6.12.2008

readers speak: mankind mag.



Wow--- you all are FAST! Within moments of this post, my inbox was flooded with questions about the upcoming magazine. I'm so excited that you are looking forward to it (at least as much as I am!) and I think you'll really enjoy the result!

For now, I need your help. I'm still compiling all of the key aspects for the mag but wanted to give you readers a chance to speak up and give me insight as to your preferences. Essentially, this PDF publication is for YOU, so I want you to love it.

In the comment section, answer the following questions:
1. Name your top three publications that you subscribe to and/or look forward to reading.
2. What is it about these publications that you love?
3. What is missing from the magazine world?

Each commenter will be entered into a drawing where FIVE winners will receive a FREE special edition copy of the magazine, which will include articles and artists not included in the PDF version.

Ready, set, GO!
[I promise that next week I'll be back to regular scheduled posting and there will be no magazine talk for at least a few days. Needless to say, I'm a bit sleep-deprived, so forgive me for my lack of posts lately!]

66 comments:

Anonymous said...

you must be so excited about this new venture! it is wonderful :o)
1. top three publications...
- Marie Claire, In Style and Canadian House and Home (or style at home..also canadian)

2. What is it about these publications that you love?
- Marie Claire is a great combination of fashion, pop culture AND worldy, relevant, smart topics.
- In Style gives a peak into the life of celebs (fashion, beauty, home section, party section etc) without seeming elitist.
- I love home decor & they usually have great house tours. The fact that they showcase tons of stuff i can find locally in Toronto and that ship to Canada is an added bonus

3. What is missing from the magazine world? a mainstream mag that manages to speak to (on a regular basis) and reflect women/people of various ethnic backgrounds...i can elaborate on this if needed...but if this magazine existed i would be the first subscriber!

/// said...

THANK YOU, KAY! :)

Decor Fellow: James Saavedra said...

There are way, way too many mags I adore... alas my favorite House & Garden is no more... of course we like pretty pictures but I also look to the story. Oh, and definitely the EDITOR'S letter... it is often the most interesting part. I prefer a letter that has a real message and NOT just a recap of what we are going to find on the following pages. I think Donna Warner of Met home and Margaret Russell of Elle Deco do this well.

What is missing: The idea of giving back.

Oh, and sleep --schmeep. The day is for going out and getting :)

Jessie Cacciola said...

I'm just sick of marketing, gossip and generic taste. what you give us on this blog is fresh and real. that's all i could ever hope for. that's what's missing from most magazines, so i won't even compare. i currently only subscribe to New York Magazine, because it seems to be the most well-rounded, and honest..and therefore, refreshing.

warm wishes on this project,

- Jessie -

Unknown said...

1- American Vogue
American Elle
Vanity fair
Elle decor American edition
Plus several mags from my country
2-quality of photos, design,and in Vf case well written articles
3-What is missing is real inspiration,and coherence.

yasmine said...

my answers are:

1.) nylon, cookie, beautiful decay (alternatives are: juxtapoz, make magazine or giant robot)
2.) nylon for the fashion, cookie because i'm in the kid biz, beautiful decay for art (other 3 for general art and culture kinds stuff)
3.) i agree with the stuff about having more "ethnic" folks, as i for one, fall in that category and it's nice to be able to relate; i think many american mags have a tendency to get watered down; i sometimes subscribe to uk and japan vogue and other international publications, and they are MUCH more daring in all aspects of fashion, themes, execution, etc...what i do LOVE are make and craft magazine...despite magazines about making stuff have been out there for a while, the folks at make have a nice, fresh approach to their mag

Rorosto said...

This looks so exciting!
1) I love The L Magazine, a free weekly here in NYC; just discovered how much I adore Interview magazine; am currently looking for a magazine to replace Nylon, which I am falling out of love with quickly.

2) The L Magazine is great because the writers have a real perspective and are always funny and write as though they are your friend recounting a good story.
Interview magazine is awesome because it brings together all of these interesting people and lets you in on the process behind the making of a fashion line, or a writers book, or anything along those lines, without sounding like it's trying to sell an opinion. It seems like something you could learn from. And Nylon has fallen out of grace with me because I am feeling too old for it now at 25. It is too concerned with being "cool" in my mind, and nothing seems complete - they'll have a fashion spread with one editorial photograph that seems like it should be an introduction to a whole story or string of photos, but that's it!

3) What is missing is something that can provide inspiration without being cheesy and too much like "this is how you make a fun doily inspired collar." I like to read magazines to take something away and hope that it fuels my own creativity, but instructions like they had in Adorn seem to cookie cutter to me sometimes. I need something more abstract to make me see beauty in everything around me, or to make me aspire to my own version of something. For instance your Daily's are amazing to me. I could read those forever.
-Aurora

Krissy | Paper Schmaper said...

Hi Erin! I'm so excited for you and for the magazine. Here are my answers:
1. Domino Magazine, Real Simple, and Martha Stewart Living.
2. I love the stories, the inspiration on home decor and graphic design, the recipes, and the photos.
3. I agree with James here: The idea of giving back is very true. You do this already, so I know the magazine will be amazing- just like you, girl :)

Cindy said...

1. Name your top three publications that you subscribe to and/or look forward to reading.
- Martha Stewart Living
- Selvedge (pricey British textile mag)
- Fast Company

2. What is it about these publications that you love?
- Photography
- New Ideas + Information
- Inspiration that makes me ask "why didn't i think of that" or gets me off the couch and doing something

3. What is missing from the magazine world?
- I don't care about celebrities and they seem to have overtaken all areas of design. What about the professionals who create everything they touch!
- I'm not sure what it is, but I don't buy magazines like I used to. I love the personal interactions I find online. I know I love your ezine because of that and you, Erin. The people are so interesting and there's only 1 degree of separation instead of 6. It's just real folk.

Thanks for asking - see what I mean? I'm sorry, my answers are always so long.

Anonymous said...

In random order...
1. Domino- home decor topics, lots of great photos chalk full of ideas "interpretive" text and "stories," the "Destination" profile every issue. (jeeze i'm into "quotes" today...)

2. Sunset- This one is SUPER appealing in that it profiles living in the west (where I live), which is what i love most about it. i love the photos of beautiful places and tips on where to visit every season, the recipes, and tidbits on home and garden.

3. The Sun Magazine- in their words, they are "an independent, ad-free monthly magazine that for more than thirty years has used photographs to invoke the splendor and heartache of being human." yeah, wow. What I love about it-- great interviews with great visionaries (often with a liberal bent), the essays, poems and photographs from contributors, the "Readers Write" section where they choose a theme each month and readers write in their stories related to that theme. and the closing, "Sunbeams" of great quotes.

What's missing? I'd say that the abundance of ads often segments my viewing experience (except the Sun). What's missing is visual stimulation that piques my interest, intellect, and creativity that isn't interrupted or weighted down by ads. What's missing is the quietness of words and images without advertisements.

Eva said...

- Domino, Dwell, Cottage Living

- Why I like them: Inspiration, ideas that I can really do/afford. Homes that are my taste, not glitzy, shiny, weird, or overdecorated.

- What's missing: A magazine that's focused on simple living, tasteful and appealing ideas and good design but on realistic budgets (No $10,000 couches). But isn't an earthy-crunchy, birkenstocky, make your own underwear at home from compost type of thing. If that makes any sense.

Anonymous said...

Domino
Blueprint (no more but I have to include it because I haven't found a sub yet)
MS Weddings

I used to obsess over mags and I am liking fewer and fewer. I am having a hard time finding any that I like actually. And even my favorites have been disappointing as of late.

I love eye candy and I don't really care how much anything costs. I read mags simply to be inspired. Though it is fun to see real people and down to earth perspectives (which is why blogs are replacing mags for me)

I think magazines need to be evolving along with this whole blogging thing. Most magazines don't seem all that tuned into the blogging world which I think is a huge mistake. Many times I open up a magazine and I've seen half of it on the Internet. Or- they get stuck in a rut and don't freshen things up with the changing times.

