Changing Zine Scenes - Creativity, zine forms and new digital practices

Reflective of an alternative, DIY media zines have given voice to those unrepresented in mainstream media. The creativity, experimentation and problem solving that can be seen in zine making is also reflective of the diversity and individuality represented by the zines themselves.

This research is based on a detailed content analysis of 47 artefacts from the LCC Zine Collection. Looking at 3 different time periods the research counted variables associated with creativity, changes in production and distribution, and collaboration.

The research draws on theories around alternative media and DIY publishing, craftivism and participation with reference to digital publishing. It reveals the changing relationship to craft in digital age, reflecting on how far zine makers embrace or react to digital options; it shows that a level of creativity is manifest in modern zine making that is comparable to early zines. Finally, it explores how far digital connectivity has led to a change in zine culture around collaborative working. Throughout it charts the digital publishing story that sits behind zines while highlighting themes which reflect continuity in zine making despite digital transformation.