Introduction to Artists' Books (10 credit points)

Pre-requisites for enrolment

None.

Special Information

This course will include a limited supply of basic papers and cards. However please do acquire the materials recommended for this course.

Materials you will need to bring to the first class:

• Scalpel / Stanley knife

• Scissors

• Pritt stick

• Pencil

• Ruler

In addition to the course fee, students are expected to provide the following list of indicative tools, materials and equipment:

• 2mm Greyboard (A2)

• Bookcloth

• Bone folder (useful but not essential)

• Specialist papers – guidance from tutor to determine requirements

Content of Course

Students will be encouraged to make at least one finished piece to demonstrate their individual choices and visual aesthetic.

Over the class sessions the course will cover:

1. Learn different book structures from simple folded forms to more complex sewing. Make a rubber stamp to create a quick way of making images.

2. Using more personal imagery, learn how to combine content and structure. Make at least one kind of container for a book.

3. Visit the ECA collection of artists’ books. Develop a personal project using printmaking, drawing or re-cycled papers.

Teaching method(s)

The teaching will be based and delivered in specialist art and design studios or workshops and will typically include a range of practical exercises, introductions to techniques, processes and concepts, and set projects which lead to more focused and personal exploration. Over the course, students’ progress will be monitored and supported by the tutor.  Teaching will include practical demonstrations, one to one tuition, group discussions and critiques.

For work required to be undertaken after the class hours are complete, the course tutor will set students a ‘directed study plan’ which can be undertaken without the need for specialist workshops or access to models.

Directed study will include research into a range of suggested artists and their associated movements to engender a contextual awareness. Students are expected to demonstrate how their research has informed their work through annotated sketchbooks, a visual digital journal and practical outcomes. 

The Directed Study Plan will include preparing evidence of research and practical work to form an appropriate presentation for assessment.

Learning outcomes

 On completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate a range of practical research to develop personal ideas supported by contextual knowledge, discovering the work of artists who have incorporated the book form into their work.

• Show a confidence in use several methods for making books, including Japanese binding, concertina bindings and pamphlet sewing.

• Evidence appropriate judgement to document, select, edit and present at least one original finished book using original images and drawings.

Sources

Core Readings

Recommeded:

• BURY S., 1995. Artists' books: the book as a work of art, 1963-1995. Aldershot: Scolar Press.

• BODMAN, S., 2005. Creating artists' books. London: A&C Black.

• WEITMAN, W. and Wye, D., 2006. Eye on Europe: prints, books & multiples, 1960 to now. New York: Museum of Modern Art.

• BODMAN, S., ed., 2011. Artist's book yearbook 2012-2013. Bristol: Impact Press.

Web Sources

 

 

 

Class Handouts

 

 

 

Assessment

Details of the Art and Design assessment requirements can be found on the short course website. Please click on the following link for more information: Submission and Assessment Information

Studying for Credit

If you choose to study for credit you will need to allocate significant time outwith classes for coursework and assessment preparation. Credit points gained from this course can count towards the Certificate of Higher Education.

Queries

If you have questions regarding the course or enrolment, please contact COL Reception at Paterson's Land by email COL@ed.ac.uk or by phone 0131 650 4400.

Student support

If you have a disability, learning difficulty or health condition which may affect your studies, please let us know by ticking the 'specific support needs' box on your course application form. This will allow us to make appropriate adjustments in advance and in accordance with your rights under the Equality Act 2010. For more information please visit the Student Support section of our website.