For many years, I have quietly and privately been creating handmade books. I've taken classes and studied with book artists, and I've found a few kindred souls in Chattanooga who also love to make books. But there has been something missing. Currently, the number of artists in the Chattanooga area creating handmade books is limited. Local book arts exhibition opportunities are few and far between. Access to bookmaking equipment - especially expensive tools like a board shear - has not been available. To participate in book arts workshops, travel has been required to locations such as BookWorks (Asheville, NC), John Campbell Folk School (Brasstown, NC), Penland School of Crafts (Penland, NC), Appalachian Center for Craft (Smithville, TN) or Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts (Gatlinburg, TN).
So, earlier this year, I applied for a MakeWork grant. I wanted a board shear, so that accurately cutting thick, dense book board by hand wouldn't have to be so difficult. With a board shear and a book press added to my studio, I envisioned being able to offer small workshops and individual lessons in book and box making. And I hoped that I could lead the way in forming a group of fellow book makers who can share resources and build a local community of book artists who can eventually exhibit and market their work in Chattanooga and the region.
Last month, I learned that I was one of the lucky ones to receive a MakeWork grant!
And now, I'm on my way.
My board shear and book press were delivered early this morning! Last night, I was so excited about their arrival that I couldn't sleep. I'll be posting photos of the "new babies" in the next few days. Soon, I'll also be looking for local book artists to form a group so that we can share our work and our ideas. And within the next few months, I hope to announce plans for classes and other book arts activities.
Over the course of the next year, check back to see what's happening, all because of this amazing grant program. Thank you, Create Here!
