Edition #41 (2021)
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In January 2021, GDS published its 41st Edition. But unlike the journal’s usual printed editions, #41 was fully online and invited readers to engage with commissioned works in a series of augmented reality (AR) experiences.
‘We’ve always loved playing with new forms of storytelling and getting experimental – that’s what Going Down Swinging is known for, after all – and we’d wanted to publish an edition that features AR for the longest time,’ said editor Magenta Sheridan. ‘It was just a question of when we were going to do it.’
While COVID-19 presented a challenge to the team’s usual methods of working, it also allowed them to think in new ways about their publication’s standards and partners.
‘We were able to connect with people from all over the world to bring the edition to life. Anneli Goeller, our AR artist, was a pivotal part of making 41 what it is, and we’re never met in person before, only worked together through digital platforms. We were also very conscious of the fact that we were creating work that was, by its nature, very digitally forward.’
The end result is a new kind of publication for Going Down Swinging: one that draws from the organisation’s 41-year history of publishing fresh and exciting writing while simultaneously exploring new models for its future. In addition to its AR features, it offers users access through a pay-as-you-can model in a nod to the financial disruption caused by COVID-19.
Going Down Swinging Edition #41 features a stellar lineup of Australian artists, including Aaron Billings (Mystical Boy Scout), Cecile Richard (‘novena’, ‘A STAR CALLED SUN’), Mandy Ord (When One Person Dies The Whole World Is Over, Sensitive Creatures), Stacy Gougoulis (of Triple J fame), and many others.
‘Our hope is that it’ll provide people with new and exciting stories, in new and exciting ways, while remaining freely-accessible and welcoming.’
Editor: Magenta Sheridan
Augmented Reality: Anneli Goeller
Design & Direction: Jacqui Hagen