In a world where creativity often feels stifled, Charissa Lucille transformed a simple space in Phoenix into a sanctuary for outcasts and dreamers, proving that when art meets community, magic happens.

 Wasted Ink Zine Distro in the heart of Phoenix, is a home for Queer voices, radical ideas, and the D.I.T. (do it together) spirit that inspires us all to break free from exacts and embrace the beauty of imperfection.

Initially uncertain about staying in Phoenix after college, Lucille found it to be the perfect location for Wasted Ink; and said, “There wasn’t anything like it here.”

 Over the years, Wasted Ink naturally attracted more Queer individuals, “I think the space lends itself to oddballs and socially outcast people or historically silenced folks.” Lucille said. “They’re here because we’re all Queer, and this is just a Queer space inherently without forcing it to be that.”

Creating a zine is a cost-effective way to produce and publish work in small batches for non-commercial publications. Zining is the perfect way for artists and writers to test the waters in the world of production, Lucille said. “I feel like so many creators or people get really stuck in perfectionism, and zines are just that way to get out of that.” 

The traditional publication process can take years; not everything stays relevant long enough to print a book. Zines are an alternative way to make pertinent information accessible quickly. 

Lucille has been able to grow and maintain this grassroots company for almost ten years. Wasted Ink is a bit of something for everyone. 

It’s a storefront, an art gallery that rotates shows every month, the hosts of Phoenix Zine Fest, which happens every fall, and an on-site library with thousands of zines people can check out and read, all dedicated to uplifting the voices of black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent artists. 

Wasted Ink recently expanded its offerings with the launch of  Paper Jam Print, a print studio committed to providing accessible and intentional printing opportunities in collaboration with SaturnHex and Shut Eye Press.  

Anticipation drives Lucille as they reflect on the future, “There is still so much to do and build together, and that’s what keeps me excited- to think there’s still so much more to explore.”