The core concept of this zine centers on the cultural shift of the keychain. While historically viewed as simple souvenirs or gifts, keychains have evolved significantly since the early 2000s. They have transitioned from mere trinkets into genuine symbols of fashion and personal identity, becoming a staple accessory for self-expression.
The "engine" driving this project is a genuine love for collecting. Whether it is a simple trinket that catches the eye or merchandise from a favorite anime series, the project is rooted in the joy of buying and owning these small objects. This zine is a celebration of that enthusiasm, turning a personal hobby into a curated exploration everything with a 2000’s era design aesthetic.
A central theme of the zine is the idea of the keychain as the ultimate piece of subtle merchandise. For many, it acts as a tiny portal to the worlds they love—be it Attack on Titan, My Hero Academia, or other obsessions. It serves as a social cue, allowing the owner to feel connected to characters and stories while signaling their interests to the world in a distinct, personalized way.
The goal of this zine is to elevate the keychain from a simple piece of plastic into a "precious artifact." The project aims to frame the keychain as a "highly compressed narrative", a small object that provides an aesthetic dopamine hit, sparks nostalgia, and tells a story about who we are. It is an in depth look at meaning, spanning from historical utility to current pop culture.
