Comicon 2025: The Mastery of Tanino Liberatore – A Celebration of Comic Art in Naples

Comicon Naples 2025 is much more than just cosplay and comic book stands. This year, the prestigious title of Magisterhas been awarded to one of Italy’s most iconic comic artists: Tanino Liberatore. Known as the “Michelangelo of comics,” Liberatore is celebrated not only for his groundbreaking visual style but also for his influence on generations of illustrators. At Comicon 2025, the 25th edition of the festival, a full pavilion is dedicated to showcasing his career and artistic legacy.

Who Is Tanino Liberatore?

Tanino Liberatore began his artistic journey in 1978 with the underground comic magazine Cannibale. Over the decades, he helped redefine the visual language of comics, not just in Italy but worldwide. His most iconic creation, RanXerox, a cybernetic anti-hero, became a symbol of the cyberpunk aesthetic and pushed the boundaries of graphic storytelling.

Drawing Power: The Art of Liberatore

In this year’s special exhibition, titled “Drawing Power – The Art of Liberatore”, visitors are taken on an immersive journey through his vast body of work—ranging from album covers and novel illustrations to contributions in cinema and fashion. A standout section is dedicated to his work on Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra, which earned him the César Award for Best Costume Design. From early sketches to finished illustrations, the exhibition reveals how Liberatore shattered artistic conventions and developed a bold, unmistakable style.

Tanino Liberatore Presents: Massimo Carnevale – 

Cover Story

Another unique feature of the pavilion is the “Cover Story” exhibition, curated by Liberatore himself and focused on fellow artist Massimo Carnevale. Known for his realistic illustrations and contributions to characters like Dylan Dog and John Doe, Carnevale is presented through the lens of Liberatore’s admiration—offering a fresh, intimate portrait of one of Italy’s top realist artists.

Exhibisshon: The New European Frontiers of Manga

Celebrating 30 years since Japanese manga arrived in Europe, this exhibition highlights the emerging European manga scene. Under the banner of Manga Issho (meaning “together” in Japanese), the exhibit features new talents from across the German, Franco-Belgian, Spanish, and Italian comic book industries. These young artists blend manga influences with local styles, signaling a creative evolution in European comics.

Curves & Colors: The Fun and Sensual Art of Arthur de Pins

Curated by renowned illustrator Mirka Andolfo, this exhibition pays tribute to Arthur de Pins, the French master of vector art. With bold curves, bright colors, and a pop aesthetic rooted in 1950s illustration, de Pins’ work spans animation, advertising, and comics—often exploring themes of sensuality, humor, and femininity in a playful, modern way.

Naples and Comics: A City of Stories

Welcoming visitors at the entrance of the pavilion is an exhibition exploring the deep connection between Naples and comics. From cultural icons like Totò, Eduardo De Filippo, and Diego Maradona to early comic history such as Ciccillo by Pasquale Mattej (considered Italy’s first known comic), the exhibition celebrates Naples as both a birthplace and a beloved setting for countless graphic narratives.

Final Thoughts: A Festival Where Art and Comics Collide

Comicon Naples 2025 proves once again that comics are more than entertainment—they are an art form. Through Tanino Liberatore’s visionary work, and the exhibitions that accompany it, the festival celebrates not only the past and present of comic art, but also its exciting future. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, Comicon 2025 is an unmissable cultural event.