Learn to build and finish a small box filled with personal images and objects that are held in place to create a miniature diorama, protected with a fitted piece of plexiglass. After arranging and fastening selected treasures in the box, and fixing the plexiglass in place, the box will be mounted into a case with recessed label and ribbon closure. The case and box sides will be covered with book cloth. This class is suitable for all skill levels, ages 16 and older. No experience required.
NOTE: Advance registration required. Registration is through Weehawken Arts, Ridgway, Colorado. The fee is $145 (including materials); the workshop hours are 10am-4pm on May 6.
About Ravenpress
Publisher of limited edition artists’ book works.
In 1996 I made my first limited edition bookwork – Tool Box. Although I didn’t have any training in bookbinding, I jumped right in. It was evident that my knowledge, experience and skills were not up to my vision for that first book.
I set out to gain skill with tools, materials and methods; some new to me but many familiar from years of studio work in other fields. I surmised that creating miniatures would be a good way to develop finer handskills and work through ideas quickly. So many of my early edition bookworks are miniatures.
To discover a world of collectors of the miniature was a lovely surprise – and I still cherish the connections I made through the world of the miniature limited edition artists’ books. I learned a lot from publishing miniature books in edition and I still occasionally publish titles in this genre; some of those early titles are still in print.
Ravenpress editions are small, most fewer than 25. I do not work in letterpress so these books are created with a combination of digital and hand-worked means. The digital arsenal includes laserprinting, color toner printing, occasional color inkjet printing, laser cutting and etching.
I use various printmaking techniques such as intaglio, relief printing, silkscreen, woodblock/cut, solvent transfers and monoprinting in my books. Materials range from the norms of bound books (book board, paper, cloth, leather, thread) to less typical materials such as glass, wood, ceramic and various plastics.