I began 2022 by designing, printing, and making a new artist book. The book is titled SWIFT Encounters. It is a tribute to chimney swifts. For several years now I have gone and observed the chimney swifts that stop off in Greensboro as they migrate to warmer climates. It is most engaging to watch this phenomena as they dive into the large chimneys that still remain standing. Many have been torn down or blocked preventing the swifts from using them for their annual ritual. One chimney not far from my home is on the back of a music and movie venue. Another is at an elementary school. The swifts convene around sunset and eventually dive into the chimneys to sleep. It is a beautiful demonstration of community. The following images further explain the book which I did for The Illustrated Accordion hosted annually by the Kalamazoo Book Arts Center in Kalamazoo, MI.
I began by making pressure plates to use as a ‘background’ for relief printed imagery. This brick network was based on bricks found in the chimneys where I observe the chimney swifts.
Drawing and planning - this image will be carved and printed on handmade paper. A model of the floating accordion book structure is behind the sketch.
The printed proof.
The print of the swift and chimney print were attached (using PVA) to this pressure printed page.
I used papyrus on the front and back cover boards. I also cut a recessed area on the front board.
I polished the cover boards with black Kiwi shoe polish after a bit of sanding to smooth the milk paint surfaces.
I used the recessed area of the front cover to set off the text and swift image. Note the pressure printed bricks and swifts on the back of the book.
I made a belly wrap to hold the closed book together.
This second pressure plate was inspired by swifts as they fly and convene with one another.
The image is now carved and ready to proof.
I printed the swift and chimney image on a pressure print which I printed on handmade paper. I planned the book knowing that this image would be on the ‘floating accordion’ part of the book’s front page.
The cut and folded sections support the ‘floating’ images which are the focal point of the book.
I then applied layers of milk paint.
I assembled the components. Note the bits of text which I printed on my Vandercook using 12 point Garamond. The text is a brief statement about the swifts (right side) and the Colophon (left side). I was pleased with how the pressure printed bricks provided a uniting element for the text and printed swifts.
I have participated in the Illustrated Accordion for several years now. I look forward to this opportunity to exhibit with other book artists from all over the world!