I loved Victoria growing up because you actually felt like you were part of this special, blissful world. It was purely for inspiration. It had beautiful styling and smart writing for smart women. We need a newer, fresher up to date version of Victoria.

Phew!

Can't wait to see what you come up with!

C

aimee said...

favorite mags (4, sorry)

1) raw vision
2) esopus
3) fast company
4) art & decoration

why:
raw vision & esopus show work from fresh, unknown/lesser known artists that we probably wouldn't find out about otherwise.

fast company explores how creativity & inspiration is used in other industries. for example, they often interview artists and creative professionals to figure out what makes their clock tick - and and then they report on companies that use those fresh techniques to break traditional business rules. i think people from any industry could read this mag & come away inspired by something.

art & decoration styles everything so beautifully. you don't always feel like you have to buy One Particular Product to make the look. it just has great inspirational cues - color combinations, patterns, design styling, everything.

what's missing in other mags:
sense of community/collaboration/
idea exchanges with other art & design enthusiasts. you've got it here; i bet it will shine through in mankind mag too.

/// said...

WOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW thank you so so much! :) This is totally helpful and I will absolutely utilize a lot of these ideas in the debut!

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

/// said...

AND, I'll contact you if you've won the free debut issue---- I'll wait for a few others to respond and then close the polls, so to speak. :)

ren said...

Venuszine
Mary Englebriet’s Home Companion
Nude (British art/lifestyle mag)

I love that Venuszine focuses on all areas of creativity now, not just music. And I like the d.i.y. attitude, limited advertising and general feeling of…realness. Lately I have been really turned off by magazines that show ONLY high priced items or all the same items as every other mag.

Mary Englebreit really surprises me. It seems like it could be too precious but it’s really rather cutting edge with the artists and designers featured. And it’s so darn colorful that it just makes me happy.

Nude seems to get all those other things that the mags I like leave out. Interesting artists, comic books, movies and it doesn’t take any of it too seriously.

What I think is missing is relevance to me. And if I think it’s missing, then it’s probably missing for others as well. I don’t need all the family relationship articles of women’s mags, but I love the recipes and clever crafting ideas, I don’t want the health advice from cooking magazines or the design advice that simply doesn’t apply to people who actually LIVE in an apt. (Why do no designers use bookshelves? And why do they all think I want to display my cookware?) There’s a lot for youngins and a lot for mom’s but when you aren’t young anymore and you don’t have kids and you work for a living wage but love art and design where do you turn? I want a little from column A and a little from column B. art, design, cooking, literature…all in one place. Which might be a little too much to ask…

Melissa @ The Inspired Room said...

I am so excited for your magazine, erin! You are one hardworking and generous girl, I know whatever you choose to do, it will be fabulous!

xoxo

Kate Moore said...

TOP 3: Vogue, Selvedge, Dumbo Feather.
I LOVE: Photography,interests reflect mine, forward forecasts and up to date trends, personal interviews with artisans - actually, I think this is all the same things I love about your blog. Eek, how interesting.
WHAT'S MISSING: Ah, see, I am in the print media world, and can safely say - nothing. Nadda. There's a store in Melbourne called MagNation and I don't even think it even touches on how much is out there (and more importantly, has BEEN out there). Mags have short shelf lives in Australia. Not many can say they've hit five, 10 or 20 years. Even our longest running periodical shut up shop this year.

jennifer said...

1. Domino (swoon!), Blueprint (was close to having the total package in my opinion, RIP), Organic Style (an oldie but goodie, also RIP), Vanity Fair (interesting articles), Bon Appetit (love the recent redesign), New York Magazine (my subway mainstay)...I'm a bit of a magazine junkie I have to say.

2. I'm also a visual person so there have to be beautiful, inspiring images. I like thought-provoking ideas and articles, and interviews with makers and thinkers.

3. I think we're missing a magazine that targets a creative person's (not just a consumer's) whole lifestyle (not just arts and crafts). Print magazines also lack the interactivity that the online magazines and blogs offer.

I love what decor fellow said:
"What is missing: The idea of giving back." That would really be a nice change in perspective from the rags I'm used to reading.

Hila said...

This is so exciting!!

1. Nylon, Frankie, and Lula magazine

2. Their quirkiness, beautiful layout, dreamy editorials, intelligent articles that don't assume I am obesessed with wanting to look younger/thinner/better just because I am a woman and that are actually on a variety of topics besides beauty products and actresses - i.e. literature, art, culture, etc. They also promote new talent and give a chance for this talent to be heard and seen.

3. All that I stated in point two. I would also love to see more articles on books/literature/authors as I feel that this is lacking. I'm not sure if this fits into your specific magazine, but it's just a thought. Plus I am sick of seeing overtly pornographic fashion/design editorials. I want beauty to come back in all its complexity.

I hope this helps! I can sympathise with the lack of sleep - I'm writing non-stop these days!

/// said...

EEK--- THANK YOU SO MUCH GUYS! :) Keep onnnnnnnn coming... ;)

AMM blog said...

Hhmm, top 3, that's hard...probably
1) Domino
2)Lucky
3) Dwell

I love the standard of style & choices featured in the magazines. It seems that only the latest & greatest makes each issue & I appreciate that not just anything is featured.

What's missing...that's hard too. For me, I'd love more DIY stuff that's not from Martha Stewart. I'm sure if I really thought about I'd come up with something better but for now that's all I can think of.

Big Congrats, so exciting!

Ann Marie said...

MORE, Metropolitan Home, & Oprah

What I love about MORE is that it written for woman 40 and over. (I fall into this category being 43!) I really appreciate a magazine designed to cover issues important to woman my age. Met Home: All I can say is that I really like the homes and interiors they feature. Oprah - let's face it, the woman gets the best interviews, covers relevant issues, and cares about giving back. What more could you ask for?

What is missing from the magazine world? More features about real people living on real budgets.

It is so great that you are following your heart and doing what you love. I for one appreciate your candor and generosity.

Barbara said...

This is great Erin! I'm really happy for you.

Let's see...
1) Southern Living - love the gardens, recipes, decor, and reading it reminds me of the south which is more like home to me

2) Southern Accents - more of the same

3) Domino - Love the design, and the fresh feel of the content. It's current.

What's missing: I know a lot of people mentioned too many ads, but I think the problem is too many unrelated ads. I've often looked up stores or products I've seen in ads, however they are always related to the content of the magazine. It's ridiculous to see drug ads, etc in decorating magazines.

What's missing? I agree on the budget issue. So many things featured are well beyond any reasonable budget. I love it all for reference and ideas, but inevitably you have to go scouring elsewhere trying to find a look you love. And more articles that aren't just a bunch of products being featured, but about style and the elements to look for and some actual content that can help people achieve the looks that inspire them.

Anonymous said...

Magazines
Marie Claire Idees (French)
Selvedge
American Style

Missing-small indie businesses, organic environmental design information.
I really love Selvedge, even the ads are lovely and they offer great information and inspiration.

danica said...

1. frankie, *once more with feeling* and lula

2. I feel that they are more intimate magazines that really know the style of their readers. Each magazine has a beautiful layout, unique and different content and fabulous photography.

3. I agree with people who have commented on budget. Most magazines feature clothing and objects that aspire to an unachieveable ideal. What I have enjoyed about your zine so far is that you're not directly focused on selling something, but more interested in engaging with beauty from a muli-faceted perspective. Keep it coming, Erin :)

Teri Lyn Fisher said...

I LOVE you site! So many great things to look at!!!!!

Anonymous said...

Allright,

1-I like: Coté Sud (French), LivingEtc (british) and Sunset Magazine (west coast travel and home)

2- missing from the rest: Images and decors that will stand the test of time. In depth articles that make you thing and dream.

3- Missing? I miss having a magazine in my magazine. All I see is advertisements.

Rina said...

