An Apothecary of Daily Practice: a handmade book as a library of things
Book artist and writer, Suzi Banks Baum returns to the Great Barrington Public Libraries to lead a book arts workshop designed to develop powers of attention through devotion to daily creative practice. In three 3-hour sessions on Zoom, participants will build a soft bodied multi-signature book with a dust cover jacket. Over the 3 sessions, we will initiate the practice of observation in these books. We will reflect on ordinary objects through drawing, watercolor, collage, and writing. Previous bookmaking experience is not required.
Our lives are surrounded by and immersed in things. How much do you actually look at them or engage with these objects as entities? Not a jug, but that jug. This workshop is part of a new collection at the Ramsdell called The Library of Things.
The Zoom sessions include a mindfulness practice, free writing, and demonstrations of techniques. We will work together on our books and journal pages during the Zoom sessions. Attendance of all three sessions is optimal. Participants will complete one multi-signature book along with one small sample book.
Participants can pick up class supplies at the Mason Public Library (231 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA) between September 18-25.
This class meets Saturdays, September 26, October 10 and October 24 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Zoom.
This program is limited to 16 participants. Registered participants will receive the Zoom log-in information.
Participants will be given a list of simple materials to gather, which will support their work in the class. (A tray of watercolors, scissors, ruler, eraser, scrap paper, personal ephemera, etc.)