Altered books
"Altered books belong to an intriguing category of artists’ books. They form an interesting oppositional dichotomy where the creative act encompasses a destructive one. They are two works in one, the original and then after the artist’s intervention, a transformed work" (Ann-Maree Hunter, Artist).
Artists' book makers don't always make new books from start to finish. Some take existing books which are manipulated to create a completely new artwork. They may change the content of the book by blocking or changing the text, or by inserting extra pictures. They may physically modify the book structure by folding, nailing, burning, carving, or drilling or by making three-dimensional additions such as ties or wrapping. The altered book may still look, behave and be read like an ordinary book. It may also become a sculptural work, commenting in some way on the book as a cultural object. If the identity of the original book is not destroyed, its remains may contribute meaning to the final work.
Tom Blue (b. 1980)
Children's Britannica
Australia: Tom Blue, 2006
Edition: Unique
Australian Library of Art,
State Library of Queensland
ALAAB BLU
Tom Blue (b. 1980)
Children's Britannica
Australia: Tom Blue, 2006
Edition: Unique
Australian Library of Art,
State Library of Queensland
ALAAB BLU
Jánis Nedéla (b. 1955)
Codex #3 (detail)
North Fremantle, W.A.: J. Nedéla, 2005
Edition: Unique
Australian Library of Art,
State Library of Queensland
ALAAB NED
Photographer: Martin Farquharson
Jánis Nedéla (b. 1955)
Codex #3 (detail)
North Fremantle, W.A.: J. Nedéla, 2005
Edition: Unique
Australian Library of Art,
State Library of Queensland
ALAAB NED
Photographer: Martin Farquharson
Last updated: 29th November 2011
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