Overview of On Our Backs Magazine
On Our Backs was a groundbreaking lesbian erotica magazine, first published in 1984. It played a pivotal role in the feminist sex wars, championing sex-positive perspectives. The magazine defined the look and politics of lesbian culture during the 80s.
Founding and Purpose
On Our Backs was co-founded by Debi Sundahl and Myrna Elana in 1984, emerging as a direct response to the sex-negative elements within the broader feminist movement. The magazine’s creation was a bold move to counter the prevailing attitudes, particularly as reflected in the publication Off Our Backs. Its primary purpose was to provide a space for sex-positive lesbian voices and perspectives, offering an alternative platform that celebrated lesbian erotica and sexuality. The magazine aimed to challenge the limitations placed on lesbian expression, fostering a culture of acceptance and openness. It was conceived as a publication for the “adventurous lesbian,” pushing boundaries and exploring diverse facets of lesbian sexuality. The founders’ intention was to create a space where lesbians could explore and express their desires without shame or censorship, directly opposing the restrictive norms of the time. On Our Backs sought to cultivate a public culture that embraced sexual diversity within the lesbian community, offering a unique alternative to mainstream publications.
The Magazine’s Role in the Feminist Sex Wars
On Our Backs played a crucial role in the feminist sex wars of the 1980s and 1990s, firmly positioning itself on the side of sex-positive feminism. The magazine acted as a battleground, challenging the prevailing sex-negative views that were gaining traction within some feminist circles. It became a key voice in the debate, advocating for the right of women, specifically lesbians, to freely explore and express their sexuality. By publishing explicit lesbian erotica, On Our Backs directly confronted the censorship and moral conservatism that sought to limit such expression. The magazine’s stance was a direct challenge to the idea that female sexuality should be suppressed or regulated. It provided a platform for alternative viewpoints, allowing for a more nuanced conversation about desire and power. The publication actively engaged in the conflict, using its content to argue for sexual freedom and autonomy. It helped cultivate sex-positive lesbian public cultures, offering an alternative to the restrictive norms that were often promoted by other factions of the feminist movement. Its role was to provide a space for those who believed in the celebration of sexual expression.
Key Aspects of On Our Backs
On Our Backs was known for its focus on lesbian erotica and its significant role in the feminist sex wars. The magazine also featured a unique “archive of feelings” through its letters to the editor.
Content and Focus on Lesbian Erotica
On Our Backs magazine distinguished itself by offering explicit lesbian erotica, a bold move in the 1980s. The magazine’s content showcased a diverse range of lesbian sexualities and experiences, including those of butch and femme feminists, S/M leatherdykes, and sex workers. It provided a platform for visual and written expression often absent in mainstream media. The magazine aimed to represent a broad spectrum of lesbians, challenging prevailing norms and fostering a sense of community. It featured photography, illustrations, and stories that explored lesbian sexuality with honesty and openness. The content was not just about titillation; it was also about empowering women and creating a space where lesbian desire was celebrated and validated. The magazine was a direct counter to the sex-negative attitudes prevalent in some feminist circles at the time. It became a cultural touchstone, sparking conversations about sexuality, identity, and freedom of expression. The magazine’s focus on lesbian erotica was integral to its identity and its impact on the lesbian community and beyond.
Letters to the Editor as an “Archive of Feelings”
The “Letters to the Editor” section of On Our Backs functioned as a significant “archive of feelings,” as described by Ann Cvetkovich. This section provided a space for readers to express their personal experiences, thoughts, and reactions to the magazine’s content. It became a platform for conversations about sexuality, identity, and the issues facing the lesbian community. The letters reveal a range of emotions, from joy and liberation to anger and frustration. These exchanges offer valuable insights into the lived realities of lesbians during the 1980s and 1990s. The letters section was not just a place for feedback; it was a dynamic forum that contributed to the magazine’s collective identity. It allowed readers to connect with each other, creating a sense of community and belonging. These letters provide a rich, historical record of the feelings and experiences of a generation of lesbians, making the magazine an important source for archival research. They captured the emotional landscape of the time, making it a compelling read.
The Magazine’s Satirical Reference to Off Our Backs
The title, On Our Backs, was intentionally chosen as a satirical reference to Off Our Backs, a long-running feminist newspaper. This act of naming highlighted the ideological differences between the two publications. Off Our Backs was often associated with a more sex-negative stance within feminism, while On Our Backs was created as a sex-positive alternative. The satirical connection in the title was a clear declaration of the magazine’s purpose and its stance in the feminist sex wars. It was a bold move that immediately communicated the magazine’s challenging and provocative nature. The use of satire was a way to both critique and differentiate itself from the established feminist discourse. By flipping the script, On Our Backs positioned itself as a space for more open and explicit exploration of lesbian sexuality. The title was not just a name; it was a statement of intent, a challenge, and a humorous nod to the existing feminist landscape. This clever wordplay was important in defining the magazine’s identity and attracting its target audience.
Archival Information and Accessibility
The magazine’s archives, including production materials, are held at institutions like Brown University. Digitization efforts have faced challenges, with some online content being removed. Physical copies are available for research at specific locations.
