Pushing Out the Boat Sets Sail with Issue 18
Scotland’s long-running arts magazine returns with new work, a Gaelic debut, and more.
Pushing Out the Boat, the North East’s long-running literary and visual arts magazine, is launching its eighteenth issue on Sunday 18 May at Phoenix Community Hall in Newton Dee. The event will bring together contributors, the volunteer editorial team and supporters for an afternoon of readings, conversation and a preview of what’s ahead.
Founded in 2000, the magazine has become a key part of the region’s cultural landscape. It publishes poetry, prose and visual art by both emerging and established writers and artists, with contributions from the North East and further afield.
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A Platform for Local and Global Voices
Each submission is judged anonymously, with a strong emphasis on quality and originality. In practice, most contributions are from Scotland, balanced with a smaller number from international writers and artists. This has helped maintain a distinctly local character while opening the door to new perspectives.
Editor Peter Burnett notes that this latest issue takes another important step. “We strive to recognise the importance of local languages,” he said. “The magazine includes short stories and poems in Scots, Doric and English, and now for the first time, Gaelic.”
More Than a Magazine
Pushing Out the Boat remains entirely volunteer-run, a rarity in today’s publishing landscape. The team includes editors, artists, event organisers and student contributors, many of whom are involved over several years. The magazine continues to support new voices by offering a professional platform and encouraging young and first-time contributors.
The launch event will feature readings, artwork, and a major announcement about a 25th anniversary project planned for later this year. The magazine is available to purchase at local stockists and online, where tickets for the launch can also be found.
For more information or to get involved, visit pushingouttheboat.co.uk.
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