Literary Arts

What is the Literary Arts Committee?

The Wisconsin Union Directorate Literary Arts Committee (WUD Lit) is dedicated to building community through the Literary Arts on the UW-Madison campus. We provide hands-on experience in publishing and in hosting events focused on engaging with the literary arts.

We publish three student-run magazines—EMMIE, Illumination, and The Dish—highlighting the creativity of the UW-Madison community. Their content focuses on music, food journalism, and creative works of poetry, art, and prose. Students engage in learning through publishing, editing, writing, and creating artwork for each of these publications. Involvement in our committee gives students valuable creative skills and experiences that they can connect to their courses, careers, or personal endeavors.

Submit work to our collaborative publication:

Breaking Loose - 2025 WUD Lit Community Issue Submissions

You can all see our 2024 collaborative publication, Between the Lines - WUD Lit Community Issue, 2024

How Do I Get Involved?

Students interested in the literary arts are encouraged to join the Literary Arts Committee, regardless of major or prior experience.

If you’re specifically interested in photography, journalism, graphic design, art, or just curious about the magazine publishing industry, check out our three student-run publications: 

• EMMIE, a print magazine and online blog focusing on the local and national music scene.
• The Dish, the only local foodie magazine targeted towards college students.
• Illumination, a literary journal publishing creative writing and art from students on campus.

If you have any questions or would like more information about how to get involved, contact our director at literaryarts@union.wisc.edu