A fresh take on Internet creativity šŸ¦‹šŸ§‹ā¤ļøā€šŸ”„

ZERO PERCENT SUGAR explores how we use the Internet for self-expression through thoughtful writing.Ā 

The Internet lets people all over the world share ideas, emotions, and pieces of themselves. Social media platforms, apps, and hand-coded vanilla HTML/CSS websites are canvases where we can express different parts of our identity.

Now, the Internet is filled with little pearls of selves waiting to be discovered — and dissected.Ā 

This newsletter acts as a resource for artists, technologists, and creators of all strokes to broaden their perspectives. The writing here is well-researched and nuanced, but doesn’t sound like something from the back of your professor’s drawer šŸ¤·šŸ½ā€ā™€ļøšŸ„“ (no h8 tho i love school)

A new essay goes out every other Wednesday. Here’s a taste of what you can expect:Ā 

Subscribe to get new writing — and occasional exclusive content šŸ‘€ — straight in your inbox.Ā 

About the writer (and designer and email sender)

Hello! I’m Madeleine, a designer & writer based in Manila, Philippines.Ā 

I started ZERO PERCENT SUGAR in May 2023 because I felt like no one was talking about technology critically (or, as critically as I’d like). The newsletter soon evolved into a tough love letter on the current generation’s artistic medium of choice: the Internet.Ā 

Beyond talking about TikTok trends and avatars, I write about art and design for technology companies. As a writer, I follow the Manila art beat and reported on group shows and art fairs. I also interview collectors and tastemakers. As a designer, I make brand identities, print materials, and illustrations for tech companies.Ā 

Check out my website, Instagram, and Twitter/X/whatever Elon Musk wants to call it.Ā 

Or, you can just hang out with me, here on Substack xx


Zero Percent Sugar is a space for review, commentary, and criticism.

All opinions and viewpoints are my own and not a reflection of any institutions and organizations I’m associated with — past and present.

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Rewiring our relationship with the Internet through thoughtful criticism.

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writer & designer based in manila, ph. chronically online.