THE GRIND began in 2013 as a failed venture with the coffee chain Beanscene. The goal was to use Beanscene's network of stores to distribute a journal of art and fiction that published artists in Scotland. Beanscene wished to exert more influence over the content than THE GRIND's editor was comfortable with and so the relationship ended. It is worth noting that as of the publication of this page (April 2015), only one of these two institutions still exists.
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The original graphic design was provided by Declan Malone, co-founder of THE GRIND. The Editor asked him for "something bleak, but not grungy, that's a little bit dystopian and steam punk but without being sci-fi. Also, organic without looking natural"
Unperturbed by these preposterous demands Malone produced two posters that would go on to influence THE GRIND's aesthetic for years to come. The original photographs were taken around Glasgow. More of Malone's work can be found in Issues I and II. ISSUE I of THE GRIND was well received and struck a chord with those submitting their work. Emboldened by this success, Malone and The Editor decided to continue their journey. THE GRIND would not exist today were it not for the advice, patience, and tutelage of Louise Duffy, John Farrell, Andrew McAinsh, and Anca Johnstone. |