Artists’ Books as Personal Archives

Saturday March 14

12 - 3pm

Free

Facilitated by: Amy Skodak

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This workshop will create an opportunity to learn about artists’ books as interdisciplinary spaces for writing and art making. Books can function as documentary forms by preserving knowledge, stories, evidence, and emotion. Participants will learn more about artists’ books, focusing specifically on those that are interdisciplinary in nature, combining visual arts, poetry, prose, and history. We will explore how artists’ books can function as sites of memory, reflection, and creative expression, ultimately examining how these books can operate as a personal archive.

During the workshop, participants will create their own artist's book using either an accordion fold or saddle stitch book binding technique. They will engage in creative exercises meant to inspire artmaking, reflection, and poetry-writing both independently and collaboratively.

All materials for bookbinding, collage, and drawing will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own media if desired (such as personal photographs or preferred drawing/writing materials).

Interested participants will have the opportunity to contribute to the “Voices of Belonging” Poetry Book Project organized through the London & Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership. Those interested may choose to submit a poem or small sketch for the poetry book that highlights the theme of belonging and experience of newcomers in Canada, including first and second-generation immigrant experiences.

Facilitated by Amy Skodak (she/her) a PhD student in Art and Visual Culture at Western University where she previously earned an MA in Art History and Curatorial Studies. She holds a B.Ed.from the University of Ottawa and taught secondary school English and Visual Arts courses for three years before starting her doctoral studies. Her research explores the intersections of visual arts and literature, temporality, and community arts initiatives.

About the “Voices of Belonging” Project

This workshop is a partnership between Forest City Gallery's Media Collab and the London & Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership. The “Voices of Belonging” Project emerged through LMLIP’s Welcoming Community Committee, chaired by Professor Victoria Esses, the LMLIP Research Liaison at Western University. The Committee explores and implements strategies to make London a more welcoming place through education, interactive events, cultural expression, visibility, and meaningful connection. Members identifieda need for visually engaging and emotionally resonant material that reflects newcomer experiences. The concept of a community poetry book was born out of this conversation, inspired by the power of poetry to communicate complex experiences, foster empathy, and create space for dialogue.