illustration | Tear-Knee Design

While researching zines (see: small-circulation of mostly self-published original or appropriated text/images/photos), I’ve become pretty enamoured with illustration-specific issues.

Here is a list, in particular order, of some of the inspiring volumes I have come across (through my vigorous internet-ing):

Ben Newman’s Ouroboros: I particularly love Newman’s bold, bright graphics, but the story is also very thoughtful and intriguing. Entirely without words, this story is brought to life through juxtaposing grotesque violence with absurd comedy and philosophical interjections.
Devon Smith’s Imaginary Lovers: Of a totally different level of production and emotion is this quirky, endearing take on the “what-ifs” of missed connections. That handsome stranger on the bus that you imagined a day-dreamed a future with? Smith explores such daydreams with charming illustrations and side-bar captions.
Julia Pott’s I‘ll Go Where You Go: My love of Julia Pott’s illustration is vast- I love the instantly loveable creatures that she creates (they remind me of hipster Wind and the Willows’ characters). When I discovered that she also made a zine, I was doubly excited. This zine combines the animals with romantic foibles, and it could not be cuter or more relatable.
Borrow Suitcase (vol.1): This was a collaboration of 27 artists, putting there take on the concept of packing, travel, and a voyeuristic peak into the personal lives hidden in a stranger’s suitcase.
Sian Beeton: This Hair zine was created in only a few hours, but I love the simultaneous simplicity of the design and complexity of the illustrations. I also think the transparency on the front page is brilliantly enticing.