San Roque, Spain – The legacy of Carlos Pacheco, a celebrated comic book artist who died in 2023, was powerfully reaffirmed this weekend as colleagues and friends gathered at Pachecomic, the comic and manga convention held in his hometown. A heartfelt tribute on Saturday saw a constellation of Spanish comic creators share anecdotes illustrating Pacheco’s artistry, generosity and enduring impact on the industry. The event, which began Friday and continues through Sunday, isn’t just a celebration of Pacheco’s life, but a testament to the community he fostered and the standards he set.
From his meticulous approach to his work to his unwavering patience with fans, Pacheco’s character shone through the recollections of those who knew him best. The stories, shared during a well-attended panel discussion, painted a portrait of an artist who not only excelled in his craft but also prioritized kindness, and collaboration. This outpouring of affection underscores Pacheco’s significance as a figure who bridged artistic boundaries and inspired a generation of Spanish comic artists.
Pachecomic, organized by the San Roque Youth Delegation and the Carlos Pacheco Cultural Association, is taking place across multiple venues in the city, including the Plaza de las Constituciones, the Diego Salinas Building, the Alameda Alfonso XI Youth Space, and the Plaza de Armas Contemporary Art Center. The event is also supported by the Spanish Ministry of Culture and the Consejo de los 5 Dragones association. The convention features artist signings, workshops, contests, and even a K-pop competition, demonstrating a broad appeal beyond the core comic book fanbase.
A Master of His Craft, A Friend to All
The tribute panel featured a remarkable gathering of talent, including Álvaro Martínez Bueno, Paco Roca, Carmen Carnero, Rafa Sandoval, Jesús Merino, Aneke, Pasqual Ferry, Gabriel Hernández Walta, Kenny Ruiz, David Lafuente, Rafa Marín, and Pepe Larraz. Moderated by Rafa Marín, a scriptwriter who collaborated with Pacheco in the 1990s, the discussion highlighted Pacheco’s influence on two generations of Spanish artists. Marín emphasized Pacheco’s good humor and lasting artistic impact. Pasqual Ferry recalled how Pacheco quickly gained recognition in the United States, becoming a sought-after artist – a “hot” talent, as it was known in the industry.
Paco Roca, a renowned comic artist himself, spoke to Pacheco’s success in the American market and described him as a “positive person who transmitted affection.” Kenny Ruiz shared how Pacheco’s graphic novel, “La aventura gráfica de Carlos Pacheco,” served as a foundational guide for his own career, evolving into a close personal friendship. Rafa Sandoval acknowledged that although his personal connection with Pacheco wasn’t as extensive as some others, Pacheco’s work was instrumental in his own development as an artist, stating that he owes a debt to the San Roque native.
Breaking Barriers in the American Comic Scene
Pepe Larraz highlighted Pacheco’s ability to seamlessly integrate into the American comic book world, noting that he had a knack for “making the normal stunning.” Gabriel Hernández Walta recounted the valuable advice Pacheco offered on navigating the industry, admitting that he initially struggled to overcome his admiration when they first met. Álvaro Martínez Bueno emphasized Pacheco’s generosity and openness, and the layered complexity of his artwork. He also shared a humorous anecdote about Pacheco playfully “adopting” him as a son for ten seconds to allow him access to a Marvel party.
David Lafuente pointed out that Pacheco brought a fresh perspective to American comics, constantly reinventing his style with each new project. Aneke remembered Pacheco’s willingness to help her at the beginning of her career, noting that his curiosity was infectious and his patience boundless, extending to both colleagues and fans. Carmen Carnero spoke to Pacheco’s continuing influence on younger Spanish artists, expressing how much she misses having him to consult with.
A Legacy of Precision and Perfectionism
Jesús Merino, who collaborated with Pacheco for eleven years in San Roque, described him as “meticulous to the point of obsession” and a perfectionist. Merino revealed that Pacheco’s dedication to his craft even influenced his own drawing style, as Pacheco didn’t want to be remembered solely as “the artist of the hands.” This dedication speaks to a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence that defined Pacheco’s career.
During the event, David Ramos, the Deputy Mayor for Youth, and Alejandro Pacheco, Carlos’s son and also an organizer of Pachecomic, presented figures of Arrowsmith – a beloved character created by Carlos Pacheco – to the twelve participating comic professionals. The gesture served as a tangible reminder of Pacheco’s enduring creations and the affection he held for his characters.
Beyond the tribute, Pachecomic offered a full schedule of events on Saturday, including painting contests, board games, workshops, a K-pop competition, simulated weapon tournaments, and a cosplay contest. The afternoon featured author signings with David Lafuente, Gabriel Hernández Walta, Carmen Carnero, and Aneke, followed by Pepe Larraz and Kenny Ruiz. The day concluded with a concert by “Dame Chocoleito,” a tribute band celebrating the music of BabyMetal.
The outpouring of respect and admiration at Pachecomic serves as a powerful reminder of Carlos Pacheco’s profound impact on the world of comics. His artistry, generosity, and dedication continue to inspire artists and fans alike. Pachecomic continues Sunday with more events and signings, offering a final opportunity to celebrate the life and work of a true master of the medium. For those interested in learning more about the convention schedule and participating artists, information can be found through the San Roque city council website and associated social media channels.
The legacy of Carlos Pacheco will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of comic art for years to arrive. The ongoing Pachecomic event is a fitting tribute to a man who not only created captivating stories but also fostered a spirit of collaboration and kindness within the industry.
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