As I sit watching ‘My So Called Life’ for the billionth time, I realize how the teenage years will never not be the most intriguing times of ones life. There is such a fascination with the changes, thoughts and habits of this young adult phase. As each generation changes dramatically, I love seeing the new ways that art has migrated to the digital form but even more so how the analog formats are still out there, contrary to popular belief.
Teen Time is a new zine currently two issues in, started in Washington, DC by Sophie (who I photographed for the ‘cherub rock’ series), Emma, and a few of their friends. They just released their second issue and I asked the girls some questions about the idea behind the zine.
Who is the Teen Time team? How did the idea for the zine come about?
The team is ever changing! Teen time was born when my friend Mark and I started talking about how our school/area didn’t have a zine scene and we were like wait! we should make one! There’s so much local teen talent and we wanted to showcase it.-Soph
Soon I was invited to an informal lunch with Sophie, Mark, and our friend Tia to discuss what ultimately became teen time. Gisela joined a few weeks later! Oh and we actually got the name from marks Facebook album called Teen Time. -Emma
What are some of your favorite zines and/or publications at the moment?
Rookie goes without saying. I’m also very inspired by Grunge n Art mag, Melted magazine, and beast grrl zine!-Soph
Me too as well thank you! I also swoon over i-D and Crybaby zine. -Emma
Teen Time is a blend of photography, traditional drawing and mixed media collage work. This gives the publication a very 80s & 90s type vibe. Is this going to be an identifying feature of future issues?
We’re heavily influenced by the past, definitely! In the latest issue we’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from the 70s as well as the 80s and 90s.-Soph
Yes for sure! I think the general cultural of fashion was at an all time high in the late 20th century and hit an electric fence after y2k. We definitely 100% try to create a pleasing mesh of modern themes (for example inclusivity and evolved social justice stances and even dumb stuff like the pain of a crush not texting you back) with a nostalgic blast from the past. -Emma
Now in the digital age teens gain more exposure than ever. What is your take or comment on teen culture today?
I! love! teen! culture! I think it’s so cool that young people are gaining recognition and respect for their art from social media. It’s kind of surreal to think that most of the people I idolize are around my age, doing the most innovative things! People complain about the cult of youth but I think it’s totally justified; teens are changing the world. (that being said, I am a teen myself) -Soph
I think it’s beautiful what teens can accomplish and the immense untapped resource of a young emotional wreck BUT it is scary seeing how misinformed some teens can be by the Internet and how they use it to further hate. But but the internet is also an amazing way to meet people and for bands to get their music out there and to grow up I guess. I hope that answered your question :)-emma
What’s next for Teen Time?
New members! New looks! Stickers and tee shirts! Meet ups!-soph
hopefully more editions faster!! -emma
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Check out more of Teen Time on Instagram (@teentimezine) and purchase their issues on Big Cartel!
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