Aries was founded in 1985 by Dr. Stan Rummel, then Associate Professor of Religion, and Dr. Miriam Espinosa, then Associate Professor of English at Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth, Texas.  Dr. Jean Turner, Associate Professor of Art, soon joined the publication to help with the art and photography portion of the journal. 

The original purpose of Aries was to be a forum that would allow Wesleyan students, faculty, staff, and alumni to present their works to an audience of their fellow Wesleyanites.  Submissions were accepted in the following categories: art, poetry, and fiction. 

The founders also wanted the publication to be produced by students.  The Editorial Board was to be made-up of students from across the Wesleyan campus who would bring a variety of experiences and perspectives to the process of reviewing the submissions. Each year the publication would see a new group of associate editors who would impart their vision of Aries to the Wesleyan community.

The first edition of Aries was published in 1986, and included 26 pieces total.  The publication placed the works of students and professors side by side, offering no special treatment or recognition to either group.  On the contrary, they were equal in the reviewing process and their ultimate presentation in the journal. 

The subsequent editions followed the format fairly closely, allowing for some changes to take place as the need arose.  The most noticeable difference was seen in the categories for which submissions were accepted.  Originally contributors were allowed to submit art, poetry, and fiction.  As the editorial board changed, categories were added and taken away; however, the original categories remained intact and dominate in the journal to this day.

 Another change that has taken place is Aries’ evolution into an international, rather than local, publication.  In 2001, Dr. Tom Chesney decided to begin accepting submissions from people other than those affiliated with Texas Wesleyan University. 

Since then, Aries has grown considerably and received nearly 800 submissions for the 2005 edition.  The journal advertises annually in the Poet’s Market, a trade book for poets.  Aries receives submissions from contributors from a wide variety of ages, countries, experiences, education levels, etc.    

Interestingly enough, even through blind review, Wesleyan students are still selected to be published in the journal.  The Editorial Board is proud of this and believes that it is indicative of the quality of work that is created by the Wesleyan community.

Aries is proud to serve not only the Wesleyan community, but also an international one composed of artists, writers, poets, and photographers.  As Aries looks towards the future, it will continue to be a forum for creative expression for these people and those who value creativity.