Zines and Independent Publications as Planning Tools

Discover how zines and independent publications can deepen community engagement, expand access to planning conversations, and creatively document projects.

In this virtual session, we’ll explore how planners, artists, and community leaders are leveraging DIY publishing to communicate ideas, share stories, and empower communities. After a brief introduction to the role of zines in planning and public engagement from APA APD member and host Ellen Mueller, our panelists will each present their work and reflect on how these publications have supported the goals of their projects and the communities they partner with.

Whether you’re a planner looking for new outreach tools, a student interested in creative communication, or someone curious about alternative publishing, this panel will offer practical inspiration you can take back to your own work. A brief Q&A will follow the presentations.

APA CM Credits: 1.0

Host

Ellen Mueller: An urban planning graduate student at Minnesota State University Mankato and also serves as Director of Programs at Arts Midwest and is a McKnight Book Arts Fellow at the Minnesota Center for Book Arts. Her research and practice explore how book arts and independent publications can support planning and community engagement.

Panelists

Christina Harris: Senior Director at the Metropolitan Planning Council and focuses on the intersection of planning, development, and land use, helping shape and implement strategies that advance a more equitable Chicago region. Her work includes developing tools and partnerships that center community voices in decision-making.

Lena Walker: An Associate Planner with the City of Boise, Idaho and APA member, Lena integrates visual communication, community engagement, and thoughtful storytelling into her planning practice, using zines to make complex planning concepts accessible and engaging for residents.

Miguel Angel Vazquez, FAICP: An award-winning practitioner and public health innovator whose work blends data, creativity, and community partnerships to shape healthier, more equitable, and culturally vibrant communities across Riverside County and beyond.

Active APA Arts and Planning Division members qualify for a free member-rate ticket. If you're not a member, you can join our division (with or without an APA membership): https://arts.planning.org/membership/

Non-members are asked to purchase a paid ticket.

Our division is committed to high-quality programming that advances the arts and planning field. We provide stipends to our presenters and rely on membership and non-member fees to support our events. You can email us at artsandplanningdivision@gmail.com if you have any questions about membership!