Publisher

Australian Book Review

About

"Australian Book Review – edited by Peter Rose – is a monthly cultural magazine based at Boyd. ABR was founded in 1961 and is widely regarded as Australia’s pre-eminent literary magazine. Each year we publish about 250 writers, mixing established writers with new voices. Our programs are diverse and spread around Australia. We host events at Boyd and throughout Melbourne. We conduct a number of prestigious literary prizes and we also offer a number of lucrative writers’ fellowships and editorial internships."

What appealed to you most about your studio space when you first saw it?

It was still a building site when we first visited, but we saw all the potential in this grand old nineteenth-century classroom (formerly the sewing room!). The light is superb all year round – perfect for editors – and the open plan suits this busy little organisation which employs five people and hosts volunteers. Also, it is a decided boon for us to be closer to town – close to the action – visitable by writers, publishers, readers, subscribers – and also part of the remarkable community hub that is Boyd.

How have you made this space your own?

Not surprisingly, our studio is full of books, thousands of them, growing all the time – and books are the best ornaments! We’ve put down lots of rugs to warm it up, and we’re very fond of our three plants.

What do you create or make in your studio?

Each month we produce a new print magazine – plus our digital edition (ABR Online). In addition we have hosted many literary events – in Studio 2, in the Assembly Hall, in the Southbank Library – and in the Lounge. We welcome visitors and are very happy to give a complimentary copy of the magazine to anyone who drops in at Studio 2.

What is your favourite item in your studio at the moment (or in the whole building)?

We’re proud of our Guestbook – first entries on opening day (7 July 2012). It boasts some pretty famous names already.