By Rachel Weymouth:
There is a relatively new publication in Buffalo called NOMAD which publishes original poetry, art, photography, and paintings. BRO first announced NOMAD before it had even hit the street. Since that time, the magazine can be found throughout the city for free (printed twice a year). The nice thing about this publication is that anyone can submit work to be published. The only catch is that the person must have roots to the city. Works can be submitted here.
So where did this wonderful project come from? Creative director Erica Eichelkraut started NOMAD after coming back to Buffalo in 2008. “I found exactly what I had been looking for,” she explained. “Right here in the Queen City. I was, quite frankly, blown away by the talent that thrives right here in Buffalo. I fell in love with the creative energy, and saw the potential to collect, share & connect some of it.”
She then put out a small call for original pieces of work and received more than she expected. She also received an overwhelmingly positive response to the publication she wanted to put together. That publication became known as NOMAD. “Originally, NOMAD was a one-time thing… I was going to publish one chapbook of art & lit talent and that was that. But the reaction has pushed me into more.”
The group behind NOMAD doesn’t just put together a publication, they also co-host an event for local talent called WAM (Writers/Artists/Musicians). It’s free to the public and showcases local artists and bands. The group meets the last Wednesday of every month at 481 Delaware from 7-10pm.
Eichelkraut is looking forward to the future of NOMAD. With the help of Buffalo supporters she is hoping that NOMAD will show all the potential it has. She also hopes to have the publication backed financially by arts supporting organizations so it can be printed more than twice a year.