Zines are handmade publications that can focus on any topic, but particularly topics that are often ignored and overlooked by mainstream media. The low costs of creation and distribution make the format a more accessible form of publishing. While not seen as a profitable endeavor, zines are often used as a tool to build a community of individuals who share the same interests.

An artist’s book is a work of art that uses the structure or function of a book. Artist’s books can come in different formats including codex form, scrolls, foldouts, pop-up paper cuts, and other artistic takes on a book. It incorporates various materials and methods such as hand binding, photography, painting, drawing, letterpress printing, and hand lettering.

The I Can See Clearly Now Installation at Ohio State University Hopkins Hall Gallery was created by artists Aaron Peters and Lydia Smith. This was a collaborative installation that was on display from July 9, 2021 until July 16, 2021. Ohio State University professors and students were encouraged to interact with the exhibit by moving, shifting, and rearranging the objects and materials that had been gathered at a Columbus, Ohio recycling yard. On July 16, 2021, a book workshop session was led by Brett Davis. During this book workshop session Ohio State University students created zines and artists’ books using materials collected from the installation or incorporated elements of photography and drawing inspired by the ephemerality of the installation.