OK, First of all, this is amazing! and thanks so much for think about us,
3 publications
Wallpaper - good pictures, design news and the magazine design is great too

Vogue - because inspite of everything vogue is still the one, amazing photographers, fashion production, a top magazine

I-D - because is young, revel, and you can find the last trend, you can imagine yourself in this magazine,It makes you dream, I love that!

Missing from the magazine world, more experimentation.

Eden From Sweden said...

1. Oprah, Sunset and Real Simple.
2. They address things that are important to me (relationships, the environment, literature and film, cute but realistic clothing and regional topics (Sunset).
3. A magazine (like yours will hopefully be) that isn't trying to "sell" you a life, that it celebrates thoughtful creativity without putting brands and price tags on everything in the picture - back to basics, beautifully.

Mrs.French said...

1. Cookie, Domino and alas I am still a loyal subject to Blueprint.

2. The effortless style. Gorgeous, but attainable.
3. More inspiration...less advertising.

Anna said...

1) Australian Harpers Bazaar, Italian Vogue, and Nylon.

2) I love the photo shoots of Italian vogue, the local news in aussie bazaar, and everything about nylon.

3) I think your mag would add to what's already around in the art sense. Most mags I get/see are more fashion related, and I'd love to see more about unknown artists. Also, there aren't much personal features in mags that aren't carefully worded magazines, so something like a daily per issue would be awesome!

Good luck! I can't wait for it!

littlemithi said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
rebecca said...

1. Giant Robot, LivingEtc and Amelia's Magazine.

2. I love Giant Robot simply because I'm a huge fan of Japanese-inspired pop culture; LivingEtc because of the inspiration to be gained from other people's interiors and the fact they love to on focus bold, bright colour; and Amelia's Magazine because of the great 'moody' photography, indie music reviews and exposure of fresh new artists.

3. I think that sometimes elements of genuine creativity are missing from alot of publications, ie. how things look somewhat 'plastic' and fake. I would like to see more articles based on real life and less of the celebrity (as quaint handmade also points out).

littlemithi said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
littlemithi said...

I hardly ever buy magazines these days - can find so much more inspiration online, and the mags I want to look through I can usually get at the library (and then decide if I want to actually buy a solid copy). Like the fact that places like Readymade are now offering a pdf only subscription (theres only so much paper we can collect!)

My faves currently are Selvedge, Amelia's Magazine and LivingEtc (all British). Mostly for the asthetics and inspiration.

http://www.selvedge.org/
http://www.ameliasmagazine.com/
http://www.livingetc.com/

Used to be a bog fan of readymade, but am slowly growing out of it as more ads and badly thought out projects come in.

Whats missing? Real people ...

(the deleted posts were me ... coz I'd gotten the name of one of the mags wrong - shows how little I read them!)

Anonymous said...

-Craft
-Selvedge
-Country Living (UK version)

These are the only three print mags I subscribe to but I love Le Cool online regonal mags too http://lecool.com/

These are my top three because I mostly enjoy reading about creative people - their environments, inspiration, business ventures, etc. Beautiful images are nice too (although Craft isn't a glossy, lovely image type of mag)

You already offer insights into creative people's lives in Design For Mankind and I would love to see more of the same in a mag.

In the way of what's currently missing in the mag world? More untapped talent - artists who aren't all over the blogosphere, maybe not online at all. Also, I'd love to see creative people from various genres, backgrounds, countries and age groups.

And I'd really like to NOT see a bloody celebrity, they only contribute to the dumbing-down culture.

Thanks for asking Erin!

Camilla said...

My favourites are
-Embroidery
-Craft
and probably LivingEtc

I used to subscribe to Selvedge, but felt the quantity of actual magazine compared to the price was a bit lacking. I also subscribe to Elle Decoration, but i'm starting to fall out of love with that a bit as they feature more and more 'celebs' and less and less stuff that is relevant to me and my life.

Embroidery is the magazine of the Embroiders Guild and I find it a great inspiration as it often features very cutting edge artists, not what I would initially expect from the Embroiders Guild.

Craft is the magazine of the Crafts Council and again it features a lot more cutting edge stuff than I would at first imagine. I also read 'Craft zine' which I like,but sometimes get annoyed with.

I read too many magazines, but I have yet to find one that's the perfect mix- maybe you will be the person to provide that!

Sparrow Sparrow said...

Favorite Magazines:

American Vogue
Print
Communication Arts

What do I love about them: I am a sucker for fashion photography. I work in advertising so ads (that are well done) don't bother me at all. Especially in the magazines I mentioned above, the ads are often as interesting and inspirational as the rest of the magazine. And of course I love the articles in the later two magazines that focus on interesting artists and works of art... of course you already do that!

What's missing? I'm going to go with diversity on this one, I absolutely love learning about art and culture from completely different worlds than I'm used to.

please sir said...

I don't subscribe to a particular magazine. I take visits to the bookstore and browse through issues...if I like what I see I make a purchase. I like a broad range of ideas of topics, which I think is missing from many current magazines. As designers and artists we want inspiration from all types of disciplines. I think a broad range of topics - art, interiors, music, and fashion across the globe is going to be what sets future magazines apart. Also, real designers and their stories - how did they get where they are? I find that very inspiring.

I also like the direction of online, free publications like Blanket. Fresh, inspiring, heavy with photographs, and highlights new talent. Good luck!

layersofmeaning said...

1.
1.Domino
2. Lula
3. Real Simple

2. Love the layouts, ideas & inspirations

3. Originality! every magazine is starting to looks the same!!!

alison richards said...

1. Online, I love Design*Sponge and always look forward to that one. magazines, i like Yen and Frankie in Australia
2. Design*Sponge, because there are plenty of ideas i can implement, and because it's just so inspiring and down to earth
Yen because it's such a no-bullshit mag... like yeah there's fancy fashion, but there;s always proper journalism.
frankie because its cute and different and has very unique stories. its also pretty inspiring
3. i think more magazines need to discuss news issues important to readers. i am an avid newspaper reader, but a lot of the stuff in there doesn't relate to me as a 20-something female. i think that is what is missing. other than that, a magazine with DIY that's cute and that i would actually want to do (and be able to accomplish) or something hands-on like that :D

blah said...

Top 3

Old Victoria magazines
Vogue Living Austraila
The English Home

I love about the mags above


1. Mag
flowers
beautiful things ( often antique for no.1

2. mAg
innovation that's colourful and unique

3. mag ( M-claire maison)
colour and international flavour

Whats missing

I know this isnt really your scene - but real beauty beyond cool and funky )

Also, flowers, silverware treasures that mean something to the owner - not just styled.

Hugs bug - now you've got me thinking!

Unknown said...

1. living etc, home beautiful (australian) and oprah

2. great images and ideas/resources and intropective articles.

3. this is a hard question. i think good writing is pretty rare. many a times, magazine articles have "foregone conclusions".

i just want to say that i'm very thankful you are doing this! you are an inspiration.

Jake Boen said...

1, a dwell
b readymade
c view camera

2 Architecture, doing things differnetly, not mainstreem

3 True inspiration!

Hope to see your magizine soon!

Inklore said...

I don't have a top three..I have no loyalty. I usually buy based on the covers each month. I like great room redos, good food, and nice DIY. What's missing...affordable art, real life gardening, using inspiration to create something new, not just copy it.

Looking forward to the new magazine!

Anonymous said...

I tend to go cover to cover, month to month.
I love the following magazines:
1. Coupe
2. Idea (just browsing, never buying, alas!)
3. Creative Review
I also love Living Etc/British Elle because I am an interior design nut as well as I will pick up any Elle magazine that people toss out after reading.

I want to find out more about the creative habits of folks. Look into their sketchbooks. Have some design book reviews. I don't want anything celebrity related, though I doubt I need to tell you that!!
I want the magazine to be authentic. Not fluffy or fake artsy. It might be interesting to talk about some issues designers or creative artists meet with and how they overcome it. Things to think about..a new technique to try at home or a tool, like gocco, screen printing, mono printing etc.
Ok. I am out of ideas now.

