Back From the Second Edition
In our second edition The Scribe spotlighted Swell Magazine, celebrating its mission to amplify artistic voices. Now, with its first edition released and momentum building, we’re reconnecting to see how Swell has evolved.
For those who missed our initial coverage, Swell is a bold, inclusive arts magazine that highlights diverse perspectives and creative expression. This feature dives into its journey, its growth, and what’s next!
Coast-To-Coast!
Swell’s distribution spans coast-to-coast in the U.S. and even reaches international readers. While it has broad appeal, the core audience leans toward women. Most sales are direct, with readers preferring to purchase through social media or other direct channels, rather than in-store.
Origins and Concept
Swell was conceived during the pandemic by Emily Rippe Desmond. The magazine was initially inspired by a desire to provide a space for artistic expression and inclusivity. Over time, it evolved into a collaborative effort to highlight diverse voices and multimedia works, offering a mix of literary, visual, and experimental content.
Views on Community & Accessibility
Rooted in Toledo, Swell maintains strong local ties while embracing national and international submissions. It collaborates with local artists, businesses, and organizations like Ink & Iron. The magazine aims to serve as an accessible platform that connects a vibrant community of creatives and supporters.
What is Swell?
The magazine emphasizes inclusivity by featuring art and writing from underrepresented groups, such as women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color. Submissions are guided by simple rules, including a word limit of 1,200 for written pieces and the need for high-resolution images. Each issue is centered around a theme, such as “Contagious” or “Ripe,” which artists interpret broadly, allowing for a wide range of creative expression.
Sustainability
The magazine relies on revenue from sales, sponsorships, and affordable advertising rates. Trades with local businesses, such as borrowing event spaces in exchange for features, have proven effective. Additionally, GoFundMe campaigns help offset production costs, with funds supporting contributors and community initiatives.
“Our main thing is no gatekeeping.”The Future Swell aspires to expand its national reach while staying true to its Toledo roots. There are plans to establish a regular publishing schedule, moving toward quarterly or biannual editions. The team is also exploring new ideas, such as integrating music artists and creating a magazine soundtrack to enhance its offerings. Swell’s next edition is poised to be out in January 2025, so keep your eyes peeled. For more info on upcoming editions, and even to submit, be sure to check their website or reach out over email. Each Swell edition follows a theme for submission, so don’t blindly submit!