1111 SUBMISSION

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to 11 11. This production is created upon the notion that our world is
progressing into complete and absolute shit.
I designed this work with the intention that readers will engage with each piece,
closing the magazine more informed than when they opened it.
The idea of a deteriorating society is met with an equal amount of
optimism for the future; though times are dark now, bliss is on the horizon.
The concept of 11 11 was born through my observation of universal sociocultural
events that have shaped the modern world. To begin the project, I focused the
structure of the magazine around five themes. Democracy, environmentalism,
racism, gun control, and gender identity are the
focal points that inspired the articles in 11 11.
For each of the sections, I conducted photoshoots relating to the themes. All
of the photographs in this magazine are my own, shot primarily on 120mm film
with a few 35mm shots. I took 11 11 as an opportunity to exhibit my recent
creative endeavors-- this production catalogues my
fashion, photography and writing portfolios between two covers.
Cynicism is a necessary catalyst in the social reaction of progression.
The beauty in the world I see is viewed through a wary eye. My love for this
beauty is not to be mistaken; I am enamored with the possibilities of the future.
The title of the magazine comes from the widespread belief that 11:11 is a lucky time,
a time to make a wish. The numbers 11 11 appear far more often than
solely on the clock. Whenever I get a chance, I make a wish on 11 11.
From the countless number of times I’ve seen the four figures in everyday life,
I decided the value of my wish was more than just that: My excessive wishing is an
exhibition of my desire for balance in the world. Through my wishes, I’ve inadvertently
woven optimism into my life. No matter if my desires are answered, I’m grateful for the optimistic
mindset 11 11 brings to me. With this magazine, I want to bring the optimism I see for the future
to the eyes of the masses. Perhaps the minuscule idea of a wish is all we need to fix our world.
The first article “Mass MoCA: Existential Conversations with Strangers” was my jumping
off point for the magazine. For this article, I asked strangers a single question:
What is the Current State of the World? The answers I got affirmed my theory that the
world is indeed in a state of optimistic turmoil. The people I spoke
with at Mass MoCA, in addition to personal
conversations I’ve had, inspired me to carry my vision
for the magazine all the way through completion.
11 11 is a warning, a warning against the common thought that our future is set in stone. If
the world continues it’s downward spiral to utter destruction, there will be no future at all.
I sincerely hope that the messages I impress upon readers resonate in their minds. Each article in 11 11
investigates a different topic that has affected my persona;
these pieces read the world as interpreted by Max.
2
Thank you for your attention. Listen closely and make a wish.
M A X