Thursday, June 30, 2005

Victoria Francés

The Author of Favole Delights the Public

Spanish illustrator Victoria Francés, at just 22, has taken the publishing world by storm, and in the most difficult way: gaining audiences through her first public appearances.

Her first book in print, FAVOLE, published by Norma Editorial appeared on 23 April in Spain – National Book Day - but it wasn’t until 8 March at the 22nd International Comic Fair in Barcelona that she first faced the public.

Dressed in the same goth-inspired clothes worn by many of the characters in her illustrations, Victoria Francés was the star of the book signing sessions for two days of the fair, dedicating more than 100 books with small illustrations. Despite being rather nervous at first, the warmth of the public put her at her ease and she displayed great professionalism and charm, answering lots of questions and posing for photos taken by her new fans. It was interesting to see that FAVOLE appealed to a very broad public, male and female, from very different styles and backgrounds. It was certainly an unforgettable weekend for the author, who also managed to fulfil another of her dreams - to meet Luis Royo, one of her favourite illustrators.

Victoria Francés’ first two public appearances have been on the same level as the big established names, suggesting a great future for this young illustrator who is already working on the second book of the FAVOLE trilogy. During the rest of the year she will visit even bigger Spanish cities such as Madrid, and in 2005 she will make her first trip to the USA for Comic-Con International San Diego.