Among the many legs of the metaphorical Student Media octopus, Brushing provides an artsy and verbose outlet for students’ talents.
With years of history under its belt, Brushing is the literary magazine of Rollins College, showcasing the art and literary pieces of all students, faculty, and alumni. Accepting art and various writing styles including prose, short stories, poetry, photography, sculpture, collage, and more, the magazine brings a creative edge to Student Media.
The process of production for the magazine begins in the fall semester. Mid-semester, Brushing begins to take submissions from anyone wanting to contribute, all while vetting and approving staff for the upcoming edition. The finalizing of material takes place over winter break through feedback from readers and formatting. During the spring semester, the magazine is published, followed by a release party to celebrate efforts.
“Handing out copies to our contributors is especially exciting,” said co-editor-in-chief Aislinn Gara Grady (‘25). “Watching their reactions as they see their work in print for the first time is a consistently humbling and rewarding experience—one I look forward to every year.”
Though the editions are usually released in April, a special edition of Brushing is to be released on February 27, partnering with the Freshwater Alliance. Backed by the Elizabeth Morse Genius Foundation, the Freshwater Alliance at Rollins is a program allowing students to “spark learning and action related to our freshwater resources and ecosystems.” The partnership edition, titled “Freshwater Perspectives,” explores the connection between art and outside life through the exploration of topics such as climate change and freshwater ecosystems.
“‘Freshwater Perspectives’ marks an exciting expansion of Brushing’s mission at Rollins, reflecting our growth as a publication and our commitment to amplifying diverse perspectives—a milestone we are incredibly proud of,” said Grady.
The legacy of Brushing and its diversity is sure to continue as the student staff are passionate and find joy in the processes.
“Serving as Editor has reaffirmed my belief in the power of print publishing and highlighting the strength of the Rollins creative community,” said Grady. “Working alongside my peers and providing a platform for the artists and writers of Rollins is a privilege I continue to cherish, and I hope Brushing’s legacy will thrive long after my time at Rollins.”
Though the special edition is something to look forward to, the 53rd edition of Brushing will still be published in the spring alongside it. The release party for “Freshwater Perspectives” will be held on February 27 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Rollins Museum of Art.
Comments are closed.