What’s a Zine?

A zine, short for fanzine or magazine, is a DIY* subculture self-publication, usually made on paper and reproduced with a photocopier or printer. Zine creators are often motivated by a desire to share knowledge or experience with people in marginalized or otherwise less-empowered communities. (Barnard College Zine Library)

The Art-Zines in the display case on the Ground Floor of the University Library have been loaned to us by University of Portsmouth’s Zineopolis curator, Jac Batey.  Selected and curated by two MA Illustration students, Kate and Josie, many of the examples reflect the theme of journeys. Josie says:

We tried to think about zines that would appeal to all ages. Bright, eye-catching illustrations, and fun engaging stories were two things that we really focused on. Overall, I think that this display shows the wide and exciting range of different zines!

Kate adds: 

Each tells a story, sometimes very simple, like Coffee. Others are accompanied by stickers or handmade material characters, like Monster.

Come make your own zine this Saturday (22 Feb)

Journeys is the theme of the Zine Making event taking place in the University of Portsmouth Library on Saturday 22nd February. It contributes to the children’s events in the Portsmouth BookFest programme which is open to all members of the community. Inspired by books in the prestigious Outside in World: Children’s Books in Translation collection, Kate and Josie supported by Greta Friggens, the Faculty Librarian for Creative & Cultural Industries, will help participants to create their own zine to take away and share. We hope that some participants will share copies of their zines in the display.

Explore the world of zines

To find out about the Zineopolis collection, watch an introductory video and see some more amazing examples, visit the Zineopolis website. While you are in the library, why not take a look at our catalogue to see what books we hold about zines? They may inspire you to create your own!

*Do-it-yourself