Basic Course Description -- Zine Writing Project

This course is designed to confront the frustration many of us have with how corporate entities and dominant cultural systems control the mainstream media and publishing industry. Zines are a form of independent publication that allows the marginalized voice to be heard. Throughout the quarter, we will: 1) read and critically review historical and contemporary examples of the zine form; 2) develop assessment and review skills through a class community standard; 3) explore and develop our own writing ideas and skills by creating complete individual zine publications; and 4) work as a class cooperative to plan, thematically organize, lay out, and produce a collective zine publication. Students must challenge themselves to be highly focused in class and motivated to read, write, and think creatively and cooperatively.