In a world dominated by digital media, holding handmade magazines (visible, original and profound personalization) is undeniably powerful. More than just ink on paper, magazines are a statement, rebellion and a community. They thrived in the DIY space, where creativity is not filtered through the company’s lens, but is shaped by passion and purpose. To beat it to a great opportunity to connect with independent artists on-site, that’s why we have to make sure we don’t miss the South Bay Magazine Festival.
Hall of Illusion is a small, unremarkable event venue located on Chula Vista’s historic Third Avenue. Commonly used in Quinceañeras and DJ events, this time it is the first place ever Nanwan Magazine Festival.
Maxwell Scheller had both time and money, so he decided to organize events and rent space.
I used to volunteer for other shortcomings and I thought I could do something like this myself – even better. So I paid for the venue and the turnout was great. People are here for art, which means a lot to me.
More than 20 artists were flooded in the halls, and despite the limited space, SZF managed to host the discussion of the ins and outs of magazine culture. A standout panel made again magazine punk, to Andy Dules,,,,, Attiba Roysterand Emily Rocha. All three are local artists – Roster is currently assembling the vampire anthology, while Dukleth and Rocha are accidental aliens, a comic studio in San Diego. They have a lot to say about this topic.
They talk about how young people today attract such a sport, whether it’s direct participation or just showing up to support local artists. They stress that punk never disappears- it’s just developing. The core spirit remains unchanged.
Rocha stressed the importance of such events:
“The more it expands, the easier it will be for everyone.”
Royster makes important points about the nature of magazines:
“Magazines can be fully polished or DIY – at the end of the day, they can be everything you want.”
They explain that making the quality of magazine art is not the quality of the material, but the influx of effort, sweat and passion. Whether it is printed on cheap paper or top stocks, it is important that it is independent and personal, which is what makes others understand its importance.
Royster closes a powerful note:
“I like to give this verification – “Do you want to be part of this project?” to other artists. Let them know: we meet you.”
The panelists all agreed that supporting local artists is more than just sharing their work. Interact with their art (whether through social media or other platforms), the world knows they are here and waiting to be seen.
Walking on the moving floor, it is impossible to ignore the spirit of the festival and emanate from the booth of every artist. A table focused on mental health awareness and small print animals. Another has caused misunderstandings about Mexican migrant workers and in view of the current incident. And more.
The comics also occupies a place in the event. Local artist Logan Monroe’s Colossus Coke is a standout. An independent title whose story stems from Monroe’s experience in the food industry. With vibrant stickers, prints and magazines, it’s clear that this project is made with love and creativity.
Rachel DukesAnother local and published artist showed off their various works, including from wizerd And have your own titleRanie Comicsthe latter is inspired by the love of cats. Their art is so kind and wonderful – it’s easy to get lost in it. Their shooting prints, in particular, are breathtaking, full of details and bursts of color.
Next to the Duke is Andrew Greenstonean experienced comic artist is known for his work sid the Cat Magazine,,,,, Rust Belt Comments, and Star Wars in Memorytheir own magazine series. Greenstone talks to it, explaining their work on Sid the Cat, the thought process behind Star Wars in memory and their unique, original and vivid artistic style. I can’t put down their magazines.
Another outstanding man on the table next to them – Jesse Walker, showing their first comics, Chonku Town.
Chonku Town It is a high-point crime against whipping and karate frogs. In short, this is definitely a crazy read. In other words, this is awesome, it’s a project that thrives in the magazine scene. It is written by Walker and Greenstone, written by Mars Gearhart and Art, edited by Greenstone and Dukes, and handled by Mixtape Comics. This well-known punk rough diamond.
That’s what I had to mention to them. and chat cat,,,,, wizerd/Frankie Comicsand Chonku Town– I think it’s a good job of doing this on Kickstarter, and they have to ask: Why attend: Why attend small events like Zine Fest?
Greenstone says this is the best:
“Chonku Town just came out and Sid Cat #3 is about to be on the way! To move books, you have to be willing to go anywhere. Without such a show, it would make it impossible to compete.”
Emotions are shared throughout the hall. As someone who has worked in crowdfunding spaces for the past three years, it’s hard not to feel the same. It is a clear reminder to see artists put their souls into projects, not just for creation, but for building awareness of world events and local issues, even the famous people in today’s comics, from and Mora arrive Daniel Warren Johnson arrive Fiona Staplesonce stood in the alley of the well-known artist.
The Hall of Illusion is a small place with a row of artists that feels even more crowded. The lobby had a capacity of only 300 people, and Scheller initially had questions about attendance. He is happy to provide the space.
South Bay Zine Fest welcomed over 180 attendees.
That’s the core of it. Space like this. They create opportunities, make connections, and remind us that art – big and small, and there is a place.
With such emphasis on Southbay Zine Fest, we will no longer mention La Zine Fest! It will be held from Saturday, March 1 to Sunday, March 2 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. While SBZF was San Diego’s first, La Zine Fest brought together Southern California’s Zinesters at East Bank Plaza on Broad to celebrate independent publishing and DIY Spirit. Attendees can explore a wide variety of magazines covering politics, personal narrative, photography, fine arts and graphic design while fighting exhibitors.
The two-day event offers hands-on workshops, group discussions, and visits to Broad’s gallery. Present next to it Joseph Beuys: Defend NatureThe festival highlights how magazines continue to beuys’ legacy, grassroots art, empowered activists, punks, LGBTQ+ creators, poets, and anyone with printers to share their voices and ideas. Totally free.
If you are in the area and love independent artists, you won’t want to miss the extensive activities in this city!
