ink, a teen journal for writing and visual art
ink is an annual publication for and by Vancouver teens, published since 2018 by Vancouver Public Library. ink includes all types of writing and visual art, showcasing the creativity and diversity of teens in this city. Copies of ink are available to borrow in all of our branches, your school library, and as an ebook:
2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018.
Want to submit your writing and artwork and be featured in ink? Download a Submission Form!
You may submit up to two pieces each year:
WRITING: 1,000 word maximum, 2 page maximum for poetry). Typed entries preferred, but not required. Please submit in an editable file format (e.g. word, not pdf)
VISUAL ART: Art will be printed in black and white except for front and back cover. You may be required to submit your original artwork if your work is selected for publication.
- Digital art and drawings: High resolution. Minimum 300 dpi.
- Photographs: High resolution. Minimum 300 dpi.
- Comics: Two 8.5 x 11 inch pages maximum. All text must be legible without magnification
We welcome voices from teens aged 13 – 18 living in the City of Vancouver. We are looking for creative, original, thought-provoking, diverse, and engaging work. Submissions including hate speech, exclusionary language, or excessively graphic depictions of sexual encounters and violence will not be published. Art created using artificial intelligence will not be published. Please review and edit your work for any grammatical errors before submitting.
Submission forms and writing and/or artwork can be dropped off at any VPL branch library or emailed to teens@vpl.ca.
HAVING TROUBLE GETTING STARTED? The ink Teen Advisory Group suggests exploring these themes:
- Adventure, teamwork, resiliency
- Relationships, loneliness, connection
- Purpose, identity, family
- Your favourite word, sound, or smell
- The future: environment, technology, fears, hopes, dreams
Submissions for ink, volume 8 are due April 21, 2025.
ink TEEN ADVISORY GROUP: Are you interested in helping put together ink Volume 7? ink Teen Advisory Group members are involved in all aspects of the magazine's publishing cycle, including selecting pieces, magazine design and layout, and planning the launch party.
To register email teens@vpl.ca
When does ink TAG meet?
ink TAG meets from February - December. Our current dates are every second Thursday, October 3 - November 28 from 4-5p.m.
Where does ink TAG meet?
ink TAG will meet virtually over Zoom and in-person at the Central Branch.
How can I volunteer for ink TAG?
Membership is open to anyone 13-18 years of age living in Vancouver. Email teens@vpl.ca to register.
How do I learn more about ink?
You can find out more and read previous issues here!
Teen Services is working to make our programs accessible to all Vancouver teens. Please email us at teens@vpl.ca to let us know how our program facilitators can support you to participate fully and comfortably.
Ink publication and programming is generously supported by the Diamond Foundation.
