Welcome to Talking Culture! In this weekly interview series from 97.9 The Hill WCHL, you’ll hear from writers, performers, musicians and individuals involved in advancing and promoting cultural arts in our community.

This week, Aaron welcomes local artist/author John Claude Bemis, who’s just published his first graphic novel: “Rodeo Hawkins and the Daughters of Mayhem,” a funny and thrilling story about a team of interplanetary rebels and one ordinary teen who gets swept up in their quest to save the multiverse. With indelible characters and striking images from artist Nicole Miles, “Mayhem” is geared for teens but a fun ride for all ages.

Visit JohnClaudeBemis.com.

Bemis (also a recent Hometown Hero for his efforts to help local arts organizations clean up after Tropical Depression Chantal) joins Aaron to discuss his inspiration for the book, the process of writing the story, working with Miles to bring the novel into visual life – and what’s next for the characters, with a series of sequels potentially in the works.

Click here to learn more about “Rodeo Hawkins and the Daughters of Mayhem” and order your own copy.

97.9 The Hill WCHL and Chapelboro.com are your headquarters for local news and local voices in Chapel Hill-Carrboro. Every weekday morning, 97.9 The Hill’s Aaron Keck chats with government officials, UNC scholars, business and nonprofit leaders, area musicians, and others in our community as they share their thoughts, their experience, and their expertise on the central issues of today. Click here to listen back to all of Aaron’s conversations – and tune in to “This Morning with Aaron Keck” at 7:30 a.m. on 97.9 The Hill to hear those conversations live.

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