Anonymous said...

Oh! I also subscribe to Nylon.

●• Thereza said...

i only read mostly graphics and illustration publications: Grafik (uk), creative review (uk) and eye magazine.
whats missing in the mags world is a fresh and greater variety of new and upcoming designers who we only seem to find online...
:)

Karen said...

1) Not as many mags as much as catalogs like Toast and Anthropology. Also love Marie Claire and Domino.

2) I love the catalogs because they have a dreamy, ethereal quality to them (which I love in design); the mags are great sources of information and different types of inspiration; they're varied and focus on different aspects of fashion/design in each issue.

3) Real people. Indie artists. Small-time folks. I don't mind seeing fabulously expensive design, but I love seeing real people, with real budgets--how do they design their spaces? How do they re-work thrift items? How are they creative? I guess I'm a voyeur at heart!

/// said...

Wow. I owe you guys the world. Your advice is absolutely priceless.

THANK YOU! :)

Julia said...

Okay, I'm a little slow, here! But these are my thoughts:

1. Country Home, Country Living, Real Simple
2. I love the big glossy photographs, the way the simple things become beautiful. I love the sweet articles too!
3. A personal touch! I would love to "know" the people writing their thoughts and impressions!

dee said...

My faves are Domino, Lucky, and US Weekly. Domino because it feeds my love of design and pretty spaces; Lucky because I'm obsessed with fashion and I love all their ideas, even if some of them seem a little off sometimes; and US Weekly because it's the best way to unwind (for me). And with Domino and Lucky, I love the sticker tabs, as I am a big fan of organization and lists.

I think what's missing in the magazine world is a smart women's publication that encompasses the working woman's lifestyle. It would be great to put Domino and Lucky together, mixed in with some good, solid info on budgeting/buying homes, plus a bit of newsy stuff. I think Marie Claire USED to be the best women's lifestyle mag about five years ago, but no more. And so now I stick to specialty mags.

Hope that helps a bit:)

Meg said...

Martha Stewart - love the pictures, information and inspriration
Blueprint/Domino - LOVED Blueprint, espc. the DIY projects and general vibe. Domino is ok.
The Bark - I love my puppies and this is just full of great info on dog care, food, exercise and current info.

I would love a focus on smaller, independent, affordable art & design, that I could actually afford or replicate myself. Green or sustainable living is also something I would be very interested in, geared to small spaces. Also, wine, food and puppies are always good!

/// said...

EEK! THANK YOU! :)

Anonymous said...

i have no subsriptions running but that's mainly because i live in mexico. Subcriptions are are just too expensive because of the shipping rates.

i do regularly buy these:

1. Architectural Digest (usually the spanish and mexican version). Because this magazine goes beyond interior with other design and art topics and personal stories.
2. JPGmag. Because the magazine is from and for (hobby)photographers. It's interesting to see different views and interpretations on the same topic.
3. BABY. It's subtitle "source of inspiration" says it all ...

i can't really say what's missing in the magazine world. There are probably tons of things available, just not here :(

Anonymous said...

love the picture by the way ...

Daydream Lily said...

1.
Frankie - www.frankie.com.au
Yen - www.YENmag.net
Lula

2.
Frankie I love the layout, beautiful images, illustration - they always have a feature artist, thats my favourite bit. and another section called "my collection" I love that too.
YEN I love the illustrations, articles, fashion shoots are always really beautiful.
Lula - gorgeous imagery

3.
a magazine that focuses more on indie art and design. frankie and yen do a bit.

Fledgling said...

"nest" from editor Joseph Holtzman: Looks like it's extinct. Too good to last.

"domus"

"Sunset": There's a LOT of bang for the buck.

design-report (German), Designnet (Korean), intramuros (French): Because everything's cooler when it's from someplace else.

I'd subscribe to a magazine called, "Bad Bones" for tract home dwellers. I'd like to deal constructively with my ceiling envy (height matters).
-N.

Anonymous said...

I'm surprised no one's said Harper's Bazaar yet.

The photo editorials are well styled, imo. But most of all, I love the writing. The writing is very educational and interesting at the same time. As a journalist, I much prefer Harper's Bazaar over any magazine.

ThoughtfulAct said...

1. Good; real simple; and Discover

2. Good a great no-nonsense (read "celeb") mag. the byline is "for people who give a [darn]"--the last word changed for sensitive eyes. Real Simple is exactly that--real simple. It is to the point with great decor/organizing ideas. I love discover because i'm a nerd.

3. As others have mentioned the last thing that is needed is another celeb focused magazine. I think the market would benefit from a magazine that highlights artists/crafts-people. maybe combination of domino and real simple except focusing on lesser known artists (all over etsy) instead of commercialized stores.

/// said...

Wow--- I couldn't thank you enough. Your advice is spot-on, guys, and I can only hope to create something that takes a cue from each of you!

THANK YOU.

brooke said...

1. Real Simple, Domino & Anthropologie catalogs.
2. Real Simple: I like that it's chock full of such a variety of different things, and I love the little things you can punch out in the back. Domino: I really enjoy seeing other people's houses and design choices. Many times I come away from an issue of Domino thinking, "I want to do that, only I want to do it this way or that way" to make it my own. Anthropologie: Sheer visual stimulation. Love it.
3. Not much is missing from the magazine world, in my opinion. There are so many magazines out there that it's hard to even know what exists. It seems like there's a magazine for every obscure niche, and of course there are a lot of magazines that are just general. I do think that there aren't many magazines about handmade goods. Leah mentioned in the comments that it would be good to have a magazine that "highlights artists/craftspeople... focusing on lesser known artists (all over etsy) instead of commercialized stores," and I couldn't agree more. I love looking at Etsy shops, even though I have no money to buy things, simply for the inspiration they provide.

Katrina said...

oh goodness, first off this is always changing for me because there are so many literary journals, design mags, fashion mags, and art mags and there is also a lovely little indie magazine store a few blocks from my house that helps with my obsession. okay:

1. art on paper; esopus; vogue.
2. i love the coverage of work in "art on paper", it shows prints, drawings, photos, books, and ephemera that are all too often left out of big fine arts worlds; i love the layout and images and amazing ephemera included in esopus, it's a visual feast; i hate to admit it with all the good indie mags out there but vogue is still a favorite, the fashion shoots just make me swoon.
3. what's missing is a magazine that combines these things: up-close looks at artists off the mainstream, visual eye-candy throughout, photo shoots that make me swoon. i guess in general, amazing design with amazing curation, with an indie view at the art world.

eek! that sounds like a big order...

Kate said...

This took me forever to think about!

1. New York, Print, and Domino. One magazine I would subscribe to if it wasn't so expensive (due to it being in the UK) is Amelia's
2. I love staying on top of what's going on in NY and I think it is an incredibly well designed magazine for a weekly mag and it throws in a lot of humor-which I love. I like knowing what's going on in the art & design world in Print and love their Regional Design Issue to death. As for Domino, I have a love/hate relationship with it because I like subscribing to a home magazine and love it for inspiration, but I can't help but feel like it's a little cheesy sometimes and geared towards a crowd that's older and wealthier than me. Some of the suggestions make my eyes roll big time. Amelia's is full of amazing art and everytime I buy it I treasure it, it's a piece of art itself.

3. What's missing from the magazine world is a magazine that is full of all my favorite blog posts from blogs I read daily! Seriously. No one reports on affordable and/or inspirational art/craft and fashion in a way I can get into. No one talks about inspiration. Magazine rarely blow my mind or inspire me the way blogs do. I want a look into the lives of artists and creative people.

Neutral Dwelling said...

My magazines that I subscribe to:
Florida Design
Metropolitan Home
Traditional Home

I love they eye candy in all of these magazines!

What I think is missing- magazines based on affordable great design. Because it doesn't really have to cost a fortune to have a fantastic look.

welcome.

because beauty lies in the details of design. in the pencil shavings, in the blueberry waffles. the vintage dress, framed portrait, old postcard.

design is inevitable. celebrated. design for mankind.

