From Panels to Pastures: New Comic Explores Northwest Ireland’s Unique Culture

DJ Mag tells of a comic exploring culture in northwest Ireland in the early 1990s, including music and dance:

A new comic book charts the foundational moments of rave culture in the North West of Ireland.

Created by Derry-born illustrator David Campbell shows, Common Ground: An Incomplete History of Rave Culture in The North West of Ireland has been released as part of Jeremy Deller’s The Triumph of Art project, which concludes with an event in London today, 30th July. It’s release corresponds with the 25th anniversary of legendary Derry festival Celtronic, which hosted its final edition this year.

Campbell’s comic tells the history of the region’s rave culture beginning in 1991 against the backdrop of The Troubles, with venues and events like The Point Inn and The Venue to Deep Fried Funk and Celtronic, the latter two of which Campbell was personally involved with. Using crisp monochrome illustrations, he mixes together personal memory, local folklore, and counterculture mythos to tell his vivid tale.

Speaking on the comic, Jeremy Deller explained: “Sometimes I don’t think it’s possible to look at historical moments without considering the role of culture and especially music in people’s lives. This graphic novel tells a big story about how dance music has affected and helped change society for the better.”

Music and dancing can definitely serve a great role in helping people make their lives happier. It’s a good idea for focus in a GN, and should make clear we could use plenty more music to make people feel more inspired.

Originally published here