Niijournal was launched on May 10, 2016, birthed from photographer, Campbell Addy’s vision of creating a publication that embraces and encourages diversity. Campbell and individuals from various walks of life, have achieved this aspiration through a diverse and elegant execution of art, political and cultural discussions, and fashion. Whilst we are in a generation where our differences are being positively and negatively broadcasted at a rapid rate, and ideals and viewpoints are being reshaped constantly, Niijournal’s main objective is to “educate, not irritate.”
The progressive and important work done in Niijournal has been shown and discussed about on DazedDigital, Saint Heron, the Huffington Post, African Digital Art, True Africa, i-D, magCulture, Protein, LSN, It’s Nice That, and L’Officiel. The representation (or lack thereof), and the hardships, that certain groups have endured, are illuminated through Niijournal, along with their triumphs, and inspiring life stories.
“[Niijournal’s] distinctive visual style is part of what has made Nii Journal’s print edition a success in an increasingly digital-focused landscape.” – Vogue
“The magazine Niijournal deals with diversity in the fashion world – it poses questions as photography, answers as aesthetics” – L’Officiel Germany
“Niijournal provides a vital space where tension so frequently directed towards the black community is extinguished – instead presenting an honest and eye-opening vision.” – i-D
“Its features take a politicised stance, but are delivered in a consciously non confrontational, positive manner” – LSN
“Niijournal creates a vital space where identity politics, racism and the sense of underrepresentation Campbell Addy and many black people keenly feel can be openly discussed, while a fashion-oriented aesthetic tempers its political themes.” – Protein
“These aren’t just beautiful images. They’re visual messages that stimulate acceptance and expose the essence of beauty beyond the Eurocentric design.” – Saint Heron
“Nii is both a collective, but it’s also a kind of personal diary: the connections that Campbell makes on his travels inform both his and the reader’s understanding of identity, race and colour.” – magCulture
“Niijournal, which examines the norms and values of the majority of fashion and art publications through a mix of photography, literature, and written features. By looking closely at racial and cultural identity through a personal lens” – DAZED
Issue two of Niijournal comes as a double cover, featuring musical Goddesses, singer songwriter / cellist Kelsey Lu shot by Tyler Mitchell & singer/songwriter Kelela shot by Campbell Addy
Issue 2 will once again revisit topics such as sexuality, race and empowerment but focusing attention on issues surrounding Mental Health. Mental Health is often a topic people shy away from, but it’s a silent killer.
In general, people from black and minority ethnic groups living in the UK are:
• more likely to be diagnosed with mental health problems
• more likely to be diagnosed and admitted to hospital
• more likely to experience a poor outcome from treatment
• more likely to disengage from mainstream mental health services, leading to social exclusion and a deterioration in their mental health.
Contributors for Niijournal II consist of: Tyler Mitchell, Ian Bradley, Mischa Notcutt, Ib Kamara, Katrice Dustin, Zariya Allen, Georgina Johnson, Virginie Moreira, Dexter Lander, Izaak Adu, Nadine Ijewere, Tschan Andrews and many more…
With the launch of issue two, in collaboration with Protein Studios, as part of their Protein Presents, we will be hosting an exhibition that will run from the 28th July – 30th July. There we will show work featured within the journal in a new light. From poetry as moving image to a short films.
Niijournal is ready to go into print and you can help to make it a reality. All funding will go towards printing costs and bringing the launch of Niijournal II to life. Your support is what made Niijournal I such a success, we invite you to make Niijournal II an even greater success.
Niijournal – Here to educate, not irritate.
