If you’ve ever fallen so madly in love with an exhibition that you’ve wished you could wrap all the pieces up and carry them around with you always, then Snax Magazine might be designed with you in mind. With next to no text and photo spreads of work centered around a specific theme for each issue, flipping through the new collaborative art magazine gives you the gallery experience on-the-go.
Snax Magazine was conceived by Ashley Butler in a Eureka-moment set to 3am, Brooklyn-time. While successful in her work with an advertising agency, Butler’s pent-up creative energy was bursting for an outlet. As Butler herself attests, the mission of the magazine evolved around that insomniac experience. Her late-night decision to raid her subconscious instead of the fridge led to a fascination with the idea of hunger – the kind that can’t be satisfied with sandwiches and ice cream, but with passions and dreams.
“I wanted [the magazine] to relate to people having to take a break or to feed or satisfy creative hunger,” Butler said, “just a little taste of your passion and pursuing something outside of your daily life.”
After reaching out to a few friends who shared Butler’s need to create, the first issue took shape as artists began submitting their work – and their input. Relying primarily on word of mouth and the support of connections within the art community, Butler aimed for a limited edition print.
“I didn’t want money to be a huge factor and prevent me from putting it out,” Butler explained. “I think when you have a good idea or a vision and people believe it, they’re willing to support and help you get it done. ”
Butler hopes to stay away from the tendency of arts magazines to become catch-all cultural publications. For this reason, as well as a desire to stay away from influencing subscribers’ interpretations of the work, the magazine will remain primarily visual. In addition, Butler hopes that Snax will inspire community and communication among the artists involved.
“I want individuals to have an idea and want to collaborate with somebody,” Butler said.
The first issue of Snax brought together artists of various ages and mediums to tackle the subject “Perceptions of Perfection.” While the April 28 launch at Dylan Gallery in Northern Liberties brought the artwork together in real-space, the magazine preserves the momentary art-treat for anyone wishing to purchase a copy.
Currently, Snax Magazine is accepting submissions for the next issue, focusing on the theme of “Strength.” To submit, send an email to info@snaxmagazine.com by August 15, 2012.
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