Let's look at artist books! An online workshop for schools (years 10-12)

Coming in 2027

An exciting new online workshop for Visual Art students is coming to State Library's schools program in 2027. To be among the first to hear when workshop dates and bookings become available, register now!

Let's look at artists' books! An online workshop for schools (years 10-12)

What is a book? And what isn’t a book?

Forget everything you think you know about books! In this creative online workshop, students will explore State Library of Queensland’s fascinating collection of artists' books and discover how artists have challenged conventions and reimagined what a book can be.

From sculptural forms and interactive artworks to intriguing objects made from metal, found materials and everyday items, artist books invite us to think beyond the traditional page.

Together, we’ll explore how artists combine ideas, materials and techniques to transform the familiar book into something extraordinary. Students will be encouraged to question their assumptions, investigate different artistic approaches and consider where a book begins and ends – and what makes something a book in the first place.

Led by cross-disciplinary artist, Zoe Porter, this 90-minute online workshop will introduce students to inventive approaches to bookmaking, drawing inspiration from State Library’s collections. Students will also have the opportunity to experiment with materials and techniques, applying their creative thinking to their own bookmaking activities.

Come ready to question, experiment and get hands-on creating your own artist book while discovering just how creative a book can be!

Curriculum connections

This workshop is particularly suited to students studying Junior and Senior Visual Art, with connections to the Australian Curriculum: Visual Arts, Years 9 and 10 and Queensland Visual Art General senior syllabus. Students will be encouraged to develop inquiry questions, investigate artistic practices and explore how artists communicate ideas and meaning across personal, cultural, contemporary and formal contexts.

Extend your experience at State Library

Why not complement your online workshop with a visit to State Library of Queensland’s artists' books exhibition, on display from 13 March to 22 August 2027. Discover some of the extraordinary creations held in our Artists' Books Collection up close, to explore even more ways artists are challenging conventions and reimagining what a book can be.

Workshop and booking information

• This 90-minute workshop will be delivered online via Microsoft Teams.
• Workshop dates for the 2027 school year will be announced prior to commencement of Term 1, 2027.
• Cost: $110 + GST per class (maximum 30 students per class).
• Limited to 3-5 schools per date.
• A materials list will be provided ahead of the workshop, allowing teachers time to prepare the supplies needed for students to participate in the practical bookmaking activities.