Zine with the times: The Bombay Zine Fest at Versova puts a spotlight on independent artists

The zines that will feature at the fest

The process of creating art and being recognised for it is inherently difficult. However, alternative independent art has its own tale of struggles to tell. And the minds behind Bombay Underground and Harkat Studios will vouch for this. Both sets of organisers have repeatedly striven to create and sustain spaces for creativity that stray away from commercial mainstream norms. With this thought process, they are ready with another edition of The Bombay Zine Fest that aims to support and encourage all independent artists from the city.

Zines are an alternate art form with strong roots in the city; but such fests offer the best introduction for those who are unfamiliar with it. "It is a space where people are exposed to zines across all kinds of themes, under one roof. Enthusiasts will also get the opportunity to interact with artists and hopefully, support them," feels Himanshu S, co-founder of Bombay Underground. He shares that the zines on display will be a collection of raw, personal musings that are filled with many emotions and experiences. The line-up for this year includes @sister.library, @nazaria, @the.hungry.poet, @quietkook, among others.

Founders Aqui Thami and Himanshu S

"These self-publications represent the possibility of independent art thriving under all conditions, and prove that commercial means are not the only creative outlets," he elaborates. The organisers want the fest to be a safe space for all independent artists striving to carve their own artistic identity. For over two decades, Bombay Underground has been able to create a community of zine artists. They have grown from hosting pop-ups to creating a library and organising their annual festivals.

When asked about the future of zines and alternate art in the city, Karan Talwar, founder of Harkat Studios put things into perspective, "It completely depends on the people. How they come and support the artists and their art will determine the future of the form itself."

On: October 14; 5 pm to 9 pm and October 15 and 16; 12 pm to 9 pm
At: Harkat Studios, Versova
Log on to: @bombayunderground/@harkat.studios
Cost: Rs 150