December 07, 2007
Undergraduate literary magazine changing format
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Grassroots is getting fat.
The Southern Illinois University Carbondale undergraduate literary magazine is changing its format beginning with the Spring 2008 issue. Rather than keeping its svelte shape and twice a year publication, the editors of the journal opted for a little more heft and a once-a-year publication schedule.
Editor-in-Chief Krishna Pattisapu, a senior majoring in speech communication, said the magazine will be "very similar in shape and size, though it will be a little thicker at 180 pages." That's about 100 extra pages from the current "Grassroots" size. Pattisapu said the editorial board of students wants to emphasize that "Grassroots" is not just poetry and prose – it is also a magazine for visual arts. If all goes according to plan, the new format will boast a center spread dedicated to visual arts.
The cover format may be different, too. Typically, the magazine features a single piece of art on the front cover that sometimes wraps around to the back. The new format may see front and back covers showcasing multiple pieces, Pattisapu said.
The editorial board accepts submissions from undergraduates only. "Opportunities for creative expression at the undergraduate level encourage students to find their creative voices and to share them with one another," Pattisapu said, noting that having a comfortable, collaborative environment is important for young artists and writers to hone their crafts.
The Fine Arts Activity Fee funds the magazine. The free magazine is available at several distribution points on campus and in the community.
For submission guidelines and deadlines, contact the editors at Grassrootsmag@gmail.com.