What is a zine?
A zine is a genre that originally worked as a counter-culture method of information sharing. The format started as fan groups of media would write theories and fictions to share to each other across the globe. These are self-published collections of anything– art, creative writing, photography, politics, poetry… literally anything. Zines are popular in D.I.Y., music communities, any fanbase, political movements, and art circles.
How do you pronounce it?
Zine: /zēn/ as in ‘zeen’. The term is shortened from ‘magazine’, and also from ‘fanzines’.
Can anyone make one?
Yes! That’s the beauty of the zine– anyone can make one because it’s a independent process. Anyone who creates a zine is a ‘zinester’.
How?
The format is entirely up to you and your content. The easiest and most standard form is a standard piece of paper folded in half (hamburger style). But, there really are no limits on how you make yours. Photocopying is a traditional method, and now digital zines are growing more popular. Zines can be as small as a piece of paper can go or even a newspaper-sized spread.
What are they about?
Historically, zines have focused on counter-culture subjects. This includes punk music, hot-button political issues, alternative identities, etc, etc. The genre really exploded in the 80s and 90s, but is experiencing a resurgence as people see the need to publish their own voices away from mainstream limitations. The zine is a very applicable and mold-able genre that makes room for creative writing, political discussions, media reviews, and any other subject under the sun.
Who gets to read zines?
Zines generally have a small circulation, allowing the creator control over their distribution. Many independent and local bookstores do sell zines, such as Quimby’s based in Chicago and now New York. Another common feature of the zine is that they generally are very cheap, or even free. Zine makers can also choose to only share their work with close friends.
So now what?
Start digging into your local zine community. Many urban areas are now hosting yearly zine fests where zinesters gather to sell and trade their work. The internet has extensive connections to the global zine community as well. Make your own!
