Saugerties Public Library - Books as Art 2024

Title: Hidden Knowledge (remembered) volume 16 Price:$451 (SOLD pre exhibit) We live in interesting times to say the least. Books from my childhood that have companioned with me through adulthood are suddenly banned, burned, forbidden, erased. This artwork is about that for me. Using the foundational text of an Encyclopedia Britannica volume, this was partially gutted to create the ability to hide a book inside. As presented, the center of the art piece contains 4 sacred texts: The Holy Bible, The Book of Mormon, the Jewish Siddur Avodat Israel, and the Catholic Pieta Prayer book rest in the center carved out area. To the left of this, a selection of several personal paperback books that have been censored, criticized, or removed from circulation. Except for the encyclopedia, all other books are long-time property of the artist. The charcoal remains of fire - pieces of blackened wood and burned books - surround the encyclopedia, and a Lenape story stick complete the presentation. Finally, an empty letterpress typecase serves as a backboard for the display. The artwork occupies the window in the upper level study room of library.