Garden + Permaculture Update! This summer was brutally dry and hot, but we're so grateful for the late monsoon rains that brought some much-needed life back into our corner of the desert. We had a lovely burst of wild flowers, and our squash and watermelon vines are coming back to life and starting to bear fruit! Right now post Halloween, we've got one watermelon now at "personal" size, but it's still growing. We also made some delicious flor de cabaza tacos with all the male blossoms from our pumpkin vine. This fall we're hoping to keep planting more cactus varieties we've been nurturing, build new basins around our trees, remove some buffel grass we've spotted in the neighborhood, and scatter more regional seed mixes to help green up our foothills! Things to plan now in AZ: Beets, Bok Choy, Carrots, Cilantro, Dill, Garlic, I'itoi Onions, Kale, Lettuces, Mustard, Onions (Green), Parsley, Peas, Potatoes, Radish, Spinach, Strawberry, Swiss Chard, Thyme, Turnip.

Garden + Permaculture update for our area.

#permaculture #gardening #zine

Ave Update: It's been 1,035 days since I've had any sort of stable work, and frankly I could really use some friendly connections! if anyone would like to network, collab, or has tips on landing remote or in-person graphic design or art-related work in the Phoenix, AZ area - I'd be extremely greatful for any advice, leads, or support! Applying daily and getting nowhere is frustrating as all get out, and I'm not sure if it's my autism, lack of showmanship (see autism), or just the job market, but any which way it's been tough. Currently I'm building out more design pieces that might appeal to a more 'corporate' audience in my portfolio since many jobs out here are looking for presentation and layout designers. In non-job related art I'm going to be working on a contrast study for building better visual interest in my illustrations this month. I'll be rolling the dice on what movies to watch, pause, and block out the dark, mid-tone, and light of a shot every 10-15mins for studying visual interest, movement, and impact. That way I feel a bit more confident with some comic-style zines I want to work on next! The art pictured here is from both my traditional 10x10 sketchbook, and some digital art pieces to fill in the space. It has a sea lion poking out of the water, and a quote from David Lynch, 'Ideas are like fish, if you want to catch little fish, you want to stay in the shallow water, but if you want to catch the big fish, you've got to go deeper' that wanders through a fish-strewn path leading to a baracuda. Above is a small fish-shaped soy-sauce bottle. The other side is mostly collage from our 'Amazing Bee's of Arizona' zine, with some big bumbles on some flowers, a green bucket illustration with Gerald the sea lion from 'Finding Nemo 2' catty-corner from it. It also has our first fall grape leaf - unfortunately said grape died. Beneath all of that is Olaf from 'Frozen 2' amongst the words 'My Motivation is dead... but I'm still trying - because I am!

Ave - A spread from my traditional 10x10'' sketchbook, with a little bit of digital nonsense to fill up the space below.

#art

Devo: I've been spending a lot of my time working with watercolors and colored pencils. I have this old Sakura watercolor pallet that I've been trying to finish out before I create a more custom pallet for myself. I Started a new sketchbook in August, and I'm already a third of the way through it, which feels very surreal given that I've only finished two sketchbooks in my entire life (lol). I purchased a couple of different brushes so that I could play around with shapes, so I've been focusing a lot on brush stroke practice. My hope is that focusing on the basics will make it easier for me to get my "vision" onto the page. In the background, I am also working on scripts for "Save our Bugs" and "Charming Creosote", two zines we hope to have released in time for TZF (provided we're allowed to vend, of course!). I'm also hoping to get around to working on a few smaller zines that are related to mental health.

Devo's sketchbook/watercolor spread. They've been super big on colorful cats lately, and experimenting with florals.

#art #watercolor

Updates: Phoenix Zine-Fest 2025 Recap: We had a spectacular time at Phoenix Zine-Fest 2025, where we debuted two new zines. One on DARVO, and one on The History of Jack-o-Lanterns, as well as a smattering of new stickers! We got to see lots of familiar faces both days of the Zine-Fest, because of course we went on the day we weren't vending to share our support for our fellow local zinesters. (smiley face) We can't wait for the next zine-related meet up! The 'the history of jack-o-lanterns' zine's were a huge hit, though our 'Stupendous Saguaros' was the star of the show - as has been the case since we first started with TZF (Tucson Zine-Fest), with 'meme therapy' being popular up here in Phoenix too! Website Update: The newest zines and stickers will be up on the Bikkie Bytes website for sale on November 7th. DARVO just like our Bystander Effect zine will be free to download and print for distribution as you all see fit. Whats Next for Bikkie Bytes: I've started working on the illustrations for our next Sonoran Series Zine on "Charming Creosote". Meanwhile Devo has started writing the script for "Save Our Bugs" a zine on the importance of insects. A fun fact that Devo found, 'did yiou know there are more species of long horned beetles than ALL species of birds?' I was really tickled by that one! We're hoping to continue to make new free downloadable resources for community education centered on not just on the current social and economic situations we find ourselves in here in the USA, but I'd also like to get into concepts that can be beneficial for anyone and everyone like civics and permaculture!

