Kickstarter

UPDATE: We're now offering a limited edition 11x14 risograph print by WAX Contributor Rob Kulisek! ($40 pledge) See image below.

WAX Story

We are two graphic designers and a writer who all surf together. When at our local breaks, we found that many of the people we met were artists, architects, designers, and writers — often leaders in their fields. We wanted to create a publication that tells their stories and opens up a rich dialogue in the urban surf community. While there are many surf magazines out there, nothing deals directly with the unique community of surfers found here in New York City, and in other urban environments. 

We founded WAX to explore the unique intersection of art, culture and surfing in and around the city. We believe that beauty and meaning can be found on sidewalks, boardwalks, skyscrapers and beaches alike. In our pages, we hope to explore the rich history of New York surfing and to create pathways of cultural creativity both on and off the breaks.

Issue #1: Dialogues

WAX will share the stories of area surfers who are also artists, designers, authors and auteurs. Issue #1 will feature work by Danny Gordon, Ann Pibal, Luke Stettner, John Houck, Garth Weiser, Rob Kulisek and Michael Scott Moore (author of Sweetness & Blood). Original photography will take a close look at the materials of surfing and how they affect our experiences in nature. We’ll feature conversations between artists who surf, side by side with their work. A column on emerging and experimental surf technology will explore the “Shape of Things to Come.” In addition to interviews and works by these inspiring artists, we’re also working on profiles of prominent filmmakers and shapers in the surf world.

What We’re Raising

The money we raise through Kickstarter will primarily go towards production and printing costs. Here’s a breakdown of our estimates.

• Printing. Roughly $10,000. Shipping fees will run an additional $1000.

• Production costs. This goes towards studio and production fees associated with our original photography, and with any other small costs incurred by our journalists. $3,000

• Legal fees. Covers costs associated with setting up WAX magazine as a legal entity. $1,000

Our ideal goal is not only to cover the costs of Issue #1, but to plant the seed for future issues. If we're able to raise money beyond $15,000, we’re hoping to put that towards planning more photo shoots for the first issue, distribution costs, and maybe even a launch party (to which all donors will be invited!). If everyone helps raise $40,000, we can produce an entire year of advertising-free magazines!

What You Get

Rob Kulisek "Study of Waves" Print:

Print Only, Advertising Free

Our first issue is print only, and entirely free of advertising. Our aim is to remain reader-supported for subsequent issues. This model will allow us to devote more space, thought and consideration to long form writing pieces and artists portfolios. We believe there is something special about tactile print media, but also think that some of our best thinking and creating happens when we step away from the screen and into the tangible world. By owning the first issue — which will have a limited print run — you have the opportunity to own the full collection, as it is envisioned by the editors.

Updates

Our Kickstarter page will allow you to track our project and get updates, including information on our launch party. We’ll also be updating our website, Facebook and Twitter feeds with more developments.

We hope that you’ll consider backing WAX magazine. Spread the word!
Visit our website at readwax.com