Exploring Artists Books: Projects for the Page

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An artist’s book is a form of artistic expression that draws inspiration from the concept of the “book” itself. What distinguishes an artist’s book from a traditional book is the creative intention behind its production—an artist’s vision shapes not just the content, but the form, materials, design, and process. These works merge elements of printmaking, photography, poetry, experimental narrative, graphic design, visual art, and publishing. What truly defines an artist’s book is the artist’s intent, and artists have explored countless techniques and approaches, from traditional craftsmanship to avant-garde experimentation. An artist’s book might be produced through fine press printing or handcrafted by the artist, its pages filled with everything from computer-generated images to photocopied material. Books can be sculptural, tiny or monumental, altered, reassembled, or made from unexpected materials, often created in limited editions or as one-of-a-kind pieces. Through these innovations, artists continually push the boundaries of what a book can be, challenging conventional ideas about its content, structure, and purpose. Join us as we explore  the world of Artists’ Books and Altered Books, creating Projects for the Page!

Students will come away with several handmade books of their own. How many books, and with what content will vary by individual choice and will include handmade blank books with different bindings, handbound books with individual artistic content, and altered books. Artistic content can include monoprints, any kind of drawing, collage – the limits of your imagination are the only boundaries.

Supplies we will use and things to look for:
(we will send you a small list of items to bring on the first day)

• Bookbinding materials – Waxed Linen Thread, Bone Folder, Bookbinding Needles, Linen or Cotton Bookbinding Tape, High Quality Paper (we will discuss paper in depth), Archival Glue & Brush
• Art mediums of all sorts, especially pencils, erasers, sumi ink, bamboo brushes,& ink pens
• Sketchbook, Cutting knife, Piercing Awl, Cutting Mat, 18” Metal Ruler, Carpenter’s Square
• Old books and book covers, found objects, buttons, old art, personal documents, fabric…
• Book cloth, liner papers, old books and book covers you like, cloth, leather, threads
• Any printmaking materials you wish to use – stamps, wood blocks, textured grains
• Laptop and/or Wacom Tablet may be helpful depending on what you do, but are not necessary

“Unlike an art book, catalog or monograph that tend to showcase artworks created in another medium, the term ‘artists’ books’ refers to publications that have been conceived as artworks in their own right. These ‘projects for the page’ are generally inexpensive, often produced in large or open editions, and are democratically available.”   

                                                         ~Printed Matter, an organization devoted to books and publications made by artists.

Only choose one option.

Choose the Workshop button to register and pay for only the class or choose the Workshop and Enroll in Certificate button to register and pay for the class and also enroll in the certificate program.