Center for Book Arts blog

May workshops!

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Nicholls) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 16:57:00 +0000

Spring is in the air! We're looking forward to a full schedule this spring. Join us this month for more exciting book arts workshops than you can shake a stick at!

A perfect introduction to the season: this weekend Karen Gorst is offering
The Origins of Color: Many color names hint at the color's origins. Sienna is earth from the area of Sienna, Italy. Sap green really does contain sap. Burnt umber really is heated. During this workshop we will learn the basic processes for making traditional pigments. We will levigate earth, grind malachite stones, make colors from vegetable sources, and precipitate lakes. Once the colors are made we will use our pigments to make paint and ink. After taking this workshop you will never look at a tube of paint or ink in the same way! You may even find yourself gathering natural materials for pigments on your next vacation.
May 1-2, Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 4pm
Karen Gorst, Instructor
Tuition: $260/ $245 CBA members.

Sound and Light! Hooshang Partovi is back again this year for our perennial favorite: How would you like to make an electric book with special effect devices? This course devotes two days to making books with Direct Current (DC) electricity. Students will learn how to install batteries, buzzers, light bulbs, and micro-switches, as well as the fundamentals of electricity and the techniques of wiring, soldering, and attaching miniature parts to book covers or text blocks in a hardcover book. You will wire one or, time permitting, two books during this weekend course. Some bookbinding experience is recommended but not required.
May 15-16, 10am – 4pm, Saturday and Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Hooshang Partovi, Instructor
Tuition: $260/ $245 CBA members plus $35 materials fee

The Hidden Art of Kozo Paper
Book making, paste paper and art come together in this two-day workshop packed with innovative and inspiring techniques for using kozo – thin, strong, and pliant handmade mulberry paper. You'll learn a nontraditional process of laminating kozo to other sheets of paper or Tyvek without wrinkles or bubbles, for use in making stiff paper book covers. You also learn to make lush, layered, unique two-sided artwork using blind "gesso drawing" in combination with paper waxing. An application of beeswax transforms the kozo, which becomes translucent — so that the images on both sides, underneath the waxed kozo, pop out. You'll learn how to make shifu (paper thread) from a single sheet of paper; and paper tabs and ribbons. The class focuses on processes and new skills and ideas useful for subsequent book projects rather than on creating a specific object; however, students will make one or two small books and other projects. For all levels of experience.
May 8-9, Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 4pm
Rory Golden, Instructor
Tuition: $260/ $245 CBA members

Relief Block Printing for Beginners: Lino & Xylo
This class is about the differences between linoleum and wood, selecting and sharpening carving tools, and the very basics of printing. Participants in this class will have the opportunity to experiment with hand-carving on both linoleum and wood blocks using the instructors collection of tools. A small edition of prints from one of their creations will be made on a Vandercook proofing press. This is an introductory level course meant to give students a chance to work with a variety of tools and materials which will allow them to then make educated purchases for their own tool boxes and future projects.
May 15-16, Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 4pm
Bryan Baker, Instructor
Tuition: $260/ $245 CBA members

Exploring Laced and Tacketed Books
Account books and blank books have always needed to open well, hold up to heavy use, and be portable. Lacing and tacketing are both historical bookbinding techniques that were used to construct non-adhesive bindings that functioned well, creating exposed structure that is both very durable and decorative. This class will introduce students to these historical record keeping structures, and allow time to construct one parchment covered tacketed and laced blank book.
Previous bookmaking experience recommended.
May 22-23, Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 4pm
Chela Metzger, Instructor
Tuition: $260/ $245 CBA members

You can register for all of our workshops online at www.centerforbookarts.org/classes or by calling 212-481-0295.

Thank you!

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Nicholls) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 18:52:00 +0000

Much thanks to everyone who helped make this year's Annual Benefit and Auction a success-in particular: Roni Gross for overall design and good cheer; Courtney Booth for an exciting! live! auction! event! Richard Minsky for playing host; Karen Gorst for certificate design; all of our volunteers and workstudy for serving drinks food and generally being helpful; Russian Standard Vodka; Les Chauds Lapins for delightful entertainment; all of the artists who donated work to our fantastic auction; Alex Campos for leading the way; Delphi Basilicato for framing excellence; Star Black for photographic evidence; our generous sponsors; the Benefit Co-Chairs; our Board of Directors for spreading the word...am I forgetting anyone? Oh yes:

The Hive Baking Collective for our site-specific dessert installation. Corinna Zelstman (center) made the amazing tiered hive honey cake; Jordan Provost (left) made the honey comb brittle; Sarah Nicholls (right) made the flower cookies, and Bridget Ewald (on vacation in the Bahamas) made the A-MAZ-ING marzipan bees.

