Our collection
Our collection includes zines we acquire as well as those that are submitted.
The content varies widely, but the collection is connected by the thread of Jewishness & Judaism.
The Jewish Zine Archive (JZA) emerged as a vibrant testament to the intersections of Jewishness and the art of zine-making. Founded in 2019 by Chava Shapiro, a writer and artist based in Tucson, the project traces its origins to Shapiro's encounter with the works of Massachusetts-based zine-maker Ezra Rose, whose zines delved into Ashkenazi Jewish folklore. Inspired by an amalgamation of Jewish and DIY influences, Shapiro embarked on a journey to document and celebrate the diverse expressions of Jewishness in the world of zines.
Since 2019, JZA has gained momentum, curating both physical and digital collections. The democratizing nature of zine-making resonated deeply, revealing it as a medium ripe for exploring Jewish expressions.
Central to JZA's ethos is the belief that zines serve as a conduit for dialogue and self-expression within the Jewish community and beyond. Through an open call for submissions and engaging with over 6,000 followers on Instagram, JZA has fostered a global community of zine enthusiasts. Annual events like the Jewish Zine Fest further amplify this sense of connection, blending online events with international pop-up in-person events.
Beyond its role as a repository of Jewish creativity, JZA challenges conventional notions of both Jewishness and zine-making. Embracing a broad definition of zines as self-published booklets, the collections encompass everything from traditional print to digital multimedia formats. This inclusivity extends to content, welcoming a diverse range of voices and perspectives into the archive.
Our vision transcends mere documentation, aiming to catalyze social change and promote justice. Through thought-provoking imagery and statements, such as "There are no prisons in Olam Haba," the project confronts pressing social issues and advocates for a more equitable world. Zines are not only a means of artistic expression but also tools for building a better future, one rooted in compassion and solidarity.
At its core, Jewish Zine Archive embodies a spirit of re-creation and resilience. By reclaiming narratives and challenging boundaries, the archive celebrates the richness and complexity of Jewish identity while pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. In a world marked by uncertainty and sometimes despair, JZA stands as a testament to the power of community, creativity, and the enduring impact of Jewish cultures that flourish at the margins.