Q: What’s a Thought Bubble?
A: Hi there! Well, generally speaking, a thought bubble is an often maligned narrative device used in comics and other forms of sequential art. It gives an insight into a character’s thought processes, and in recent years has largely been replaced by caption-based inner monologues.
We love the little things though, so we decided to name our festival after them. Long live the thought bubble!
In terms of this specific Thought Bubble, it’s a week long sequential arts festival that takes place every November in Leeds, England. 2012′s festival runs from 11-18th November.
Q: What’s going on at this year’s Thought Bubble?
A: All sorts of amazing events! For more information on what to expect from 2012′s festival check out the full programme, or to see what we got up to in previous years have a look at the archives.
Q: How can I attend this year’s Thought Bubble?
A: Well, there are a number of ways, depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you’re a member of the general public then many of our workshops are free (but fill up fast!), and tickets are available to purchase for screenings, the academic conference, and the convention. If you’re over 18 and one of the first 500 people to pre-order tickets for our convention you also get guaranteed entry to our free (and excellent) after-party on Saturday 17th November at the Alea Casino.
If you’d like to exhibit at Thought Bubble’s convention then you’ll need to book at table with us – 2012′s convention takes place from 17th-18th November, and early-bird registration prices are available until August 1st.
Q: Help! I’ve pre-ordered tickets for the convention and they haven’t arrived!
A: It’s ok, tickets that are pre-ordered will not be posted out to you. Simply come to the convention hall on the day and give the name of the person who booked the tickets (a valid form of photo ID or a copy of your confirmation e-mail will be required at this point) and you’ll be presented with a wristband that will give you access to all the convention venues and events.
Please note: some subsidiary events at the convention may require the purchase of extra tickets on the day, please see the programme for details.
Q: Help! I’ve booked a table at the convention and my exhibitor pack hasn’t arrived!
A: Right, this is generally not a problem unless it’s the week of the convention. Exhibitor packs are not sent out until late-October, so depending on where you live there may be a slight delay in their delivery.
If it’s the week of the convention and you still haven’t received your exhibitor pack then please get in touch with us via e-mail and we’ll sort things out for you at our end. If it’s the day before the convention, or the day of the convention then the exhibitor e-mail you received upon booking a table contains the details for contacting us.
Q: Though Bubble looks pretty cool, I’d like to help out in some way, is that possible?
A: That’s awesome, Thought Bubble wouldn’t be possible without our intrepid team of volunteers who help things run smoothly. If you think you’d be able to spare a few hours in the run-up to the festival, or would like to help marshal our events then please get in touch!
Q: Who’re the pictures by on the right? They’re amazing!
A: They sure are! The pictures on the right of your screen are variations of the official festival image for 2012, created by the amazing Tran Nguyen. We love Tran’s take on Red Riding Hood, and it just goes to show that comics are the best treats to take to Grandma’s house. Yay!
Q: How can I find out about upcoming Thought Bubble events?
Various ways, for real-time updates you can follow us on Twitter, join the Facebook group, sign up to our mailing list, or see what we’re thinking on the blog. We’re constantly coming up with ideas for fun stuff for everyone, so it’s best to check regularly!

















