Comics

Since the launch of Amazing Stories, the first true comic, in 1926, graphic artists have poured their vision of the future onto the pages of a myriad of publications. They have illustrated objects that have not yet been invented, as well as all types of robots, spaceships, and cities of the future.

Through the years, comics (also known as graphic novels) have inspired radio shows and films, from B-movies to blockbusters. Most importantly, their popularity has not waned. However, there is an obvious sign of the times: for years now, most top comic creators have come from Japan.

The influence and popularity of modern characters such as Akira and Pokemon, who target two very different young audiences, is huge, but we mustn’t forget the pioneering comic strips, like Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers, or the invaluable contribution of the publishing houses that brought us Superman, Batman, Spiderman and Captain America.