Webzines

I found the webzine from the Artists’ Television Access (ATA) called Exposure. It is a very simple and plain but I find it interesting because of the content. The managing editor writes, “Most of the authors in this issue consider their respective topics as mediated through a camera lens—which helps to frame their subject both visually and conceptually.” But what got my attention was an article that had a video attached to it, just like a typical magazine article with accompanying pictures, this video showed what the author was communicating. But there was also little redundancy, the video supported the article and the article supported the video. Neither one was self-supportive, yet put together they are powerful. I think this is known as synergistic. I do prefer print magazines in general but, so far, they lack video player capabilities.

A much different webzine I found is called The Pushrod, and it too is ultra niche. They, the parts supply company that produces it, actually call it a newsletter and is geared toward the classic Volvo enthusiast. The name, The Pushrod, refers to the type of engine that the older Volvos use, in contrast to the more modern overhead cam design which all the boxy looking Volvos use. There is a mix of articles but what I really like is the way it entices the reader to participate. For example, there is a photo contest where you can take a picture of you cool old Volvo and send it in to be judged (and possibly win prizes). Or, if you happen to have a Volvo project of your own, they offer the opportunity to publish your story of it.