Supporting Local Art, One Page at a Time: Creative Mussel Partners with SWELL

3 days ago
2 min read

Creative Mussel is proud and excited to announce are partnership with SWELL.

In an era dominated by digital noise, there is something irreplaceable about holding a physical comic in your hands, grabbing a cold drink, and engaging in real community conversation.

Creative Mussel has officially partnered with SWELL, Camp Washington’s hub for revolutionary community solidarity, to bring a curated collection of indie graphic novels and comics directly to the neighborhood.

Fueled by Creators, Driven by Community

Every book purchased from this collection directly supports the local creator economy. Proceeds go straight toward compensating illustrators, hiring fresh talent, traveling to conventions, and keeping independent publishing thriving in Cincinnati.

Your purchase directly funds the continuation of standout titles:

MeSseD – Delving into the surreal underground worlds beneath our feet.
The Goat: Pope Lick Creek Monster – A deep dive into local urban legend and lore.
St. Malo: First Filipinos in North America – Bringing crucial historical narratives to light through vivid sequential art.

A Personal Collection with a Purpose

This curated selection isn't just pulled from a warehouse shelf—it comes directly from the personal archives of Creative Mussel writer and publisher, Jay.

“As an indie comic book line, we have to diversify to build,” says Jay. “Selling my own collection to seasoned comic fans and new readers alike allows us to reinvest directly back into the craft—ensuring we can continue creating the stories we love while keeping the lights on for our artists.”

Artist John Lanzador check out our Creative Mussel collection with Jay B. Kalagayan at SWELL Art Cafe.

Why SWELL?

Located at 2936 Colerain Ave, SWELL is far more than a neighborhood café. It stands as a focal point for local art, accessible food, exceptional coffee, and genuine solidarity. Whether you stop in for a well-crafted brew or to browse the book racks, you are actively helping build a sustainable ecosystem for indie storytellers.

How You Can Help

Visit the Shop: Drop by SWELL in Camp Washington.
Pick Up a Book: Discover a new series or complete your current collection.
Pass It On: Start a conversation, share the art, and keep local indie publishing alive.