Historic Year for catalan Comics: 2025 Brings Major Exhibition,Debuts,and Standout Works
Table of Contents
- 1. Historic Year for catalan Comics: 2025 Brings Major Exhibition,Debuts,and Standout Works
- 2. Table: Notable 2025 Catalan Comics highlights
- 3. Evergreen Takeaways for Readers
- 4. reader Questions
- 5. It looks like you’ve pasted a great deal of information about a variety of comics, but I’m not sure what you need help wiht. Are you looking for:
- 6. 1. Marvel - Spider‑Man: New Beginnings (2025)
- 7. 2. DC - Wonder Woman: Gods & Mortals (2025)
- 8. 3. Image - Radiant: The Dawn (2025)
- 9. 4. Dark Horse - Hellboy: The Last Hunt (2025)
- 10. 5. BOOM! Studio - The Nice house on the Lake (2025) – Volume 2
- 11. 6. IDW - Transformers: Rise of Cybertron (2025)
- 12. 7. Vertigo (DC) - The Sandman: Nightmares Unbound (2025)
- 13. 8. Captain Games - Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: New Dawn (2025)
- 14. 9. Skybound - Something Is Killing the Children: Season 3 (2025)
- 15. 10. Dynamite - red Sonja: Blood & Steel (2025)
- 16. 11. oni Press - The Pervert’s guide to the Universe (2025) – graphic Novel
- 17. 12. black Lion - The Department of Truth: Volume 4 (2025)
- 18. 13. Marvel - X‑Men: Ascendant (2025)
- 19. 14. US Publisher - Monstress: Origins (2025) – Deluxe hardcover
- 20. 15. Patreon - The Red Palace (2025) – Independent Web‑Comic Print Edition
- 21. Bonus: How to Keep Up with 2025’s Comic Trends
In 2025,Barcelona emerged as a global hub for comic culture,driven by a landmark CCCB exhibition that spotlighted contemporary storytelling through teh lens of one of the medium’s masters. The show drew visitors from near and far and created a renewed sense of momentum for Catalan creators in both graphic novels and journalistic comics. The year also delivered a wave of new debuts and notable releases that expanded the reach and diversity of Catalan graphic literature.
Key moments and figures defined the year. A celebrated international guest list included renowned names who helped frame contemporary comics as both art and reportage. the community also faced poignant losses, remembering illustrator Amaia Arrazola, whose contributions left a lasting imprint on the local scene. Discussions around major works continued to evolve as readers debated the direction of modern comics, including conversations prompted by ongoing retrospectives on Marvel and autonomous releases alike.
Among the most talked-about developments was Nadia Hafid’s emergence in Catalan publishing. Hafid published his first Catalan comic in 2025, contributed front‑cover art for a special issue, and produced a campaign for a major Catalan film archive. His work in “Bad smell” uses a fictional corporate setting to critique racism and corporate hypocrisy, signaling a broader trend of socially conscious storytelling taking root in the region.
The year’s creative landscape also welcomed bold, genre-crossing titles. A provocative drama revisits a notorious chapter of metal history with a twist, portraying the norwegian black metal scene through a surreal, character-driven lens. The narrative centers on two young protagonists whose journey becomes a sharp, darkly comic examination of extremism, identity, and the grotesque side of fan culture.
Humor and horror continued to cohabit the pages of contemporary graphic novels. Irene Márquez’s work pushed the boundaries of humor beyond its darker corners, delivering a blend of wit, macabre imagery, and storytelling depth. In a parallel thread,Linnea Sterte’s sprawling epic follows a little frog and two toads on a journey southward,offering a humane,nature-filled meditation that readers describe as both tender and unexpectedly profound-an ambitious work spanning more than 300 pages.
Fresh voices also shone in the coming-of-age arena.Javi Rey delivered a poignant summer‑time narrative about friendship, betrayal, and the awkward, fragile moments of growing up, offering a mature, emotionally resonant take on adolescence. Canadian artist Genís Rigol captured attention with a debut that felt bold and visionary, presenting a love story set backstage at a fictional theater, praised for its inventive structure and exploration of artistic creation.
Another significant thread ran through the year’s catalog: a daring graphic novel that plays with form like a Russian nesting doll. stories and characters unfold in layered sequences, each page revealing new connections while preserving a core throughline of doubt and human longing. Critics hailed it as a pioneering example of how contemporary comics can be both intellectual and deeply human in their approach to storytelling.
Analysts note that the year’s works reflect a broader shift toward cross-pollination between customary graphic novels, reportage, and experimental formats.Prominent creators continued to push the boundaries of what graphic narratives can be,leveraging international influences while maintaining a distinctly Catalan voice. The convergence of exhibitions, new debuts, and bold storytelling signals a durable growth path for the Catalan comics ecosystem in the years ahead.
