Magazine opportunity: Aesthetica

Aesthetica is an art and culture magazine known for its in-depth features on innovative techniques in photography, design, film and fine art

DS: What do you love most about Aesthetica?

CF: Aesthetica has been a bastion of independent print for 21 years, establishing itself as a leading destination for art and culture. The magazine is renowned for its in-depth features on today’s most innovative practitioners across photography, design, film and fine art. With expert journalism, Aesthetica provides insightful commentary on the current state of the world, exploring global issues through the lens of culture. Each edition is a source of inspiration, offering readers the latest news, reviews and features from the creative sector. Aesthetica is consistently at the forefront of cultural discourse, keeping its finger on the pulse of emerging trends and groundbreaking artistic movements. Its commitment to high-quality, independent coverage makes it an essential read for those passionate about contemporary art and culture, as it continues to shape conversations around the most relevant and forward-thinking creatives of our time. Beyond all this, the magazine is beautifully designed and visually engaging. 

Do you have any upcoming features you are excited about?

Mirror Mirror is an insightful exploration of the diverse ways in which contemporary artists engage with the concept of identity and self-representation. Edited by critic and curator Gilda Williams, the book features a wide range of international artists, including Cindy Sherman, Gillian Wearing, Amalia Ulman, Zanele Muholi, and Arthur Jafa, among others. Through photography, video, performance and other media, these artists survey issues such as race, gender and technology, reflecting on how the self is constructed, manipulated and perceived in today’s society. The feature is based on a new book by Thames & Hudson, and it offers a critical platform for examining the role of self-imagery in an era dominated by social media and digital interfaces. Mirror Mirror is important for contemporary visual arts discourse as it challenges traditional notions of portraiture and opens up discussions about authenticity, representation, and the fluidity of identity in a visually saturated world.

Magazine Opportunity: Playground

What kind of customers should stockists be recommending Aesthetica to?

Stockists should recommend Aesthetica to customers who are passionate about contemporary art, culture and design. This includes artists, designers, photographers, filmmakers, and curators who seek inspiration and insight into the latest trends and movements. The magazine is also ideal for academics, students, and professionals in creative fields who want to stay informed on global cultural issues and innovations. Beyond this though, the magazine also appeals to a range of professionals across varied sectors who enjoy visiting museums and galleries in their free time. Additionally, art collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate expert journalism, in-depth features, and thoughtful commentary on the intersection of art and society will find Aesthetica invaluable. It’s perfect for readers who value independent print and seek a source of inspiration that engages critically with today’s creative landscape.

What makes Aesthetica different to other magazines on the market?

What sets Aesthetica apart from other magazines is its unique vantage point, offering fresh perspectives on contemporary art and culture. Unlike many publications, Aesthetica blends high-quality journalism with a global outlook, showcasing voices and creatives from diverse cultural backgrounds. The magazine excels in its use of striking imagery, presenting visually stunning layouts that complement its insightful features. Aesthetica is also deeply inclusive, celebrating art in all its forms—across photography, design, fine art, and film—and emphasizing representation from a wide array of global practitioners. This combination of inclusivity, visual excellence, and critical depth makes Aesthetica one of a kind. There is no other publication like it. 

How important are independent retailers to the success of Aesthetica?

Independent retailers are crucial to the success of Aesthetica. These stockists offer a more personalised and curated shopping experience, which aligns with the magazine’s ethos of quality and uniqueness. By stocking Aesthetica, independent retailers help connect the magazine with a discerning audience who value besopke, thoughtful publications. They also play a vital role in sustaining independent print by offering visibility in spaces that cater to art and culture enthusiasts who appreciate the magazine’s innovative and diverse content. Additionally, independent retailers often foster local communities of creatives, making them ideal partners in promoting Aesthetica to readers who are deeply engaged in the arts. This relationship helps keep independent publishing vibrant and accessible.

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