Lovers of art and lovers of books, and especially lovers of both, are in for a treat when their two passions combine in a stunning exhibition at the Manly Art Gallery and Museum.
More than 50 artist’s books from around the world, with all of them finalists in the 2021 Library Artists’ Book Awards, will feature in the unique display launching this Friday,
But what exactly is an artist’s book?
It’s a book created by an artist intended to be a work of art and can be expressed in various forms including scrolls, fold-outs, concertinas or loose items contained in a box, as well as bound printed sheets of all kinds.
They are usually published in small editions, but sometimes appear as one-of-a-kind objects referred to as ‘uniques’.
The biennial Library Artists’ Book Award has become a globally recognised event since its launch in 2011 with the books added to the library’s permanent collection.
The exhibition features Hungarian artist Ilona Simon’s work Koyaanisqatsi, (life out of balance), inspired by Godfrey Reggio’s 1982 film of the same name which explored how humanity has grown apart from nature and Dutch painter, Theo Strasser’s The Survivor’s Suite created in COVID 19 home isolation.
Describing artist’s books as a growing art form, Northern Beaches Mayor, Michael Regan says the genre draws in creative people from a broad spectrum, including visual artists, photographers and writers.
“It crosses the boundaries between the art and literary worlds, and the concept can be a bit difficult to understand, so it is well worth coming along to the exhibition to check out these fantastic works of art,” he said.
The exhibition will run until March 28.