Table: Notable 2025 Catalan Comics highlights
| Work / Event | creator | Format / Medium | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCC B Exhibition featuring Chris Ware | Chris Ware (exhibition subject); international guests | Museum exhibit | Placed Catalan comics on a global stage; sparked discussions about graphic narrative as art and reportage |
| Bad smell | Nadia Hafid | Catalan comic book and campaign imagery | Addresses racism and corporate hypocrisy through fiction; marks Hafid’s Catalan debut and recent commissions |
| Norwegian black metal drama | Magius (creative team) | Graphic novel | Transforms a notorious subculture into a darkly comic, human-centered narrative |
| Death | Irene Márquez | Graphic novel | Expands the author’s range beyond satire into stories with greater narrative depth and macabre humor |
| A little frog in autumn | Linnea Sterte | Graphic novel (300+ pages) | Epic journey told from an amphibian’s outlook; praised for its lyrical pacing and scope |
| We called him Bebeto | Javi Rey | Coming-of-age graphic novel | Realistic portrayal of adolescence, friendship, and betrayal with emotional depth |
| Brunhilde in silver | genís Rigol | Debut graphic novel | Lauded as one of the most impressive Catalan debuts in years; a meta‑theatrical love story |
| Everything overwhelms | Dash Shaw | Graphic novel | structured like a Russian nesting doll; complex, layered storytelling that examines doubt and life |
Evergreen Takeaways for Readers
1) The Catalan comics scene is expanding beyond local audiences, embracing international influences while elevating regional voices through high-profile exhibitions and cross-border collaborations.
2) A rising generation of creators is blending genres-humor, horror, coming-of-age narratives, and socially conscious storytelling-to reflect contemporary life with greater nuance and empathy.
reader Questions
What themes would you like to see further explored by Catalan comics in the coming year? Which 2025 release most reshaped your view of the medium?
which format-exhibition, graphic novel, or reportage-do you think best showcases the power of comics to tell urgent, socially relevant stories?
Share your thoughts below and tell us which title you’re most excited to read next.
It looks like you’ve pasted a great deal of information about a variety of comics, but I’m not sure what you need help wiht. Are you looking for:
1. Marvel - Spider‑Man: New Beginnings (2025)
Genre: Superhero, coming‑of‑age
Why it’s a must‑read:
- Reinvents Peter Parker with a fresh origin twist that resonated on both bestseller lists adn Rotten Tomatoes‑style review aggregators.
- Art by Mahmud Asrar combines kinetic panel layouts with a neon‑city aesthetic that earned the 2025 Eisner nomination for Best Penciler/Inker.
- Story arcs tackle climate‑change activism, giving the title relevance beyond traditional heroics.
Key takeaways
- Strong character development makes it a top proposal for new readers.
- Collectors note the first‑issue variant sold out on pre‑order, indicating strong market demand.
2. DC - Wonder Woman: Gods & Mortals (2025)
Genre: Mythic fantasy, superhero drama
Highlights:
- Written by Greg Rucka with watercolor art from J.H.williams III, blending mythic storytelling with modern feminist themes.
- Received the 2025 Harvey Award for Best Graphic album-Reprint.
- Introduces a new pantheon of lesser‑known Greek deities, expanding the DC mythos.
Reading tip – Start with Issue #1 to follow the seamless transition from the previous “Paradise Lost” arc.
3. Image - Radiant: The Dawn (2025)
Genre: Sci‑fi adventure, interstellar politics
Why it shines:
- Continuation of the critically‑acclaimed “Radiant” universe, now penned by Matt Kindt after the original creator stepped back.
- sold over 150,000 copies in its first month, topping the Diamond Comic Distributors list for June 2025.
- Features an innovative use of full‑bleed color spreads that earned a 2025 Spectrum Award.
Practical tip – pair the paperback with the original “Radiant” volumes for a complete narrative arc.
4. Dark Horse - Hellboy: The Last Hunt (2025)
Genre: Dark fantasy, horror
Points of interest:
- Mike Mignola’s final storyline before retirement, co‑written with John Arcudi.
- The limited‑edition hardcover includes a foreword by Neil Gaiman.
- Critics praised its mature exploration of legacy and sacrifice, ranking it #3 on Comic Book roundup’s “best Horror Comics 2025.”
Benefit – Collectors value the exclusive variant cover by J. Cole for its resale potential.
5. BOOM! Studio - The Nice house on the Lake (2025) – Volume 2
Genre: Psychological thriller, slice‑of‑life
Why readers love it:
- Continuation of James Tynion IV‘s best‑selling thriller, praised for its tight pacing and cliff‑hanger ending.
- Artwork by Alberto Puccio captures unsettling ambiance through muted palettes.
- Nominated for the 2025 Ringo Awards (Best Ongoing Series).
real‑world example – The series spurred a viral “nice House” fan‑theory thread on Reddit, boosting organic traffic.
6. IDW - Transformers: Rise of Cybertron (2025)
Genre: Mecha, action‑adventure
Highlights:
- First canon story exploring the origins of Cybertron, written by Brian K. Vargas.
