Often when people want to know who they are as a region, they run to the local paper to peruse the headlines for clues. But when I travel or seek deeper understanding of the urban culture, the 'zine is often the best source for this information.
Locally, there is no shortage of options of where to secure ‘zines, except that soon, we will be down one venue when Division Avenue's Miscellany closes at the end of this month with an exhibition by visiting contemporary artist Katie Bell. Locally,
Bandit Zine has been leaping ahead with options for those looking to grab their 'zine on the run, while
their website offers full access to digital copies.
This submission-based topical publication is full of a diverse collection of writers and artists, from street poets to professors, and has covered a range of social justice and urbanist topics including sizeism, sex, DIY culture, and most recently, gender identity. In short,
Bandit Zine is not afraid to tackle the tough topics, and does so with an honesty that is refreshing.
Yet to keep this 'zine sustainable into the future and free, the Pyramid Scheme is hosting a special fundraiser on Tuesday. Drinks will be half-off, and a percentage of all bar sales between 6 - 9 p.m. will go to the organization.
For those writers looking for an outlet beyond the traditional platforms of places like the
Grand Rapids Press,
The Rapidian, or even Rapid Growth,
Bandit Zine is taking submissions for its next edition, the "Radical Self Love" Issue. Send your query to
[email protected] for more details on their publishing schedule and requirements.
Admission: Free