ZINESTER Interview with: SAMANTHA ANDREWS

Hello, Zine Friends!
Meet Samantha Andrews-- first-time zinester with a BRILLIANT zine we're all going to NEED...

Please tell us about the zines you’ll be tabling at ABQZF.

I will have copies of my very first zine: The Zinesters Guide to Albuquerque, Issue 1. This issue will focus on East Downtown and Downtown Albuquerque. It will have lots of fun, low-budget places and events to check out in Downtown Abq. The zine will feature vegetarian and vegan friendly restaurants, parks, and free things to do. This zine is a perfect gift for someone who is coming to visit Albuquerque for the first time! Or for any Albuquerque enthusiast.



When did you make your first zine, and what was it about?

This is my very first zine! Except for maybe zines I made as a kid, but I'd have to ask my mom about what those were like...

Name three influences in your life that have affected your work, or even how you work.
My dad has always been an inspiration to me because he just works really hard at everything he does. He has a great work ethic. He always told me that it was ok if I didn't understand something at first, but with time and patience I would get better. I try to emulate that work ethic in many parts of my life. Bikini Kill. Litter Brain. I feel really lucky to be part of this band with a group of awesome girls. They've helped me in so many ways. I love them.

Litter Brain

What do you say when someone asks you,  "What are zines?"

Handmade mini magazine.

Do you have a zine crush?

If so, are you willing to reveal the object of your zine affection? I love [Tahnee Udero's] High Mija and her Desperate Youth Zine.


What's the most challenging thing about zine making? What do you enjoy most about the process?

Getting started is always the hardest for me. I tend to have a lot of project ideas floating around in my head and it's hard for me to pin one down and focus on it from start to finish. My favorite part of the process has been putting it all together. Once the writing and drawings are finished I love cutting things up and seeing how everything comes together into a complete piece.

Why are zines important?

I think it's important for people to have an outlet for their creativity and zines are a perfect medium for some people. I used to think that creative people are always just creating perfect, beautiful pieces and that's what they have always done. I know now that's not true, but at one point it was a hindrance to me creating anything at all. Zines are a way for me to create imperfect things but still feel really proud of them. It's more about a process for me, like I'm not trying to make a gorgeous, polished publication; It's just fun, silly, and lets me explore new ideas.

Thanks for all your hard work guys!



Thanks, Sam!