Oratrix is a quarterly journal that focuses on feminist voices in the arts. The journal is dedicated to intersectional feminist perspectives on all aspects of art and culture—from contemporary art and theatre to poetics and memoirs. It features thought-provoking essays and insightful reviews. Oratrix is a journal for people to explore the arts and culture around them with a feminist lens.

ROLE

Designer

DURATION

3 weeks

TOOLS

InDesign

Defining the Problem

Although feminism has always been deeply intertwined with art, patriarchy still runs rampant in the art world. In general, the voices and careers of men are given more space by galleries and publications, thus awarding them with more visibility. And, while there are many magazines on contemporary art and feminism respectively, there are none platforming feminist voices on contemporary art specifically. 

THE PROBLEM TO SOLVE

• How can we create a space for feminist voices in the art world?

The Solution

Oratrix magazine aims to give feminist perspectives a real, tangible platform. It does so by dedicating the entire publication to feminist perspectives on art, and the medium of the magazine itself becomes a resource for feminists for years to come.

User Personas

Visual Design

The inspiration for the visual design of Oratrix was drawn from the artbooks of Book Works, and the experimental graphic design from Fraser Muggeridge Studio. Both of these sources combine a classical, refined graphic design aesthetic with an experimental edge. This quietly rebellious visual style suited Oratrix's purpose. By keeping the layouts clean and minimal, the focus can remain on the artwork, and by incorporating small, off-kilter elements, we nod to Oratrix's feminist roots.

Finished Magazine