Based on the questions we are receiving here are some FAQs. We will update them as things change.
FAQs
Comic Book Questions:
1) What are the stats for the sampler?
Working Title: TAPAS #0
Pages: 56
Binding: Saddle
Cover: 60# Gloss Text
Interior: 32# Hibrite
2) What if my series is read right-to-left?
To accommodate both left-to-right and right-to-left series, TAPAS #0 will be split, with a unique cover on each side. Left-to-right series will make up the front portion and right-to-left will make up the back portion. Each cover will be shown at the space to increase attendee attraction.
3) How many comics are currently signed up to participate?
Four.
4) How many comics will be allowed?
TAPAS #0 has room for twelve 4-page series samples. The remaining pages will be used for a platform introduction/awareness page, a credits page, and advertisements. Advertisements will be sold to help reduce participation prices.
5) What happens if there are more than twelve comics who would like to participate?
If we reach enough interest we may split things into a TAPAS #0 and a TAPAS #1. This may actually lower participation costs further since advertisers will be willing to pay more for a print run of 20,000 vs. 10,000.
Sampler Participation Questions:
1) How much will it cost to participate?
Many things are in flux right now, including print costs, which make up the majority expense. We will make every attempt to keep costs down to help as many creators as possible. Our current "worst case scenario" pricing is $450 per series.
2) Where is the money going from the participation fees?
Printing, exhibition fees, shipping/freighting, booth decoration ("build out") expenses, labor union load-in/load-out fees, general liability insurance, and weekend badges for volunteers to staff the booth.
3) When will final pricing be determined?
February 1, 2019.
4) When will payment be due?
March 1, 2019.
5) When will all art be due?
March 18, 2019.
6) How do I sign up to participate as a series sample?
Just let us know via a reply here or private message. While we realize this is a year away and plans do change, only sign up if you are highly certain that you can participate.
7) I would like to participate but I cannot afford a 4-page position.
We will be offering Ā¼, Ā½, and full page ads in the sampler. Pricing will be announced at a later date. Additionally if you would like to sponsor a special gratis take away at the booth such as a series postcard or bookmark, let us know via private message and we will work with you on an individual basis.
Exhibiting Questions:
1) Where will the space be? What size? What configuration?
Main exhibition hall. 10'x10' or 10'x20' pending space needs based on creator demand. We will attempt to have at least one corner, pending availability. We will attempt to be as close to the front and center of the hall for maximum impact, pending availability.
2) Will you be selling anything at the space?
If a creator wishes to open a dialogue about doing a newsprint run of their own series and selling it at the space they may contact us. However the creator must be in attendance at the convention to sell it themselves. The primary focus of this event is to promote Tapas for the benefit of all creators using the platform.
3) Will Premium series be featured at the space?
Unless Premium series pay to participate in TAPAS #0, our goal will be to promote free-to-read series.
4) Will Tapas staff be involved?
This is an unofficial community event. At this time, Tapas Media is not participating.
Volunteer Questions:
1) How do I sign up to volunteer?
Just let us know via a reply here or private message. While we realize this is a year away and plans do change, only sign up if you are highly certain that you can participate.
2) How many have volunteered? Is there a limit?
We have three volunteers so far. There is currently no limit as we want to be able to split the workload such that volunteers can have time off to enjoy Anime Expo on their own and make some wonderful memories!
3) How are volunteers expected to behave?
Professionally, as you are representing the entire community. You are Tapas Ambassadors! If there are any incidents, it will be held against us by the convention staff, and may ban us from ever doing anything like this again.
4) Will volunteers receive reimbursement for transportation, lodging, food, etc.?
Unfortunately no. Volunteer creators are welcome however to pitch their own series while talking up the platform in general to attendees.
5) Is Golden Plume Comics receiving a "management fee"?
No. We're doing this fully volunteer to keep costs as low as possible for creators. This is an event "For the Community, by the Community".