From Value and Validity of Art Zines as an Art Form by Susan E. Thomas
Art Zine Working Definition
An artist publication could be called an art zine if it has several of these features:
Created by artists, designer, or architect
The hand of the creator is evident (signed, illustrated, punch, stamped, etc.)
Limited, numbered editions are large
No ISSN
No ISBN
Irregular size or shape (not magazine size)
Not particularly sculptural or dimensional
No masthead
No known publishing company
Independent publisher or art gallery (not fine press)
Available directly from creator
Available from an art bookstore or zone distributor (“distro”)
Identified by the creator as a zine
Modestly priced (less than the price of typical artists’ book, but more than traditional zines)
Not usually available for trade (as traditional zines are)