This mini-zine explores the concept of “relation” and how social categorization shapes human interactions and societal divides. Drawing from research into the formation of “the Other,” the zine examines how these processes reinforce stereotypes, perpetuate systemic inequalities, and hinder accountability. Through metaphorical imagery, contrasting typography, and a symbolic two-color palette, the zine highlights the cyclical nature of ingroup favoritism and outgroup homogenization. Additionally, the zine explores the media’s role in amplifying these dynamics by perpetuating narratives that shape perceptions of the “in-group” and “out-group.” This influence was depicted through visual metaphors like echo chambers, symbolizing the way media reinforces biased narratives and prevents nuanced understanding. By emphasizing the media’s contribution to these divisions, the zine invites readers to critically evaluate their own perceptions and the broader societal impacts of these categorizations.
The Process
Essay
In small groups, we created a mind map that explored the word relational and its many associations. Our collective brainstorming focused on how relationships influence society, perceptions, and interactions. Building on this, I reflected individually on questions about societal dynamics and my own observations, particularly considering the concepts of in-groups and out-groups. My research also included an article on social categorization, which discusses how we instinctively classify people into social groups based on shared characteristics. This process significantly affects how we evaluate and behave toward these groups, often leading to biases or assumptions about in-groups (those we identify with) and out-groups (those we perceive as different). Inspired by these reflections, I wrote a short essay focusing on how social categorization and storytelling intersect to shape our relational dynamics.
Sketches
After my I completed my essay based on my research into social categorization and the media, I started out by sketching my initial ideas. I knew I wanted the media would be a throughline through out the zine, so I played on sensationalized media headlines and using comics to poke fun. I also wanted to incorporate a representation of an echo chamber and create an overall sardonic tone.
First Rough Draft
After my initial rough draft, I had some minor issues with consistency in fonts throughout the piece. Finalizing my zine was all about creating a consistent style throughout the zine. I paired down my font usage and ensured the major fonts were seen in every spread, I also fixed some spacing issues, tightening up my layouts.
Figma
After we developed our zine for print, we moved into creating a workable Figma prototype. The goal was to seamlessly transition our existing work into an online format. I decided to imagine my website as as a news site, like CNN or FOX. My protype is available here (NOTE: before scrolling through, click "R" on your keyboard, this restarts the protype and will help ensure all my animations are loading correctly.)
Cargo
After we developed our Figma prototype. We needed used the website builder Cargo. The challenge was to utilized a pre-existing template in Cargo and make it match as best we could to our Figma prototype. I have some serious beef with cargo (note that I did NOT use that platform to build this site) but it was still a good learning experience. I enjoyed seeing how my zine took a new shape, and though it doesn't look exactly like my Figma prototype, I still was able to achieve a consistent style and rythym. You can view that site here.
HTML
The last stage of this project was all about the back end. For this portion of the assignment, we needed to code a landing page for the website version of our zine. In addition to the HTML code, I created a style sheet using CSS. I enjoyed learning about back-end development and feel like I have at least a little more topical knowledge of the development process.