Nick and Bryan can't believe their eyes. There's more photos of the entire event for your viewing pleasure here. Thank you to everyone who came and made our fundraiser a success!

Annual Benefit and Auction next week!

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Nicholls) — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 15:00:00 +0000

The Center for Book Arts turned thirty-five in the fall of 2009. In honor of our thirty-fifth anniversary year—a venerable landmark—we hope you will join us in recognizing how far we’ve come! You are cordially invited to mark this exciting occasion, and pay tribute to key individuals who have made exceptional efforts to advance and promote the book arts:

Lesley Dill, Artist
Dikko Faust, Printer, Purgatory Pie Press
Ann Kalmbach and Tatana Kellner, Founders, The Women’s Studio Workshop
Ruth and Marvin Sackner, Art Collectors
Mary Coxe Schlosser, Binder and Scholar

We are pleased to celebrate the admirable achievements of these individuals at our 2010 Annual Benefit & Silent Auction on Wednesday, April 7, 2010, from 6 to 9 pm. We hope you will join us for an enchanting spring evening of French Jazz, cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, and a rousing live auction featuring work by acclaimed artists.

You may purchase tickets for the benefit through our website, here, or by phone at (212) 481-0295.

The exciting artworks on the auction block for this year are viewable on our website!Click here to get a preview of this year's auction.

Please consider purchasing a fully tax-deductible ticket to the Center's Annual Benefit & Auction today.

Hands on Self-Publishing

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Nicholls) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 15:02:00 +0000

The Center for Book Arts is proud to be a part of the Annual Chapbook Festival , co-sponsored by The Office of Academic Affairs, The Center for the Humanities, The Graduate Center and MFA Programs in Creative Writing of the City University of New York; The Center for Book Arts; Poets House; Poetry Society of America; and Poets & Writers. Now in its second year, the Chapbook Festival celebrates the chapbook as a work of art and as a vehicle for alternative and emerging writers and publishers. This year’s festival features two days of workshops, panels, readings, a book fair of chapbook publishers, and a reception at the CUNY Graduate Center on Monday and Tuesday, May 3-4. The complete schedule of events is here.

Directly following the events at CUNY, we'll ask, how do you go from manuscript to object? What are your options for getting text to page? How exactly do you make a book, anyway? Join us on Wednesday, May 5th, from 10 am to 5pm when instructors Susan Mills and Karen Randall will teach basic bookbinding and printing techniques for writers interested in publishing their own work. Writers will learn a few structures suitable for binding their words, and get their hands dirty printing some letterpress book covers. Students will come away with models, ideals and inspiration for producing their own chapbooks. RSVP at 212-481-0295; there's a $20 fee for materials.

We'll cap off the day with our first Broadside reading of the year's series; John Yau has invited Boni Joi and Albert Mobilio to read at 6:30pm, and letterpress printed broadsides are being produced by artists here at the Center to commemorate the event. $10 suggested donation at the door gets you a complimentary broadside. Wine and cheese reception to follow.

History of Art Series: The Book in Time

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Nicholls) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:35:00 +0000

Please join us this week for the next session of this year's History of Art series!

We organized a series of talks this year around the general theme of the book as a material object; we invited a wide range of artists, writers, and scholars from a variety of backgrounds to give us different perspectives on the book. We wanted to focus on the book's relationship with time, how people have interacted with books throughout history, and how it continues to function in the present.

Back in February Jane Siegel was kind enough (in a blizzard!) to give a curator's tour to a packed house of how we have interacted with the written word over time, via her favorite treasures from the collection she works with as Rare Book Librarian at Columbia University. This Wednesday we're pleased to present the second installment:

This Wednesday, March 3rd, 6:30PM
Co-sponsored by the American Printing History Association, New York Chapter.

A Force Beyond Function: The Conversation, Technology, and Significance of the Codex.

Join us for a panel discussion centered on the form of the book as an expression of technology.

With Jeff Peachy, Book Conservator; Sarah Lowengard, Historian of Technology and Science, The Cooper Union; Marie Fredricks, Drue Heinz Book Conservator, The Morgan Library and Museum; and John Townsend, Independent Bookbinder and Conservator

How Much: $10/$5 members of the Center & APHA (suggested)

Where: The Center for Book Arts,
28 West 27th Street, 3rd Floor

Save the Date!

