by abduzeedo
Explore how Slanted Magazine pushes editorial design, challenges conventions, and champions independent typography. Dive into visual storytelling.
For those immersed in the world of graphic design, there’s a unique satisfaction in seeing a publication truly come alive. It’s not just about the content; it’s about the entire experience. Abduzeedo has always championed design that inspires, and today, we’re looking at a prime example of editorial design pushing boundaries: Slanted Magazine #45—Sex.
Slanted Magazine, in collaboration with Munich’s Archive Artist Publications (AAP), has created an issue that dives deep into sexuality, gender, and body politics through a curated selection of artistic publications and critical essays. This isn't merely a magazine; it's a meticulously crafted artifact, a testament to how powerful editorial design can be.
Visual Storytelling and Challenging Norms
The magazine showcases a diverse range of historical and contemporary works. It presents publications that challenge conventions and reshape discourse on self-image, identity, and representation. Alongside these visual narratives, in-depth essays offer multifaceted perspectives on media, cultural taboos, and shifting societal norms. The issue actively provides a space for critical engagement, questioning how marginalized bodies—non-binary, queer, disabled, racialized—are represented in art and media. This commitment to impactful visual storytelling is evident throughout the entire publication.
Consider the striking imagery and thought-provoking texts that open a dialogue on desire, power, and the politics of visibility. From the tactile feel of the softcover with its open thread-stitching to the dust jacket, every detail contributes to the overall narrative. The use of uncoated and transparent high-quality papers by Reflex paper adds another layer of sensory engagement. This attention to physical attributes elevates the magazine from a simple collection of pages to a tactile experience.
The Power of Independent Type
Beyond Slanted Magazine #45—Sex, there’s also a significant new release that influences editorial design: Support Independent Type II. This follow-up to the acclaimed 2020 book continues to celebrate the vibrant culture of independent type specimens and their influence on design and typography. It acts as both a manifesto and a visual showcase, featuring over 300 cutting-edge type foundries that offer a promising alternative to corporate font distributors.
The book highlights a diverse range of fonts, from experimental designs to bold, groundbreaking typefaces that push traditional boundaries. It delves into new trends and innovative designs, presenting the book itself as a visual art object. Through this carefully curated collection, the authors emphasize how independent type design reflects cultural shifts and sparks creative innovation. The impact of independent type on editorial design is immense, offering designers a richer palette for expression and a way to imbue their work with unique character.
A Thought on the Future of Editorial Design
The work exemplified by Slanted Magazine and the Support Independent Type series underscores a crucial point for designers: the medium is as important as the message. Editorial design is not static; it evolves with cultural dialogues and technological advancements. The choices we make in typography, layout, imagery, and even the physical properties of a publication, all contribute to how a message is received and understood. These projects inspire us to consider how our design choices can challenge, inform, and engage, making the printed page, or digital screen, a truly dynamic space.
Explore more about their work and publications on their website: Slanted Publishers
