Not That Into Comics
Find out why Serge Bloch and Mathieu Diez are not that into comics! Discover the thinking behind this thought-provoking and fun installation created by two giants of the French comic scene.
Exhibition tour: Saturday 11am - 12pm @ Brewery Arts Centre
Conceived and designed by world-renowned French illustrator Serge Bloch (creator of the beloved children’s comic series Max Et Lili) and writer and curator Mathieu Diez, the exhibition playfully challenges the comic medium itself.
Known for massive public commissions, including lighting up the famous Pont du Gard in the south of France, Bloch brings his signature ironic, tender, and off-the-wall creativity to the streets and venues of Kendal. Having originally started his career in banking, Mathieu Diez fell in love with the world of comic art, becoming founder and director of the Lyon Comics Festival. Diez is the author of the graphic novel ‘Tout mais pas Beyrouth’ (‘Anything but Beirut’), an account of his four years in Lebanon as book attaché at the French Embassy and created in collaboration with the artist Jibé.
‘Not That Into Comics’ includes an interactive trail of 2D, 3D, and augmented reality (AR) illustrations taking over the town, including street banners and vibrant window designs in local businesses. Interactive sculptures will also be located in the gardens of the Brewery Arts Centre (the Festival’s main hub), offering hands-on play for families.
A free custom-made, humorous newspaper designed by Bloch and Diez exploring the paradox of "not liking" a medium they secretly adore, alongside collectible guest pin badges available for purchase, will also be part of the exhibition. A special guided tour of the exhibition will take place 11am - 12pm, Saturday 3rd October, led by Serge and Mathieu.
Mathieu Diez, writer, curator and co-creator, said: "’Not That Into Comics’ brings together illustrator Serge Bloch and myself to explore the many facets of comics with irony and tenderness.
“It is a medium that Bloch, a versatile drawing globetrotter, playfully pretends to dislike. We hope UK audiences will join us for this witty and thought-provoking artistic journey."
Julie Tait, Founder and Festival Director of LICAF, added: "LICAF is entirely different from other comic events in the UK. We focus on putting the art form in the middle of our community, appealing to dedicated fans and curious non-fans alike.
“'Not That Into Comics' is the perfect embodiment of our playful spirit. By flooding the streets with Serge and Mathieu's brilliant, tactile art, we’re showing that comics belong to everyone. With our full 2026 programme online, we can't wait to welcome visitors to Kendal this October for an unforgettable weekend of storytelling, humor, and world-class creativity."
