out of order

The first issue of Etc. magazine delves into the dynamic interplay between order and chaos in our society, through typography and layout that promotes imperfection in art and culture, resulting in a pre-established disharmony. The 456-page book draws inspiration from the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi,  adopting an unfinished yet finished aesthetic approach that seamlessly blends the beauty in impermanence and imperfection. Handwritten notes, placeholders, print registration marks, and other unconventional components are used throughout to further emphasise the theme. The pages are turned upside down in the second half of the book as a visual metaphor for how the ~plague~ turned our world upside-down. The section includes visual representations and comic depictions of life in isolation, capturing the chaos and order that became our new reality.