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Nicholls) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 16:42:00 +0000

Annual Benefit and Auction
We're in the midst of printing invitations to the Center’s Annual Benefit and Auction: to be held on Wednesday, April 7. Join us for an evening of music, cocktails, a fine art auction, and more, as we celebrate the Center’s continued success!

This year we are proud to honor the following individuals for their achievements and commitment to furthering the field of book arts: Ruth and Marvin Sackner, Collectors; Lesley Dill, Artist; Mary Coxe Schlosser, Master Bookbinder; Dikko Faust, Master Printer and co-proprietor, Purgatory Pie Press; and Ann Kalmbach and Tatana Kellner, Artists and Founders of Women’s Studio Workshop. We’d like to thank the over forty artists who have generously donated their work to the auction, as well as Courtney Booth, Assistant Vice President, Prints, from Sotheby’s, who will captivate us during the Live Auction portion of the evening. . Thanks also to our annual benefit committee, led by Roni Gross, Richard Minsky, and Idee G. Schoenheimer. Proceeds from the annual event benefit the Center’s programs and activities. Be sure to secure your tickets by calling 212-481-0295 or by visiting our website.

Featured Artist Leah Oates Discusses Work

noreply@blogger.com (The Center for Book Arts) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 22:54:00 +0000

Last night, the Center for Book Arts hosted an engaging discussion with artist Leah Oates. Oates spoke candidly about how her Fine Arts background in printmaking gradually evolved into her own distinctive, artistic style. By utilizing multiple photographic exposures and a keen eye for color her one of a kind books bring to life through the juxtaposition of images a unique portrait and show how a place can become in its own right a representational narrative.

Oates is quick to admit her work is “a response to sites and objects that are ignored such as piles of trash, alleyways, overpasses or abandoned structures. In most instances the locations that I have shot in are not desirable travel destinations, are generally working class and are in industrial areas. This type of space has a personal resonance for me as I grew up in a very similar location in New England. I have a strong emotional connection, knowledge and familiarity with this kind of locality and want to document it in all of its poignant beauty.”

The evening provided a great opportunity to learn from an accomplished photographer and book artist both the finer techniques of her process and to discuss the overall position of the creative process in today’s changing society. I for one enjoyed the opportunity to handle some of these beautiful books, while asking specific questions about them. If you have not had a chance yet to visit this exhibition I strongly suggest you do so.

-Nicholas Crawford, Gallery/Studio Coordinator

Leah Oates: Transitory Spaces, was organized by Alexander Campos, Executive Director of the Center for Book Arts. The exhibition will be on view through April 3, 2010.

For more information about Leah Oates and her work, click here to visit her website

Tonight at the Center

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Nicholls) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 15:40:00 +0000

The Print Factory: A Printmaking Workshop
at the Center for Book Arts

This Friday, February 19, 6-9PM

Join The Print Factory's crew in the Center's printshop for an interactive evening of printmaking on its portable printing press. The Print Factory is currently featured in the exhibition The Incidental Person,organized by Antony Hudek at apexart , The exhibition is on view through February 20.

About The Print Factory's Workshop
Producing art on-site while handing it out to the public sparks dialogue about the processes behind printmaking and the historical impact of the multiple in everyday life. Sharing the process and the product of printmaking stimulate community by provoking questions about the utility of printmaking and the nature of art. Click here for more about The Print Factory.

When: This Friday, February 19, 6-9PM

How Much: $10/$5 members (suggested)

Where: The Center for Book Arts,
28 West 27th Street, 3rd Floor

The Book In Time

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:57:00 +0000

Join us this season for three discussions looking at the past, present and future of the book, featuring local writers, scholars, and conservators.

Up first is Before the Metaphor: The Book as Human Object.
The Center welcomes Jane Siegel, Rare Book Librarian at Columbia University, next Wednesday evening, February 10th at 6:30pm for a curator's tour of how we have created and interacted with the written work-from cuneiform up to, but not including, the e-book.

Jane Rodgers Siegel is the Rare Book Librarian at the Rare Book and Manuscript Library of Columbia University, where she looks after rare books, art, and ephemera, and specializes in the book as a physical object. 2010 is her Silver Jubilee year.

