why you need Aspen Magazine

 

Aspen Magazine: Two Takes on a Name

The name "Aspen Magazine" might conjure up two very different publications depending on your age and cultural background. Today, we'll delve into both:

1. Aspen (1965-1971): The Revolutionary Multimedia Experience

First published in 1965, Aspen wasn't your typical magazine. Envisioned by Phyllis Johnson as "the first three-dimensional magazine," it broke the mold. Each issue arrived in a unique box or folder, bursting with a variety of media beyond just printed pages. Think booklets, flexidisc records (early vinyl cousins), posters, postcards, even super-8 movie film reels!

Aspen wasn't afraid to push boundaries. Different editors and designers took complete control of each issue, resulting in a stunningly diverse collection. Leading figures in art, music, and literature of the late 1960s flocked to contribute, including Andy Warhol, John Lennon, Yoko Ono, William S. Burroughs, and David Hockney. The content reflected the era's creative ferment, encompassing everything from Pop Art to avant-garde music to social commentary.

Although published irregularly, Aspen left a lasting mark. It's considered a groundbreaking experiment in multimedia publishing, a time capsule capturing the cultural zeitgeist of the 1960s. Today, complete sets of Aspen are highly sought-after by collectors, and extensive documentation of its contents can be found online.

2. Aspen Magazine (1974-Present): Luxury Lifestyle in the Rockies

Fast forward to 1974. A local publication named Aspen, The Magazine, emerged, focusing on the Colorado ski resort of the same name. In 1987, Janet O'Grady and Randy Beier bought the company and relaunched it as Aspen Magazine. Their vision? A magazine with a national reach, covering not just Aspen but luxury living in general.

The modern Aspen Magazine caters to a discerning audience interested in culture, fashion, fine dining, travel, and the finer things in life. It features stunning photography showcasing the beauty of Aspen and the Rocky Mountains, alongside articles on health, personalities, sports, and, of course, the latest luxury trends.

Aspen Magazine is published four times a year, with a focus on high-quality content and a curated selection of advertising. They also publish a digital edition and a supplement, the Art Gallery Guide.

Aspen Magazine: A Legacy of Innovation

While vastly different, both Aspen Magazines share a commitment to excellence and a focus on a specific audience. The original Aspen revolutionized publishing with its multimedia approach, becoming a cultural icon. The modern Aspen Magazine continues to thrive, providing a luxurious escape for readers seeking a glimpse into the world of luxury and the magic of Aspen.

Looking for more? Here are some ways to delve deeper:

• Explore the original Aspen's content: [UbuWeb aspen magazine ON ubu.com]
• Visit the website of the modern Aspen Magazine: [Modern Luxury Aspen ON Modern Luxury mlaspen.com]