WEST CHESTER, PA — West Chester University’s Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology is inviting visitors to view comics in a new light with its latest exhibition, “Panel by Panel: The Social and Cultural Impact of Comics,” now open through December 31, 2026, in the Old Library at 775 South Church Street.
Far from mere entertainment, the exhibition traces how comics have reflected and shaped society for centuries — from medieval manuscripts and early political cartoons to modern graphic novels and Marvel superheroes. The showcase, co-curated by 11 students under the guidance of anthropology professor Dr. Michael A. Di Giovine, explores how comics have influenced education, culture, commerce, and collective identity across the globe.
“From teaching astronomy, literature, and the complex tenets of Buddhist thought to mobilizing nationalism (and sometimes xenophobia), this exhibition really shows that comics and cartoons have always been a powerful and persuasive medium for getting a message across effectively,” said Dr. Di Giovine.
Among the standout pieces are original sketches by Spider-Man co-creator Steve Ditko, early American political cartoons by Thomas Nast, and historical works such as Darktown and Punch comics. The exhibit also includes the Charlie Hebdo “Je Suis Charlie” issue published after the 2015 Paris attack, along with contemporary works that highlight evolving depictions of race, gender, and religion in visual storytelling.
Visitors are greeted by a lenticular wall tracing the evolution of comics and can explore displays that juxtapose propaganda imagery with modern, inclusive narratives such as Black Panther. A section for younger visitors offers interactive stations where children can design their own superheroes and experiment with color filters to explore the impact of representation.
The multidisciplinary collaboration features contributions from West Chester faculty, students, and alumni, as well as external artists. Italian ceramicist Valeria Vestrelli created Il Futuro (“The Future”), a ceramic tile piece symbolizing nostalgia and uncertainty. Other highlights include Fulbright grantee Dr. Alessandra Seggi’s sociological graphic novel sketches and a “Comic Startoons” poster by late astronomy professor Dr. George F. Reed, featured in planetaria worldwide.
The exhibition was juried and curated with support from WCU faculty including Tom Haughey, associate professor of theatre and dance; Maria Monachino, scenery workshop coordinator; and Stephanie Thompson, graphic designer. Artifacts were loaned from WCU’s English Department collection, private donors, and the University Libraries’ archives.
The free exhibition celebrates not just the artistic craft of comics, but their enduring power to inform, challenge, and inspire audiences — one panel at a time.
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