6.12.2008

readers speak: mankind mag.



Wow--- you all are FAST! Within moments of this post, my inbox was flooded with questions about the upcoming magazine. I'm so excited that you are looking forward to it (at least as much as I am!) and I think you'll really enjoy the result!

For now, I need your help. I'm still compiling all of the key aspects for the mag but wanted to give you readers a chance to speak up and give me insight as to your preferences. Essentially, this PDF publication is for YOU, so I want you to love it.

In the comment section, answer the following questions:
1. Name your top three publications that you subscribe to and/or look forward to reading.
2. What is it about these publications that you love?
3. What is missing from the magazine world?

Each commenter will be entered into a drawing where FIVE winners will receive a FREE special edition copy of the magazine, which will include articles and artists not included in the PDF version.

Ready, set, GO!
[I promise that next week I'll be back to regular scheduled posting and there will be no magazine talk for at least a few days. Needless to say, I'm a bit sleep-deprived, so forgive me for my lack of posts lately!]

66 comments:

Anonymous said...

you must be so excited about this new venture! it is wonderful :o)
1. top three publications...
- Marie Claire, In Style and Canadian House and Home (or style at home..also canadian)

2. What is it about these publications that you love?
- Marie Claire is a great combination of fashion, pop culture AND worldy, relevant, smart topics.
- In Style gives a peak into the life of celebs (fashion, beauty, home section, party section etc) without seeming elitist.
- I love home decor & they usually have great house tours. The fact that they showcase tons of stuff i can find locally in Toronto and that ship to Canada is an added bonus

3. What is missing from the magazine world? a mainstream mag that manages to speak to (on a regular basis) and reflect women/people of various ethnic backgrounds...i can elaborate on this if needed...but if this magazine existed i would be the first subscriber!

/// said...

THANK YOU, KAY! :)

Decor Fellow: James Saavedra said...

There are way, way too many mags I adore... alas my favorite House & Garden is no more... of course we like pretty pictures but I also look to the story. Oh, and definitely the EDITOR'S letter... it is often the most interesting part. I prefer a letter that has a real message and NOT just a recap of what we are going to find on the following pages. I think Donna Warner of Met home and Margaret Russell of Elle Deco do this well.

What is missing: The idea of giving back.

Oh, and sleep --schmeep. The day is for going out and getting :)

Jessie Cacciola said...

I'm just sick of marketing, gossip and generic taste. what you give us on this blog is fresh and real. that's all i could ever hope for. that's what's missing from most magazines, so i won't even compare. i currently only subscribe to New York Magazine, because it seems to be the most well-rounded, and honest..and therefore, refreshing.

warm wishes on this project,

- Jessie -

Unknown said...

1- American Vogue
American Elle
Vanity fair
Elle decor American edition
Plus several mags from my country
2-quality of photos, design,and in Vf case well written articles
3-What is missing is real inspiration,and coherence.

yasmine said...

my answers are:

1.) nylon, cookie, beautiful decay (alternatives are: juxtapoz, make magazine or giant robot)
2.) nylon for the fashion, cookie because i'm in the kid biz, beautiful decay for art (other 3 for general art and culture kinds stuff)
3.) i agree with the stuff about having more "ethnic" folks, as i for one, fall in that category and it's nice to be able to relate; i think many american mags have a tendency to get watered down; i sometimes subscribe to uk and japan vogue and other international publications, and they are MUCH more daring in all aspects of fashion, themes, execution, etc...what i do LOVE are make and craft magazine...despite magazines about making stuff have been out there for a while, the folks at make have a nice, fresh approach to their mag

Rorosto said...

This looks so exciting!
1) I love The L Magazine, a free weekly here in NYC; just discovered how much I adore Interview magazine; am currently looking for a magazine to replace Nylon, which I am falling out of love with quickly.

2) The L Magazine is great because the writers have a real perspective and are always funny and write as though they are your friend recounting a good story.
Interview magazine is awesome because it brings together all of these interesting people and lets you in on the process behind the making of a fashion line, or a writers book, or anything along those lines, without sounding like it's trying to sell an opinion. It seems like something you could learn from. And Nylon has fallen out of grace with me because I am feeling too old for it now at 25. It is too concerned with being "cool" in my mind, and nothing seems complete - they'll have a fashion spread with one editorial photograph that seems like it should be an introduction to a whole story or string of photos, but that's it!

3) What is missing is something that can provide inspiration without being cheesy and too much like "this is how you make a fun doily inspired collar." I like to read magazines to take something away and hope that it fuels my own creativity, but instructions like they had in Adorn seem to cookie cutter to me sometimes. I need something more abstract to make me see beauty in everything around me, or to make me aspire to my own version of something. For instance your Daily's are amazing to me. I could read those forever.
-Aurora

Krissy | Paper Schmaper said...

Hi Erin! I'm so excited for you and for the magazine. Here are my answers:
1. Domino Magazine, Real Simple, and Martha Stewart Living.
2. I love the stories, the inspiration on home decor and graphic design, the recipes, and the photos.
3. I agree with James here: The idea of giving back is very true. You do this already, so I know the magazine will be amazing- just like you, girl :)

Cindy said...

1. Name your top three publications that you subscribe to and/or look forward to reading.
- Martha Stewart Living
- Selvedge (pricey British textile mag)
- Fast Company

2. What is it about these publications that you love?
- Photography
- New Ideas + Information
- Inspiration that makes me ask "why didn't i think of that" or gets me off the couch and doing something

3. What is missing from the magazine world?
- I don't care about celebrities and they seem to have overtaken all areas of design. What about the professionals who create everything they touch!
- I'm not sure what it is, but I don't buy magazines like I used to. I love the personal interactions I find online. I know I love your ezine because of that and you, Erin. The people are so interesting and there's only 1 degree of separation instead of 6. It's just real folk.

Thanks for asking - see what I mean? I'm sorry, my answers are always so long.

Anonymous said...

In random order...
1. Domino- home decor topics, lots of great photos chalk full of ideas "interpretive" text and "stories," the "Destination" profile every issue. (jeeze i'm into "quotes" today...)

2. Sunset- This one is SUPER appealing in that it profiles living in the west (where I live), which is what i love most about it. i love the photos of beautiful places and tips on where to visit every season, the recipes, and tidbits on home and garden.

3. The Sun Magazine- in their words, they are "an independent, ad-free monthly magazine that for more than thirty years has used photographs to invoke the splendor and heartache of being human." yeah, wow. What I love about it-- great interviews with great visionaries (often with a liberal bent), the essays, poems and photographs from contributors, the "Readers Write" section where they choose a theme each month and readers write in their stories related to that theme. and the closing, "Sunbeams" of great quotes.

What's missing? I'd say that the abundance of ads often segments my viewing experience (except the Sun). What's missing is visual stimulation that piques my interest, intellect, and creativity that isn't interrupted or weighted down by ads. What's missing is the quietness of words and images without advertisements.

Eva said...

- Domino, Dwell, Cottage Living

- Why I like them: Inspiration, ideas that I can really do/afford. Homes that are my taste, not glitzy, shiny, weird, or overdecorated.

- What's missing: A magazine that's focused on simple living, tasteful and appealing ideas and good design but on realistic budgets (No $10,000 couches). But isn't an earthy-crunchy, birkenstocky, make your own underwear at home from compost type of thing. If that makes any sense.

Anonymous said...

Domino
Blueprint (no more but I have to include it because I haven't found a sub yet)
MS Weddings

I used to obsess over mags and I am liking fewer and fewer. I am having a hard time finding any that I like actually. And even my favorites have been disappointing as of late.

I love eye candy and I don't really care how much anything costs. I read mags simply to be inspired. Though it is fun to see real people and down to earth perspectives (which is why blogs are replacing mags for me)

I think magazines need to be evolving along with this whole blogging thing. Most magazines don't seem all that tuned into the blogging world which I think is a huge mistake. Many times I open up a magazine and I've seen half of it on the Internet. Or- they get stuck in a rut and don't freshen things up with the changing times.

