Help Murmur find a home!

Although it’s known as Murmur, the organization is more of an outcry. Expansive community outreach (including elementary school workshops, queer and anti-homophobic events, and efforts for homeless youth) is singular and characterizing — but only part of the picture. A fierce collaborator and civic resource, the hub of both the [http://clatl.com/atlanta/best-forum-for-fostering-diy-culture/BestOf?oid=12236287] and the Atlanta Zine Library (AZL) has proven itself to be a true feature of Atlanta’s creative community. Since AZL’s beginnings back in 2011, Murmur has worked with the likes of MINT Gallery, the Low Museum, LadyFest Atlanta, the Mammal Gallery, Hodgepodge Coffeehouse and Gallery, Charis Books, and others in its efforts to bridge the gap between resource access and creative intent. Through collaboration and DIY production, Murmur is helping artists shape the way they want their work to be presented — without the middle man.

But now, ladies and gentlemen, Murmur needs a dedicated space for operations. More specifically, it needs your help in obtaining it. And what fundraising method would fit more snuggly with Murmur’s DIY culture than crowdfunding?

The organization’s Kickstarter campaign, “Give Murmur a Home,” has a modest goal of $7,000. The money, should their goal be reached, will help fund rental fees for a physical space to call their own. If there are any leftover funds, all resources will help expand supplies for public use: Risograph printers, screen printing and book-binding supplies, direct animation supplies, computers, projectors, and more. Essentially, giving as many artists as possible as many tools as possible to succeed.

The space used with campaign funds will act as a home base for Mumur’s already impressive repertoire as well as acting as a DIY resource center. Murmur Executive Director Amanda Mills emphasizes that this will help the organization further contribute to Atlanta’s artistic community and strengthen existing collaborations.

Unsurprisingly, local artists have responded with a resounding cry of support. Murmur’s Vice President, Ashley Anderson, even started an art campaign to promote the fundraiser. Every day until the end of the fundraiser, a new Atlanta artist will contribute an image made specifically for Murmur. Participants include Nina Dolin, Julian Cano, Squishiepuss, Allen Taylor, Chelsea Raflo, and John Lloyd Hannah.

The history of zines is rooted in everything from political pamphlets to punk rock — an appropriate foundation for this increasingly present and charmingly influential organization. Every dollar counts, people. Help them out!