Author: John Paul Bonanno, AnimeBlogWorld.
Introduction:
In this insightful interview, we sit down with Fabio Agius, a prominent figure in the Maltese comic and anime scene and one of the key organizers of Malta Comic-Con. Fabio shares his journey from being a comic artist to becoming an integral part of building Malta’s comic culture. From the challenges of organizing events to his personal passion for collecting, this interview sheds light on Fabio’s inspiring role. This feature is brought to you by AnimeBlogWorld, a platform dedicated to the vibrant weeb and otaku community, both locally and internationally.
How did you come up with the idea for Malta Comic-Con?
Fabio: It all began back in 2008 with an event called The Big Bang. It was a small but exciting gathering organized by Something Wicked, focusing on Maltese comic artists and writers. I was one of the artists invited, and that event sparked a bigger vision. After attending a comic convention in Bristol, my friends Chris le Galle, Christopher Muscat, and I were inspired to expand the event on our plane ride home. We wanted to create something more significant for Maltese fans. That’s how Wicked Comics was born, and with it, Malta Comic-Con emerged in 2009 as the first event of its kind in Malta.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in organizing Malta Comic-Con?
Fabio: The biggest hurdle was the local perception of comics. Back then, comics weren’t popular in Malta, and many people, including potential sponsors, didn’t understand what a comic convention was about. Convincing businesses and individuals to support the event was tough. Fortunately, around the same time, superhero movies were gaining massive global popularity. The surge of interest in characters like Spider-Man and Iron Man helped us a lot, and the Maltese audience slowly began to embrace the idea of a comic convention.
How has Malta Comic-Con impacted the comic and anime community in Malta?
Fabio: Malta Comic-Con has become a central hub for comic and anime enthusiasts. It provides a space where people with shared interests can come together, connect with local and international artists, and engage with the community. One of the things I’m most proud of is how the event has given Maltese comic artists exposure, both locally and internationally. For many, it has opened doors to opportunities abroad, which is something we’re keen to continue fostering.
Can you tell us about your comic creation brand? What inspired you to start it?
Fabio: Being comic creators ourselves, we wanted to build a platform where we could express our ideas and share our stories. We started Tincan Comics, under which we launched The Golden Lizard, Malta’s first graphic novel. Later, we merged our productions under the Wicked Comics brand. Some of our proudest collaborations include projects like the Impressions of an Island artbook with Heritage Malta and the graphic novel we created for the Migrant Offshore Aid Station (MOAS), which highlights their humanitarian work. It’s all about using our art to tell compelling stories that resonate with both Maltese and international audiences.
How do you balance being a creator and organizing Malta Comic-Con?
Fabio: It’s challenging! Organizing Malta Comic-Con is very time-consuming, and it sometimes leaves little time for my personal comic projects. But being a creator helps me understand the industry and the needs of other artists, which is a huge advantage. We make it work by prioritizing—organizing the convention is a year-round task, but we always find time for creative work because it’s our passion.
What are your future goals for Malta Comic-Con and your comic brand?
Fabio: Our future goal is to see more Maltese artists making it into the international comic scene, which was the driving reason behind starting Wicked Comics. We wanted to create a platform that would help local artists get recognized globally. We already have Maltese talent working on foreign productions, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of. We hope to continue fostering this growth and see even more Maltese creators reaching new heights in the international comic industry.
What was the first comic or anime that captivated you?
Fabio: My introduction to anime was through Goldrake, which I watched on a black and white TV with my mum. That show left a lasting impression on me. But when it comes to comics, it was Spider-Man that truly captivated me. From a young age, I was hooked on his adventures. I still have some of those early comics in my collection, and they’re incredibly sentimental to me.
How has your collection grown over time?
Fabio: In the 80s and 90s, it was quite difficult to be a comic collector in Malta. There were no dedicated comic shops, so I had to rely on stationeries for random issues. Things changed in 1997 when Chris Muscat introduced me to Mile High Comics, an international comic distributor. After that, my collection started growing rapidly, and I became more serious about collecting specific titles and series.
Do you have a specific focus in your collection?
Fabio: Yes, my collection is mainly focused on American comics. I’m a huge fan of Spider-Man and Batman titles, and I’m always on the lookout for good stories from my favorite writers. I also like collecting first issues and special editions.
What’s the most prized item in your collection?
Fabio: Without a doubt, my Howard the Duck No.1, signed by Stan Lee. It’s incredibly special to me, not just because it’s a valuable piece but because of its sentimental value. Having something signed by Stan Lee, the creator of so many beloved characters, is like owning a piece of comic history.
Have you ever had to make tough decisions about selling items?
Fabio: Absolutely not! I’m a collector at heart, not a seller. My collection is something I’ve built over years, and each item has personal significance. Selling them has never been an option for me.
How do you usually acquire new comics?
Fabio: Whenever I travel, I make it a point to visit comic stores and conventions to buy new items. I also shop online when I’m looking for specific issues. But I prefer the experience of picking up comics in person, especially at conventions. There’s something magical about being surrounded by other fans and discovering new gems.
Do you attend a lot of conventions?
Fabio: Yes, I love attending conventions. Over the years, I’ve been to many international comic cons, including the big ones in the UK and the U.S. One of my most cherished memories is meeting Stan Lee at New York Comic-Con in 2012. It was a surreal experience, and something I’ll never forget.
What advice would you give to new collectors?
Fabio: My advice is to collect what you love. Don’t feel pressured to own everything, especially when there’s so much out there. Start with your favorite characters or genres and build your collection over time. It’s important not to overspend or let the hobby become stressful. Enjoy the journey, because that’s what collecting is all about!
Conclusion:
Fabio Agius’ journey from comic fan to one of the driving forces behind Malta Comic-Con is a testament to his passion and dedication. His work in promoting the local comic scene and his love for the medium have made a lasting impact on the Maltese creative community. Whether you’re a seasoned comic fan or just getting into the world of comics and anime, Fabio’s story is an inspiring reminder of the power of passion.
This interview was brought to you by AnimeBlogWorld, a platform that celebrates anime, manga, and comic culture across the globe. Join us in being part of the ever-growing weeb and otaku community!