I loved Victoria growing up because you actually felt like you were part of this special, blissful world. It was purely for inspiration. It had beautiful styling and smart writing for smart women. We need a newer, fresher up to date version of Victoria.

Phew!

Can't wait to see what you come up with!

C

aimee said...

favorite mags (4, sorry)

1) raw vision
2) esopus
3) fast company
4) art & decoration

why:
raw vision & esopus show work from fresh, unknown/lesser known artists that we probably wouldn't find out about otherwise.

fast company explores how creativity & inspiration is used in other industries. for example, they often interview artists and creative professionals to figure out what makes their clock tick - and and then they report on companies that use those fresh techniques to break traditional business rules. i think people from any industry could read this mag & come away inspired by something.

art & decoration styles everything so beautifully. you don't always feel like you have to buy One Particular Product to make the look. it just has great inspirational cues - color combinations, patterns, design styling, everything.

what's missing in other mags:
sense of community/collaboration/
idea exchanges with other art & design enthusiasts. you've got it here; i bet it will shine through in mankind mag too.

/// said...

WOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW thank you so so much! :) This is totally helpful and I will absolutely utilize a lot of these ideas in the debut!

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

/// said...

AND, I'll contact you if you've won the free debut issue---- I'll wait for a few others to respond and then close the polls, so to speak. :)

ren said...

Venuszine
Mary Englebriet’s Home Companion
Nude (British art/lifestyle mag)

I love that Venuszine focuses on all areas of creativity now, not just music. And I like the d.i.y. attitude, limited advertising and general feeling of…realness. Lately I have been really turned off by magazines that show ONLY high priced items or all the same items as every other mag.

Mary Englebreit really surprises me. It seems like it could be too precious but it’s really rather cutting edge with the artists and designers featured. And it’s so darn colorful that it just makes me happy.

Nude seems to get all those other things that the mags I like leave out. Interesting artists, comic books, movies and it doesn’t take any of it too seriously.

What I think is missing is relevance to me. And if I think it’s missing, then it’s probably missing for others as well. I don’t need all the family relationship articles of women’s mags, but I love the recipes and clever crafting ideas, I don’t want the health advice from cooking magazines or the design advice that simply doesn’t apply to people who actually LIVE in an apt. (Why do no designers use bookshelves? And why do they all think I want to display my cookware?) There’s a lot for youngins and a lot for mom’s but when you aren’t young anymore and you don’t have kids and you work for a living wage but love art and design where do you turn? I want a little from column A and a little from column B. art, design, cooking, literature…all in one place. Which might be a little too much to ask…

Melissa @ The Inspired Room said...

I am so excited for your magazine, erin! You are one hardworking and generous girl, I know whatever you choose to do, it will be fabulous!

xoxo

Kate Moore said...

TOP 3: Vogue, Selvedge, Dumbo Feather.
I LOVE: Photography,interests reflect mine, forward forecasts and up to date trends, personal interviews with artisans - actually, I think this is all the same things I love about your blog. Eek, how interesting.
WHAT'S MISSING: Ah, see, I am in the print media world, and can safely say - nothing. Nadda. There's a store in Melbourne called MagNation and I don't even think it even touches on how much is out there (and more importantly, has BEEN out there). Mags have short shelf lives in Australia. Not many can say they've hit five, 10 or 20 years. Even our longest running periodical shut up shop this year.

jennifer said...

1. Domino (swoon!), Blueprint (was close to having the total package in my opinion, RIP), Organic Style (an oldie but goodie, also RIP), Vanity Fair (interesting articles), Bon Appetit (love the recent redesign), New York Magazine (my subway mainstay)...I'm a bit of a magazine junkie I have to say.

2. I'm also a visual person so there have to be beautiful, inspiring images. I like thought-provoking ideas and articles, and interviews with makers and thinkers.

3. I think we're missing a magazine that targets a creative person's (not just a consumer's) whole lifestyle (not just arts and crafts). Print magazines also lack the interactivity that the online magazines and blogs offer.

I love what decor fellow said:
"What is missing: The idea of giving back." That would really be a nice change in perspective from the rags I'm used to reading.

Hila said...

This is so exciting!!

1. Nylon, Frankie, and Lula magazine

2. Their quirkiness, beautiful layout, dreamy editorials, intelligent articles that don't assume I am obesessed with wanting to look younger/thinner/better just because I am a woman and that are actually on a variety of topics besides beauty products and actresses - i.e. literature, art, culture, etc. They also promote new talent and give a chance for this talent to be heard and seen.

3. All that I stated in point two. I would also love to see more articles on books/literature/authors as I feel that this is lacking. I'm not sure if this fits into your specific magazine, but it's just a thought. Plus I am sick of seeing overtly pornographic fashion/design editorials. I want beauty to come back in all its complexity.

I hope this helps! I can sympathise with the lack of sleep - I'm writing non-stop these days!

/// said...

EEK--- THANK YOU SO MUCH GUYS! :) Keep onnnnnnnn coming... ;)

AMM blog said...

Hhmm, top 3, that's hard...probably
1) Domino
2)Lucky
3) Dwell

I love the standard of style & choices featured in the magazines. It seems that only the latest & greatest makes each issue & I appreciate that not just anything is featured.

What's missing...that's hard too. For me, I'd love more DIY stuff that's not from Martha Stewart. I'm sure if I really thought about I'd come up with something better but for now that's all I can think of.

Big Congrats, so exciting!

Ann Marie said...

MORE, Metropolitan Home, & Oprah

What I love about MORE is that it written for woman 40 and over. (I fall into this category being 43!) I really appreciate a magazine designed to cover issues important to woman my age. Met Home: All I can say is that I really like the homes and interiors they feature. Oprah - let's face it, the woman gets the best interviews, covers relevant issues, and cares about giving back. What more could you ask for?

What is missing from the magazine world? More features about real people living on real budgets.

It is so great that you are following your heart and doing what you love. I for one appreciate your candor and generosity.

Barbara said...

This is great Erin! I'm really happy for you.

Let's see...
1) Southern Living - love the gardens, recipes, decor, and reading it reminds me of the south which is more like home to me

2) Southern Accents - more of the same

3) Domino - Love the design, and the fresh feel of the content. It's current.

What's missing: I know a lot of people mentioned too many ads, but I think the problem is too many unrelated ads. I've often looked up stores or products I've seen in ads, however they are always related to the content of the magazine. It's ridiculous to see drug ads, etc in decorating magazines.

What's missing? I agree on the budget issue. So many things featured are well beyond any reasonable budget. I love it all for reference and ideas, but inevitably you have to go scouring elsewhere trying to find a look you love. And more articles that aren't just a bunch of products being featured, but about style and the elements to look for and some actual content that can help people achieve the looks that inspire them.

Anonymous said...

Magazines
Marie Claire Idees (French)
Selvedge
American Style

Missing-small indie businesses, organic environmental design information.
I really love Selvedge, even the ads are lovely and they offer great information and inspiration.

danica said...

1. frankie, *once more with feeling* and lula

2. I feel that they are more intimate magazines that really know the style of their readers. Each magazine has a beautiful layout, unique and different content and fabulous photography.

3. I agree with people who have commented on budget. Most magazines feature clothing and objects that aspire to an unachieveable ideal. What I have enjoyed about your zine so far is that you're not directly focused on selling something, but more interested in engaging with beauty from a muli-faceted perspective. Keep it coming, Erin :)

Teri Lyn Fisher said...

I LOVE you site! So many great things to look at!!!!!

Anonymous said...

Allright,

1-I like: Coté Sud (French), LivingEtc (british) and Sunset Magazine (west coast travel and home)

2- missing from the rest: Images and decors that will stand the test of time. In depth articles that make you thing and dream.

3- Missing? I miss having a magazine in my magazine. All I see is advertisements.

