I like making artist’s books and journals because they can be held and touched. They are “precious” but can be felt and experienced in an intimate way.

I can feel the:

• texture of the paper
• stickiness of the crayon
• slickness of pen and pencil
• smoothness of the ink

Somehow these feelings combine into a story or conversation. I think the layers of marks can become different stories for different viewers. That is what the books that I make with the techniques from the Make Marks Workshop is all about.  Creating stories through marks and layers that allow the viewer to come to unique conclusions.

Marks can evoke energy that was felt at the time of creation. The heaviness of the mark, or the light pencil scribble tells a different story. I think that the layering of marks overtime reveals the makers intent, that can be conscious or subconscious.

As the maker, it can be a challenge it let things unfold. It can also be hard to share the end product with others.  I find it easier to share when my vulnerability is a bit hidden in the layers.

• What about you?
• Do you like to share your work?
• Do you think books are too precious to handle?
• Is the vulnerability hidden in your marks and layers?

If you would like to explore Mark Making and create an artist’s book, then check out all the details of the online class, Make Marks + Books.  You can save $25 this month, February 2025, now only $60 was $85.