A series of interactive graphic arts and storytelling workshops will be held here next week, bringing Seattle-based creative group 80% Studios to schools and community venues for two days.

The visit is scheduled for Sept. 11-12, featuring four school presentations followed by two public weekend sessions. Irene Ingle Public Library Director Sarah Scambler arranged the trip after seeing the group perform in Juneau.

“As soon as I saw those guys in 2024, I knew I wanted to get them here. This has been in the works since April 2025,” Scambler said. “Fortunately, with the money we got through the library enhancement grant from the WCA, we’re able to cover the cost of getting them here.”

The first day begins Friday, Sept. 11, with two morning presentations at Evergreen Elementary School, followed by two afternoon sessions at the high school.

On Saturday, Sept. 12, 80% Studios will host free “Words & Pictures” graphic storytelling workshops open to all ages. The first session starts at 10 a.m. at the Irene Ingle Public Library, followed by a second session at 2:30 p.m. at the Nolan Center.

The morning library workshop will center on creative character collaboration, where participants describe an original character while an artist illustrates the concept live in real time. Through illustration and narrative exercises, attendees will explore how text and visuals combine to build dynamic stories. The afternoon presentation at the Nolan Center will focus more on storytelling.

Based in Seattle,  80% Studios teaches aspiring creators how to develop ideas into comic book and graphic novel formats through interactive workshops, mural residencies and live performances. The group regularly presents across the Pacific Northwest and has expanded its outreach throughout Alaska.

“Their primary focus is creativity and collaboration,” Scambler said. “But they also focus really heavy on themes like empathy and teamwork. I think they have a great message for the kids.”

Beyond the live sessions, the studio offers resources for participants wanting to continue developing their craft.

“They’re basically teaching people how to be storytellers,” Scambler said. “They even have a downloadable pdf on their website that is basically a guide that shows you how to follow their process for making a graphic novel.”

The company’s website is https://chickaloonies.com/