General Updates for Bikkie Bytes, myself (Ave), and Devo

Left side - 'The History of Jack-o-Lanterns' is written on two scrolls, surrounded by gourds most peculiar with their grinning faces. Beneath in a larger illustration is a mighty jack-o-lantern with a pointed tooth-some grin, a smaller turnip carved with a pensive face and eyes that will stare into your soul (it's creepy), and a single lit candle to illuminate this autumnal visage of carving fun! On the right is: I came up with a last-minute idea for the Phoenix Zine-Fest 2025, inspired by spooky season and the fact that Zine-Fest was so close to Halloween/Samhain. I've always adored autumn. The tree's doning new colors, the particular magic held in the crisp morning air chilled form the night's frost; and the sweet, musky scent of fallen leaves. Honestly, it reminds me of the first swig of fresh cold apple cider - pure nostalgia. And of course, it wouldn't be fall without turning pumpkins into Jack-o-Lanterns. The zine in question I started working on was 'The history of Jack-o-Lanterns'. Which started as a cover concept. Leaning into a bit of an homage to 'Over the Garden Wall' and other fall animations (seen below in it's rough draft, and finalized to the left). However as I crafted the zine, I really wanted something more hands-on and playful. Then had a brilliant idea, why not let folks choose their own pumpkin from the patch! Each jack-o-zine with it's own shape, color, and vibe. So, I got creative and made five unique pumpkin-shaped covers, and utilized five different colored cardstocks to really let the designs morph. I used a square accordion or plow-style cut and fold so that the insides of the pumpkin covers and the back side of the zine could be the "guts", connecting the two halves. It was great getting to see everyone light up and dig through the zines to find the pumpkin that spoke to them the most! - Ave

The History of Jack-o-Lanterns or the Jack-o-zine!

#zine #zines #art

Cover of 'Bytes' update zine from Bikkie Bytes. Has Multi-shaped cat kibbles (bikkies) with two amorphous blobs of comically drawn cats that posses the whimsy of the universe and the depth of the void in an ouroboros of chaos - because what cat's aren't? Beneath lists out the contents of the zine. Making of the Jack-o-zine, Bikkie Bytes Updates, Devo's Art Spread, Ave's Art Spread, and a Permaculture and garden update.

Howdy Y'all,

Here's a quick little update (zine) on what we've got going on at Bikkie Bytes, as well as a few extra treato's!

Our online shop is also updated with the newest round of zines and stickers seen at Phoenix Zine-Fest.

- Ave & Devo

#zine #zines #phxzinefest #art #permaculture

Get ready to accessorize for Pride this year by supporting trans creators with our semi-transparent pro-trans brick sticker!

These hotties look fantastic on water bottles, binders, and more! Plus, they're made form extra-durable vinyl so you can take

#lgbtqia #trans #pridemonth #sticker #art

This Pride, we're going beyond "love is love" to acknowledge that the trans community is in need of our support and solidarity!

#pride #lgbtqia #queer #trans #pridemonth #transgender #transpride #pridemonth2025 #sticker #art

Second, is to shine a spotlight on the trans community, which is facing increased challenges and scrutiny from several political administrations right now.

#pride #lgbtqia #queer #trans #pridemonth #transgender #transpride #pridemonth2025 #sticker #art #supportyourcommunity

First, to highlight and honor the role that black trans women have played in founding Pride - without them we would not have Pride as we know it.

#pride #lgbtqia #queer #trans #pridemonth #transgender #transpride #pridemonth2025 #sticker #art #marshapjohnson

Bricks and Pride have a long history together, dating back to the notable Stonewall riot back in 1969. They're stylish, impactful, and always in fashion! Our 2025 brick is designed with the trans flag for two important reasons.

#pride #lgbtqia #queer #trans #pridemonth #transgender #sticker #art

Sticker features a brick colored like the trans-flag with lots of grunge texture, the color overflowing the outline of the brick. The word 'RIOT' is emblazoned on the side of the brick. Background is a mix of clear and black grunge texture that incorporates the word riot as a patterned element. This sticker is on a plain grey background for ease of visibility.

Sticker features a brick colored like the trans-flag with lots of grunge texture, the color overflowing the outline of the brick. The word 'RIOT' is emblazoned on the side of the brick. Background is a mix of clear and black grunge texture that incorporates the word riot as a patterned element. This sticker is showcased on a background of various stickers and showcases the clear section of the sticker vs the contrasting grunge in black and the bold colorful brick!

Sticker features a brick colored like the trans-flag with lots of grunge texture, the color overflowing the outline of the brick. The word 'RIOT' is emblazoned on the side of the brick. Background is a mix of clear and black grunge texture that incorporates the word riot as a patterned element. This sticker is on a particle board to showcase the clear portions of the sticker in contrast to the colorful brick and grungy black texture of the background.

