The Black Zine Fair presents...

Make a Memoir: Collage & Storytelling

What stories are waiting to be unlocked within you? In this workshop, we’ll dive deep into the art of self-expression through a unique combination of collage techniques and journaling prompts. Drawing from the methods Jonell Joshua used in her debut memoir, How Do I Draw These Memories?, participants will craft their own “mini memoirs” while exploring the therapeutic power of storytelling. This session invites you to transform your memories into art, weaving together words and images to celebrate the strength found in personal expression. Expect to leave with new tools for creative self-reflection and an illuminated connection to your own narrative. All levels of experience are welcome. Bring your phone to search for memories and let your creativity flow!

Meet the workshop facilitator

Jonell Joshua is an author illustrator based in Brooklyn, New York. Her passion for drawing has deep roots stemming from a young age, inspired by her mother’s artwork, familial roots in New York and adolescence spent in the heart of south New Jersey and Savannah, Georgia. She has created illustrations for clients including The New York Times, New York Magazine, The Washington Post and NPR. Jonell’s latest project, How Do I Draw These Memories? An Illustrated Memoir, released everywhere in Spring 2024. Since its release, Jonell has been a guest panelist at San Diego Comic Con on “How Comics Can Empower Marginalized Teens,” NCTE Conference on “Writing Memoir with YA Authors,” and Brooklyn Book Festival panel “Are We Okay?” Jonell’s work has been recognized by The Society of Illustrators and American Illustration: International Motion Art Awards and she was the featured artist for the 6th Annual Schomburg Center Literary Festival.

Make a donation

The Black Zine Fair is free and open to the public, although donations are appreciated. We suggest a donation between $5-20 depending on your financial ability. We encourage established professionals and people with intergenerational wealth/savings to consider donating more or becoming sustaining members.

The fair is organized by Sojourners for Justice Press co-directors Neta Bomani and Mariame Kaba. We’re committed to creating a free platform for Black zine makers who otherwise wouldn’t have access to zine/art/book fairs and festivals. We rely primarily on individual donors to fund and sustain our work. Thank you for your support!

Safety precautions for airborne viruses

The Black Zine Fair is a masked fair. All event attendees, exhibitors, workshop facilitators, and staff are expected to wear a high quality KN95 or N95 mask at all times inside the venue to protect each other from airborne viruses. Masks will be provided. We expect you to test regularly/serially leading up until the event. If you test positive or have any symptoms, we ask that you refrain from attending the fair.

Accessibility information

Powerhouse Arts, the venue where the Black Zine Fair takes place, is fully accessible for wheelchair users. Restrooms are gender neutral and ADA compliant. A sound-proof quiet room is available.

Community agreement

All event attendees, exhibitors, workshop facilitators, and staff agree to follow the community agreement.

Learn more

The Black Zine Fair is a celebration of all things Black and independent publishing in New York City! We invite Black exhibitors and educators to gather, trade or sell zines, and exchange knowledge surrounding zine-making, publishing, and do-it-yourself culture. The fair takes place virtually and in-person from April to May. Visit our website and instagram to learn more.