Crush magazine is a pioneering publication dedicated to exploring themes related to desire, gender, pleasure, identity, and power through visually stunning images and thoughtful writing. It started out as a small zine run out of the founder's bedroom and has since grown into one of the most respected erotic publications in the world. Despite its success, the team behind Crush remains committed to staying true to their roots, regularly publishing issues that push boundaries and challenge societal norms. This commitment extends beyond the pages of the magazine itself, however; Crush has also organized events, exhibitions, and collaborations that bring together artists, readers, and enthusiasts to foster a sense of community and celebrate erotic art in a social context.
One example of this was the Crush Club NYC event series, which ran from 2015 to 2018. Each month, the magazine invited artists, writers, performers, and musicians to create an evening of interactive entertainment centered around a different theme. Past themes included "Dark Fantasy," "Body Language," and "House Party." These gatherings were intimate and immersive, allowing attendees to explore sexuality and creativity in ways they might not have otherwise had the opportunity to do. The Crush team also hosted workshops and panels where readers could discuss the magazine's content with contributors and ask questions about the creative process.
These types of events helped solidify Crush's role not just as a publication but as an influential platform within the broader cultural landscape of sexuality and creativity. They allowed the magazine to connect with its audience on a deeper level and create a space for meaningful conversations about sex and relationships.
These events provided a unique opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their work and build their portfolios in a supportive environment.
Crush magazine's approach to building a community through events and collaboration speaks to the importance of bringing people together to share ideas and experiences related to sex and pleasure. By providing a safe space for creators and consumers alike, the magazine has established itself as more than just a magazine; it is now a movement that promotes openness, acceptance, and exploration.