Power of the Page: Artists' Books As Agents For Change

MICHELLE WILSON. El Proceso, 2007. Handmade flax and abaca paper, monofilament, custom book stand, letterpress, and screen print.

Opening May 4, 2017 and on view through September 17, 2017, New Museum Los Gatos (NUMU) presents Power of the Page: Artists Books as Agents for Change, an exhibition that celebrates artist made books as agents for change and social awareness.

The book has played a vital role in the realization of our modern freedoms. The medium of the book creates opportunity for both intimate reflection and broad communication. Artists’ books are conceived as works of art in their own right and employ the unique expression of an artist’s design, words and images. In Power of the Page: Artists Books as Agents for Change, artists’ books tell stories of liberty and give voice to the call for justice. Narratives range from personal to public, from mythical to political.

Works on view in the exhibition include selections from artists from the Bay Area and beyond, including: Renee Billingslea, Ginger Burrell, Julie Chen, Casey Gardner, Diane Jacobs, Lisa Kokin, Susan Laudermilk, Mary V. Marsh, Camden Richards, Clarissa Sligh, Michelle Wilson and Linda Vallejo.  

Curator Marianne McGrath says “The themes and subject matter explored in Power of the Page is timely. The combination of art, creative craftsmanship and the book format create a unique platform for these issues. I am excited to share this work with the community.”

NUMU will also present a variety of related programs to the exhibition, including summer artist bookmaking workshops for all ages, and a project on June 24th during NUMU’s Summer Celebration event where members of the community will be invited to create and print their own activist posters.

Power of the Page: Artists Books as Agents for Change is generously supported by Wanda Kownacki. NUMU also gratefully acknowledges support from its many donors and members.