I just returned from a weekend among friends and fellow creators at the Queers & Comics conference in NYC. The conference of panels and presentations was hosted at the School of Visual Arts. Jennifer Camper and Justin Hall did an amazing job organizing an event that drew cartoonists and fans from all over and had a bunch of moving parts (and very little air conditioning). This was no easy task. They had the help of amazing volunteers too.
In addition to doing some panels, I delivered the keynote speech on Friday evening. This was the sort of talk that you agree to, partly because you are incredibly flattered and honored to be asked, and partly because it’s easy to say yes when the event is months away. But then time seems to speed up and before you know it you’re faced with saying something cohesive, inspiring, and meaningful about your personal journey as an artist.
“The important thing is this: to be able at any moment to sacrifice what we are for what we could become.” — Charles Du Bos; a quote I used in my keynote
It’s always a bit emotional to look back at where I’ve started and the path I’ve taken to get where I am now. I’m eternally grateful to the people who were mentors to me as a young cartoonist, especially Dave Graue. It was nerve wracking but at the same time, uplifting, to be able to share my story with those who attended. Hopefully they found some inspiration and encouragement for their own journey in the stories I shared.
Jane's World 
From what have learned from you is an honest portrait of life whether a fantasy or real life problems. Your pen and ink are outlets for your thoughts and sincerity. I joined the ride to understand my Niece and her journey (she even looks like Jane). But what I have gotten is a new outlook on the world in general the complexity we create in intolerance and apathy. I look now at everything in a different light and willingness to at least understand the journey of others as well as my self. Thank You
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