In whole I am extremely pleased with the outcome of my book. The effect of the overlapping pages I wanted to create the sense of entrapment and the feeling of being trapped within walls or your own mind as an effect of the COVID19 pandemic and the effect on the elderly and the vulnerable. I wanted this to be a direct continuation of my exploration into the bowl form as so that they work well as part of a collection. The book form became more of a sculptural form in its own right and this then successfully expresses the feelings without the need for text. i did set out what i wanted to achieve, which was a book that explores texture and material quality, and the senses. with translucent qualities that allows you to see through the book. I wanted this to be a more immersive experience for the viewer, that they would work their way through the book and experience or get a sense of what I am trying to intend. the most challenging element of this project was the idea development, I knew what I wanted to create, the processes and the techniques but i was still very unsure of where i sat as a practitioner and why I was making what I was making. I feel more confident now knowing after researching other artist book makers that exploring the senses or themes can create extremely unique and intricate books that adhere to my skill set and explore the processes and material qualities of paper that i enjoy immensely.
I am very much looking Forward to moving into the final major project, although i do not know the exact themes I want to explore I know that i want to continue to make artist books that explore the sensual side of touch, sound, sight in order to create a book that becomes extremely personal to each and every viewer in a different way with how they interact and travel through the book in order to read it.
This project has also been helpful in expanding and honing my skill set and focus it on the material qualities and use of paper as medium. The turning point for me was when I had the discussion with Doreen, this really helped me to discuss my ideas and how other practitioners explore bookbinding with print and how it is best for me to move Forward into the next project with research. I now feel more equipped to progress into the final major project with the intentions and experimentation to know what works and is effective and what doesn’t as well as knowing what to avoid!
Lara Hoad Artist Designer: Maker 