When Wild Violet published the first issue, 10 years ago, the country was in great need of healing following the September 11 attacks on the U.S. My co-founder, Amanda Cornwell, and I had been working on the issue for several months, and we had already agreed on our goals to create a positive place for the arts. We wanted to create a space where independent artists and writers could flourish, and make their work accessible to a greater audience than those who read small literary magazines.
In the decade since, Wild Violet has published poetry, fiction, humor, short pieces, essays, artwork and photography from more than 500 contributors, as well as dozens of reviews and interviews of those in the arts.
Despite the rumors, we are still going. As the current main force between Wild Violet, I’ve had difficulty keeping up over the past year. I am a first-time mom and had no idea how all-consuming my mothering duties would become. Fortunately, with my toddler now entering a stage of newfound independence, I’m finding it easier to catch up. I’m also finding ways to distribute the work amongst others. (If you would be interested in helping, please e-mail me.)
The contributors in this issue — Passion (Vol. X Issue 1, Fall 2011) — have waited far too long for their work to see the light. They are passionate about their work, and it deserves to be enjoyed.
I hope to continue providing a positive space for the arts for another 10 years (or more).
About Alyce Wilson
