Okay, so…steampunk. It’s one of those things I never quite “got into” but have been fascinated by since it started gaining, uhm, steam in the fan crowds years ago. Since then, it’s exploded and has permeated many aspects of geek culture, from movies to novels to anime. A blend of the past’s romantisicm and futuristic technology, it’s a mash-up that seems to work well with many outlets and has found its way into many of the subcultures, from hardcore science-fiction fans to the local goth kids. Even with all that, I never had a chance to delve into the background, history and fandom of it, and at times I feel like kicking myself for lacking that knowledge. Like right now, as I peruse through the first two issues of Antarctic Press‘ new series Gearhearts Steam-Punk Glamor Revue.
Now, Antarctic has been around for what seems like forever, offering anime and their own brand of anime-inspired books. So it goes as no surprise, given the crossover appeal of steampunk with anime, that they’d also see fit to publish a few books on it as well. While it is comic-sized, Gearhearts is, as the title implies, more or less a fashion/photography magazine. A visually stunning one, at that.
Gearhearts is mostly comprised of photo shoots, with the various lovely models decked out in their best corsets, lace and guns. Accompanying these images are usually interviews with the models, delving into their tastes and history within the movement. Steampunk artists also get to to show off a bit of their work, and they too get some interview time, as well as others, such as novelist Gail Carriger. A short story or two are included in each issue as well.
Nivi Pix, from issue #2. A strong candidate for my favorite so far.
So far, there are two issues of the magazine on stands, and – even for someone as clueless as me – these are gorgeous books. The photography is crisp, the models are beautiful and the outfits are very, very cool. I will say that the accompanying interviews could use a little sprucing up; they have a bit of a questionnaire form feel to them and could do well with more follow-up to some of the answers, but it’s the images that bring the customers to the table on this, and in that regard, Gearhearts succeeds on all levels. Even a minute detail such as the type of paper stock Antarctic uses greatly increases the look of the photos and the original artwork contained within. The short stories (Full disclosure here: One is by a friend, Gearhearts associate editor Patricia Ash, who introduced me to the book) are well-written and entertaining, and at a couple or three pages, are breezy, fun reads.
All around, it’s a very promising start to this series, and thanks to its packaging and promotion, can help introduce those (like me) who are into comics but largely unfamiliar with the more intricate aspects of the steampunk style to why it’s becoming a hot property. Even those who aren’t ready to delve in fully can appreciate the photography and artwork, I think. I certainly look forward to further issues. Congrats to Antarctic, Patricia and everyone involved for putting together such a great magazine in Gearhearts.