Zinefest draws talent to Hamilton

Zines can be as specific and oddball as they like. Photo / Supplied

Zinefest is coming to Hamilton for the fifth year on Saturday, May 12.

Artists, writers, poets, illustrators, bookmakers, artists, designers and printers come together at Zinefest to share ideas and stories for handmade magazines which do not need to fit within a mainstream aesthetic or narrative.

Zines can be as specific and oddball as they like, as opposed to larger commercial magazine enterprises which are anxious to please advertisers and a broad readership, says the organiser of the fest, Craig McClure.

"Hamilton Zinefest centres on a daytime market with an expected 70 zine-makers sharing their wares," Craig says.

"Zines are priced very cheaply. It's possible to arrive with just five dollars and walk away with a fist-full of beautiful and intriguing handmade publications."

Formerly based at the Creative Waikato HQ on Alexandra Street, Hamilton, Zinefest has outgrown its old residence and is now at The Meteor Theatre in Victoria Street.

"I think it's safe to say we have gone from being happily surprised in the first year to we need to keep doing this.

"The attendance has always been really high and the support from the creators has been incredible," says Craig.

The fest features guest talks from local and international zinemakers, illustrators and comic artists, including Keeli McCarthy from Fantagraphics in Seattle, Washington, who will talk about her role as a graphic designer and editor.

The festival will also include a DIY craft table where novices and pros can work up a page of collage, words or drawing to be compiled into a zine to be posted to all contributors.

The Best of Fest awards select three exceptional zines for commendation, with winners announced at the Zinefest after-party at The Meteor from 8pm.