Partners and Son, a unique Philadelphia comic shop, seamlessly blends contemporary art and independent comics. Founded by partners Gina Dawson and Tom Marquet in 2019 after relocating from Brooklyn, the shop quickly became a cornerstone of the Philly comics community. This article delves into the origins, challenges, and triumphs of this innovative venture.
From Brooklyn to Philly: A Vision Takes Shape
Partners and Son wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. Dawson and Marquet had long envisioned a space merging their passions for art and comics. However, Brooklyn’s financial realities made it impossible. Philadelphia offered a fresh start and an opportunity to realize their dream. The initial concept involved a distinct gallery space within the comic shop. However, they soon realized that placing the bookshop at the front made the business more accessible and understandable to passersby.
Partners and Son Exterior
Navigating the Pandemic and Evolving Business Strategies
Just six months after opening, the COVID-19 pandemic forced a temporary closure. This challenging period, however, spurred innovation. Dawson built a comprehensive online store, photographing and listing their entire inventory. This digital presence proved crucial for survival and continues to be a vital part of their business model. The pandemic also highlighted the importance of understanding their local audience and adapting their stock to meet evolving demands. Learning from customer requests and attending comic conventions helped them refine their inventory.
Curating a Unique Collection: Balancing Personal Taste and Customer Demand
Partners and Son’s inventory reflects the owners’ discerning taste while remaining responsive to customer preferences. They prioritize stocking titles they find genuinely interesting, even if they fall outside their personal reading habits. They believe in making a wide range of comics available to their community.
Partners and Son Interior
Engaging with the Community: Philly Comics Expo and Beyond
Partners and Son actively engages with the local comics community, most notably through their involvement with the Philly Comics Expo. Despite the challenges of organizing events during a pandemic, the expo has flourished, doubling in size in its second year. It provides a platform for local artists and fosters a vibrant comics scene. The shop’s strong social media presence, particularly on Instagram, allows them to connect with artists, publishers, and customers, further solidifying their place in the community.
Partners and Sons: Looking Towards the Future
The partners remain optimistic about the future of comics retail. They observe a growing generation of young readers encouraged by their parents, normalizing comics as a hobby. This cultural shift, combined with the resurgence of independent and self-published works, creates a dynamic and exciting landscape for both creators and retailers. Partners and Son continues to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of the comics market while staying true to their original vision: a space where art and comics converge.
Upcoming Events at Partners and Son:
Partners and Son has a busy January planned, with events including:
- January 7th: Calendar release with Pet Riso, featuring 12 local Philly artists.
- January 21st: Conversation with Tommi Parrish and Sally Madden, accompanied by an exhibition of Parrish’s work and a book signing.
- Late January: Event with Josh Pettinger (date TBD).
