Fall Exhibition
November 1 – 26
Bromer Booksellers
Boston, MA
Exhibit Catalog – 1982 Fall Exhibition Catalog
Participants:
Carol Blinn, Joanne Bliss, Barbara Blumenthal, Gillian Boal, David P. Bourbeau, Annabelle Simon Cahn, Lage Carlson, Angela Chapnick, Catherine Badot Costello, John E. Craib, Jr., Sarah Creighton, Karl Eberth, Samuel B. Ellenport, Richard Frieder, Peter Geraty, Kathryn Gerlach, Sara Haines, Faith Harrison, Daniel E. Kelm, Thomas Lyman, Martina Mikulka, Joseph Newman, Gisela Noack, Gray Parrot, Alan James Robinson, Ann K. Russo, Nancy Carlson Schrock, Mother Agnes Shaw O.S.B., Carol J. Simpson, Julie Beineke Stackpole, Arno Werner, Kathleen Wick, Debra Vogini
PREFATORY NOTE
During the past decade one can trace with pleasure the growth of interest in binding and the book arts throughout America. This is especially so in New England where there has long existed a tradition of knowledgeable responses to the development and appreciate of the book arts. The creation and vitality of the New England Regional Chapter of the Guild of Bookworkers is a testament to this spirit.
In 1978 a small group of binders centered around Boston began meeting to share information about techniques and supplies, to help arrange workshops, and simply to socialize and expand friendships. As mutual respect grew, and limited discussions gave way to open exchanges, it became clear that there was a need to include as many people as possible in these activities. The problems were the usual ones: space, money, and organization. As most members of this small group belonged to the Guild, it was hoped that the national organization could provide the means to accomplish much of what was necessary.
In 1980 the New England Regional Chapter was formalized in its existence, receiving support, encouragement, and financial assistance from the Guild. And if the purposes of a chapter are to meet on a regular basis, share information and experiences, and offer healthy and constructive environments for ideas and criticisms, the chapter has already proven itself a success. The focal point of the chapter remains Boston. Yet meetings over only a two year period have been as far afield as Vermont and New Haven, with many points in between.
The regional chapter has members with all degrees of skill and expertise, from interested amateurs to professionals. Apparent among the membership is a spectrum of taste and philosophical approach, from the most traditional to the avant garde, which sees the concept of the book not only as a traditional blend of conceptualization and utility united through sound craftsmanship, but also as a means by which the binder/bookworker can rise above the levels of craft into the realm of art, using the book as an object whose physical properties become subordinate to the most abstract elements of design, personal statement, or visual and tactile enhancement.
The first New England regional exhibit is not a competition. Its purpose is to continue to share with others the work and ideas being created and discussed among active bookworkers in our region. The range of work presented is from those just entering the craft to those who have long been a part of it. The scope of ideas and approaches to binding vary and yet, I think, reflect a continuing major commitment from our members to the traditions of our common craft more than to the idea of drama and artful contrivance. It is the strong basis in the striving for exemplary technique that forms a strong common thread among the members of our region.
I raise a toast to the spirit of comraderie and friendship which has made this exhibit a first expression of our region’s willingness to share with its members trials and triumphs, criticisms and support.
Samuel Ellenport, Chairman
New England Regional Chapter
New England GBW 