"the world today can be a confusing place but I want the magazine to a place of clarity; where people can dive into our very human perspectives - and what better way to explore these than through art?"
- Jordan, Editor
Art by Deborah Pease, from her Swimmers series.
Find out more about her work in Edition V of our mag
Having always studied the Arts and History and scribbled just about anything, from novels to philosophy, in the winter of 2021 I decided to return to my passion for writing and walk away from the office world I had found myself in. There was a problem however. Apart from having 0 funds and a deep desire to express my independent thoughts, I also had some serious ideas about how the world of art publications needed shaking up:
I was tired of how art mags were always so full of difficult art speak, it not only made them all seem quite snobby, but totally inaccessible. I was also tired of all the negativity; why were these old men - most critics are- being so negative about these incredible works?
I also discovered that even if an art magazine isn't being critical of an artist's work then it's often being blatantly descriptive and simply quotes the artist word-for-word. I mean, how many times have you read something said by an artist that's so clearly in-depth and complicated, but that the writer hasn't bothered to elaborate upon or look into? 'Jill creates in this incredibly intricate way' - ok but why? What's the context? Where did she learn how to do this? How might readers even find this artwork useful in their daily lives?
On the other hand, I wanted to provide people with a new way of discussing artwork; one that was to be thematic, contextual and useful rather than overtly critical, complicated and mundane - making art more accessible, enlightening and enjoyable for everyone; an ethos which is echoed throughout each and every edition.
'Why I am seeing the same people all the time?' I asked flicking through so many art mags.
There is so much unexplored talent in the world that there's no need for us to see the same rich and famous people all the time. And that's what I want Art Etcetera to be - the magazine for aspiring artists.
There are so many different types of art forms, so why should only the mainstream genres be publicised? From photographers and sculptors to glassworkers and pointillist illustrators etcetera, this mag always aspires to present a diverse array of artists and art works.
So, with these firm beliefs in mind, I sat with my pen and notepad (my old company had taken back their laptop) and started Art Etcetera. Consequently the mag is totally independent of any large corporation or person, something which provides Art Etcetera with an abundance of creative freedom and a vibrant platform for new ideas to flourish.
But such liberty also means that money is tight - and if the mag is to continue interviewing, highlighting and publishing the works of a variety of talented artists, then we need your help...
Simply enter the discount code ETC when you hit subscribe & get our latest edition in print & digital for just £2.99
That's less than a coffee these days!
Get the mag in print & digital for just £2.99 when you buy a monthly subscription today using the code ETC
P&P inc. Cancel anytime.