Gestalt Comics The First Twenty Years

Since 2005, Perth-based small press comic publisher Gestalt has worked tirelessly to help develop and amplify the voices of Australian comic and graphic novel creators in a niche yet expanding international industry. Many of their groundbreaking publications are held in the State Library’s collection. This exhibition celebrates their first two decades of work in an underrated narrative art form that continues to defy common misconceptions.

Publishing comics from the isolation of Western Australia has presented some unique challenges. However, Gestalt's persistence and perseverance have led to multiple award-winning books, the establishment of international careers, an ABC TV documentary and a hit animated TV series. Gestalt is the home of The Deep, Indigiverse, Eldritch Kid, Talgard and many more.

More recently, Gestalt's not-for-profit partner, Comics On Country, was founded to support the development of First Nations voices in comics to help protect, preserve and celebrate Aboriginal culture through popular culture. With an ethos of showcasing local country, language and experiences, Comics On Country is aimed at building capacity for creative expression within community while inviting all Australians to engage with these stories.  

Presented by the State Library of Western Australia and Perth Comic Arts Festival (PCAF).