Jings! Comic lovers come to city

Comics have occupied an important role in popular culture

Dundee is hosting a major international conference on comics.

The city is home to the DC Thomson comic empire whose publications include The Beano, Oor Wullie, The Broons and The Dandy.

The conference - called "Biff! Bam!! Crickey!!! Comics go to College" - will examine the role comics have occupied in popular culture.

Leading comic historians will also hold talks throughout the event, staged by Dundee University's museum services.

An accompanying exhibition will give an insight into how the colourful publications are created, with three local comic artists coming up with a new comic, See New Worlds.

The best comics stand as excellent literature and brilliant design Chris Murray Exhibition organiser

The exhibition will also feature a selection of classic comics and original artwork.

The event, which coincides with the 70th anniversary of The Dandy, is being held as part of the Scotland-wide Six Cities Design Festival.

Organiser Dr Chris Murray said: "Comics are an important and vital part of popular culture, shaping the early reading experiences of many children as well as commanding an increasing number of adult readers.

"With the effect they have on our culture and the standard of work that is being produced in the comic industry, both in design and in writing, they fully deserve very serious consideration.

"The best comics stand as excellent literature and brilliant design."