Experience Columbia: A History of Graphic Novels (Session A)

The Experience Columbia Summer Program provides you with special access to the university’s vast collection of 19,000 comics and graphic novels, including Uncanny X-Men writer Chris Claremont’s collection. In this event series, Karen Green, Curator, Comics and Cartoons, and Lecturer in English and Comparative Literature, will guide tours and host conversations with our senior scholars on this remarkable archive and the impact this medium has had on culture.

Explore the academic and global significance of comics and graphic novels, tied to Columbia's collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library, with the help of Professor Aubrey Gabel. Interviewed by Green, Professor Gabel will elaborate on the Franco-Belgian and American comic tradition. In addition, Green will offer a tour of the Rare Book and Manuscript Library and highlight the Fanzine Collection.

Lastly, students will be offered the opportunity to watch the movie Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, a film adaptation of the graphic novel series, introduced by Green.

Register to attend events today:

1. Bandes dessinées and Comics: From Journalism to Global Politics

Friday, June 9, 5:30–6:30 p.m.

Lerner Hall, Room 555 (2920 Broadway, New York, NY 10027)

This conversation will cover a wide range of topics, exploring graphic artists from America, France, and Canada, and comparing differences in cultural approaches. The interactive, visual, and textual elements of sequential art and storytelling will be discussed. Attendees will also get the opportunity to enjoy swag giveaways and free catering once the event is concluded.

Speakers include:

• Karen Green, Curator for Comics and Cartoons; Lecturer in English and Comparative Literature
• Aubrey Gabel, Assistant Professor of French

Guests who do not have a Columbia University ID must use the campus side entrance for access into the building.

2. Comic, Cartoon and Graphic Novel Collection Tour

Friday, June 23, 4:30–5:30 p.m. and 5:30–6:30 p.m.

Butler Library (535 W. 114th St., New York, NY 10027)

Join Karen Green for a guided tour of the “Fanzines: Passion Made Personal” exhibit and Columbia’s extensive Comics and Graphic Novel Collection. Offered to a limited number of participants, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to see the roughly 20,000 items in the collection.

3. 'Scott Pilgrim vs the World' Movie Screening

Friday, June 23, 7:00–9:30 p.m.

Miller Theatre (2960 Broadway, New York, NY 10027)

Attend the screening of Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010), with an introduction by Karen Green. After the movie screening, attendees will have the opportunity to grab ice cream as they leave Miller Theater.

All attendees should enter through the Miller Theatre doors on Broadway closest to W 116th St.

All non-CUID holders must bring a government issued I.D. with them for check-in. For further information, please contact Ella Weiner, ecw2160@columbia.edu.

Discover other events happening during Columbia University Summer Session by visiting summer.sps.columbia.edu.

Please note the COVID-19 requirements for this event.

Columbia University is committed to protecting the health and safety of its community. Effective May 11, 2023, event attendees are strongly recommended to follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination and community guidance on indoor masking. Attendees will not be required to attest to or show proof of vaccination status or recent test results, however, are encouraged to stay home if feeling unwell or testing positive for COVID-19.

Please visit Columbia University’s Hub for Emergency Preparedness for the latest health and safety policies as they are subject to change.