On Jan. 16, One Blue Wall (OBW), Manual’s art and literary magazine, hosted a release event for “Gumshoe,” the publication’s newest magazine. The event took place at the Quonset Hut, a local printmaking studio and art gallery. Guests were offered a variety of activities, including buying magazines from staff members, an open mic reading and s’more making.
“Releasing our magazine is really exciting for us, so we really like to be able to provide copies for all of our staffers, to parents and things like that. But it’s really just to unite our creative community within One Blue Wall and beyond,” OBW editor-in-chief Opal Robinson (12, J&C) said.
“Gumshoe” is described as “a collection of unique works surrounding a mysterious detective, solving cases and embarking on journeys all around the world.” It consists of pieces written by staffers that began production on the magazine earlier this school year.
“It took a long time to decide the theme and then figure out all the logistics of that. But otherwise, working with our staff and getting to know all the new staffers we had this year has been really amazing,” Robinson said.
Some staff members chose to read their own works from the magazine as well as other non-OBW pieces they have written. Guests also had the opportunity to read personal pieces in front of the audience. With both staffers and guests sharing pieces throughout the event, a consistent stream of voices presenting their art was created.
As the readers shared, many Manual students and parents filled the building to purchase magazines and listen to the readings.
“It was really energetic. There was a lot of people, and I think we really gave time and attention to the readers while also having a lot of fun, and it was a great turnout,” OBW communications lead Chase Colvin (12, HSU) said.
Near the end of the event, the staff introduced “Riot Ink,” their next magazine theme. The upcoming magazine revolves around the concepts of punk and non-conformity. It is an open call for submissions from all Manual students and Louisville youth.
“Gumshoe’s” release event attracted many, providing guests with fun and displaying the large community that the OBW staff has been working to develop through public outreach. “Gumshoe” is available for purchase on OBW’s website.
