Iceland in Other Words: A Zine of Ethnographic Fiction
"Iceland in Other Words: A Zine of Ethnographic Fiction" is a creative exploration of Icelandic culture and society through the lens of ethnographic fiction. This zine combines the immersive storytelling of fiction with the research-driven insights of ethnography, offering readers a unique way to understand and experience Iceland. "Iceland in Other Words" serves as both an educational tool and a literary work, inviting readers to reflect on the ways in which cultural stories are told and understood.
The collection demonstrates how zines can be an incredibly diverse and flexible medium. As DIY publications they're effective as low-cost and low-fi formats. This affords a zine maker the opporunity to talk about just about anything in coimplex and thought-provoking ways. ​ There’s more freedom to express ideas in ways that challenge or provoke. There’s room for levity. There’s potentially a non-academic audience. Zines offer an opportunity to draw together research, creative practices, design principles, and collaborative partners in a single, affordable volume. ​​​
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"Iceland in Other Words" includes works (poetry, fiction, images) by Anna Valdis Kro, Aron Daði Þorisson, Cody Alexander Skehan, Francesca Cricelli, Gabriel Dunsmith, Michelle Spinei, Owen Hindley, Regin Edvardsson, Sam Rees, Viktoria Vdovina, and myself. ​
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This zine was edited by me and designed by Christoph Matt. It was hand produced with recycled materials.
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For a copy, please contact christopher.marcatili@anu.edu.au.
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The zine was launched on 11 December 2024 at Skálda Bókabúð. For more on the launch event, click here.
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What is ethnographic fiction?
Ethnographic fiction blends the factual rigour of ethnography—traditionally the detailed study of people and cultures—with the imaginative elements of fiction. This approach allows for a deeper emotional connection to the subject matter, making complex cultural nuances more accessible and engaging.
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What is a zine?
A zine is a small, self-published work, often produced by individuals or small groups. It typically features original or appropriated texts and images. Zines are known for their DIY ethos, limited print runs, and unique, often hand-crafted aesthetic. They are easily reproduced through printing and photocopying.
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How was the zine produced?
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This zine was produced primarily by myself and the the designer, Christoph Matt. However, all contributors were invited to be involved in the project to whatever degree they were able and interested to do so. It was, therefore, a collective and collaboratively produced project. Contributors helped with the design, production, promotion and launch of the zine.
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The zine was printed on 100% recycled paper and architecture transparent paper, with covers made from untreated card. The zine was staple bound, with book-binding tape for added durability.
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Why did you do this?
This zine was part of a research project looking at creative practices and processes in Iceland among local and international writers. Contributors could choose to be involved in the production of the zine if they wanted. Reflections on the production and creative process will be included as data for an anthropological research project, possibly informing a PhD thesis and/or other research projects. For more information, click here.​
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Official stuff
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All contributors will retain ownership of their work. Unfortunately, we cannot pay. Accepted contributions will be included in a zine, which will be printed and distributed in Iceland and internationally. The zine will be made available online for download and printing. Creators will retain the right to use and reproduce their own texts as they see fit.
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