Virgin Islands author and artist Karim Callwood. Photo Credit: PROVIDED
Virgin Islands artist and author Karim Callwood will release two new comic books this coming weekend, according to a release issued Tuesday. In the action-packed offerings titled V.I. Guardian: Books 1&2, and V.I. Young Paladins, villains and superheroes collide.
The books will be released on Saturday at the Tutu Park Mall, Center Court from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., according to the release.
The launch includes a special combined collector’s edition of Mr. Callwood's first comic book, VI Guardian, which has been updated with three new chapters following the story of Darrion Wells, a local high school student who utilizes his powers to oppose the rapidly growing inhumane activities of the organization known as Cloud.
On display for the event will also be a hand-painted figurine, created by Dwayne and Dwight Isaac at the artist’s request, of the VI Guardian. The original book based on the character debuted in March of last year, and its success subsequently led in September 2021 to Mr. Callwood’s first comics drawing classes for youth which are ongoing at the VI Children’s Museum.
According to the release, his art classes served as the inspiration for VI Young Paladins, who battle to save the territory from mayhem and pandemonium by using their special powers to fight their nemesis like Fulcrum, Abigail the Butcher, and Hurricanes Irma and Maria.
"Working with my students and seeing the joy and excitement they show during class, the idea came to create a comic book featuring them as the heroes. The children picked their own powers and helped provide ideas and feedback for the book during several class discussions,” Mr. Callwood said, according to the release. “I give thanks to God and all those who have supported me on this journey to spark the imagination with adventures that represent the Virgin Islands in the exciting art of comics. These books are just the beginning of an even larger vision to help build an industry locally.”
Mr. Callwood was born and raised in St. Thomas. Growing up in a family of five boys, he discovered his love of drawing at age eight. His interest in art was inspired by Marvel and DC Comics, however the behind-the-scenes look into the making of Disney’s Little Mermaid further piqued his interest. The release says Mr. Callwood is committed to lifelong learning and continually enhances his craft through practice and courses aimed at fine-tuning his skills.
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