Things to Do @ Your Library
Artist’s Books (by Ann Tomlinson)
Focus: Understanding the role of calligraphy and composition in book jacket design.
Pass Objectives:
- 1.1 Using the principles of design
- 1.2 Using the elements of design
- 3.0 Understanding the media of drawing, fiber arts, mixed media, and painting
Supplies: Appropriate drawing or painting materials, mat board, fiber material, magazines for collage, found objects.
Have students choose a theme and brainstorm what kinds of materials would best illustrate that theme. Consideration should be given to size and shape/configuration of book cover (it need not necessarily be rectangular).
Procedure: Show students a variety of fonts found on the computer, used in magazine artwork and other books (including some older books---i.e. illuminated Bibles, comic books, quilt samplers).
Discuss how these fonts are an integral part of the design of the artwork and of the message the artist is conveying. Point out that contemporary book artists are using unconventional materials to crate their "artist books." In the case of artist books, the book becomes a three dimensional work of art.
Finally, ask that students think of a theme to illustrate: war/peace, democracy, love, coming of age. Some students may prefer to illustrate a children's book so their theme might be: an ABC book, monsters in the dark, country mouse/city mouse, etc. Their theme will dictate the font, materials and book dimensions.
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