When Savannah Clarkson was a child, she was always creating something. Even then, she would staple together construction paper to create magazines for her family. Now, she runs Gravity Magazine.
Gravity Magazine is a magazine aiming to share the creativity of diverse voices. The first issue was published in August 2024, which showcased Louisville-based musicians, nail artists, designers and more.
“I was inspired to start Gravity because I wanted to have an outlet that combined my love for photography, design, writing, and community,” Clarkson said. “A magazine felt like the perfect combination of these things. Making this magazine as an adult feels very full circle for me.”
Clarkson is also a photographer. During a space-themed photoshoot, she was inspired to name the magazine “Gravity.”
“Gravity is an invisible force that holds us in place; it draws us to one another,” Clarkson said. “Which perfectly parallels my goal of fostering community with the magazine. The outer-space themes just naturally stuck with the name.”
Clarkson said the most rewarding part of creating the magazine is being able to connect with creative people in Louisville.
“There’s so many passionate individuals in our city, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to connect with so many of them,” she said. “I’ve formed some close friendships through the magazine, and I think that’s been my favorite part about this whole thing. Human connection is something I value so much, and I’m so grateful to have started a project where people can come together and share our love for art and friendship.”
While Clarkson primarily works with Kentucky-based creators, Gravity’s slogan is “For creators near and far.” Submissions to the magazine have come from all over the country, including New York, California, Tennessee, Ohio, Washington, New Jersey, and more.
“It’s been such a pleasure getting to work with so many creative individuals from my hometown and beyond and being able to introduce them to one another,” Clarkson said.
Beyond creating the magazine, Clarkson has collaborated with local venues such as the Wandering Treehouse to host community arts-based events to inspire creativity and provide an opportunity to connect with other people with the same interests.
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“By highlighting creativity and creators, I hope to foster a sense of belonging and inspire others to get creative. Creativity is how we make sense of the world. It builds bridges across differences; it acts as a powerful force for connection. With Gravity, I want people to be able to pick up a magazine, come to an event, come to our online spaces, and feel seen and celebrated.”
The second volume of Gravity Magazine will be launching this summer. To learn more about local events and involvement opportunities, visit their Instagram @thegravitymag.
“I hope this project will encourage everyone to get out of their comfort zone,” Clarkson said. “I want to remind everyone that every single person can be creative. Creativity isn’t just about painting, taking photos, or other art mediums; it’s being you and expressing it.”
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This article appears in May 9-22, 2025.