WEEK 4: tutorial and development of ideas

My tutorial with Martha Harris yesterday was particularly helpful in giving me confidence with my ideas and research so far. We discussed my in depth research into ‘feminist’ fashion brands/campaigns and the issues that arise with these, and my research into the characteristics and aesthetics of feminist zines, both of the Riot Grrrl era and contemporary DIY movement, including Bay Garnett’s Cheap Date magazine and its satirical content.

We also discussed how I am looking at ‘trigger’ words to create a strong title for the magazine and how this will help inform my typography and general design/aesthetics. For example the word ‘Filler’ could have sexual or surgical connotations as well as food or even design and speech meanings. I said I am particularly interested in exploring other methods of printing to give a contemporary take on the early Xerox photocopied zines, and as I have used risograph printing before in personal work I hope to explore methods such as these further in my FMP.

Martha helped me think about ideas for content, and having themed issues but also regular features, and how I want to ask for submissions or collaborate to ensure a range of content.

We also discussed the idea of tear-out/pull-out elements and ‘treats’, such as a centrefold poster or other perforated pages, which will add to the experimental and fun visual identity I want the magazine to have.

She suggested I look at Linder Sterling and Jon Savage’s Secret Public fanzine as well as album artwork by Nirvana and the Vaselines to inform my image-making.

I now feel confident to progress with solidifying my ideas for my intended publication and how I can experiment and push boundaries with my design and image-making as I move into my FMP and writing my statement of intent. I also took a lot away from her presentation on political poster typography and design, and graphics from the punk era, which will help to broaden my research.