Angoulême / Bourges: When Human-Sized Cities Make Creation Vibrate!

When comics and music sparkle with creativity together!

Applause is often the best judge: sometimes cruel, sometimes joyful, always sincere. The applause from La Nef still echoes in our ears. Last night, we witnessed, moved, the first artistic realization of The Matrix, this network of cooperation between human-sized cities. “The Matrix came to life last night in Angoulême,” said Frédéric Hocquard, General Delegate of Bourges 2028, the day after the Éclats Pop evening. A powerful moment full of promise.

This first edition, co-produced by the International Comics Festival and the Printemps de Bourges Crédit Mutuel, presented an innovative format: a meeting of music and illustration through live-drawn concerts. On stage, young artists Saint Graal and Théa, from the Inouïs of the Printemps de Bourges, shared the spotlight with Coline Hégron and Charlotte Bresler, former winners of the International Comics Festival Young Talent contest. It was a moment of exchange and creation, where music and art interacted live, in front of an enthralled audience.

But beyond this bold opening, a new chapter of collaboration between Angoulême and Bourges has begun at the start of this year. Mayors Xavier Bonnefont (Angoulême) and Yann Galut (Bourges) signed an agreement that officially ties the two creative cities within the framework of The Matrix. With this signature, both cities affirm their shared commitment to culture, through joint projects, artistic residencies, and collaborative events.

“Bourges 2028 is a tremendous opportunity to highlight the richness and boldness of creation in our regions. Together with Angoulême, a city of culture, we share the ambition to make Europe resonate with the rhythm of our talents and our festivals. This partnership seals our commitment to showcase, from today, the spirit of the European Capital of Culture 2028″, emphasized Yann Galut, Mayor of Bourges.

Among the first tangible results of this vibrant alliance, Angoulême will participate in CR!, the creative project call for Bourges 2028, which will open in March 2025.

This is only the beginning (!) of a shared adventure between two cities passionate about culture and creativity: we can’t wait to share more with you soon!

Photo credit: ©️FIBD