On Wednesday, March 3, 6:30 pm we're proud to present A Force Beyond Function: The Conservation, Technology, and Significance of the Codex: a panel discussion centered on the physical form of the book as an expression of technology. Moderated by Jeff Peachey, famed local book conservator, we're looking forward to a spirited discussion, with guests Sarah Lowengard, Maria Fredericks and John Townsend.

Jeffrey S. Peachey is the owner of a New York City-based studio for the conservation of books, and the inventor of conservation tools and machines. He is a Professional Associate in the American Institute for Conservation and has served as Chair of Conservators In Private Practice. For more than 20 years, he has specialized in the conservation of books and paper artifacts for institutions and individuals. A consultant to major libraries and university collections in the New York City region and nationally, he has been the recipient of numerous grants to support his work. A well-known teacher, Peachey also provides conservation-focused guidance to students in art, archives, and bookbinding programs.

Sarah Lowengard is a historian of technology and science who specializes in the chemistry and physics of early modern Europe. Her research calls on studies of art, material culture and materials science as well as the more typical concerns of social life, economies and intellectualism. She is an Associate Professor at The Cooper Union.

Maria L. Fredericks is the Drue Heinz Book Conservator at the Morgan Library & Museum. Previous she was the Head of Conservation at Columbia University Libraries, where she managed the systemwide book conservation program for more than twenty libraries.Ms. Fredericks has taught and lectured extensively on book conservation.
John Townsend owns and operates Anonymous Bookbinder, a small hand-bookbinding and conservation workshop in upstate New York. Most recently active in information technology, digital information access and related fields, he is also a librarian with a broad background and extensive experience in conservation and preservation, and he has been a bookbinder for over thirty years.

Finally, we're looking ahead towards The Future of Reading: Dan Visel will join us for a discussion of what digital publishing can take from the traditions of print publications, on Wednesday, March 24th at 6:30pm.

Dan Visel works with The Institute for the Future of the Book a small think-and-do tank investigating the evolution of intellectual discourse as it shifts from printed pages to networked screens. In his spare time, he designs Circumference, a journal of poetry in facing-page translation.

Suggested donation for all our public programs is $10/$5 for members, and you can see our complete schedule here: http://www.centerforbookarts.org/events/

New Open Bindery Opportunities at the Center for Book Arts

noreply@blogger.com (The Center for Book Arts) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:05:00 +0000

The Center invites all binders and book artists to a new opportunity offered this fall: Open Bindery Studio on Thursday evenings. Students may now rent the Center's bindery facilities after hours, each Thursday evening from 6:30 to 9PM. Instructor Shanna Yarbrough will be on-site to supervise renters.

Renting studio time at the Center is a great way to brush up on binding skills, or complete a project that requires the use of our board shears. Practice your calligraphy or finish binding that photo album on our spacious bindery tables. Borrow our sewing frames and nipping presses, or cut down large sheets of paper to bind at home.

Rates: $25/hour ($15 for members!)
Please call (212) 481-0295 to reserve rental time in advance.

Live! Chapbook! Event!

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 18:35:00 +0000

The 2009 Poetry Chapbook Reading took place this past Wednesday, October 7th here at the Center. We were very pleased to welcome this year's honoree, Bonnie Jo Campbell, and celebrate her winning manscript Love Letters to Sons of Bitches.

Series co-founder Sharon Dolin began the evening with a few words, read some of her own work, and then welcomed this year's curator, Kim Addonizio.

Who read from the limited edition publication created for her by the Center's own Delphi Basilicato, a letterpress printed scroll enclosed in a beeswax infused cover, titled Another Day on Earth. She then read an excerpt from Letters to Ripley by Lucia Perillo, one of our two Honorable Mentions this year, who was sadly unable to join us in person. Her work has been immortailzed in a limited edition broadside produced this summer by Megan Quarton. Next up was Theresa Leo, our second Honorable Mention, who read from her broadside, After Twelve Months, Someone Tells Me It's Time to Join the Living, designed and printed in an edition of 100 by Carrie Tuccio.

Then it was time for Bonnie Jo Campbell, who wowed us with her dynamic reading from her chapbook, printed and designed especially for her by our Master Printer Barbara Henry. Then we all adjourned to the bindery for some wine, cheese, temporary tattoos, and group photo ops.

A good time was had by all.