Rina said...

OK, First of all, this is amazing! and thanks so much for think about us,
3 publications
Wallpaper - good pictures, design news and the magazine design is great too

Vogue - because inspite of everything vogue is still the one, amazing photographers, fashion production, a top magazine

I-D - because is young, revel, and you can find the last trend, you can imagine yourself in this magazine,It makes you dream, I love that!

Missing from the magazine world, more experimentation.

Eden From Sweden said...

1. Oprah, Sunset and Real Simple.
2. They address things that are important to me (relationships, the environment, literature and film, cute but realistic clothing and regional topics (Sunset).
3. A magazine (like yours will hopefully be) that isn't trying to "sell" you a life, that it celebrates thoughtful creativity without putting brands and price tags on everything in the picture - back to basics, beautifully.

Mrs.French said...

1. Cookie, Domino and alas I am still a loyal subject to Blueprint.

2. The effortless style. Gorgeous, but attainable.
3. More inspiration...less advertising.

Anna said...

1) Australian Harpers Bazaar, Italian Vogue, and Nylon.

2) I love the photo shoots of Italian vogue, the local news in aussie bazaar, and everything about nylon.

3) I think your mag would add to what's already around in the art sense. Most mags I get/see are more fashion related, and I'd love to see more about unknown artists. Also, there aren't much personal features in mags that aren't carefully worded magazines, so something like a daily per issue would be awesome!

Good luck! I can't wait for it!

littlemithi said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
rebecca said...

1. Giant Robot, LivingEtc and Amelia's Magazine.

2. I love Giant Robot simply because I'm a huge fan of Japanese-inspired pop culture; LivingEtc because of the inspiration to be gained from other people's interiors and the fact they love to on focus bold, bright colour; and Amelia's Magazine because of the great 'moody' photography, indie music reviews and exposure of fresh new artists.

3. I think that sometimes elements of genuine creativity are missing from alot of publications, ie. how things look somewhat 'plastic' and fake. I would like to see more articles based on real life and less of the celebrity (as quaint handmade also points out).

littlemithi said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
littlemithi said...

I hardly ever buy magazines these days - can find so much more inspiration online, and the mags I want to look through I can usually get at the library (and then decide if I want to actually buy a solid copy). Like the fact that places like Readymade are now offering a pdf only subscription (theres only so much paper we can collect!)

My faves currently are Selvedge, Amelia's Magazine and LivingEtc (all British). Mostly for the asthetics and inspiration.

http://www.selvedge.org/
http://www.ameliasmagazine.com/
http://www.livingetc.com/

Used to be a bog fan of readymade, but am slowly growing out of it as more ads and badly thought out projects come in.

Whats missing? Real people ...

(the deleted posts were me ... coz I'd gotten the name of one of the mags wrong - shows how little I read them!)

Anonymous said...

-Craft
-Selvedge
-Country Living (UK version)

These are the only three print mags I subscribe to but I love Le Cool online regonal mags too http://lecool.com/

These are my top three because I mostly enjoy reading about creative people - their environments, inspiration, business ventures, etc. Beautiful images are nice too (although Craft isn't a glossy, lovely image type of mag)

You already offer insights into creative people's lives in Design For Mankind and I would love to see more of the same in a mag.

In the way of what's currently missing in the mag world? More untapped talent - artists who aren't all over the blogosphere, maybe not online at all. Also, I'd love to see creative people from various genres, backgrounds, countries and age groups.

And I'd really like to NOT see a bloody celebrity, they only contribute to the dumbing-down culture.

Thanks for asking Erin!

Camilla said...

My favourites are
-Embroidery
-Craft
and probably LivingEtc

I used to subscribe to Selvedge, but felt the quantity of actual magazine compared to the price was a bit lacking. I also subscribe to Elle Decoration, but i'm starting to fall out of love with that a bit as they feature more and more 'celebs' and less and less stuff that is relevant to me and my life.

Embroidery is the magazine of the Embroiders Guild and I find it a great inspiration as it often features very cutting edge artists, not what I would initially expect from the Embroiders Guild.

Craft is the magazine of the Crafts Council and again it features a lot more cutting edge stuff than I would at first imagine. I also read 'Craft zine' which I like,but sometimes get annoyed with.

I read too many magazines, but I have yet to find one that's the perfect mix- maybe you will be the person to provide that!

Sparrow Sparrow said...

Favorite Magazines:

American Vogue
Print
Communication Arts

What do I love about them: I am a sucker for fashion photography. I work in advertising so ads (that are well done) don't bother me at all. Especially in the magazines I mentioned above, the ads are often as interesting and inspirational as the rest of the magazine. And of course I love the articles in the later two magazines that focus on interesting artists and works of art... of course you already do that!

What's missing? I'm going to go with diversity on this one, I absolutely love learning about art and culture from completely different worlds than I'm used to.

please sir said...

I don't subscribe to a particular magazine. I take visits to the bookstore and browse through issues...if I like what I see I make a purchase. I like a broad range of ideas of topics, which I think is missing from many current magazines. As designers and artists we want inspiration from all types of disciplines. I think a broad range of topics - art, interiors, music, and fashion across the globe is going to be what sets future magazines apart. Also, real designers and their stories - how did they get where they are? I find that very inspiring.

I also like the direction of online, free publications like Blanket. Fresh, inspiring, heavy with photographs, and highlights new talent. Good luck!

layersofmeaning said...

1.
1.Domino
2. Lula
3. Real Simple

2. Love the layouts, ideas & inspirations

3. Originality! every magazine is starting to looks the same!!!

alison richards said...

1. Online, I love Design*Sponge and always look forward to that one. magazines, i like Yen and Frankie in Australia
2. Design*Sponge, because there are plenty of ideas i can implement, and because it's just so inspiring and down to earth
Yen because it's such a no-bullshit mag... like yeah there's fancy fashion, but there;s always proper journalism.
frankie because its cute and different and has very unique stories. its also pretty inspiring
3. i think more magazines need to discuss news issues important to readers. i am an avid newspaper reader, but a lot of the stuff in there doesn't relate to me as a 20-something female. i think that is what is missing. other than that, a magazine with DIY that's cute and that i would actually want to do (and be able to accomplish) or something hands-on like that :D

blah said...

Top 3

Old Victoria magazines
Vogue Living Austraila
The English Home

I love about the mags above


1. Mag
flowers
beautiful things ( often antique for no.1

2. mAg
innovation that's colourful and unique

3. mag ( M-claire maison)
colour and international flavour

Whats missing

I know this isnt really your scene - but real beauty beyond cool and funky )

Also, flowers, silverware treasures that mean something to the owner - not just styled.

Hugs bug - now you've got me thinking!

Unknown said...

1. living etc, home beautiful (australian) and oprah

2. great images and ideas/resources and intropective articles.

3. this is a hard question. i think good writing is pretty rare. many a times, magazine articles have "foregone conclusions".

i just want to say that i'm very thankful you are doing this! you are an inspiration.

Jake Boen said...

1, a dwell
b readymade
c view camera

2 Architecture, doing things differnetly, not mainstreem

3 True inspiration!

Hope to see your magizine soon!

Inklore said...

I don't have a top three..I have no loyalty. I usually buy based on the covers each month. I like great room redos, good food, and nice DIY. What's missing...affordable art, real life gardening, using inspiration to create something new, not just copy it.

Looking forward to the new magazine!

Anonymous said...

I tend to go cover to cover, month to month.
I love the following magazines:
1. Coupe
2. Idea (just browsing, never buying, alas!)
3. Creative Review
I also love Living Etc/British Elle because I am an interior design nut as well as I will pick up any Elle magazine that people toss out after reading.

I want to find out more about the creative habits of folks. Look into their sketchbooks. Have some design book reviews. I don't want anything celebrity related, though I doubt I need to tell you that!!
I want the magazine to be authentic. Not fluffy or fake artsy. It might be interesting to talk about some issues designers or creative artists meet with and how they overcome it. Things to think about..a new technique to try at home or a tool, like gocco, screen printing, mono printing etc.
Ok. I am out of ideas now.

