PM - The Fangs Book Club with Gabriella Giliberti, for "Il vampiro che ride" by Suehiro Maruo. A meeting for fans of Japanese literature and comics, focusing on the famous comic “Il vampiro che ride” by Suehiro Maruo, in a special edition.

6:00 PM - "Coconino Super Classifica Show" with Alessio Trabacchini.
A journey through the most beautiful comics published by Coconino Press, chosen and described by Alessio Trabacchini.

7:00 PM - Presentation and book signing of “HPL – Una vita di Lovecraft” with Marco Taddei and Maurizio Lacavalla.
The authors will present their book about the life and work of H.P. Lovecraft, one of the greatest horror and sci-fi writers of the twentieth century.

9:00 PM - Concert by Angelica and Vipera for the Locus Muse series.
The festival will end with a live performance by Angelica and Vipera, concluding the three days of events. Tickets on Ticketone.

**Special “Vino alla Spine, bottles by authors”**
During the entire festival, wine bottles made by Fedeli alla Vigna, with live illustrations by festival guests, will be auctioned. Each bottle is a unique piece, available for auction until the end of the year.

**Pop-up Market: SPINENELFIANCO**
From December 20 to 22, visitors can explore the pop-up market featuring self-produced publishing, comics, and illustration. An opportunity to discover new talents and purchase unique products directly from the authors.