Paper Jam

Post by Kathleen Hefty

Stemming from his passion for graphic novels, comics, and zines, Robin Enrico had a vision for a small scale fair that would showcase a community of New York-based artists and writers producing exciting and underexposed zines. The result was Paper Jam, a carefully curated selection of small press material that took over Bushwick’s Silent Barn on February 8. Robin explains that his intentions for Paper Jam grew out of a desire to create an alternative to the larger and more grandiose art/book fairs.  “Big flea market style festivals have their place,” Robin explains, but he wanted to move away from the often overwhelming nature of those environments and focus on something smaller, more approachable.  Robin turned to friends Paige K. Bradley, G.W. Duncanson, and Nina Mashurova to help decide the roster of 24 artists for the event, which meant a variety of viewpoints were reflected and expressed.  Thanks to this group curating process, the scope of zines was large: everything from photo zines to art comics to anarchist and political zines had their place, providing a plethora of options to fit each fair-goer’s interest. And rightfully so: the fair drew a sizeable crowd—around 200 people—and offered much more than the standard fair’s table set-up: Amid the artist’s stands, there was a photo booth, an arcade game, records to snag, hair cuts to be had, and spots to sit, relax, and drink a beer. In the end, Paper Jam brought together a diverse group of emerging artists and enthusiasts, and provided a platform for them to engage with others that share their passion for printed matter. Robin’s real hope, he expressed, was that the artists sell books to people who don’t usually buy books. And it seems from the large crowd and positive response, that that must be true.

For those who missed the Fair but want to be involved with Paper Jam, Robin recommends you follow their tumblr, as they will be posting plans and details about the next Paper Jam (coming in late July / early August) in the next month or so. And we recommend you get involved! Robin’s closing sentiment regarding the fair, “I honestly can’t wait to do this all over again.”

In the meantime, check out some of the fair’s exhibitors:

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Fvck the Media
Caroline Pequita
Lala Albert
Mia Schwartz
Tuomas Korpijaakko
Alabaster
Olivia Fox
Stephanie Mannheim
Matthew Leifheit
Holly Knox Rhame
In Our Hearts NYC
Paper Rocket Mini Comics
Hazel Newlevant
Benjamin Urkowitz
Brian Blomerth
KATBUS & Comics Workbook
Leah Wishnia
Mike Taylor
Tia Doran
Zach Hazard Vaupen
G.W. Duncanson
A.T. Pratt
Halfling zine