Tsismis comes from the Filipino word for gossip or hearsay. A transliteration of the Spanish term chismosa, tsismis represents a social act at its core. Though tsismis comes with negative connotations by way of its association with the spread of misinformation, tsismis challenges official discourse and authoritative forms of meaning-making, such as the news media and written histories. The ways in which we participate in tsismis differs, whether through written word or through visual language, but the urge to engage in communal storytelling remains constant. The passing of information gives it validity outside of traditional or hierarchical systems.

Tsism.is acknowledges that there is no singular definition of truth and asks instead: what is the weight of the narrative and the voice of the individual in defining a collective experience?

Tsism.is looks to use self-publishing to nurture individual projects, stories, and interests so that they can live beyond the ephemeral conversations that we have between ourselves. Limited in format and designed to be low-cost and accessible, Tsism.is publications exist as zines made from a single sheet of letter, A4, or similarly sized paper. We seek to create a space for artists, writers, and practitioners to explore works-in-progress or turn new ideas into tangible objects.

Contact us at tsismdotis@gmail.com