Artists Address "Post-Racial"ism

noreply@blogger.com (The Center for Book Arts) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 16:29:00 +0000

Last Wednesday night, The Center for Book Arts hosted a panel discussion with five artists, Tomie Arai, Michael Paul Britto, Jayson Keeling, Jason Lujan, and Karina Skvirsky, all featured in the Center’s current exhibition, Racism: an American Family Value. The night began with an introduction of each artist and brief presentations by each on their own work and influences. Family history, research, community collaboration, and daily experience were revealed as the inspiration that drives these artists to create.

Moderator Nicole Caruth started the discussion by addressing the idea of “post-racial,” a term introduced in the events of the presidential election to suggest that the election of President Obama stood as evidence that American society has entered a post-racial era. Are we living in a post-racial society?

The artists seemed in agreement that we are not, but also that this is not the pressing question. What would a post-racial society look like? Is that image part of an ideal we would strive for? And as Tomie Arai put it, “where do we stand in relation?” The common understanding of post-racial is of a society beyond race, where race is no longer relevant and racism does not exist. Jason Lujan rejected the term as a misnomer, suggesting instead “post-tolerance” as a better name for the goal of a society beyond race, beyond discrimination and beyond the bitter effects of both.

It was clear from the discussion in the printshop last Wednesday that we have not reached that point. The idea of race and the words used to explore this idea invoke strong feelings. Anger and indignity were expressed, particularly by attendees who saw their lives in direct opposition to intolerance. Speaking about race and the history of its damages causes pain, but works created by artists like those featured in the current exhibition address that pain and initiate the dialogues that society must have.

By Carrie Tuccio, Intern at the Center for Book Arts.

Racism: An American Family Value, was co-organized by Amos Paul Kennedy, Artist, Educator, and Independent Curator; and Alexander Campos, Executive Director of the Center for Book Arts. The exhibition will be on view through September 12, 2009.

New Elevator

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 17:20:00 +0000

Please note that a new elevator is going to be installed in the Center's building this summer.

The construction will begin on Monday, August 3, and will last until September 10.

During this time, the Center will be accessible via the Freight Elevator, which will be in operation during the following hours:
Monday - Friday, 8am-9pm
Saturday, 9am-6pm

The entrance to the freight elevator is located on 28th street, just west of the regular entrance.

The Center will also be accessible by stairs (two flights up).

Because there will be no freight elevator service on Sundays, please contact Sarah Nicholls at 212-481-0295 if you are planning to take a weekend class during this period and are unable to use the stairs.

Thank you,
The Center for Book Arts

NYC Zine Fest - June 27th and 28th - Pix

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:31:00 +0000

It's hard to believe it's already been several weeks since the NYC Zine Fest - we had a great time showing our Center for Book Arts wares, and hope you had the chance to stop by as well. To see some pictures from the event, take a look here, and for more information about the festival, check out their home page.

We look forward to seeing you there again next year ... !

Live! Binding! Event! The Big Draw 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 14:27:00 +0000

The Center for Book Arts is proud to be participating in the Big Draw, the Drawing Center's fourth annual celebration of drawing. Binders from the Center will be on hand to aid artist Suzanne Bocanegra in the World Financial Center Winter Garden from 11 am to 4pm this Saturday, July 18th. Join them in creating drawings on outdated and recycled music scores that will immediately be performed in ongoing improvisations by the renowned American string group, Flux Quartet. After being performed our volunteers will bind the scores on the spot for future reference. We're super excited to take part!
There's more information about the event, as well as the three other events happening as part of the Big Draw, here on the Drawing Center's website.

Discounts on Select July Classes

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:27:00 +0000

The Center is now offering a discount on select July classes!

Follow the links below to register online, or call 212-481-0295.

Save even more by becoming a member today and receive a double discount.

Chapbooks
July 25-26, Saturday and Sunday, 10am-4pm
Poets and artists, here is your chance to give your content a worthy book form. Prior to the workshop, following instructors from a PDF, you will design and print the interior of your chapbook on 8.5" x 11" paper in an edition of 50. In class, you will print your covers letterpress and bind up to 4 hardcover sewn books and 45 papercover sewn books. If time permits, we will also bind a multi-section collaborative book. You will end the class with patterns to cut more materials for binding, the experience of actually binding an edition of your very own chapbooks, and of course, the books! Instructors: Karen Randall and Susan Mills. Click here for more information and to register.
Summer Special: $245
Special for Members: $230
(Regular Price: $260)

