While multiple conventions have been forced online due to COVID-19 this year, one has taken the extra step of literally recreating its physical presence online and allowing visitors to virtually walk through the space and visit exhibitors and panels for themselves.
This year’s LightBox Expo — a show spotlighting illustrators, designers and visual artists of all kinds, which launched last year with a three-day event in Pasadena, Calif.— will feature a 3D virtual show floor with more than 300 artists from across the world, including Academy Award winner Everett Downing (co-director of Sony Animation’s Hair Love short), Marvel Studios director of visual development Andy Park,and Pixar production designer Rona Liu.
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“Bobby and I realized we had the opportunity to re-invent LightBox Expo, following last fall’s incredible launch in Pasadena,” convention director Jim Demonakos said in a statement. “The best part of this virtual event is that we can include artists and designers from around the globe, many of whom may have otherwise been unable to attend. At the same time, we’re using the site to create a robust experience for attendees who want to learn more about the process of creating art.”
“LightBox Expo Online will be an unforgettable way to discover all the artists and exhibitors who are participating in the event,” added creative director Bobby Chiu. “We’ve created an experience that is unlike anything else out there. The virtual artist alley and show floor works on any web browser, your phone, and is even compatible with VR headsets for a truly awesome experience.”
Registration for the online event, which runs Sept. 10 through Sept. 12 at LightboxExpo.com, is available through four tiers, with prices ranging from $1 to $40; that latter tier includes an exclusive tote bag featuring artwork from Hellboy creator Mike Mignola, as well as a print from Chiu himself. More information can be found here.
