Evaluation
About Honey aimed to create a magazine to fill the current void of queer and lesbian publications in the commercial magazine industry. Using found imagery to present a unique narrative of a largely erased history, the magazine bridged a gap between the traditional zine platforms used for LGBT self-representation, and the strict binary of men's and women's magazines. Accessibility for the zine community was maintained through design that was consistent with traditional zine aesthetics. Accessibility for wider audiences was increased through a conscious awareness of on-trend branding techniques, and the aesthetics of current successful independent magazines.
Working collaboratively maximised productivity during the initial research phase and then construction of the magazine spreads. Working individually to create the branding was more challenging, but meant that the ideas behind the branding remained cohesive throughout. Type and colours treatments were appropriate for the intended audience, and created a unique visual style for the publication. Risograph production methods were low cost and effective in terms of the scale of the project, and also created a link between traditional zine culture and independently produced magazines. Conclusive feedback deemed the magazine successful in its ability to re-establish a queer timeline within a straight history, and present a fresh perspective for a new generation of LGBTq+ youth.
About Honey was exhibited at the European Lesbian* Conference in Vienna, in September 2017. It was well received by both the audience and the organisers of the event, and 150 copies were distributed in total over the two day event.