Spotlighting the under-represented voices of Appalachia is the mission of the new arts and culture publication, You’re Not Seeing Things (YNST) Magazine.
Founded by a team of WVU Alumni and members of WVU’s Reed College of Media’s fashion and lifestyle MIRAGE magazine, YNST Magazine aims to feature Appalachian artists of all kinds, whether it be photography, painting, sculpture, music, fashion and more, as well as news and culture pieces.
“I’m so excited to display them in a physical, printed gallery of sorts,” said Editor-in-Chief Adam Payne.
Contributors to the magazine are located in, or originate from, Appalachia — West Virginia to Tennessee and Kentucky. Although part of YNST’s mission is using the reach of social media to make Appalachian voices heard nationally and even internationally, the team also wants to ensure Appalachians are seeing the creativity happening right in their backyards.
People out of state may think of negative stereotypes, while those who live here may only think of sports or outdoor tourism, said Payne. “But neither of those parties are thinking of music, fashion, photography, dance, painting, and activism. I think there’s so much that both parties can benefit from seeing.”
The first issue will feature a wide range of art forms, from mixed media and photography to bluegrass and fashion. Local changemakers will also be featured, including Morgantown High School students and their charitable efforts, and advocacy movements by Tennessee students. This is one aspect of the magazine that expands beyond artwork but deeply reflects the team’s mission — providing platforms to the unheard perspectives of the region.
This first issue, both print and digital, is scheduled to be released early May, and availability will be posted on their Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, @YNSTMagazine.
In the meantime, though, YNST will participate in two entrepreneurial competitions this month, in hopes of winning startup funding for the magazine. After that, they have big goals for the future, including a greater online presence, special editions such as a fairs and festivals feature or a food tour of Appalachia, a podcast, and art-based events.
Now is the perfect time for organizing and amplifying the work of Appalachian artists, said Payne. “We’re seeing such a reinvestment and revitalization of people wanting to support creatives and support other community members in Appalachia.”
Since YNST Magazine’s first concepts back in September, the project has grown and gained the support of artists and non-artists alike all throughout Appalachia. The team’s own experiences with Appalachian arts and culture have fueled their efforts to share it with others, and the magazine is sure to reflect this passion.
“Working for YNST has allowed me to stay connected to my roots and give back to a region that has made me who I am,” said Executive Director Kasey Lettrich. “I have an unending amount of love for my home and I want those outside of Appalachia to know how much this region has to offer.”
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