There's no doubt about it. ComiCon is expensive! Badges are hard to get and set you back huge dollars.

I used ride bikes with friends down to the SD Convention Center to take photos when many "characters" out front on the walkway outside. Last year ComiCon took that away- allowing only badge holders in the front walkway, thus denying the rest of us the fun of going down there. This has made the organizers the enemies of free fun.

However this year there is free fun you can have without having to buy a badge.

Here's info I got from treasured listener and artist Ginger Lou:

Coronado-based mixed-media artist Ginger Lou will be exhibiting her artwork at the San Diego Comic-Con Art Show, held during Comic-Con International 2026 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in downtown San Diego. Known for her vibrant hand-cut collage artwork, Ginger combines vintage imagery, acrylic paint, hand-drawn elements, and resin to create pieces that explore imagination, personal transformation, music, nature, and the interconnectedness of life. Her work invites viewers to look beyond the surface and discover layers of meaning, symbolism, and storytelling. The Comic-Con Art Show is one of the premier exhibitions associated with Comic-Con International, showcasing artists from across the country and attracting thousands of visitors throughout the convention. Several of Ginger's original mixed-media works will be on display and available for purchase during the event. In addition to creating fine art, Ginger is known for her live art performances, creative workshops, wearable art jewelry, and community-based arts programming throughout San Diego County. Her recent projects have included vision board workshops, collaborative collage experiences, and exhibitions centered on creativity, healing, and personal growth. "Art has the power to bring people together, spark conversation, and help us see ourselves and the world from new perspectives," says Ginger. "I'm excited to share my work with the Comic-Con community and connect with fellow artists, collectors, and creative souls."

Event Information Comic-Con Art Show Manchester Grand Hyatt – Grand Hall D San Diego, California Show Hours: Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

About Ginger Lou Ginger Lou is a mixed-media artist based in Coronado, California. Her work combines hand-cut collage, painting, drawing, and resin techniques to create richly layered pieces inspired by transformation, storytelling, music, nature, and the human experience. Through her artwork, workshops, and community engagement, she encourages creativity, connection, and self-discovery. For more information, artwork, social media links, and upcoming events, visit: https://linktr.ee/gingerlouart

Below are photos of Ginger's Art on display at this FREE event

Dwight Arnold