Dec 09 2003
Altered books
For a long time I’ve felt the need to be creative. I’ve never felt such a tremendous desire for something like this and I’ve noticed that Mike has been feeling in a similar way recently. I checked out some books on candlemaking a few weeks ago and as soon as things settle after the Christmas Holidays, were hoping to begin making this a joint hobby. We even started to fantasize about starting our own business after we move to New York, renting a small cabin somewhere where we can sell our candles.
I also recently discovered (actually, re-discovered because an intern at my college used to do this) something called altered books, where you take an altered book and change it by collaging, stamping, painting, cutting, writing. You basically use the book like a canvas. Sites below show some examples.
I’ve seen these. They make me absolutely crazy. I have no problem “disposing” of books that nobody wants anymore, but for some reason seeing them cut up, made into lamps, used as canvas just really upsets me. I have no idea why, I can see that the altered books are beautiful and artistic, but it really really bothers me. Good luck with it, but don’t give me one as a gift, ok?
Hehe, I remember you commented on this during a conversation once before and I had a feeling after writing my entry I would be hearing from ya. I guess I just don’t necessarily see it as destroying a book as much as using it in a new way. The book is the essence of the art and it wouldn’t be complete without it. But I can certainly see how it can be upsetting. I promise I won’t give you one for a present. I actually plan to use them as a kind of journal anyway, so no one will have to see them.
Everything old is new again.
Karen
http://karenswhimsy.com/altered-books/