Artists from all over the country are joining forces with Eugene’s vibrant community of independent publishers and zine makers this Saturday for the third annual Euzine Fest, taking place at The Wheeler Pavilion at the Lane County Fairgrounds from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

With over 140 tabling artists this year, Euzine Fest showcases self-published material and creates a sense of community within the zine scene.

Alida Bevirt, one of the founders and lead organizers of Euzine Fest, graduated from the University of Oregon in 2011 with a bachelor of fine arts in jewelry and metalsmithing. Since graduating, Bevirt has developed an interest in portrait sculpting and wheel-thrown clay and has remained active in Eugene’s art community. Bevirt describes finding zine events as a revelation.

“It’s been incredible discovering the works that people make regionally and internationally and to follow their progress,” Bevirt said. “I love attending an event a year later and seeing their newest works.”

Zines, which are often self-published materials made by hand and photocopied, come in all shapes and sizes. They can range from a simple design, such a single folded piece of paper, to a larger booklet, often telling a small story or following a general theme. According to Bevirt, one of the most attractive things about zines is the limitless nature of the platform.

“Zines encompass more than just comics books. The content can be just text or images with any range of subject matter — poetry, educational, autobiographical, music reviews, drawings of potatoes cooked 6 ways,” Bevirt said. “People get silly and have fun or really open up and share intimate details about their lives.”
Taylor Jones, a UO graduate who will be participating in this year’s Euzine Fest for the first time, says that zines strive to give a voice to the creative people that surround him on a daily basis.

“It’s a place for anyone who wants to share what’s on their mind and in their hearts” Jones said. “I want to celebrate different ways of thinking.

Jones’ zine, which finds inspiration from the zines made popular during the 1980s punk scene, feature up-to-date music reviews and recommendations, as well as hand-drawn art and short, fictional stories.

The 2018 Euzine Fest will feature performances and entertainment during the event, with zine-making workshops for those who want to create.
“Zine events are safe places for self-expression and connection,” Bevirt said. “Someone’s thoughts can open your mind to another worldview or make you realize you share more thoughts and experiences with others than you realize.”