Our pens are a double-edged sword. Once they pierce paper they can either hurt others or protect them. We must be chivalrous with our word weapons and use them for justice and mercy, to shape our world into a place that is more safe, accepting and that fosters knowledge-spreading literature.
I came to Pepperdine wanting to be a fashion magazine journalist who could use my passions for writing and self-expression — to make a difference in the world. This magazine is a testament to what sort of media can be created that is both engaging and educational to readers, that calls attention to issues like race, body image, gender, sexuality and privilege. It represents these issues in their rawest form, from diction to photography. In honor of a trend made notorious by Darling Magazine, presenting the human experience in its most organic form, we are capitalizing our decision to not retouch or photoshop any of our photos. We are leaving all blemishes, stray hairs and shirt stains fully exposed, as they are all trademarks of the human experience.
A special thanks to my entire staff: photographers, designers, assistant editors, assistants, writers, illustrators and our lovely advisers Elizabeth Smith and Courtenay Stallings for helping me make this happen —without your hard work, dedication and passion, none of this would be possible! Currents is truly a living organism that has been breathed to life with the abilities and passion of its entire staff and the grace of God.
I hope you enjoy the issue and that it challenges you to question societal expectations. Wear your self image and personal values like a badge of honor. Showcase them in ways that express who you truly are: you.
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Follow Kristin Vartan on Instagram: @keepingitkrischic
