Instincts is an unusual review request, being a magazine and all. While we are focusing on the comics content, other bits of content will come up. The creator and editor Talanje uses abstract art that speak to how people really experience certain emotions. In addition, she includes a few other women’s perspectives, sometimes with their own illustrations.
Instincts: Abstract Empathy
Talanje creates compelling short stories that get people to think and feel at the same time. In F(l)ight for example, the angles get readers into the headspace of a small boxer. They feel how much of a disadvantage she has against a larger opponent. When a hit connects, the more outlandish artwork with hypnotizing visuals shows a big change in perspective. With it, readers feel how Teenie isn’t just fighting her opponent in the match, but her self-doubts. As an egg shell encircles her, seeing Teenie fight her way out takes priority. Readers don’t even see how Teenie wins her fight, because getting out of the shell is more important.
As for a story that sticks with me it’s the second issue’s On Some Days. Very recently, I’ve been going through a lot of stresses that keep me on my bed. So seeing the main character alone with her thoughts like she’s a groomed plant is pretty relatable. Especially with how it ends thanks to outside stimuli more powerful than an alarm clock.
Guests and Achievers
Talanje gives a few guests some time in the spotlight, like Katya Naphtali with Myself. Granted, this narrative can seem a little strange with how the existential opening goes into c-section births. But it’s the presentation that makes it stand out; the art evokes an ever present anxiety, while the writing feels like how a real conversation would go.
As for bits that keep readers around, Talanje’s Girls, Girls, Girls looks like it can do just that. Sure the premise about a band’s lead singer getting nervous is nothing new. But losing her face to a spirit of female empowerment more than makes up for it. Sure, readers (should) want Ivy to get her face back after two chapters, but seeing the spirit rediscover herself feels more interesting. Personally after seeing girl power get commodified, some self-reflection on the topic is quite welcome. Enough for readers to get the drive to know what happens next.
This Is Still A Magazine
The comics and guest pieces are definitely Instincts‘ main attraction, but it’s other sections offer a little more. You know word searches, sudoku, etc.
As for the ad sections, these aren’t your typical random things sponsors want to sell to people. You know stuff like I put up because Google AdSense cut me off!
In this magazine, ads have a target audience that fits the aesthetics and doesn’t focus on products, but experiences.
Trust Your Instincts!
Instincts is full of abstract art we at Gutternaut love! Any time you feel like you can’t properly express your emotions, this magazine can tell you that it’s okay to feel odd about it. Not everybody can be on your level, but there are a lot of people you can relate to on here. Plus at $2.22 in digital it’s a really good deal… I’m not sure if $8.88 is as good for physicals. Or if you want something just a little more without worrying about your money, you can find special editions on Webtoon! Overall these two issues get 8/10.
Thanks for coming to the end and as always, remember to look between the panels.