About this project

What is Modernizm?

I don’t remember how I first became interested in zines, but I do remember being fascinated by the zine community and the endless possibilities of self-expression for which this DIY outlet allowed.  Modernizm is a side project that I started about eight months ago to occupy my time when I was not working as an after school art teacher.  It is a 100% hand-made art zine that focuses on promoting artists, creative collaboration and issues about the visual arts in Texas.  The very first issue was made from a single sheet of paper with eight panels and consisted mostly of graphics and handwritten words.  As I am learning more and more about the zine community and its history, my zine style has evolved and become more complex.  Now, I am at a point where I would like to take this side project even further.  Please read on to see how you can help out and become a part of the process. 

Scan of pages from first zine issue

Why am I (me) making this zine?

Through Modernizm I hope to share with others my passion for and dedication to the arts, and also, because I love to collaborate with people.  It is one of my most favorite things in the world.  Collaborating just has this energy about it that is really invigorating.  Getting the chance to exchange ideas with various creative individuals is something that I enjoy about being involved in the art world and I want to inspire others that even though they may be in a different field, they can still create the same connections. 

This particular zine issue is different from previous issues because it explores what is unique about the art community here in Texas.  When I started this project, I knew right away that I wanted to devote an entire zine to the Lone Star State.  Kickstarter just seemed like the perfect way to spread the word about my zine and make it bigger and better than ever.  And as you know what they say, everything is bigger in Texas...

Why should I (you) help?

Not only will you get to participate in an exciting DIY project, but you will also get to contribute by helping create a stronger artistic dialogue as well.  When this issue comes out, I hope you all are inspired to make zines and other projects of your very own.  In addition to this, you will receive wonderful rewards in return!  (Most of the rewards will hopefully be fulfilled by December, just in time for the holidays.)  Just glance over to your right to see the list of awesomeness.  And, you'll be showing your support for the arts if you pledge, which is the most important reason of all!! :D

Cover design for second issue with hand-made stamp and paint

But where is all the money going??

Unfortunately, I currently cannot afford the luxuries that some publishing companies have such as heavier paper, or colored copies.  I want to be able to present the artists' and other contributors' work in the very best quality that I can.  To achieve this though, it's going to take a little bit more money, which is where Kickstarter comes in.  Some things that the money will be used for include printing fees for artist postcards and printing the zine, higher quality card stock paper, colored copies, tote bags, screen printing kit, baking supplies, envelopes, stamps, nice stationery for the thank you letters and other supplies used to make the master copy for the zine like printer paper and ink, glue sticks, etc.

The Plan in a Nutshell:  Once I finish designing and planning the layout for the fall issue, I will go on a quest to find a local print shop here in Houston to help with the printing.  Essentially what I am aiming for is to make at least 100 copies of the zine, if not more.  The copies will then be mailed out to you (the wonderful donors), zine distros and libraries, friends, family and anyone else who is interested in reading about the arts in Texas.  If you have any specific questions about the project, please contact me and I will be glad to answer them.

Thank you so much for all of your support for this project!