Red Press Society is a non-profit organization cultivating the cultural community in the Fraser Valley. Formed in 2016 and made up of writers, artists, and musicians, it is important to the society that local creators have opportunities to present their work.
Raspberry: a space for community growth and expression
Red Press’ first main project is to publish the monthly magazine Raspberry — a consistent, high-quality publication that enables Fraser Valley artists to share their work and the community at large to engage with local culture.
The magazine publishes reviews, event coverage, and feature articles on what shapes the everyday life and cultural experience of Valley residents. It also publishes original art and writing by local emerging creators. Our team wants to dig their fingers into the rich cultural earth right here in the Valley. In the summer, the Raspberry team partners with the Jam in Jubilee concert series to produce a music-focused zine distributed in print at the concerts.
Raiseberry: a celebration of local culture
Red Press’ main annual fundraiser, whose proceeds primarily go toward publishing Raspberry, is a gala event with performances and displays by local artists in various genres. In its first year, Raiseberry included three bands, a live painter, a video game demo, local food and drink, and readings by local writers. There was also a silent auction featuring donated items from local artists, organizations, and businesses. Red Press also holds smaller scale events throughout the year that showcase local artists.
Future initiatives and goals
Red Press further aims to run multiple cultural community programs and initiatives including but not limited to:
- An arts and culture magazine which features quality critical arts writing as well as shining a spotlight on the local arts community and exploring life in the Fraser Valley;
- A series of readings and literary events which are open to the public, showcase local writers, and may occasionally welcome professional guests from other communities to share their expertise; and
- A community space where contemporary Canadian literature will be available, including literary magazines and small press or independent publications which may not as easily make it to local bookstore shelves; and the space will be accessible for community readings, workshops, guest speakers, book clubs, and individual writing projects. This space will also be the home of Raspberry.
RED PRESS SOCIETY 