Art & Understanding Magazine

A&U Magazine, originally called Art & Understanding, was established in 1991 by David Waggoner, who serves as both Editor-in-Chief and Publisher. The magazine emerged as a response to the devastating impact of AIDS on the creative community, as Waggoner felt the loss of many talented individuals. He viewed the AIDS crisis as a cultural tragedy and aimed to create a space for the artistic expressions of those living with HIV and AIDS, as well as their supporters, families, and caregivers. A&U provides a beautifully designed and commercially viable platform to preserve, publish, and archive the important works of the HIV community for future generations. Waggoner and his dedicated team of writers and artists strive to foster greater understanding and empathy around the disease. Over the years, the magazine has expanded its focus to include various creative, cultural, and educational responses to the AIDS epidemic, covering topics such as nutrition, treatment options, alternative therapies, cultural insights, book and film critiques, celebrity interviews, and profiles of impactful HIV and AIDS organizations. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, A&U is committed to serving the HIV community. In the last eleven years, it has evolved into a respected and widely read publication, functioning as an essential educational resource. Its global perspective captures the diverse experiences of those affected by HIV, appealing to a broad audience that includes influential thinkers, community leaders, artists, educators, activists, healthcare professionals, and others who are knowledgeable about the disease.