the gateway zine

Software used: Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator

The Gateway Zine explores a hypothetical artistic space within the tunnel at WCU, near the softball field. The tunnel is an area already rich with vibrant, expressive graffiti. It’s constantly evolving as new layers of paint cover the old, serving as an unfiltered canvas for artists, although it is considered illegal to paint in the space.

This zine captures the art currently present each month, preserving its existence before the tunnel is inevitably repainted. It offers a snapshot of the creativity thriving in the space, acting as both documentation and inspiration. Named The Gateway, the tunnel itself functions as a passage, leading to a scenic trail and an administrative building on the other side. It stands at the intersection of movement and artistic expression, a space that transforms just as frequently as the people passing through.

Inside the zine, close-up images showcase the details of the graffiti in the tunnel, offering a deeper appreciation for the textures, colors, and hidden layers within each piece. Blank pages invite artists to contribute their own vision, encouraging them to imagine what they might add to the evolving art of the tunnel. By creating a dialogue between documentation and participation, this zine allows artists to express themselves while considering whether they, too, want to leave their mark.