Join us at Printed Matter Chelsea for an evening with Purple Magazine, the independent art and fashion publication founded in 1992. Complimentary copies of past Purple Magazine issues are being offered by Purple and DSMNY (Dover Street Market New York) to readers. Join us to celebrate the magazine’s history and browse these archival issues.

Created by Olivier Zahm and Elein Fleiss, Purple Magazine pushes the boundaries of fashion and art editorial content, embracing an avant-garde approach that challenges mainstream aesthetics and conventions. The magazine’s editorial voice prioritizes artistic expression and the blending of art and fashion. Often featuring unconventional and experimental photography, interviews, and articles that highlight cutting-edge artists, designers, and cultural figures, Purple creates a platform that merges fashion with contemporary art, presenting fashion as a form of art itself.

The magazine has a reputation for its raw and unfiltered approach, often showcasing sexual themes and provocative imagery that might not be found in mainstream publications. This content reflects a deeper exploration of human experience, identity, and the artistic process, aligning with the magazine’s ethos of pushing creative boundaries.

Visually, Purple Magazine is characterized by a stark and sophisticated aesthetic. It embraces a sense of minimalism combined with an editorial style that feels intimate and personal. The magazine’s photography often has a candid, almost voyeuristic quality, capturing moments that feel spontaneous and real rather than staged or overly polished. This aesthetic is reflective of the magazine’s broader philosophy of authenticity and artistic freedom, favoring imperfection and raw beauty over conventional ideals of glamour.

Over the years, Purple has become a cultural institution within the art and fashion communities, known for its ability to spot and feature emerging talent. The magazine has consistently championed underground and alternative voices, giving them a platform to reach a broader audience. Its influence can be seen in how it has shaped the careers of many artists and designers who have gone on to achieve mainstream success.