Speciale Fiera Del Fumetto (which translates to Comics Fair Special) was published in the Corriere del Ticino newspaper in Ticino, Switzerland, on the 14th of October 1982 . The comic book character themed newspaper lift-out centers around a comic book fair held at the Innovazione Shopping Center from the 15th thru till the 23rd of October 1982 in Ticino, Switzerland. The lift-out served as a form of program for the event which was sponsored by the Corriere del Ticino newspaper publisher.
The Corriere del Ticino is a leading daily newspaper in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, Switzerland, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1891 by Agostino Soldati. Initially, the publication served as the press organ for the conservative Unione party. However, it underwent a significant transformation in the early 20th century, becoming politically independent. This shift allowed it to grow into the influential publication it is today, offering comprehensive coverage of local, national, and international news, with a focus on politics, economics, culture, and sports. Its long-standing presence has made it an indispensable source of information for the region’s residents.
Since its inception, the newspaper has evolved to become the flagship publication of the Gruppo Corriere del Ticino, a major media group in the region. Over the years, this group has diversified its holdings to include other media platforms, such as the private television station Teleticino and the private radio station Radio3i. This expansion from a solely print-based newspaper into a multimedia conglomerate has allowed the Corriere del Ticino to maintain its relevance in a changing media landscape. This strategic growth has enabled it to deliver news and information through various channels, catering to a wider and more diverse audience.
In recent years, the newspaper has successfully embraced the digital age, a critical move for its continued success. While it still produces a traditional print edition, the Corriere del Ticino has a strong online presence through its website and mobile applications. This digital platform provides continuous news updates and access to e-paper versions of the print edition, ensuring readers can stay informed anytime, anywhere. This blend of classic journalism with modern technology demonstrates the paper’s commitment to adapting to its readers’ needs and solidifying its place as a central institution in the cultural and civic life of the canton of Ticino.
Speciale Fiera Del Fumetto contains 24 pages printed on newsprint paper in a mix of color and black and white pages measuring approximately 32cm x 47.5cm. Comic book publishing companies who contributed to the lift-out are Mondadori, Nembrini and Cepim/Daim Press, which was found in the Corriere del Ticino newspaper and also offered free of charge at the comic book fair. The front and back covers can be seen below.
The cover page for the Speciale Fiera Del Fumetto lift-out is printed in color and is an illustration by Italian artist Franco Bignotti. The image features a diverse group of classic comic and cartoon characters, including the Phantom, Superman, Mandrake the Magician, Lothar, Prince Valiant, Mister No, Zagor, Tex, Mickey Mouse, Pluto, Donald Duck and more.
Found within the lift-out is information about the comic book fair, with daily events occurring including appearances by artists. Also printed within are articles relating to comic book characters, artists, and publishers. A sample of internal pages can be seen below.
A two-page comic strip story titled ‘The Appointment’ is printed within the centerfold of the Speciale Fiera Del Fumetto lift-out, published in color and illustrated by Italian artist Franco Bignotti. This specially produced comic strip showcases several comic book characters, some of which are also depicted on the front cover, as they journey to the comic book fair. The Phantom appears within this comic strip, portrayed in four panels wearing his distinct Italian red costume, seen below.
A contest titled ‘Who is the Character?’ was made available in the Speciale Fiera Del Fumetto lift-out on page 23, with the winners announced during the comic fair on Saturday the 23rd of October 1982, at 3 PM. The contest focused on identifying the character depicted in an illustrated image accompanying the contest, which portrayed the Phantom riding Hero. Prizes for correct answers included monetary awards and comic books. The contest can be seen below.
thephantom.fan 