Work in Progress

The intimate nature of “Evulvar” 2024, has inspired my current work in progress, as well as an invitation from the Spineless Wonders project to participate in the exhibition: “Re-collection: Spineless Wonders Out of the Collection/Off the Shelf” at Aberystwyth School of Art Gallery.

The Spineless Wonders project recently provided an inspiring introductory bookbinding workshop, leading me to continue exploring the art structures identified as artist books.

I am currently making a series of print plates using etching, litho, and collagraph for small hand-made books or free-standing paper structures so the prints can interact more personally with the audience. These etching plates are ready for printing, but I’m also considering the possibility of using the plates as part of the front covers.

Using Simon Goode and Ira Yonemura's “Making Books”, I have been progressing in my bookbinding knowledge; it’s proving to be highly enjoyable but practically challenging. Accuracy and attention to detail are vital in the making of these objects.

So far, I’ve made samples of a back-to-back pamphlet, which has taught me about ‘section making’ and sewing three-hole pamphlets. I’ve also made a Concertina book with exposed spine binding.

I’m considering making a hybrid of these two styles and finishing it with case binding. However, I wonder if I’m being slightly ambitious with a submission deadline of mid-February.

I’m keen to learn more about bookbinding and artist books, and I am considering attending the London Centre for Book Arts in the summer.