BUBBLES #21 (December 2024) is another vibrant dispatch from the heart of comics fandom, carrying forward its mission of deep dives, quirky interviews, and indie spirit. It opens with a personable introduction that sets the tone: casual, passionate, and always curious about what makes comics tick.

The issue leads with an insightful interview with Olivier Schrauwen, offering a glimpse into his creative process and his singular approach to the medium. Dash Shaw delivers a short but punchy comic titled Ninja Moves, full of his trademark abstraction and energy. Then comes a refreshing conversation between Karla Paloma and Andrés Magán, blending perspectives across language and style.

Ana Pando contributes a dreamlike, expressive comic that flows seamlessly into a thoughtful interview with John Hankiewicz, guided by Pittsburgh comics lifer Bill Boichel. Beth Hetland’s piece follows—a dense, personal comic with layered visuals that reward slow reading. Patrick Rosenkranz, the great historian of underground comix, offers reflections that tie past and present together with grace.

The back of the issue rounds out with a stack of comic reviews—always honest, always eclectic—covering everything from obscure zines to ambitious graphic novels. BUBBLES stays true to its handmade aesthetic, with a tactile layout that mirrors the DIY ethos it celebrates. This issue is another love letter to the comics underground, shining a light on artists, thinkers, and weirdos who keep the medium wild and alive.