The Writing University has launched a new series of interviews to highlight the various journals and publications across campus at the University of Iowa writing programs. We ask about the publication's history, submission process, etc. Today's interview is with UI undergrad Grace Westergaard, editor of the new student publication Venus Magazine!
1. Hi Grace! What is the history behind Venus?
Romance has always been one of my favorite genres to read and write, but I noticed a lack of representation of it within the English classes I was taking. For a while, I assumed that no one else cared about it as much as I did, or that it didn’t matter as much as I wanted it to. So, when I had the idea for a romance literary magazine, I pushed it to the back to my mind because of this assumption that no one would read it.
At the end of last semester, though, I talking with a friend —who is also an English major—about this lack of romance writing on campus, and she said the words I’d been waiting to hear: What if we started a romance magazine? This question made me realize that it did matter, and that people on the University of Iowa campus would feel the same way. From there, we picked Venus as the name to reference the Roman goddess of love.
This is our first semester running the magazine, and we could not be more excited to read romance, accept submissions, and interact with people who love romantic works as much as we do!
2. What makes Venus unique?
Venus is the first undergraduate literary magazine on campus solely dedicated to publishing fiction and poetry dedicated to the romance genre. We are focused on uplifting and amplifying the voices of all romance writers, regardless of gender, sexuality, or background. The main goal is Venus is to create a safe, inclusive space where everyone can feel free to share their work about romance and with the knowledge that it will be celebrated.
3. When do you accept submissions?
For our first issue, we’re accepting submissions from the beginning of September to September 27th. For our second issue in the Spring, submissions will be open throughout January and February, exact dates to come!
4. How can people get involved?
We recently hired our 2024-2025 staff of poetry and prose editors, and applications for 2025-2026 staff positions will open toward the end of the Spring semester. We hope to plan events that people can attend to learn more about Venus Magazine very soon!
5. Where can people find Venus?
You can find us on Instagram (@venuslitmag). We frequently post about deadlines, new developments, and ways to get involved! Our website is currently in-progress, but that will be up and running soon. Toward the end of the semester, you’ll be able to read our first issue for free online, as well as physical copies that will be in various locations around campus.
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Thank you Grace!