Books as Objects

Contemporary artists are challenging the traditional attitude of making books. Rather than relying on print as the primary means of communication, these artists are using form.

Historically, the book has taken many shapes in addition to the common codex. Earlier forms include scrolls and clay tablets, accordion-folded and fan shaped manuscripts, and engraved cylinders. Before paper, other materials such as parchment, papyrus, and palm leaves were used. Many artists reflect on this history and draw inspiration from it.

Contemporary book objects demonstrate an infinate variety of forms and materials while trying to exploit the expressive potential of the book's form.

-Adapted from OFF THE WALL, an exhibition of comtemporary book objects by Rita Saliklis and Don Cortese

By Claire Harootunian

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