Amber Butt

Exploring self-expression in a unique blend of magazine and journal.

My project explored how a magazine could challenge the objectification of women in mainstream media by focusing on self-expression, creativity, and authenticity. The brief was to design a publication that addresses the damaging portrayal of women in traditional magazines, where emphasis on appearance, perfection, and consumerism often limit individuality. My target audience was young women, frequently exposed to these narratives, to create a space that encourages them to think critically about media portrayals. Guided by my research question, I designed a raw, tactile magazine that rejects polished aesthetics in favour of a journal-like style, using materials like messy sketches and interactive elements to inspire reflection. By allowing readers to engage directly with the content, I intended for the magazine to serve as both a critique of typical media and a tool for personal empowerment. This approach offers a unique perspective in magazine design, promoting self-discovery and conscious media consumption, contrasting the conventional and often limiting portrayals of women in popular media.