Frequently Published Fan Art, Readers sometimes submitted hand-drawn fetish art, which Taboo printed alongside photo spreads — valuing community creativity. It was a time when erotic magazines were still popular and highly influential among adult audiences. The magazine was founded in 1980 and published monthly until its closure in 2008. Its focus was on sexual fetishes, including bondage, dominance/submission, sadism/masochism, and more, featuring both fictional and nonfictional stories, photos, and drawings. One of the most intriguing aspects of this publication was the frequent inclusion of fan art created by readers.
The magazine encouraged readers to submit their own artwork for consideration. This could include illustrations, cartoons, comics, or even full-page images inspired by the themes covered in each issue. The editorial team would review these submissions and select those that best fit within the overall style and tone of the magazine. They valued creative expression and wanted to showcase it as part of the broader conversation around sex and kink. This practice allowed fans to participate in creating the magazine's content and added a personal touch to each issue.
One notable example is a series of drawings by an anonymous artist who went by the name "Mr. X". These pieces featured couples engaged in various BDSM activities, from spanking to piercing to roleplay scenarios. The reader's unique style stood out among the professional photographs and illustrations typically seen in the pages of Taboo. Mr. X's work was so well received that he became a regular contributor to the magazine, with his drawings appearing in every issue for several years. His art provided a unique perspective on the magazine's subject matter and helped create a sense of community between readers.
Taboo also featured other forms of fan art, such as letters to the editor and reviews of products and books related to fetish culture. These contributions showed that the magazine's audience was passionate about exploring their interests and eager to share their experiences with others. Fan art helped create a dynamic exchange between readers and the publication, allowing them to connect over shared passions and explore new ideas together.
Despite its popularity, Taboo ultimately faced financial difficulties and ceased operations after nearly three decades. However, its legacy lives on through its impact on the sexual culture of the time. It challenged traditional notions of eroticism and pushed boundaries in ways that were both exciting and uncomfortable. And the inclusion of fan art played a significant role in this mission. By encouraging creative expression and celebrating community participation, the magazine demonstrated the power of collaboration and communication in sex positivity movements.