Ode to Homeliness is a non-linear zine that explores the concept of “home”. Through personal reflections and illustrations, this zine delves into the many facets of homeliness—the beautiful and the messy, the significant and the seemingly trivial. It invites readers to pause and consciously consider aspects of home they may have overlooked, sparking a deeper connection to the spaces we inhabit.
The idea for the project began with the vision of a house-shaped zine—form and content working in harmony to create an immersive experience. I wanted the physical structure to mirror the theme, so from early on, I envisioned a format that would unfold like a house. This design invites the reader to step inside, literally and metaphorically: when opened, the zine reveals its contents room by room; when folded, it returns to the shape of a home—a tactile reminder of its central theme.
I was particularly drawn to overlooked elements of homeliness: the quiet charm of aging buildings, the future of heirlooms in a digital age, and the sentimental "junk" that fills our drawers. These themes are brought to life across 10 independent chapters, or "rooms," which readers can explore in any order. The non-linear structure reflects the layered, fragmented nature of memory and domestic life.
Throughout the design process, I developed the text and visuals simultaneously, aiming for a cohesive relationship between the two. Inspiration came from everyday moments—casual conversations, forest walks, and ongoing research—all feeding into a slow and thoughtful creative rhythm over the course of three months.
Ode to Homeliness was printed using risograph in teal and red inks, chosen for their vibrancy and the printing method’s handcrafted quality. Each copy is individually cut and folded by hand, reinforcing the zine’s personal, intimate nature. There’s no right or wrong way to engage with it—only an open invitation to step inside and reflect on what “home” means to you.
Below is a scan of the final zine (both sides) for those interested in reading its contents and exploring its chapters in full.
