Photos by Ralph Freso
A million forms, thousands of ideas, many minds, one goal: to inspire through extraordinary works of art. While artistic styles and mediums have evolved, the essence of creation remains the same.
"We create because we have something to say," said Emily Axtman, a Grand Canyon University senior professional writing in new media major and published author, in the first issue of 24 Pages.
The publication, one of the initiatives of student-run design agency Canyon Creative, brings students together to create, innovate and inspire, from writers to sculptors, photographers, engineers, filmmakers, dancers, architects, and the list goes on.
"We are all one big melting pot of inspiration and creativity," Axtman said.
College of Arts and Media associate professor of design Chris Murphy approached students about collaborating on a magazine. It was an ambitious idea, "But they truly rose to the occasion," he said. "Our goal was to create a magazine that highlights the creative talents of GCU students, showcasing projects that extend beyond the classroom."
The team's vision was to create something unconventional and have a vehicle for students to build their portfolios.
“Watching a student discover their creative potential by giving them a platform to explore freely is beautiful,” Murphy said.
The magazine's name reflects its 24-page format. It's a simple name, though 24 Pages' published works reflect an increasingly complex world, Murphy said.
"It's a deliberate choice that we believe adds beauty to our project," he said of the name.
The magazine of diverse art run by students for students is designed to be edgy, yet classy, and is for those who think outside the box yet seek a Christ-centered community.
Any GCU student, from any major, can submit their work to the magazine, with selections evaluated by Murphy and the Canyon Creative team. They look for creativity and meaning when it comes to choosing submissions that make it into the publication.
At the heart of 24 Pages is Tabyana Jennings, the magazine’s editor and a copywriter majoring in professional writing for new media. She plays a crucial role in uncovering the deeper meaning within student submissions, weaving compelling narratives that bring each piece to life.
“Jesus was a radical and unexpected person,” Jennings said, explaining how the magazine encourages students to take bold steps and trust their instincts. “As creatives, we need to be those people who step out of the boat, take leaps of confidence and cultivate a world of creativity.”
The goal is to publish one issue each semester to uplift student voices and provide an outlet for artistic expression that extends beyond the digital world.
"When I saw the published piece, I had a boost of confidence knowing I am an author and no longer a writer," Axtman said.
At its core, the magazine is an embodiment of the ultimate Creator.
“Our goal is to make something that truly showcases students as the creative beings God designed them to be,” Jennings said.
Axtman’s poetry piece, "How Foolish," embodies the essence of the magazine by reflecting the God who created all things but also serves as a testament to the magazine’s dedication to collaboration among diverse students with different creative talents. By producing an audio version of her poem for the digital version of 24 pages, the magazine seamlessly blends two artforms, bringing her words to life in a powerful and immersive way.
Senior graphic design and advertising major Alyna Martin leads the print design efforts for the publication, whose oversized pages assure that the artworks pop. She ensures every page is as visually compelling as the content and works to make the various styles of art cohesive while following the correct specifications for print.
“I love being part of a group that is cultivating a community of creatives,” Martin said. Her role at 24 Pages challenges her to take the initiative and gain invaluable experience that she hopes leads to a career in graphic design.
The team printed about 500 copies of the magazine, 100 of which have been distributed so far, and the group is planning a guerrilla advertising campaign at the end of the semester to distribute the rest in a fun way, Murphy said.
The choice to do a print version of the magazine was intentional, he added.
"It offers a more intimate experience," Murphy said. "The oversized pages immerse the reader in the artwork in a way that digital formats often can't replicate. In a world dominated by phones, we believe printed works deserve the space and context they were designed for."
As for the magazine's digital version, which allows for the addition of audio and video, it was designed and created by students as part of their Canyon Emerging Scholars project.
Murphy emphasized how spending time with the magazine encourages students to pause and truly absorb and reflect on quality and creative work.
“Slow down," he said. "Take your time. Breathe. This is special.”
Student writer Leandra Lepp can be reached at [email protected].
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View:
The digital version of the first issue
The 24 Pages website
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