Era Journal: Editor-in-Chief

Hi, I am Sofiia (Sonya for short). I am a Philosophy and History of Art student from Kyiv, Ukraine. The editing process means a lot to me: I am drawn to the nuance, labour and sensitivity it demands. I write a lot, read loads and I am a dancer. I reflect rigorously on my artistic taste and output, which, in turn, makes me a deeply invested audience for the creative work of others. This academic year I have enjoyed my work as an Art and Design sub-editor. Being part of the committee in this capacity allowed me to ease into the complex editorial process, and now, with the insight I've gained, I would like to contribute to Era Corp further. 

I have extensive experience in copywriting and production management. Over the past two years, one of my main gigs involved working on art-funding applications, pitch decks, press/marketing materials and brand identity as part of an executive role at a contemporary dance theatre (Dance.Film.Performance). This opportunity gave me a strong sense of structure and professionalism, essential for the communication element behind any creative operation. 

I love Bataille, Botticelli, Pina Bausch, Chagall, Joshua Citarella, Dostoyevsky, Guadagnino, Houellebecq, Kristeva, Moravia, Morrissey, Tarkovsky, experimental use of grammar and bilinguality. Within my degree, I mostly study art of the Middle Ages and linguistics. My dream is to experience the production process of print issues (real, tangible objects - wow!) as an Editor-in-Chief, God willing! 

I joined Era quite shyly in my first year after going to a social on a whim. People were talking about the Prince Charles and asking what I would like to attend and write about. All questions signalled a potential which was at once intellectual and social, an atmosphere which Era cultivates, while in the process creating a unique platform for creativity. 

I have really enjoyed running the Poetry and Fiction workshop, and would be enthusiastic to carry this on into next year. This fortnightly meeting has brought the section together and has allowed the editorial process to be more democratic and tailored, moving it beyond one digital back and forth to a more productive and personal conversation. By organising similar in-person events across all Era’s sections, I would continue to make the committee and editorial process less enigmatic, while offering a consistent sounding board for ideas. 

I would also like to introduce a more formal submission framework for pitches via a form which would set out clearer guidance on what to include in the pitch. I would encourage more collaborative pieces, which consider the relation between mediums and support the communal dimension so integral to Era’s multifaceted identity. It was seeing people’s engagement with the possibilities the journal offered to participate in London’s arts scene which continuously drew me back to each meeting and print. I share this passion and will strive to promote it.