An Imperfect Solution by
Joseph D'Ambrosio. Phoenix, Arizona:
Studio D'Ambrosio; 1997
| April
1 - June 20, 1998
Curated by Gary E. Strong |
|
(*Through May 17) |
| Special
thanks to Joseph D'Ambrosio for logo design. This exhibition is made possible in part by the Heidtke Foundation and by theQueens Council on the Arts with public funds from the New York State Councilon the Arts, a state agency. |
uilding upon the development
of paper and ink and the invention
of printing in the Far
East, Western culture's first books, created in the sixth century, were
unique. Text and images were laboriously transcribed by hand, bindings
often enhanced with gold tooling and jewels. In 15th century Europe,
Johann Gutenberg invented movable metal type which revolutionized Western
printing, making mass-reproducing type and images practical.
During the early 20th century, improvements in mass-production printing increased the speed and efficiency of book production while lowering the costs. But these improvements also led to a de-emphasis of quality and aesthetics in the final product. However, the limited-edition book with its focus on craftsmanship has survived and flourished, promoting the book as a work of art to be experienced. In the 20th century, book artists have been influenced by the experimentation of color, form and process inherent to modernism and post-modernism. In addition, the technological advances of computers and the availability of printing equipment have made the production of artist books an accessible and easier process to both artists and laymen.
The Book as a Work of Art explores books as art forms, including limited editions, sculptural works, pop-ups, miniatures and interactive books, as well as historical literature, that are both enduring and significant.
Book arts is one of the few art forms that can integrate text, image and sculpture to produce a functional object that provides information. Traditional and historical printing techniques, as well as contemporary and innovative bindings, continue to be explored and created. Book arts help preserve the history of civilization and create a future for art expression, all the while providing an exciting and unique experience.
Gary E. Strong, Curator,
Library Director, Queens Borough Queens Library
Karina Skvirsky, Exhibitions
Manager, Queens Library Gallery