Pin Up is an American lifestyle magazine created in 1940 that features models posing provocatively while referencing pop culture icons such as Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. In recent years, the publication has expanded its scope to explore new media formats, including film, theater, and music projects inspired by pin-up culture. This approach allows Pin Up to reach a wider audience through cross-platform storytelling. These collaborations have enabled the magazine to showcase its aesthetic in different artistic contexts and promote it beyond traditional print publications.
The collaboration between Pin Up and musician Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire" illustrates this trend. The song was originally released in 1963 but gained popularity after being featured in the 2005 movie Walk the Line. To capitalize on the renewed interest in the track, Pin Up worked with the singer's estate to create a special issue featuring photoshoots inspired by his lyrics and style. The resulting publication, titled "Johnny Cash & June Carter: True Love Story," combined vintage images from the artist's personal collection with modern pin-up photography and articles about their lives together. The project received positive reviews and increased exposure for both parties involved.
Another example of a successful cross-media collaboration is the 2018 play "Pinups!" written by New York City playwright Matthew Hurtgen. Based on interviews with several former Playboy centerfolds, the production explores the challenges and triumphs of women who worked in the adult entertainment industry during its heyday. The play incorporates many elements found in classic pin-up magazines, such as suggestive poses and retro costumes, while also addressing themes of gender politics and objectification. It premiered at the Chance Theater in Anaheim, California, to critical acclaim and sold out shows.
In addition to these specific collaborations, Pin Up has partnered with various filmmakers to produce short documentaries about pin-up culture and its impact on art history. These videos have been screened at film festivals around the world and helped introduce the magazine's aesthetic to new audiences. Overall, these cross-media efforts demonstrate Pin Up's ability to adapt to changing media environments while staying true to its original vision. By reaching beyond print publications and connecting with other creative communities, the magazine continues to thrive and grow in popularity among readers and fans alike.
Overall, the success of Pin Up's cross-media projects demonstrates the power of storytelling across multiple platforms. By collaborating with musicians, playwrights, and filmmakers, the publication has expanded its reach beyond traditional print publications and attracted new readers who may not be familiar with pin-up culture or erotic publications. In doing so, it has established itself as an important voice in contemporary pop culture and demonstrated the versatility of its unique visual style. As more publishers explore similar strategies, we can expect to see even more innovative and exciting collaborations between different media forms in the future.