The Industry Standard
Art Anthology
softcover , 96 pages
Released Summer 2005
See below for additional information and Press Reviews

The other day, Dork received a great publication in the mail called The Industry Standard. It's a fantastic collection of independent art printed by Inner Aspect Ratio Press (pictured above). Talk about an independent spirit. These guys are doing some cutting edge stuff. Whenever someone claimed to be the "industry standard" we always wondered what that was. Apparently we're not alone. Inner Aspect Ratio describes the publication as a creative outlet that can redefine what that might be. Here's their words: "What is The Industry Standard? That’s what we'd like to know. So we met it head on by self-publishing our very own. Relatively unpublished/unknown artists/writers, each with their own stories, visions and most importantly, their own standards." You gotta love that.
(Taj) Dorkmag.com

With its completely black and white interior, mix of captivating and basic art, and connection to the underground culture, The Industry Standard is like a zine with a glossy cover, or a coffee table book of indie art. In its 96 pages you will find various pieces of painting, drawing, collage and writing. Some of the works are merely worth a quick glance, while others warrant a close inspection. The book contains contributions from over 25 artists and authors. You will find everything from a choose-your-own adventure comic and cut outs for paper dolls to obligatory anti-Bush collages, and beautifully detailed surrealist paintings. Unfortunately, not every piece is impressive. Instead, some of the art, including the cover drawing, comes off like sketches done during 4th period study hall. What is also a little disappointing about the book is that there is not much space devoted to the written word. Aside from the occasional phrase placed within a piece of art, only one short story, reflections on the murders of young factory workers in Juarez, Mexico, and character sketches written around drawings of the people being discussed, make up the reading material here. Because of the lack of type, The Industry Standard can be moved through rather quickly. It doesn’t seem to be designed for close reading, or linear consumption, but instead is a collection that can be occasionally returned to for exploration. Just by flipping randomly you will find something of interest between the covers. A well-constructed book consisting of interesting and diverse contributions that sometimes comes up short, The Industry Standard is well worth checking out.
(Matt Whelihan) Punknews.org