The 8th Annual Afrofuturism Lounge took place on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park, located at 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101. Although this event coincides with San Diego Comic-Con, Afrofuturism showcased the creativity and innovation of Black comic book creators, artists, writers, and visionaries.
The event inspired thought-provoking discussions, immersive art, and groundbreaking ideas that celebrate the intersection of culture, technology, and imagination. This year’s theme, “Minds Over Matters!”, invited attendees to explore the powerful intersection of Afrofuturism, Black speculative arts, and social change. The Lounge provided an educational, entertaining, and informative space for creative and critical thinkers alongside community builders to experience Black Comix as an art form and a catalyst for futurist thought and industry opportunities.
This year’s event featured support and inspiration from prominent curators including founder Dr. LaWana Richmond, Kat Trinidad of Booksenvogue, Noël the First, and Sherinda Bryant of the Afrofuturism Academy.
Hip Hop, Afrobeat, and a House Happy Hour electrified the evening as the program highlighted
The Stardust Project Preview, Afrofuturism and innovation discussions, Fireside Chat with Keithan Jones, Juke Joint Cosplay Karaoke and Dancing, art from Southeastern art team, and art from Alexis Dixon. Activities such as the Besse Saka swap meet, book recommendation divination, Goddess tarot reading, Glyphs & Ghosts, Afroids Affirmations, and the Afrofuturism scavenger hunt were available to participate in.
This year’s Afrofuturism Lounge featured Black creators, artists, thinkers, and innovators who utilize science fiction, fantasy, art, music, technology, and storytelling to envision and build more inclusive futures for people of African descent.
For full stories and photos only published in print, pick up a paper at a newsstand near you, or check out the latest edition of our newspaper on Thursday each week.