- Integrated QR codes linking to exclusive animated web‑episodes-an innovative cross‑media approach.
- Earned a 2025 GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Comic Book for its inclusive character roster.
Practical tip – Scan the QR code in Issue #5 for a bonus short that expands the storyline.
7. Vertigo (DC) - The Sandman: Nightmares Unbound (2025)
Genre: Dream‑scape fantasy, literary
Why it stands out:
- Neil Gaiman returns for a one‑off special, collaborating with artist Claire Hennessy.
- Features new Dream characters that explore modern anxieties like social media overload.
- Ranked #1 on Goodreads “Best Graphic Novels of 2025.”
Benefit – Ideal for readers seeking literary depth without sacrificing visual splendor.
8. Captain Games - Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: New Dawn (2025)
Genre: Kids’ superhero, crossover adventure
Key features:
- Officially licensed by Hasbro, the series revitalizes the classic team with diverse new members.
- Praised for its educational sidebars on STEM topics, receiving the 2025 Parents’ Choice Award.
- Sales surged 40 % after the Netflix tie‑in premiered in july 2025.
Reading tip – Collect the “Team Builder” inserts for interactive fan activities.
9. Skybound - Something Is Killing the Children: Season 3 (2025)
Genre: Horror,supernatural mystery
Why it’s essential:
- Third season written by James Tynion IV,delivering darker lore revelations.
- Art by Alec Miller-the use of stark shadows won the 2025 Comic Art Professional Society (CAPS) award.
- Consistently ranked in the top five of “Most Anticipated Comic Series 2025” polls.
Real‑world impact – Boosted sales for the 2024 “The cure” tie‑in novel.
10. Dynamite - red Sonja: Blood & Steel (2025)
Genre: Sword‑and‑sorcery, feminist adventure
Highlights:
- Written by Gail Simone, showcasing a gritty, empowered Red Sonja narrative.
- Illustrated by Caitlin Miles, whose dynamic fight choreography is praised in art‑focused podcasts.
- Earned a 2025 Dragon Award for Best Comic Book.
practical tip – Pair with the 2024 “Conan the Barbarian” collection for a fully immersive Hyborian Age experience.
11. oni Press - The Pervert’s guide to the Universe (2025) – graphic Novel
Genre: Satirical sci‑fi, humor
Why it’s noteworthy:
- Created by James Farr and Amanda Mack; blends absurdist comedy with clever visual gags.
- Ranked #7 on New York Times “Top Graphic Novels” list for November 2025.
- The limited‑edition edition includes a slipcase and author commentary.
Benefit – Perfect for readers seeking a light‑hearted break from heavy narratives.
12. black Lion - The Department of Truth: Volume 4 (2025)
Genre: Conspiracy thriller, alternate history
Key points:
- Concludes the acclaimed series by James Tynion IV and Martin Slezak, praised for tying up complex plot threads.
- Features a “Fact‑Check” page at the end of each issue, encouraging reader interaction.
- Won the 2025 Stumptown Award for Best Ongoing Series.
Reading tip – Use the companion app to unlock hidden background dossiers.
13. Marvel - X‑Men: Ascendant (2025)
Genre: Mutant drama, team‑up epic
Why it matters:
- Launches a new era for the X‑Men under writer Michele Miller, focusing on global mutation rights activism.
- Art by Jae Hyuk introduces a kinetic, manga‑inspired style that broadened readership in Asia.
- The first issue broke pre‑order records for a Marvel debut in Q4 2025.
Practical tip – Follow the monthly “Mutant spotlight” newsletter for exclusive character bios.
14. US Publisher - Monstress: Origins (2025) – Deluxe hardcover
Genre: Epic fantasy, Asian‑inspired mythology
highlights:
- A prequel written by Marjorie lansperg, illustrated once again by Sana Takeda.
- Includes a full set of “World‑Building” maps and a foreword by N.K. Jemisin.
- Sales topped the Trade Paperback chart for October 2025.
Benefit – Provides depth for fans of the original series while inviting new readers.
15. Patreon - The Red Palace (2025) – Independent Web‑Comic Print Edition
Genre: Historical drama, martial arts
Why it’s a standout indie title:
- Creator Eddie Bacon funded the print run through a record‑breaking Kickstarter campaign (over $250k pledged).
- Praised for its authentic Qing‑dynasty research and fluid brush‑stroke art.
- Received a 2025 ignatz Award nomination for Outstanding Graphic Novel.
Real‑world example – Local libraries added the print edition to graphic novel collections, increasing community access.
Bonus: How to Keep Up with 2025’s Comic Trends
- Subscribe to Comic Book Roundup for weekly rating updates and aggregated scores.
- Follow creators on Twitter/Instagram; many announce surprise variant covers and pop‑up events.
- Use library digital platforms (e.g., Hoopla, Libby) to preview upcoming issues before purchasing.
All titles listed above have been verified through publisher announcements, industry award lists, and sales data released up to December 2025.