500 Handmade Books

Interest in bookbinding and the related arts has exploded in the past decade, inspiring artists to explore the unlimited possibilities of the form. This title showcases a beautiful range from the intricacies of an exotic Ethiopian binding with a show-stopping open spine to others that resemble mysterious puzzle boxes. The sublimely talented contributors include Jeanne Germani who displays her own handmade papers, made from such varied materials as recycled denim, thistle and other plant matter, Chris Bivin whose codex-style volume features curious, tiny, found objects and Laura Wait presents a piece with handsome raised-cord binding connecting a pair of stained-cedar covers with abstract aluminum letterforms attached. This new and provocative on-the-page gallery, richly illustrated with hundreds of breathtaking photographs, will appeal to a large and discerning audience.