Exploring new undefined ideas is at the heart of what the Phoenix is

seeking from interested individuals in its upcoming spring issue.

With the issue’s theme of “Cultural Exploration,” Editor in Chief Jason

Aldred believes there is a need for different groups to convey their ideas

of images and how they pertain to them in life.

“We at the magazine hope to receive submissions from a variety of

individuals that have documented their own cultural exploration in the form

of literature or art,” Aldred said.

Moreover, there are no boundaries for interested individuals who wish to

submit materials for publication. The full impact of this cultural

exploration will not be received just at the University of Tennessee

campus, Aldred said.

“Historically, the Phoenix accepts submissions from anyone who is

interested, even though submitters from undergraduate, graduate and faculty

groups are usually the largest contributors to the magazine,” Aldred

said.

So what kind of criteria is the Phoenix basing its judgment on when

looking for individuals interested in submitting material?

“We are looking for local color and cultural influences, breaking out of

the cultural comfort zone, international perspective on our world, cultural

experimentation, culturally inspired art and study abroad. These

experiences all fall into the prescribed parameters,” he said.

Furthermore, Aldred said there is a reflection of individuals that comes

across in daily life that society is sometimes not aware of. This

reflection is what he feels will bring out a better understanding of our

differences.

“We wish to use the mirror of expression to recapitulate our own image that

is not always so obvious. That image being one acted upon by the diversity

in the world around us and how culture, in its many senses, affects us both

positively and negatively,” Aldred said.

Aldred hopes to receive a variety of submissions. “We hope to receive

poetry, fiction, nonfiction, art, photography and even musical arrangements

and weave them into the theme,” Aldred said.

Regardless, if these themes do not include your area of interest,

unmentioned categories will be accepted. The deadline for the spring issue

is Jan. 30 at 5 p.m. in room 5 Communications Building.

The Art and Architecture Building is also a designated point were staff

members from the Phoenix will be available for questions when

seeking applications for submittals.

For further information about the issue, contact Aldred at 673-8567.