Zines (pronounced “zeens”) are DIY booklets that can be created by anyone and be about anything! In a society that centers capitalism and the mainstream, zines are meant to be a way for underrepresented and marginalized voices to be heard.
While I’ve been writing for nearly two decades, I only recently discovered zines in 2023. Zines are a refreshing way for me to visualize my writing and find connections with others. In addition to sharing my zines at local San José community events, I also facilitate zine workshops for youth and adults.
Zines On-View:
AM I GOING TO CHANGE is on-view in Chopsticks Alley Art’s 8th Anniversary Exhibition at their gallery in Downtown San Jose from February 6, 2026 – May 3, 2026.
when the heart overflows, was on-view in the CATHARSIS Art Show at the School of Arts & Culture at the Mexican Heritage Plaza from November 21, 2025 – January 5, 2026.
My zines are a reflection of my heart. Paired with the DIY-nature of zines and the fact that many of my zines are based on my poetry from my early twenties, you could say that my zines are a return back to my younger self. My zines showcase the heartaches of growing up and speaking up.
My zines include:
- AM I GOING TO CHANGE?
- Call to Action: Your Voice Matters
- Heads Up For Your Saturn Return
- paperstonehearts
- super short excerpts from my latest play-in-progress, stonefruit
- what does your heart do?
I tend to play around with new-to-me art mediums with my zines (like oil pastels and watercolors), so I am constantly pushing myself and, as a result, expanding my arts practice.
I share my zine journey (as well as arts resources and local San Jose events) on Instagram, so if this has piqued your interest, please give me a follow at @marmaym!
I may explore sharing my zines digitally, but for now, they are only available in-person or by mail. Let me know if you’re interested in reading any of them!
Marissa May Writes 