History is being rewritten—in panels and ink!

We are incredibly honored to announce that our very own Jay B. Kalagayan is a recipient of the 2026 @artswave Inspire Art Grant!

With this support, we're diving deep into a story that is rarely told in classrooms: the Manilamen of St. Malo. This historical fiction comic series will bring the first Asian settlement in North America to life, blending heritage with the power of visual storytelling.

"Comics have a unique power to bridge the gap between dusty archives and living history. With the support of the ArtsWave Inspire Artist Grant, we aren't just telling a story; we are reclaiming a legacy. Bringing the history of the Manillamen of St. Malo to the page allows us to honor the first Filipino settlement in North America with the vibrant, cinematic energy it deserves," says Kalagayan.

This grant is part of a $205K investment in BIPOC artists across Cincinnati, and we are proud to stand alongside amazing creators to share the "Truth" of our communities. Jay will be working with illustrator @feriowind and historian @makialani_kanewamariano.

Stay Tuned for behind-the-scenes looks at the sketches, research, and process as we prepare for the big showcase at the @cincycac in July 2026!

"Being recognized alongside such a talented cohort of BIPOC creators is a profound honor. This grant isn't just an investment in a comic book; it's an investment in the "Truth" of our shared history. I'm thrilled to work with Feriowind and Mākialani Kanewa-Mariano to ensure that this vital piece of American heritage is no longer a footnote, but a visual journey everyone can experience," says Kalagayan.

Huge thanks to ArtsWave, the City of Cincinnati, Duke Energy, and the Greater Cincinnati Foundation for believing in the power of comics.