Alex Heard

Although serial killers have inspired numerous books, films, and other mainstream media creations, according to journalist, author, and New York Times Magazine editor Alex Heard, in recent years an "underground" market for art created by serial killers has grown. In the following selection Heard asserts that the community of serial—killer art collectors is devoted but small, relying on e—mail, electronic bulletin boards, and independently published magazines known as 'zines to communicate and in some cases distribute serial—killer art. Heard examines these 'zines, arguing that they are frequently nihilistic and superficial despite lofty intentions. More disturbing to Heard is the phenomenon of "superstar" serial—killer artists such as John Wayne Gacy, Charles Manson, and Sirhan Sirhan, whose art has been financially successful.