Sticker features a brick colored like the trans-flag with lots of grunge texture, the color overflowing the outline of the brick. The word 'RIOT' is emblazoned on the side of the brick. Background is a mix of clear and black grunge texture that incorporates the word riot as a patterned element. This sticker is showcased on a 32oz dark blue ombre cup to showcase how the brick and textured grunge background stand out from the color of the cup.

Have you heard the news?

Pride 2025 is all about the brick!

www.bikkiebytes.com/trans-brick-...

#pride #lgbtqia #queer #trans #pridemonth #transgender #transpride #pridemonth2025 #sticker #art

We're now turning our focus towards our next round of ideas, zines, and stickers - so stay tuned; and as always - thank you for helping to put bikkies in our bowls!

#zines #zine #art #digitalillustration #traditionalillustration #papercraft #illustration #supportartists #noai #bikkiebytes

Howdy and Happy Friday Everyone!

We're pleased to announce that our store is now officially open!

www.bikkiebytes.com

So check out what we have to offer currently.

≽^•⩊•^≼ - Ave and Devo
#zines #zine #stickers #shop #art #illustration #papercraft #supportartists #noai #graphicdesign #bikkiebytes

So please feel free to download, print, share, and use this handout to support your local community, groups, and initiatives!

#zines #art #mutualaid #activism #free #resources #permaculture #peoplecare #fairshare #bystandereffect #bikkiebytes

Our goal is to spread knowledge and inspire folks to look out for all community members - whether in your local neighborhood or across the country - or world! But especially for those who are the most vulnerable.

#zines #art #mutualaid #activism #resources #permaculture #peoplecare #fairshare

Bystander Effect Free Downloads! | bikkiebytes Get more from bikkiebytes on Patreon

You can grab them on Patreon - absolutely free! We truly believe that as artists and community members, it's important to use our skills and voices to raise awareness about Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share.
www.patreon.com/posts/bystan...

#zines #art #mutualaid #activism #free #resources

In the mean time, we want to share something special. We're offering a free PDF version of our ‘bystander effect’ educational handout in both color and high-contrast black and white.

www.patreon.com/posts/bystan...

#zines #art #bystandereffect #mutualaid #activism #resistance #education #free

So soon folks will be able to peruse our zines, stickers, and eventual other goodies. We’ve been busy putting together product images, writing descriptions, and working on some fresh content for our Sonoran Series!

Quick Update for Bikkie Bytes!
Just dropping in with a quick update: Our online shop is almost ready to launch next Friday on Patreon!

#bikkiebytes #updates #zines #art #mutualaid #activism #resistance #communitysupport #permaculture

PHX Zine Fest is over the moon excited to announce our 9th annual zine fest Oct 25&26 at Rocket Space Gallery! Apps open in June!

Hi there! We're in the process of setting up an online shop, but in the meantime if you're in AZ we could always meet up to exchange, or we can mail them to you if you'd like to purchase one - they're $2 each, or $5 for the whole set of 'BINGO' which are 5 different ones in the same style!

Please enjoy our Tucson Zine Fest 2025 Omnibus submission in color!

#resistance #guilds #guild #permaculture #mutualaid #art #zines #tucsonzinefest #tucsonzinefest2025 #omnibus #tucsonzinefestomnibus

All in all, it was a fantastic success – and we’ll have more updates coming soon!

#zines #art #bikkiebytes

Our freebie zine – '5 steps to stop Bystander Effect' was a huge hit, as well. We plan on making a B&W version and having both available for free download so folks can print them elsewhere to spread awareness!
#resistance #mutualaid #resources #prints #bystandereffect

Our most popular zine was 'Stupendous Saguaros'. We loved the compliments, and are excited to see people are craving educational and informational zines that are easy to digest while not being too basic or overwhelming.
#saguaros #zines #sonorandesert

Though I didn’t get the chance to make it over to the TZF booth to pick up an Omnibus for 2025 (I will eventually!) I was super excited to see/hear that our submission was on the first page - which is such an honor, and I'm glad folks enjoyed it!
#zines #tucsonzinefest #omnibus #tucsonzinefest2025

Tucson Zine Fest was an absolute blast! We had so much fun, met tons of amazing new people and made our very first sales. We even landed our first wholesale order! All in all, it was a fantastic experience and we can't wait to see everyone again!

#tucsonzinefest #tucsonzinefest2025 #zines #art

12. Meme Therapy: Autism 01
13. Meme Therapy: ADHD 02
14. Cryptid Care 01
15. Rodeo - Images from the American West
16. You Are Enough - Trans Supportive Art

Hope to see you there!

#zines #tucsonzinefest #art

6. Mental Health Bingo: Just Be Positive
7. Mental Health Bingo: You Don't Look Sick
8. Mental Health Bingo: You Should Try Yoga
9. Take 5 To Stop The Bystander Effect!
10. WTF Is Therapy?
11. How TF Do I Get A Diagnosis?

#zines #tucsonzinefest #art