Why Print Is Not Dead: Northern Creatives Unite for a Night of Inspiration

On Thursday 6th November, Unique Magazines proudly hosted our very first event, Print Is Not Dead, at Tapyard in Newcastle. What began as an idea to celebrate the power of print quickly became something much bigger: a movement that brought together over 100 students, publishers, designers, and creatives from across the Northeast.

The evening was all about connection, creativity, and community, with print at its heart. From the moment guests walked in, cameras were clicking, conversations were flowing, and the room was filled with excitement.

Here in the Northeast, we’re known for our culture. Our friendly (and sometimes rowdy) locals, Greggs, and Sam Fender might be what first comes to mind, but we’re so much more than that. The people here are talented, creative, and full of potential, and they don’t need to move elsewhere to prove their worth. Print Is Not Dead was our reminder of that.

Print is something recognised all over the world. From the airport newsagent selling the latest Vogue, to independent bookshops filled with beautiful stories, it’s a universal language. But above all, print is physical. It’s intentional and tangible, a real presence that invites you to slow down, engage, and connect. That feeling of presence and authenticity is exactly what this event was built on.

We had an incredible line-up of speakers and supporters. From publishers and designers on stage to students, locals, and creatives filling every seat, everyone came together to immerse themselves in a world of creativity and print media.

The evening opened with Unique Magazines and a presentation from Operations Director Sarah Johnson, setting the scene with who we are and what we do. This was followed by a bold and brilliant showcase of Northern culture from Meg, founder of RADGE magazine. Next, we heard from Lamin, founder of Jerry J Media and Clothing, who spoke beautifully about his roots in The Gambia and how they inspire his creative work here in the Northeast. Finally, Thushara, founder of DARKUS magazine, shared his journey of following his passion for authentic storytelling, built entirely on self-belief rather than formal training.

The presentations set the tone for a powerful panel discussion that followed, featuring our original speakers alongside new creative voices. Josh Williams, paper consultant at GF Smith in Hull (and founder of Hull Print Fair), spoke about making print accessible for everyone. We were also joined by freelance designer Kimberley Nugent, whose portfolio includes Bravissimo and Cosmopolitan, and Sunderland University lecturer Liz Lamb, a former founder of a luxury fashion and lifestyle magazine.

Together, eight of us took to the stage to explore what print means to us, why it’s still needed in today’s digital world, the challenges we face, and the future of this thing we all love. Despite our different backgrounds, we shared one thing in common: a love for the real, the tangible, the creative, and most importantly, the people of the Northeast.

What made the night truly special, though, was the atmosphere in the room. The moment people walked into Tapyard, cameras came out, and conversations began. Students, publishers, and local creatives mingled between displays of independent magazines, pizza boxes, and goodie bags, proof that print isn’t just something you read, it’s something you experience. When Thushara’s section turned interactive, the audience responded with laughter, energy, and honesty. Students spoke up, asked thoughtful questions, and connected with speakers directly. Seeing them step forward, feeling confident and inspired, was one of the most rewarding moments of the evening.

Later, hearing guests comment on how personal and welcoming the event felt filled us with pride. So many stayed to chat long after the talks ended, discussing projects, swapping ideas, and even asking for advice on their own creative journeys. Helping students shape their projects or seeing their eyes light up as they discovered a new magazine was a reminder of why we do what we do.

There is something bold about what all these creatives have done; something a little rebellious in choosing to stay here when the world tells them otherwise and pursuing what they love right where they belong. Print Is Not Dead was a statement, a reminder to push back against the noise that print is outdated or irrelevant.

Upon reflection, Print Is Not Dead becoming more than just an evening celebrating print. It became a celebration of Northern creativity and resilience, and a reminder that you don’t need to leave the North to find opportunity or make an impact. You can do it right here, with the power of print.

For more print inspiration, visit our Mag Room in the heart of Gateshead, where print lives, breathes, and thrives. Keep an eye on our socials for more community-filled events.