Born in Switzerland in 1969, Alex Baladi studied literature in Genève and cinema and video in Paris. He cooperated on magazines such as Psikopat, Le Cheval sans Tête, P.L.G. and Jade, and provided illustrations and comics to several journals. His first graphic album, ‘Monsieur Cru et le Désespoir Euphorique’, was released in 1992, and this was followed by over 25 albums, mini-comics and smaller books.

Baladi was the publisher and author of the fanzines Toujours Content (1994-1996), Rien, and Moins que Rien (both in 1998). He has appeared in numerous anthologies including Comix 2000 (L’Association 1999) and has recently had work translated to English in Top Shelf Asks the Big Questions (Top Shelf 2003) and Blood Orange #3 (Fantagraphics 2004). In addition to his work in the comics field, Baladi’s paintings have been exhibited widely throughout Europe. As a member of OuBaPo and La Fabrique de Fanzines, Alex will be bringing this experience to a very special workshop Saturday afternoon of the Festival, making small 8-page books with the participants. Keep those eyes peeled for registration details!