Have you heard of zines (pronounced zeens), but not quite sure what they are?
Zine is a short snappy word for a small magazine or “fanzine”. They are self-published or independent publications. Zines originated as hardcopy collections made from paper, but have now extended into the digital realm and online.
Zines are typically handmade, not for profit and have a limited copy run. Their content is often too controversial or too alternative for mainstream media. Exclusively, zines give you the opportunity to delve deep and explore that one special thing you’re interested in.
Before the invention of the internet, zines were a haven for science fiction fans and comic book fans. They were an opportunity for people to tell their greatest tales and share them amongst themselves. Not only did this provide a creative outlet, but it was a way to ignore traditional power structures and censorship. The first zine can be traced all the way back to 1930s when the Science Correspondence Club in Chicago created their first small magazine to reflect their sci-fi content. This world first zine was titled The Comet.
Nowadays, zines provide a platform for any writer, artist or creative person to self-publish their words and ideas. The self-publication is a way to have complete control over the content and message.
Zines are usually made to be shared with other people. There are numerous zine fairs where people sell their own little creations. All you need is something to say.
Zine-Making Workshops at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre
Blacktown Arts is hosting a series of zine-making workshop with artist Melissa Chaney. These hands-on workshops take children (9 – 12 years old) on a deep dive into the world of zines and zine making. Participants will be guided through a variety of zine-making techniques including collage, drawing, including text and pictures.
Saturday 18 May 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Saturday 29 June 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Wednesday 14 August 3.30 pm – 5.30 pm | Book here
Wednesday 13 November 3.30 pm – 5.30 pm | bookings will open 23 October 2019.
Zine-Making Workshops at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre
Saturday 18 May 10.30 am – 12.30 pm | bookings will open 30 April 2019.
Saturday 29 June 10.30 am – 12.30 pm | bookings will open 7 June 2019.
Image Melissa Chaney, Irrational Logic, 2016, Screenprint and mixed media on paper, 60 x 150 x 40 cm