A World of Boxes
July 20-24, Monday through Friday, 10am-4pm
The world of boxes is large, magnificent and full of surprises. A tray, a case, a lid and a flap: four simple architectural elements- and hundreds of ways to combine them! Working with cloth and patterned papers, we will construct portfolios, hinge-lidded boxes, partitioned boxes, boxes with unusual closures and other decorative details. Please bring with you photographs, postcards, letter, buttons, ribbons, all sorts of doodads and ephemera - anything that will personalize your boxes and make them truly unique. Instructor: Barbara Mauriello. Click here for more information and to register.
Spring Special: $500
Special for Members: $475
(Regular Price: $525)

A Classic Hardcover Book - in Leather
July 18-19 , Saturday and Sunday, 10am-4pm
When properly tanned, leather is an excellent cover material for books. It is durable, flexible and allows for traditional finishing - the blind and gold tooling of letters and decoration on book covers. And despite its reputation for being "difficult", leather can be easy to work with. Building a traditional quarter-leather or half-leather case bound book is a good introduction to the basic tools, techniques and principles of hand binding with leather. Instructor: Susan Mills. Click here for more information and to register.
Spring Special: $245
Special for Members: $230
(Regular Price: $260)

Illuminated Manuscripts
July 11-12, Saturday and Sunday, 10am-4pm
They only illuminate Bibles, right? No! Manuscript illumination is a set of techniques developed in the Middle Ages. The brilliant colors, supple parchment, and luminous gold catch the eye and demand complete attention. Small and discrete or overwhelming in scope, illuminations delight the eye. Using traditional designs or images from their own work, students will create a small illumination while learning all the steps in the process. Instructor: Karen Gorst. Click here for more information and to register.
Spring Special: $245
Special for Members: $230
(Regular Price: $260)

The Handworked Surface
July 27-31, Monday through Friday, 10am-4pm
This class will focus on the use of embroidery, collage, stenciling, various paper treatments and low-tech printmaking techniques to produce one-of-a-kind artist books. Simple multi-section binding structures will be introduced as a launching off point to explore the tactile qualities of unique hand worked paper and fabric surfaces. We will explore the proper use of adhesives and preparation of materials such as backing fabric with tissue and wax treatments for paper. This class will run in conjunction with the 2009 Artist Members Exhibit "Threads", which explores the use of thread as a design element in book works. Instructor: Nancy Loeber. Click here for more information and to register.
Spring Special: $500
Special for Members: $475
(Regular Price: $525)

SAVE MORE WITH MEMBERSHIP!
Membership is only $50 annually.
Sign up for a class today, and your membership can pay for itself!
As a member you will receive year-round discounts on classes,
admission to programs, bookstore purchase, and more.

TEXTFORM Reading Series

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:38:00 +0000

The TEXTFORM Series features readings and performances by writers whose methods of production, presentation, and distribution are a vital component of their work.

Book Arts Lounge: Mad About Matchbooks!

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 21:25:00 +0000

BOOK ARTS LOUNGE
"Mad About Matchbooks"
Friday, July 10, 6 to 9pm

A fun, creative, accessible book arts lounge. Come prepared with your creativity! This night's lounge is like a casino buffet! After learning the simple binding structure and setting type and printing on a Vandercook press, everyone can create their own series of Matchbooks and bind one with special prepared content. In conjunction with the new exhibit opening July 8th, Racism: An American Family Value we'll see how common place objects, icons and materials can be reconfigured.

Led by 2008-09 Stein Scholars Taelor Reid and Liz Zanis!

Book Arts Lounge is a monthly art-making extravaganza and open studio event at the Center for Book Arts. Each month, we focus on a different book arts theme, covering printing, bookbinding, and paper treatments, among other exciting topics. This low cost, high energy event takes place on the second Friday of every month, and is open to arts enthusiasts of all skill levels. Snacks provided. $10 suggested donation.

No registration required, but you can let your friends know about the event on Facebook.

Tuesdays with CBA

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 16:10:00 +0000

What a busy day today! Click here to see some pictures of the Center at work.

The binderies are full with our Bookbinding for Artist class with Barbara Mauriello, as well as with archive materials and artwork that's being catalogued and prepared for storage. (Note, Barbara has another class coming up in July, A World of Boxes.)

Plenty of printers as always in the printshop, under the guidance of Printshop Steward Roni Gross.

We have a full crew of summer interns and workstudy volunteers in the galleries helping us de-install, spackle, paint, and install our two new exhibitions, opening reception next Wednesday, July 8, 6-8pm.

And we just got our refurbed A/C units installed so that we can do all this work in comfort this summer!

