The process of creating installations, movies and mini-worlds will involve a story board of sorts accompanied by numerous lists on post-its. It can appear to be a random process of piecing together ideas and half-thoughts to create a format to convey the story. More recently I have started to put these thoughts into Zines (pronounced zeens).
Self Publication, Soft Protest
These self-publications are a great way to express personal ideas and values. Whether it's political, cultural or social. They can act as soft protests, a way to communicate a message in a dynamic and immediate way. Dynamic in the way that they are produced, text and images can be handwritten or collaged. Immediate in the printing process, using photocopies.
Embellished "From Her Outspoken Voice" Zine
I recently attended a Zine masterclass at Metal in Peterborough and met Lu Williams of Grrlzinefair who led the class. It was a great opportunity to meet with fellow zinesters and share the experience of creating zines together.
From Her Outspoken Voice To Her Zerofucks
The Zine 'From her outspoken voice to her zerofucks' was created in this convivial atmosphere. A personal reflection of being an older woman no longer a 'maiden' but exploring through imagery and text the role of woman as maiden, mother and crone. With the menopause kicking in with great gusto I found the experience of creating the Zine liberating and affirming. Zines have the ability to launch that inner voice and realise those thoughts and feelings visually. A cathartic release.
My 'soft protest' zine is now in The Feminist Library - an archive started in 1975 containing the largest collection of feminist literature. She made an appearance at The Tate Exchange at Tate Modern. I was chuffed to see my menopausal rants on the shelves within the library.
Zine: From Her Outspoken Voice (top Right) at the Tate Exchange
Coming to my shop soon these little Zines will be available to collect. See my gallery page for a peek preview of these small publications. What little Zine is in you?
