AAA announces an Open Call for artists and zine-makers based in Hong Kong, as part of our ongoing research on zines and growing zine collection.
Zines may come in all shapes and sizes, but they all have a common thread—a capacity to foster alternative communities through their creation and dissemination. Rooted in photocopy culture, zines are made to be printed in multiples and shared with others. Some zines adopt a copyleft approach, where claiming creative ownership takes a back seat to sharing information and micro-narratives in timely and resourceful ways. Zines archive more than just personal stories, they circulate amongst and connect with different communities. Similarly, AAA’s Zine Collection, comprising more than 700 titles, exists to further generate even more connections.
Held from 17 January to 17 April 2024, this residency will support two artists and zine-makers in the creation of a new zine and a corresponding public programme that responds to AAA’s Collections, be it a screening, pop-up library, book club, or a nap. Selected artists and zine-makers will be invited to research AAA Collections onsite at our library, and online through our website.
What We Provide
AAA will support the selected artists and zine-makers with a production budget of up to HK$5,000 and a HK$3,000 honorarium, and reimbursement for programme expenses. Selected artists and zine-makers will have access to AAA’s Collections and our reading room facilities, Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 6pm, throughout the duration of the residency. Our library and office are equipped with large reading tables, computers, Wi-Fi, and a photocopier/scanner. AAA staff will be onsite to provide guidance.
Our Expectations
Selected artists and zine-makers will be asked to conduct onsite research on our collections through a minimum of three check-ins and visits during the residency. Final zines must be completed by 18 March 2024, with a corresponding programme held in late April 2024. At least one copy of the zine will be donated to AAA Library Collections.
Selection Criteria
This Open Call is for individuals as well as collectives. Successful proposals will seek to examine AAA Collections in novel ways, and create new methods for thinking about libraries and archives.
Application Guidelines
1. Download and complete this form.
2. Create a Word document or PDF (max. five pages) with images and captions of some of your relevant work.
3. Propose a budget and production outline.
Please email the documents specified above to samanthachao@aaa.org.hk by Monday, 11 December 2023. Please use the subject line “Open Call – AAA Zine Residency - [Your Name].” We will respond to applicants by Thursday, 11 January 2024.