Two New Exhibitions: Opening Reception Wed, July 8, 6-8pm

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:18:00 +0000

Two New Exhibitions Opening
At The Center for Book Arts, NYC
Opening Reception:
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
6:00 - 8:00 pm

EXHIBITIONS:
Racism: An American Family Value investigates how visual artists have used the printed word in their artistic practice to address one of the country's oldest and most challenging social problems. Mixing humor with subversive symbolism, the art exhibited reveals the vast reach of contemporary book art as practiced by a wide spectrum of American culture.

Artworks included by: Manuel Acevedo, Tomie Arai, Jamil Azim, Karen Baldner, Ben Blount, Michael Paul Britto, Josely Carvalho, Irene Chan, Maureen Cummins, Ken Gonzales-Day, Rory Golden, Caren Heft, Barbara Henry, Jayson Keeling, Maureen Kelleher, Glenn Ligon, Miguel Luciano, Jason Lujan, Clifton Meador, Douglas Miles/Apache Skateboards, Shervone Neckles, Jessica Peterson, Adrian Piper, Rosae Reeder, Lisa Beth Robinson, Karina Skvirsky, Danny Tisdale, Kara Walker, Shu-Ju Wang, Carrie Mae Weems, and Lynne Yamamoto.

Organized by: Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr., Artist, Teacher, and Independent Curator; and Alexander Campos, Executive Director of The Center for Book Arts.

Film Night: Proceed and Be Bold! Feature Documentary on Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr. Wednesday, August 5, 6:30 pm

Threads: Interweaving Textu[r]al Meaning, our annual Artist Members Exhibition, brings together current members of the Center's artistic community and invited artists who use actual thread as a design element to convey both content and form. Artworks featured in this exhibition represent a broad range of book and related arts, including prints, books, sculptures, and multi-media installation.

Participating artists include: Jen Bervin, Inge Bruggeman, Macy Chadwick & Lisa Hasegawa, Rosemarie Chiarlone, Patricia Dahlman, Andrea Dezsö, Ipek Duben, Tiffany Dugan, Elsi Vassdal Ellis, Jonathan Fetter-Vorm, Dianna Frid, Ximena Perez Grobet, Tanya Hartman, Candace Hicks, Yoko Inoue, Vandana Jain, Heather Johnson, André Lee, China Marks, Pamela Matsuda-Dunn, Heidi Neilson & Chris Petrone, Tara O'Brien, Iviva Olenick, Yani Pecanins, Catya Plate, John Risseeuw, Donna Ruff, Meda Rives & Veda Rives, Stephen Sidelinger, Robbin Ami Silverberg, Edyth Skinner, Tamar Stone, Dana Velan, Elise Wiener, and Anne Wilson & Shawn Decker.

Organized by: Lois Morrison, Artist and Independent Curator; and Alexander Campos, Executive Director of The Center for Book Arts.

Two Artist Talks (Featuring Artists from the Exhibition):
Wednesday, July 29, 6:30 pm
Wednesday, August 12, 6:30 pm

LOCATION:
The Center for Book Arts
28 West 27th Street, ThirdFloor
Between Broadway and SixthAvenue
Subway: N, R, W to 28thStreet; F, V to 23rd Street; 1 to 28th Street
Telephone: 212-481-0295
www.centerforbookarts.org

HOW MUCH:
Opening Reception: FREE
Admission to Galleries: FREE
Artist Talks & Film Night: suggested admission of $10/$5 members

GALLERY OPENING HOURS:

Monday to Friday, 10am-6pm
Saturday, 10am-4pm

For more information please contact
James Copeland,212-481-0295, jcopeland@centerforbookarts.org.

The Center for Book Arts - POSTER - By Bryan Baker

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:19:00 +0000

July Workshops at the Center for Book Arts!

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 16:44:00 +0000

Things I am looking forward to this summer include:

1. Peaches & Cherries
2. The consistent application of sunblock
3. Advancing the art of the book with a workshop at the Center for Book Arts!

Some of which can be seen here and here. Classes in bookbinding and printing now in session, ongoing throughout the summer. Highlights of the season include:

Linoleum Prints.

Summer is linoleum season. We will explore the medium and its myriad uses, from simple patterns to complex color compositions. Linoleum is a perfect accompaniment to type, and a great way to add color to the page. It can be used to tell a story, to illustrate or to decorate, and can be printed on the Center’s Vandercook Proof Presses or at home on a kitchen table. Barbara Henry will lead the way the week of June 29th, Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4pm.
Registration can be achieved here.

