The Black Hero’s Journey traces the evolution of Black characters and creators through the history of comic books in America.
The Black Hero's Journey traces the evolution of Black comic book heroes and creators from exclusion and harmful stereotypes to groundbreaking protagonists and visionary storytellers. Through iconic characters such as Lion Man, Black Panther, Storm, Luke Cage, and Miles Morales, the exhibition explores how comics have reflected both the struggles and aspirations of Black communities while challenging ideas about who gets to be a hero.
By examining the parallel journeys of the creators behind these stories, the exhibition invites visitors to consider the power of representation and ask: Who gets to be a hero, and why does it matter?
Curated by Sean Quimby and Samantha Hill with special guest curators Chaz Howard (University Chaplain and University Vice President for Social Equity & Community) and Eric Battle (Philadelphia-based illustrator, curator and art director).
On view from October 15, 2026 to May 13, 2027. This exhibition is free and open to the public and located in the Goldstein Gallery on the 6th floor of the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center. Gallery hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week and during special events, excluding holidays and other times the library is closed to visitors. See our Hours and Service Alerts for more information.
Penn faculty, staff, and students must swipe their PennCard for access. Visitors from outside the Penn community must present a current, valid government or school-issued photo ID that contains an expiration date. Find more information to plan your visit.
Featured image: Detail from Eric Battle's Superhero City, 2026.
Calling all comics fans and creative imaginations! Join us for a fun-filled Family and Community Day celebrating the stories, characters, and creativity behind our comics exhibition, The Black Hero's Journey.
Celebrate the launch of forthcoming graphic novel Framing Emmett Till: Exposing Dark Fear, which follows an anonymous Black writer as he investigates Emmett's murder.
Join exhibition co-curator Sean Quimby for a conversation with Prebula about why comics matter and how collecting them has influenced his life.