Art Books

I became interested in art books about 10 years ago when I joined the North Redwoods Book Arts Guild (NORBAG). I discovered the many facets of book making, which include deciding what your content will be and what structure is best to display that content. Next you might make your own paper or select readymade paper for the text block. The paper may be decorated with a surface design that can involve many techniques. You might include photographs, illustrations, calligraphy, poetry, stories, prints, rubbings and memorabilia related to your content. The pages of the text block may have pockets folded into them, cut out windows or may include pop-outs. Oh, so many decisions! Covers might be made of wood, metal, leather or recycled book board. Make sure you do something special on the front so you know it is the front. Finally you need to put your book together often using an interesting sewn binding. And then sign it! As the NORBAG website says,” this is a multi dimensional experience and a limitless art form”.