Look! It’s a book

EDITORS: Color slides of most entries are available on request.

ANN ARBOR—What do pencils, black faux fur, metal pages, harmonicas, spindles and, oh yes, paper and words have in common? These are just some of the materials 34 Michiganders used in creating books for the “Michigan Book Artists 1998” exhibit. Sponsored by the University of Michigan’s Special Collections Library, the exhibit is the result of an open call for entries from book artists throughout Michigan. Many of the entries stretch the boundaries of the book form and beg the questions, “Who defines a book?” and “What is the nature and function of a book?” The artists have produced suspended sculptural books, fine press books, and some have incorporated found objects. All display a creativity that incorporates a variety of materials, some of which include wax, velvet, wood, hand-woven fabrics, clay, handmade papers, boxes and mirrors. “The works that were selected demonstrate a serious, but sometimes playful, investigation into the idea and form of the book,” says James Fox, curator for the exhibit.

The exhibit is divided into three categories: Fine Press Works, Artists’ Books, and Book-objects. Works in the Fine Press category tend to follow the traditional form of the book, usually contain original artwork (particularly prints and photographs) and text, and are accomplished at the highest level of artisanship.

Artists’ Books are works which stretch or extend the boundaries of the book form in some way. They are conceived, designed, and frequently published by an artist, often in relatively inexpensive and large print forms. Many of these works ask important questions about the nature and identity of the book.

Book-objects are one-of-a-kind artworks and often move far away from the traditional book form. They may include painting, collage, mixed media, and elaborate or unconventional binding. These works often incorporate found objects, have strong sculptural elements, and are book-like pieces.

“Michigan Book Artists 1998” continues through Dec. 23 and is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m-5 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon. The exhibit is closed Sundays and will be closed Nov. 26-28. Admission is free.

The Special Collections Library is located on the seventh floor of U-M’s Hatcher Graduate Library.

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