Digitization Efforts and Challenges
Efforts to digitize On Our Backs magazine have been undertaken to broaden accessibility to its content. The Internet Archive has played a role in making some issues available online, aiming to preserve this important piece of lesbian history and culture. However, these digitization projects have not been without their obstacles. Notably, some digitized issues have been removed from the Internet Archive at the request of anonymous third parties, presenting a significant challenge to the preservation and accessibility of the magazine’s full run. The reasons behind these requests often remain unclear, further complicating the process of making these materials available to a wider audience. This highlights the complexities inherent in digitizing content that may be considered controversial or sensitive, and underscores the ongoing need for robust preservation and access strategies. The removal of content also raises questions about censorship and the power dynamics involved in archival projects. The availability of digitized versions is inconsistent and not all issues are available, some only existing in physical form. While digitization has provided some access, these challenges highlight the importance of maintaining physical archives as well.
Locations of Physical Archives
Physical archives of On Our Backs magazine are primarily located at several key institutions. Brown University’s John Hay Library holds a significant collection of the periodical, including various issues. These physical archives often contain not only the magazines themselves but also production documents and materials related to the publication process. These materials provide invaluable insight into the creation and cultural context of the magazine. The NewBridge Project also houses a monumental archive which includes issues of the magazine, charting its pioneering history. The presence of physical archives ensures the preservation of the magazine even when digital access is contested or removed. Researchers and scholars can access these materials for in-depth studies of lesbian erotica, feminist sex wars, and LGBTQ+ publishing history. These collections are crucial because they often hold materials that are not available online, including unique production notes, photographic prints, and correspondence related to the magazine. These various locations make it possible to have multiple access points, making the magazine available to more people.
Key Staff and Contributors
On Our Backs was brought to life by a diverse group of individuals. Debi Sundahl and Myrna Elana co-founded and co-edited the magazine, sending the first issue out with an enthusiastic letter. The magazine’s staff also included many others whose work was essential to its development. Phyllis Christophers served as a key photographer, and later became photo editor from 1991-1994, contributing her erotic photography. The magazine attracted various lesbian feminists, including those from butch and femme backgrounds, S/M leatherdykes, sex workers, zine makers, punk musicians, Marxists, and out gay artists, reflecting a broad spectrum of the lesbian community. The involvement of these diverse contributors shaped the magazine’s content and its role within the feminist sex wars. Their efforts ensured that On Our Backs became a significant voice in lesbian culture. The magazine’s success also relied on its writers, illustrators, and other support staff, all of whom contributed to its unique voice and aesthetic. The work of all of these contributors shaped the political and cultural impact of the publication.
Specific Issues and Content
On Our Backs featured various notable issues including the 15th anniversary edition in June/July 1999. Early editions showcased unique cover images. The magazine included significant photographic contributions, especially by Phyllis Christophers, documenting lesbian sexual exploration.
The 15th Anniversary Issue
The June/July 1999 edition of On Our Backs marked the magazine’s 15th anniversary, a significant milestone in its history. This special issue, identified as volume 14, number 3, celebrated the magazine’s journey and its impact on lesbian culture. It served as a testament to the publication’s longevity and continued relevance within the community. This particular edition, like others, was produced by Blush Productions. It is available in digital formats through the Internet Archive, allowing readers to revisit or discover this important piece of lesbian publishing history. The anniversary issue encapsulates the magazine’s commitment to presenting diverse perspectives and experiences within the lesbian community. Its contents reflect the ongoing conversations about sexuality and identity that On Our Backs had consistently fostered. The 15th anniversary issue stands as a celebration of the magazine’s pioneering role and its contribution to the broader feminist and LGBTQ+ movements.
Early Editions and Cover Images
The very first edition of On Our Backs was published in the summer of 1984, marking the beginning of a groundbreaking venture in lesbian erotica. The cover of this inaugural issue, and those that followed, often featured bold and provocative images, reflecting the magazine’s commitment to challenging societal norms and celebrating lesbian sexuality. These early covers were integral to the magazine’s identity, signaling its departure from mainstream media and its dedication to representing diverse lesbian experiences. The covers also showcased a range of artistic styles, from photography to illustrations, helping to define the magazine’s visual aesthetic. The cover images of the early editions are now seen as significant historical artifacts, providing insights into the cultural landscape of the 1980s and the development of lesbian visibility. The first issue included the work of L.A. Hyder, Noreen Corinne, and Tee, who contributed to the cover design and overall aesthetic of the magazine.
Photographic Contributions, especially by Phyllis Christophers
Phyllis Christophers made significant photographic contributions to On Our Backs, documenting lesbian sexual exploration from 1987 through the mid-2000s in San Francisco. Her work was first published in the magazine, where she later became the photo editor from 1991 to 1994. Christophers’ photographs are notable for their intimate and honest portrayal of lesbian sexuality, often capturing scenes of eroticism and desire with artistic flair. Her images played a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of On Our Backs and contributed significantly to the magazine’s reputation for being a bold and unapologetic platform for lesbian expression. Her photographs also reflect a specific era in lesbian culture, capturing the fashions, attitudes, and artistic styles of the time. Christophers’ work remains an important part of the magazine’s legacy, showcasing the diversity and complexity of lesbian experiences and helping to challenge heteronormative perspectives of sexuality.