components of a special collection: a collaboration with the University of Auckland Fine Arts Library.

components of a special collection: a collaboration with the University of Auckland Fine Arts Library.

Projectspace B431, University of Auckland | March 31st to April 9^th, 2011

The exhibition components of a special collection was the result of a survey of the entire collection of artists’ books in the University of Auckland Fine Arts Library. The exhibition was formed from a desire 1/ to make the library’s collection of artists’ books available as a public display and 2/ to identify themes in the collection and open them up to theoretical analysis. Rather than define the collection, the methodology of the project sought to unpack its possibilities. What does the artists’ book collection contain? What is its logic and legacies? What knowledge does it offer regarding local traditions? What are the contextual issues attached to it? And what represents best practice?

Through examining the Special Collection (of artists’ books) various approaches, or components, to the practice of book making were identified, which were used as a curatorial tool to select books for display. Subsequently, by working closely with librarians, these books were presented in Projectspace as a pop up reading room and an extension of the library. The assorted themes identified in the collection also underpinned the logic of the contributions requested, and very generously supplied, to an accompanying publication – which is the first edition of an ongoing accumulation. A discussion (followed by high tea) between the curators and special guests, formatted as a ‘book club’, will analyse and encourage thinking about the multiple functions books may occupy and contribute to in creative practice.