Artists Books

I’ve always felt that Artist Books are a fabulous way of exploring a whole range of art making techniques. They’re a great way of getting students to experiment with a range of different materials and techniques from printing, to paper making to book binding.

We usually spend several weeks exploring different methods of printing – dry point etching, lino-printing, mono-printing and solar printing. A couple of lessons per method is often more than enough. Everyone can then focus on their favourite method(s) of printing to complete their artist book. They’re encouraged to also use other methods, including collage, painting, drawing etc.

We also explore handmade paper using a paper making deckle and another technique that simply involves sticking bits of old paper together with PVA and water.

Below are some examples of what my Year 11 class produced.

After weeks of searching for an Artist Book exhibition, I finally found a fantastic one at the State Library of Victoria. They have a ‘Mirror of the World. Books & Ideas’ exhibition currently on until December 2014. A fabulous look at books through the ages. We were also lucky enough to go behind the scenes and view a private Artist Book collection