Graphic by Hengjia Liu
Vestige:
1. A trace or reminder of something that has disappeared, or is disappearing.
2. Scientific Definition: A part or organ of an organism which has become reduced or functionless.
Edition nine, Vestige, is about encouraging the community to delve deeper into the small factors that have constructed their identity, to be curious about the world, and to critically examine how we understand the past. Vestige derives from the Latin vestigium, meaning ‘footprint’ – a little hint of what was there before. We are surrounded by vestiges every day, think of a piece of broken glass on the footpath, for example. Continuing on from the past two editions of Bossy, we now want to examine what is lurking in the shadows. We want this issue to be able to fight against the misuse and disregard of vestiges that tell stories about diverse groups, and reclaim and preserve knowledge that is at risk of disappearing, or has disappeared.
This issue of Bossy aims to amplify diverse experiences, and identities. It will particularly invite the community to contribute pieces in multiple languages and art forms, to share folklore that has been passed on from generation to generation, and to write creatively about reimagined worlds; where practices and forms of expression haven’t been stifled by oppressive forces. Vestige is a safe space to express parts of yourself that others have only seen in traces, and to rebuild and rediscover memories, tales and practices that should always be known. Unapologetically share how you want to be remembered, and what you want to make sure is remembered.
If you would like to contribute this year, please get in touch with us as soon as possible! If you would like to contribute written content, email Imogen at anubossymag@gmail.com and if you would like to contribute visual content, including art, photography, and collages, email Harriet at anubossymag@gmail.com. Our incredible editors will be posting article ideas on our Bossy Contributors Group and our Bossy Visual Contributors Group on Facebook, if you are looking for some inspiration on where to start!
For detailed theme information, please see a further description here: https://docs.google.com/…/1OBauxZ4q1FGtby8GlJs…/edit…