Magazines: 2 Front Covers of The Big Issue

Magazines: The Big Issue – 2 Front Covers Analysis

Context and Purpose

The Big Issue is a UK-based street newspaper established in 1991, produced and sold directly by homeless individuals, partly as a means to provide an income for them.
The content covers a wide range of topics, often highlighting social and environmental issues.

Design and Aesthetics

Meeting the conventions of magazines, the front covers possess clear mastheads, taglines, barcodes, cover lines, and main images.
The masthead is typically prominent and recognisable, located at the top of the page, establishing the brand identity.
Bold typography, contrasting colours, and eye-catching images are used to draw attention.
Cover lines tease and summarise article content, using emotive and captivating language to attract readers.

Target Audience and Representation

The Big Issue targets a broad socioeconomic demographic, appealing to a readership who are socially conscious and politically engaged.
Front cover designs often incorporate topics or individuals resonating with the target readership.
The magazine prides itself on providing an inclusive representation of society, often featuring minority groups, women, and people experiencing poverty.

Content and Editorial Stance

Content frequently revolves around social, environmental and political issues, reflecting The Big Issue’s mission of social change.
The cover stories often challenge popular discourse, providing alternative viewpoints on important societal matters.
The editorial tone is generally informative, thought-provoking, and often invites readers to become socially active.

Channels of Distribution

Sold on the streets by vendors who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, The Big Issue takes a unique approach to direct distribution.
The Big Issue also has an online platform where digital versions of the magazine can be purchased.

Critiques and Controversies

Critics have pointed out the magazine’s reliance on homeless vendors can lead to exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
The Big Issue’s distinct business model has generated debate surrounding the ethics of street selling and the effectiveness of such initiatives as a long-term solution to homelessness.
However, the magazine’s commitment to generating income for the homeless and advocating for social change has been widely praised and deemed instrumental in raising awareness.