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Desert Island Comics Launches Successful GoFundMe to Combat Rent Hike

Desert Island Comics, an independent comic shop based in Brooklyn, New York, has garnered significant support through a recently launched GoFundMe campaign aimed at keeping the store operational in the face of a substantial rent increase. Established in 2008, the store specializes in alternative and underground comics, graphic novels, art books, and zines. The campaign, initiated on October 6, sought to raise $79,200 and achieved this goal within just two days.

Notable contributions came from figures within the comics community, including James Tynion IV, a prominent writer and founder of Tiny Onion, who pledged $2,500. Local residents expressed their affection for the store as well, with donors like Marissa and Alex Gimeno stating, “Neighborhood wouldn’t be the same w/out you!” Another supporter, Emily Thompson, commented, “Honestly would love to see you in new space with a supportive landlord for the long run.”

Desert Island’s founder, Gabriel Fowler, expressed his astonishment and gratitude on Instagram, stating, “Are you kidding me?! YOU PEOPLE ARE AMAZING!!!” in response to the overwhelming support from the community.

The campaign follows a troubling announcement made just days prior, in which Fowler revealed that the store is facing eviction from its long-time location on Metropolitan Avenue in the gentrifying Williamsburg neighborhood. With a lease expiration on December 30, the situation arose after a prospective tenant offered nearly double the current rent—an amount Fowler described as “untenable for our modestly successful business.”

Since its inception, Desert Island has been a vital part of New York City’s underground comics scene. The shop briefly closed during the COVID-19 pandemic but has remained a hub for comics enthusiasts. It also publishes the quarterly anthology Smoke Signal and hosted the Comic Arts Brooklyn convention from 2013 to 2019. Fowler’s work, Rescue Party, a collection of one-page comics, was well-received when published with Pantheon in July.

While the GoFundMe campaign has successfully met its initial goal, the future remains uncertain. The prospect of signing a new three-year lease is contingent upon raising the required funds of $201,600, as noted on the campaign page. Fowler mentioned that should a move be necessary, the funds would facilitate the transition and setup of a new location.

Source
www.publishersweekly.com