Exhibit at Ohio University Emphasizes Books' Artistic Value

Contact: Special Collections Librarian Sheppard Black, (740) 593-2711

ATHENS, Ohio (March 19, 2001) -- A stunning array of work highlighting books as artwork will be on display during "The Best of the Best" exhibit from April 1 through June 15 on the fifth floor of Alden Library at Ohio University in Athens. The exhibit may be viewed from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from noon until 4 p.m. Saturday during that period.

The exhibit includes a range of entries that show the artistic quality of books, ranging from traditional design bindings to artists' books, which were designed specifically as pieces of art. All manner of illustration has been employed to produce the books, including familiar printmaking techniques, watercolor, Xerox collage and inkjet prints.

"For believers in books, in their beauty and importance, 'The Best of the Best' will confirm the vitality, the variety and the good health enjoyed by the book arts," said Ohio University Special Collections Librarian Sheppard Black. "The variety is extraordinary. The exhibit will stretch the most staid definition of the book, and it promises excitement, imagination and superb craftsmanship."

The juried, biennial exhibit includes 35 books created by more than 33 book artists from across the nation and is sponsored by the Guild of Book Workers. The guild, which was founded in 1906 with 42 members, now includes more than 1,000 members.