Recycled Book Art Classes for Adults Offered This Summer at BPL
Who says summertime fun is just for kids? The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) wants to make sure grown-ups have a good time as well over the next few months, and we’re offering numerous FREE activities throughout the BPL system. One such program is the Recycled Book Art Class series which will be held at seven libraries. The first class will take place at the East Lake Library on Tuesday, June 12, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Take a look below for the complete schedule of this series. Each class is limited to 12 participants, and prior registration is recommended.
Don’t just check out books at the library. Give an old book new life by turning it into a beautiful work of art! Artist Allison Rhea will hold a series of classes to show you how to use an old book as a starting point to explore a medley of techniques so you can create a poignant, meaningful work of art, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist.
Four units are offered which cover different techniques used to alter books; each unit stands as a complete lesson on its own and can be taken independently as well as in a series. When you register, we’ll give you a short list of supplies to bring. You provide the imagination and enthusiasm, and we’ll provide almost everything else, including old books. So decide which technique, location, and time work best for you, and call the library where the class is being held to reserve your spot.
Basic Book Deconstruction and Reconstruction
Participants will be introduced to altered-books by looking at examples of different types of book art as well as brainstorming ideas for their own book. We will focus on preparing the book as a surface for creating artwork. Each student will receive one-on-one attention about what process is best suited to his or her idea.
Southside Branch (tel: 933-7776)
Tuesday July 10th 2-4pm
Collage and Image Transfers
Using appropriated images is one of the most instantly gratifying ways to add depth and richness to an altered book. In this class students will be given the freedom to explore how fun collage and image transfer can be!
East Lake Branch (tel: 836-3341)
Tuesday June 12th 1-3pm
Avondale Branch (tel: 226-4000)
Monday July 23 6:30-8:30pm
Stamps and Stitches
In this class we will be using various forms of printmaking to add impact to our altered books. We will also see what a needle and some thread can do to make a piece of art look complete.
Central Branch (tel: 226-3670)
Saturday June 16th 10am-12pm
North Avondale Branch (tel: 592-2082)
Wednesday July 11th 11am-1pm
Powderly Branch (tel: 925-6178)
Friday July 20th 10am–12pm
The Book as Sculpture
In this class, book pages go from 2D to 3D in a matter of hours. Students will be introduced to several simple techniques to turn a book into a free-standing sculpture.
Springville Road Branch (tel: 226-4081)
Friday June 15th 10am-12pm
To fire your imagination and to explore the many possibilities of altered book art, here are some library books worth a look:
• Altered Book Collage
• Alter This! Radical Ideas for Transforming Books Into Art
• The Art of Fabric Books : Innovative Ways to Use Fabric in Scrapbooks, Altered Books & More
• Masters: Book Arts : Major Works by Leading Artists
• The Repurposed Library : 33 Craft Projects That Give Old Books New Life
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