As an illustrator and writer specializing in manga-style art, Sanzaki Kojika immerses readers in worlds of fantasy and folklore. Her work spans both digital and traditional mediums, with several graphic novels and novels to her credit. This July, Kojika’s longest-running series, Zos Kias, marked its 18th anniversary. She has also contributed to Antarctic Press with pinups, short stories, and an original 16-page Zos Kias tale featured in a Christmas anthology.
Last month, Kojika joined a crowd of comic book enthusiasts at the Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S. Ravinia Ave., for its 9th annual OPPLcon Fan Fest. Attendees, encouraged to dress as their favorite characters, filled the venue with creative energy as they shared their artwork and cosplay with the public.
“Shows like this are great because they’re small enough to really interact with other attendees and vendors, and they often showcase niche fandom creations,” said Kojika, of Schererville, Indiana. “OPPLcon Fan Fest is always a great choice. I’ve met wonderful people and made new friends each year. The library venue is spacious and well-lit, making it a fan favorite.”
Kojika’s booth was a colorful display of her comics, books, prints, acrylic charms, bookmarks, buttons, and one-of-a-kind art pieces. “My goal is to create things that are both artistic and functional,” she said, reflecting the dual nature of her creations.
The event, celebrating pop culture, TV shows, movies, and more, offered a full day of programs, games, and activities. The library aimed to spotlight local artists, like Kojika, through an Artists’ Alley, where creators could sell their work, offer free comics, and host prize drawings.
Lukas Kolbrecki, dressed as Popeye, joined fellow cosplayers in creating a vibrant atmosphere at OPPLcon Fan Fest. The event also featured a Halloween-themed storytime and crafts for children and teens, with areas inspired by Mario, Pokémon, Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney. Outside, a rolling video game truck provided a unique gaming experience for attendees.
“OPPLcon Fan Fest is a beloved event that the community looks forward to every year,” said Jackie Boyd, the library’s communications manager. “The video game truck was a huge hit again, and Artist Alley was brimming with creativity. The Halloween storytime and crafts were highlights, and I loved seeing the little kids trick-or-treating around the library. We can’t wait for next year!”
People of all ages were encouraged to dress as their favorite characters from movies, video games, or comics, adding to the festive atmosphere. This year, the event also welcomed the pet adoption agency NAWS, encouraging patrons to “be a hero” by adopting a pet.
“I was thrilled to see NAWS at the event and to learn about their incredible work for animals in need,” Boyd said. “Their commitment to spaying, neutering, and rehoming pets makes them a great partner for the library.”
Inspired by the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2), OPPLcon Fan Fest fosters a sense of belonging, safety, and inclusiveness, according to library staff. “We wanted to bring the community together to celebrate local comic enthusiasts, artists, and authors,” said Vanessa Melody, a youth services reference librarian at OPPL. “We strive to emulate large-scale comic conventions and make them accessible to everyone.”
As the event wrapped up, it was clear that OPPLcon Fan Fest had once again brought together a vibrant community of creatives and fans eager to share their passions. With plans already underway for next year’s event, the Orland Park Public Library continues to be a hub of imagination, creativity, and connection.