Anonymous said...

Oh! I also subscribe to Nylon.

●• Thereza said...

i only read mostly graphics and illustration publications: Grafik (uk), creative review (uk) and eye magazine.
whats missing in the mags world is a fresh and greater variety of new and upcoming designers who we only seem to find online...
:)

Karen said...

1) Not as many mags as much as catalogs like Toast and Anthropology. Also love Marie Claire and Domino.

2) I love the catalogs because they have a dreamy, ethereal quality to them (which I love in design); the mags are great sources of information and different types of inspiration; they're varied and focus on different aspects of fashion/design in each issue.

3) Real people. Indie artists. Small-time folks. I don't mind seeing fabulously expensive design, but I love seeing real people, with real budgets--how do they design their spaces? How do they re-work thrift items? How are they creative? I guess I'm a voyeur at heart!

/// said...

Wow. I owe you guys the world. Your advice is absolutely priceless.

THANK YOU! :)

Julia said...

Okay, I'm a little slow, here! But these are my thoughts:

1. Country Home, Country Living, Real Simple
2. I love the big glossy photographs, the way the simple things become beautiful. I love the sweet articles too!
3. A personal touch! I would love to "know" the people writing their thoughts and impressions!

dee said...

My faves are Domino, Lucky, and US Weekly. Domino because it feeds my love of design and pretty spaces; Lucky because I'm obsessed with fashion and I love all their ideas, even if some of them seem a little off sometimes; and US Weekly because it's the best way to unwind (for me). And with Domino and Lucky, I love the sticker tabs, as I am a big fan of organization and lists.

I think what's missing in the magazine world is a smart women's publication that encompasses the working woman's lifestyle. It would be great to put Domino and Lucky together, mixed in with some good, solid info on budgeting/buying homes, plus a bit of newsy stuff. I think Marie Claire USED to be the best women's lifestyle mag about five years ago, but no more. And so now I stick to specialty mags.

Hope that helps a bit:)

Meg said...

Martha Stewart - love the pictures, information and inspriration
Blueprint/Domino - LOVED Blueprint, espc. the DIY projects and general vibe. Domino is ok.
The Bark - I love my puppies and this is just full of great info on dog care, food, exercise and current info.

I would love a focus on smaller, independent, affordable art & design, that I could actually afford or replicate myself. Green or sustainable living is also something I would be very interested in, geared to small spaces. Also, wine, food and puppies are always good!

/// said...

EEK! THANK YOU! :)

Anonymous said...

i have no subsriptions running but that's mainly because i live in mexico. Subcriptions are are just too expensive because of the shipping rates.

i do regularly buy these:

1. Architectural Digest (usually the spanish and mexican version). Because this magazine goes beyond interior with other design and art topics and personal stories.
2. JPGmag. Because the magazine is from and for (hobby)photographers. It's interesting to see different views and interpretations on the same topic.
3. BABY. It's subtitle "source of inspiration" says it all ...

i can't really say what's missing in the magazine world. There are probably tons of things available, just not here :(

Anonymous said...

love the picture by the way ...

Daydream Lily said...

1.
Frankie - www.frankie.com.au
Yen - www.YENmag.net
Lula

2.
Frankie I love the layout, beautiful images, illustration - they always have a feature artist, thats my favourite bit. and another section called "my collection" I love that too.
YEN I love the illustrations, articles, fashion shoots are always really beautiful.
Lula - gorgeous imagery

3.
a magazine that focuses more on indie art and design. frankie and yen do a bit.

Fledgling said...

"nest" from editor Joseph Holtzman: Looks like it's extinct. Too good to last.

"domus"

"Sunset": There's a LOT of bang for the buck.

design-report (German), Designnet (Korean), intramuros (French): Because everything's cooler when it's from someplace else.

I'd subscribe to a magazine called, "Bad Bones" for tract home dwellers. I'd like to deal constructively with my ceiling envy (height matters).
-N.

Anonymous said...

I'm surprised no one's said Harper's Bazaar yet.

The photo editorials are well styled, imo. But most of all, I love the writing. The writing is very educational and interesting at the same time. As a journalist, I much prefer Harper's Bazaar over any magazine.

ThoughtfulAct said...

1. Good; real simple; and Discover

2. Good a great no-nonsense (read "celeb") mag. the byline is "for people who give a [darn]"--the last word changed for sensitive eyes. Real Simple is exactly that--real simple. It is to the point with great decor/organizing ideas. I love discover because i'm a nerd.

3. As others have mentioned the last thing that is needed is another celeb focused magazine. I think the market would benefit from a magazine that highlights artists/crafts-people. maybe combination of domino and real simple except focusing on lesser known artists (all over etsy) instead of commercialized stores.

/// said...

Wow--- I couldn't thank you enough. Your advice is spot-on, guys, and I can only hope to create something that takes a cue from each of you!

THANK YOU.

brooke said...

1. Real Simple, Domino & Anthropologie catalogs.
2. Real Simple: I like that it's chock full of such a variety of different things, and I love the little things you can punch out in the back. Domino: I really enjoy seeing other people's houses and design choices. Many times I come away from an issue of Domino thinking, "I want to do that, only I want to do it this way or that way" to make it my own. Anthropologie: Sheer visual stimulation. Love it.
3. Not much is missing from the magazine world, in my opinion. There are so many magazines out there that it's hard to even know what exists. It seems like there's a magazine for every obscure niche, and of course there are a lot of magazines that are just general. I do think that there aren't many magazines about handmade goods. Leah mentioned in the comments that it would be good to have a magazine that "highlights artists/craftspeople... focusing on lesser known artists (all over etsy) instead of commercialized stores," and I couldn't agree more. I love looking at Etsy shops, even though I have no money to buy things, simply for the inspiration they provide.

Katrina said...

oh goodness, first off this is always changing for me because there are so many literary journals, design mags, fashion mags, and art mags and there is also a lovely little indie magazine store a few blocks from my house that helps with my obsession. okay:

1. art on paper; esopus; vogue.
2. i love the coverage of work in "art on paper", it shows prints, drawings, photos, books, and ephemera that are all too often left out of big fine arts worlds; i love the layout and images and amazing ephemera included in esopus, it's a visual feast; i hate to admit it with all the good indie mags out there but vogue is still a favorite, the fashion shoots just make me swoon.
3. what's missing is a magazine that combines these things: up-close looks at artists off the mainstream, visual eye-candy throughout, photo shoots that make me swoon. i guess in general, amazing design with amazing curation, with an indie view at the art world.

eek! that sounds like a big order...

Kate said...

This took me forever to think about!

1. New York, Print, and Domino. One magazine I would subscribe to if it wasn't so expensive (due to it being in the UK) is Amelia's
2. I love staying on top of what's going on in NY and I think it is an incredibly well designed magazine for a weekly mag and it throws in a lot of humor-which I love. I like knowing what's going on in the art & design world in Print and love their Regional Design Issue to death. As for Domino, I have a love/hate relationship with it because I like subscribing to a home magazine and love it for inspiration, but I can't help but feel like it's a little cheesy sometimes and geared towards a crowd that's older and wealthier than me. Some of the suggestions make my eyes roll big time. Amelia's is full of amazing art and everytime I buy it I treasure it, it's a piece of art itself.

3. What's missing from the magazine world is a magazine that is full of all my favorite blog posts from blogs I read daily! Seriously. No one reports on affordable and/or inspirational art/craft and fashion in a way I can get into. No one talks about inspiration. Magazine rarely blow my mind or inspire me the way blogs do. I want a look into the lives of artists and creative people.

Neutral Dwelling said...

My magazines that I subscribe to:
Florida Design
Metropolitan Home
Traditional Home

I love they eye candy in all of these magazines!

What I think is missing- magazines based on affordable great design. Because it doesn't really have to cost a fortune to have a fantastic look.