Thanks so much to all who sent in questions during our Interest Check! Here are our answers as promi

Thanks so much to all who sent in questions during our Interest Check! Here are our answers as promised, presented in 3 parts!

Q: Is a portfolio required? Also what is the selection process for applicants and how are they judged/chosen?

A: Yes, a portfolio link is required to apply for the zine but it can be anywhere we can see your work (i.e. Personal Website/Tumblr/etc.)! More information on application requirements can be found in our Application FAQ, but in terms of process, applicants will be notified of their results roughly 1-2 weeks after contributor apps close. Generally, our team will be choosing contributors based on technique and characterization.

What is some general/important info we should know before we create art for each section (like sticker sheets for example)? How does the merch work?

A: Our mods will oversee all sections of production, which includes working closely with our merch team to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Upon being accepted into the zine, templates - including formatting specs and additional instructions - will be provided for both book pages and merch items (i.e. zones for bleed and safe areas, etc.)
Detailed content guidelines will also be provided to make sure that all concepts fit the theme and don’t have too much overlap by the end of the 1st-Check-In. We will also be available to give feedback or answer any questions on formatting/etc. if needed or desired!

Q: How much experience would you want from Artists & Writers? Does not posting my work online hinder my chances of being chosen as a contributor?

A: We encourage everyone to apply regardless of skill level. While prior experience (i.e. as a zine contributor, student, freelancer) may help prepare for what to expect during the creation process of the zine, it’s not required!
Not posting your work online also doesn’t factor into your acceptance, so long as you provide a “portfolio” link where the mod team can see some of your other work (i.e. Google Drive link or a PDF works perfectly fine!)

Q: If I answered “no” on the Interest Check, can I still choose to apply for the zine?

A: Absolutely!! The responses to the Interest Check are solely to help our mod team plan ahead and see if the project is worth pursuing. Adding your email to our mailing list is optional, as it just means we’ll send you the application directly when forms open. We’ll post publicly on all socials when it goes up as well!