The Bush Zine: Support Your Local Artists

Johanna Hoch

Two young local artists and visionaries, Emma Mattson and Saalika Khan, organized The Bush Zine, a Baltimore-based magazine that incorporates a range of local artist’s work from photography, collages, poetry, short stories, comics, illustrations, paintings, etc. The core intention of the Bush zine is to not only touch on important current events and topics, but also give local artists the recognition and pay that they deserve.

Each month a new theme is announced pertaining to a specific cultural, political, racial, and humanitarian topic. Once the theme is released, artists have a timeframe in which they must submit their work in order to potentially be featured in that month’s issue.

The first artist-call for The Bush Zine was held from August 4, 2016 – August 18, 2016, with the goal of releasing the first issue in September. The featured artists are paid a percentage of the income, with the zine being sold at several Baltimore comic book stores, skate shops and boutiques. For questions or more information for submissions, email [email protected] with your name and phone number included.   

The two founding artists are currently spreading their love for creativity while supporting and spreading awareness, expanding opportunities for young, imaginative minds along the way.

“We met as photography majors at Towson University and graduated together.” Saalika and Emma state in their Go Fund Me page description summary. “After we graduated, we wanted to keep up with our workflow that connected us to the eccentric and creative city we live in and love.”

It is common to assume that there is a certain simplicity in the creation of this magazine, due to the fact the two are promoting what they love and showcasing artwork already created. However, it is drastically important to have a proper income for the costs of printing, especially with their goal of incorporating color in their prints. That is where us art lovers can make an impact.

Donating to this magazine is a way of showing your support for local artists. Emma and Saalika do not fall short of making the graphics and promotion of The Bush Zine flourish. Depending on the amount of your generous contribution, you have the opportunity to receive a Bush Zine sticker ($10), the first issue with a contributor’s credit on the back cover ($50), and the first issue signed by all of the artists in the issue and contributor’s credit ($100). If you are interested in donating, and showing your local artists some love, visit https://www.gofundme.com/thebushzine  to help The Bush Zine grow!