Merge — The Social Magazine: Exploring Contemporary Arts and Culture

Merge — The Social Magazine is a multifaceted creative project based in Porto, Portugal. Founded in 2020 by a group of emerging designers, the platform was established to shake up the local and international art scene by providing a stage where artists and creators can speak about meaningful societal topics. Operating from its physical headquarters known as the Merge Creative Playground in the Mota Galiza building, the organization functions as a co-working space, a design studio (Studio Merge), and a publishing house. The magazine has produced several significant editions, including themed issues such as Impacto, Inquietação, Desconforto, Ciclo, Equilíbrio, and Futuro. Each issue is treated as a curated stage for visual and written exploration of contemporary culture. Beyond its print and digital publications, Merge — The Social Magazine fosters a vibrant community through its Playground space located on Rua Calouste Gulbenkian. This hub serves as a meeting point for designers, artists, and programmers to share ideas, attend product launches, and participate in social discussions. Through its diverse branches—Studio Merge, the magazine, and the physical co-work space—the project integrates various creative disciplines to celebrate artistic expression. It continues to be a vital voice for the creative community in Porto, offering a unique blend of journalism, design services, and collaborative opportunities for those looking to engage with modern arts and social narratives.