OUT OF BOUNDS; AN ALTERED BOOK PROJECT (This Project took place in 2007)

An idea is born

By Mariann Lehmann

Last year when the Portland Public Library and the Maine College of Art collaborated for an Altered Book project, I was fascinated and inspired  by the images on MECA’s website. As a member of  the Rockport Library Committee, I  mulled the idea over in my mind for a similar collaboration here on the Midcoast.

Being involved in the library and  interested in art,  it was a perfect fit for me to generate some local interest in a project of our own. The Rockport Library and CMCA are right across the street from each other, but don’t often interact.  Molly Larson, the Rockport Library Director and Cathy Melio, Education Director of CMCA were excited and hopped on board.  Alison Kuller, a bookbinder and conservator, and Melissa Sweet, a children’s author and illustrator, added their skills and thoughts initially, as well.  From there, our committee grew with other interested community members, galleries and library staff from Rockport and Camden.

I like the idea of taking old books that can no longer be circulated because they are battered, or there is no longer shelf space and giving them a new  life.  Making them available to people of all ages allows creative energy to flow as old books are turned  into unique works of art.

 The altered books will be exhibited at the Opera House Community Room (downstairs) on November 16, 17, and 18. 2007. Some will be available later to check out of the library. This project is supported in part by a grant from the Knox County Fund of the Maine Community Foundation.

The Out of Bounds logo was designed by Melissa Sweet.

Altered Books images from the Exhibit here.

All photos at this link are by Alison Kuller.

Photo by Carol Latta

The project was a big hit!

Did you know...

• 35 Maine towns were represented?
• the youngest participant was 4 years old?
• the entry from the farthest away was from Pennsylvania?
• volunteers donated 45 hours to staff the exhibit?

Family Differences Were Noticeable in the Legs (AKA: The Rockport Public Library Reading Table) by Jacque Allen

Attention artists...If you did not pick up your work, then it is on display either at the Rockport Public Library, the Camden Public Library, or at an area city hall. If you have questions contact Molly Larson at 236-3642.

What is an altered book? The following definition is taken from the International Society of Altered Book Artists:

It is any book, old or new that has been recycled by creative means into a work of art. They can be ... rebound, painted, cut, burned, folded, added to, collaged in, gold-leafed, rubber stamped, drilled or otherwise adorned ...
and yes! it is legal!

In Memoriam

Mariann Lehmann photo by Carol Latta

Mariann Lehmann died unexpectedly on Saturday, August 20, 2011. She was an instrumental member of our library committee and community. Mariann touched so many lives in countless ways, and in many ways yet to be discovered. She was loved and will be deeply missed by all. The staff expresses our condolences to her family.

Molly Larson, Library Director

Links

Obituary