Close Distance (volume 1, issue 2)

The box opened to reveal the white scarf folded inside.

The grey outer box opened to reveal a black and white scarf folded inside.

A grey cardboard box with an eight-pointed star and text printed in white.

The grey cardboard box housing the issue, with an 8-point compass rose and text printed in white.

Printed on a satin scarf, issue two of the journal Close Distance, designed by Pouya Ahmadi, literally embodies the way language is something we carry with us and wear, using it for a multitude of purposes. In her note for the issue, editor Lara Schoorl writes, “The scarf is reinterpreted as a metaphor for home, built from language and movement through a fabric so versatile. As objects, scarves can provide shelter from exposure, express religious beliefs, become a fashion accessory, or can be used as a surface to sit on, sleep on or under, and eat from. It is up to the wearer what purpose it may serve.” The full text of the issue is freely available online.

Close Distance, volume 1, issue 2 (limited print edition), edited by Lara Schoorl and designed by Pouya Ahmadi, 2020.

A detail of the scarf, with text oriented in multiple directions.

The scarf fully opened.

A detail of the scarf including an image of a person on a donkey surrounded by several goats.

The scarf being worn, draped around a person's neck.

The scarf being worn, draped over a person's neck.