Ardie & Dione Present: Small Portraits, Small Talks, Big Connections
Featuring Ardie Aquino & Dione Kong
Philippine Stand Event
We’re celebrating the simple act of connection through art. Create a small portrait, have a friendly chat, and leave with a unique keepsake to remember the moment.
Hall 5.1 A95 & B95, Manlilikha Space, Messe Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main
Meet the Speakers:
Ardie Aquino
Ardie Aquino is a Filipino komiks creator and illustrator known for crafting engaging and innovative stories since 2011. With a passion for pushing the boundaries of storytelling, Ardie has published numerous works that experiment with format, presentation, and narrative techniques.
Among his most recognized titles is School Run, a suspense-adventure comic following a group of students navigating a zombie-infested city. He also created Balik Tanaw, a deeply personal work exploring memory and nostalgia. His groundbreaking comic Nandito Lang Ako uses tracing paper to enhance its narrative, while Ang Manguulam blends Filipino cuisine with elements of Pinoy mythology, further showcasing his ability to merge cultural storytelling with thrilling narratives.
Ardie’s dedication to the medium has led to significant achievements, including being selected as a co-exhibitor for the prestigious Frankfurt Book Fair 2025, a milestone that highlights his growing international presence. He has also participated in major local and international events, such as the Philippine International Comics Festival and Komikon Grande, where he continues to engage with readers and fellow creators.
With over a decade in the industry, Ardie remains committed to crafting compelling stories that captivate audiences. Whether through heart-pounding adventures, introspective narratives, or experimental formats, his work continues to redefine the komiks landscape.
Dione Kong
Dione Kong is an illustrator and comics creator based in Metro Manila. Graduated with a degree in animation, she loves visual storytelling and has illustrated several children’s books like Kokak!, written by Maloi Malibiran-Salumbides and published by Room to Read; Dad’s Cab, written by Joseph DeGuzman and published by Scholastic Inc..; and Kazumph!, written by Danny Obillo and published by A Tree in Bani. She is also the author and illustrator of My Ghost, Where’d You Go?, her first graphic literature, published by Anino Comics. She aims to capture beauty and emotions through her drawings and resonate with the readers through her stories.