In the library of Nick and Lucie, I found «Band for life», a comic book about a music band, always solidar and creative despite the financial difficulties. I loved this book, which is hilarious to me. When Lucie gave me the contact of the author, she said «Anya Davidson is someone you really need to meet if you want to learn more about the alternative cultural scene of Chicago.»

When I reach the address, a smily, warm and disheveled young woman opens the door. «I’m sorry, it’s a mess in here.» In general this is a courtesy, but at Anya’s place, it’s true. Scribbled papers, sketches and books are stacked near dirty dishes and kibble cat food. I instantly feel good. «Did you like Band for Life? If you play music, I offer it to you!» Anya searches a stack of boxes. «I’m part of two punk bands, we have a lot of fun. This inspired me for this comic. Once edited, I told myself that I will offer the book to the musicians I meet.»

«I studied art, but I soon realized that I could not fit to the art market and the galleries. I like to draw comics, play music and meet all kind of people. After «Band for life», I wanted to stop fiction for reporting, even though I never studied journalism. I started with a comic about crossfit, an extreme sport thing! Then, little by little, I have been interested in many social topics. I am now editing reports for the Reader. You wonder about segregation? I think that I have some comics about it.

For a while, I’ve been exploring alternative culture in Chicago. It is a very creative city: rents are still quite low, so a lot of artists come to settle in the Ilinois. In New York or Los Angelès, you need to work a lot to pay your rent : here you can find a correct place with a part time job, and have more time to develop your own creations. I do the same thing you are doing : I meet musicians or designers and I question them about their approach. I record the interviews and make podcasts. It’s online for free on my site Mindkiller.»