Letterpress II: Portfolio Exchange-The Secret Plan
Calling all printers: Bryan Baker will amaze you with his whiz-bang letterpress expertise. Each participant will venture further onto more advanced compositions with the incorporation of hand-carved blocks, and learn to utilize various methods of color overlay. As a class we will edition a portfolio that will contain a piece by all those involved with "The Secret Plan". Join us every Tuesday and Thursday in July to help advance the plot.
June 30-July 30, Tuesday and Thursday nights, 6 to 9pm
Register here.

A World of Boxes
The world of boxes is large, magnificent and full of surprises. Join Barbara Mauriello in an in-depth exploration of all that is enclosed.
July 20-24, Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4pm. Register here.

Historical Bookbinding
Recreate three books based on 16th and 17th century bindings: a limp multi-section book sewn on leather thongs with hand sewn endbands and a durable non-adhesive paper cover; an Ethiopian book with exposed sewing and wooden covers; and a large northern Indian account book with a stiff quilted fabric cover. Mark July 6th through the 10th on your calendar as the week that Susan Mills will show you how to make the historical contemporary.
Register here.

NYC Zine Fest - June 27th and 28th

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 16:33:00 +0000

The NYC Zine Fest 09 is this coming weekend: June 27th and 28th at the Brooklyn Lyceum. This is what the organizers have to say for themselves:

The mission of the NYC Zine Fest is to circulate and promote independent, homemade, self-published, and small publications. We aim to support and expand the network of creators who self-publish zines in and outside of the NYC metro area. The Fest will connect artists, writers, and collectors of zines and further the NYC zine community through a two-day annual series of events, including tabling, workshops, presentations and parties. The NYC Zine Fest '09 will celebrate and highlight the spirit of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) culture that zines represent.

The Center for Book Arts will have a table at the event and will be doing a bookmaking workshop at 1:30 pm Saturday. Come down and say hello and check out the best of NYC independent publishing!

Rainy Weekend? Take a class at the Center!

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 17:40:00 +0000

If you've looked at the weather reports for this weekend, you know we're in for a wet one - so what better time to pick up a few new bookbinding skills?

We have a few opens spots left in our Book Emergency Room - Cloth Reback class with Sophia Kramer. This is a unique chance to learn basic book repair techniques from a Metropolitan Museum Book Conservator.

This class is also being offered now as part of our June Discount promotion - sign up for this class now at a reduced rate!

We hope to see you here at the Center soon - and stay dry!

BENE-FÊTE: Weds., June 24, 6-9pm

noreply@blogger.com (Center for Book Arts) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:29:00 +0000

Please join us at The Center for Book Arts for our SUMMER BENE-FÊTE & SALE, a special one-time opportunity to purchase at discounted rates a wide selection of original prints and artists' books. Admission is free! With refreshments, a bake sale, music, and more!

All proceeds to benefit the Center for Book Arts, so please make a special effort to attend this wonderful event, or click here to make a contribution to the Center now.

Artwork on sale includes limited edition artists' books, broadside prints, poetry chapbooks, and more - all created here at the Center for Book Arts and not available anywhere else! All work will be offered at a discounted rate.

Your support is needed! The SUMMER BENE-FÊTE & SALE will provide essential funds for the Center's ongoing mission to explore and cultivate contemporary aesthetic interpretations of the book as an art object while invigorating traditional artistic practices of the art of the book. Funds will directly provide for the Center's core programming areas of exhibitions, classes, public events, literary presentations, opportunities for artists and writers, publications, and collecting.

Please take this opportunity to support the Center for Book Arts' important work, while also taking home beautiful and unique artwork.

Click here to see examples of some of the work that will be available for sale.

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 24, 6:00-9:00 pm

HOW MUCH:
FREE ADMISSION!

WHERE:
The Center for Book Arts
28 West 27th Street, Third Floor
Between Broadway and SixthAvenue
Subway: N, R, W to 28thStreet; F, V to 23rd Street; 1 to 28th Street
www.centerforbookarts.org

For more information please contact
James Copeland,212-481-0295, jcopeland@centerforbookarts.org.

If you are unable to attend the event, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to The Center for Book Arts today. We need your help to continue our important mission - thank you for your support.

Let your friends know that you're attending this event on our Facebook page: we have a live feed to our blog and listings of upcoming events.