CLOUDBELLIES

for our first issue, we wanted to delve into a subject that offered both depth for literary creation and a distinctive visual aesthetic, one that allowed for a multitude of perspectives and reflected what we wanted to do with this project (i.e. make a silly zine, but like serious and world-changing).

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enter toilets.

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we were first inspired by the possibilities of bathroom graffiti, also known as latrinalia: scribbles that range from nonsensical, cheesy, horny, satirical, desperate, political, transgressive, etc etc etc. there is something powerful and freeing about these inscriptions marking existence but maintaining anonymity, allowing for an uninhibited and unapologetic form of self-expression.

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bathroom graffiti provide momentary pieces of wisdom not intended for acclaim, only personal gratification. which then poses the question: can latrinalia be an authentic artform, or is it always performative? is it art in the first place?

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either way, bathroom stalls are places of great vulnerability and introspection, from the physical architecture to the metaphysical space they inhabit.​ we have gorgeous pieces wide ranging in theme and form - paintings contemplative and abstract, poems delicate and vulgar, latrinalia modern and ancient, architectural designs and stylised illustrations. like, really cool stuff. our talented contributors ask questions of the environment, of community, of memory, loneliness, love and desire. we hope they provoke and resonate.

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ultimately, when you walk into a toilet, you are confronted with your own body in all its beauty and filth. all we ask of y’all is, 

please don’t forget to flush.