News

Hello PSBA members! Hope your summer is going well!

Greetings from the PSBA President!

Dear Friends,

The summer is flying by and by the time you read this our Members’ Exhibition will be leaving Tacoma and will open in Olympia in the fall. There will be a picnic in Tacoma at the end of August where we hope to meet with many members. But, many of you don't live in the Puget Sound area and we don't want you to feel left out. So I'm going to host an online PSBA Q&A the first Saturday in September where you can join me on Zoom and tell me about yourself and what you are working on and ask questions about PSBA and our work. The registration link is on the calendar and we'll send an email in August.

• What do you want to know about PSBA?
• What do you want to learn about Book Arts?
• Who would you like to take a workshop from?
• Would you like to teach a workshop or mini-workshop?
• What makes you joyful in your work with book arts?

Belinda Hill

SAVE THE DATE for the PSBA Members' Summer Potluck Picnic!

August 30, 11AM - 2PM at Wapato Park in Tacoma. Look for the announcement with more details in your email and be sure to sign up--the event is free.

This will be a time to share a meal and socialize with your PSBA friends old and new. Bring a potluck dish to share (and serving utensil).

PSBA will provide drinks, paper cups, plates and plastic ware.

Registration and further information available here.

PSBA Members’ Spotlight

The PSBA Spotlight Artist for August is Mark Hoppmann. Mark graciously invited me to his studio which was the perfect place to be introduced to him and his artistic journey. The studio is his own TARDIS (Time and Relative Dimension in Space) like a Dr. Who time machine or space craft; the exterior is small, but once you enter, whole worlds open up. Stop by and visit during the next Tacoma Studio Tour.

About book arts, Mark says his intent is "...to design illustrated books for those with 'with satiable curiosity.'"

You'll find the full interview on the PSBA website starting August 1 here.

Previous spotlight profiles are here.

If you have a suggestion for a PSBA spotlight, contact Jane Carlin (carlinjane@gmail.com) or Diane Miller (dianemiller1914@gmail.com).

 

ZOOM Lunchtime Conversations

We are pleased to resume our Lunchtime Conversations. We have two presentations coming up soon!

August 27: Noon-1. Allie Alvis returns for a second talk, focusing on color and the historic holdings of the Winterthur Library. Register here.

September 4: Noon-1. Pietro Accardi master paper marbler will share his insights into his amazing artistry. Register here.

October 23: Noon-1. Karen Kunc, a prolific book artist, will share insights into her artistic journey, Register here.

November 13: Noon-1. Randi Parkhurst invites us into her Olympia studio to share her colorful works on paper, including eco prints, gel prints and more.

Register here.

The Collins Library at the University of Puget Sound: August 3, 2025 is the last day of the Collins phase of the exhibition. Books going to Evergreen will be packed and stored at Evergreen. Books not going to Evergreen will either be mailed or Debbi Commodore will reach out to you to coordinate pickup arrangements.

Daniel J. Evans Library at The Evergreen State College, Olympia, WA:September 29 – December 12, 2025. More information will be available in the fall.

Field Work Community Engagement: We’d like to see how our members respond to the community engagement project about books and book arts. The prompt cards are available at the Collins Library and will be available at Evergreen. You can mail your response or drop off the card at the library. Members of the curatorial team will bind the cards into a book as a thank you for the libraries’ support.

Historical Context of the PSBA Exhibitions: Debbi Commodore, chair of the 2025 Exhibition, noted how the annual PSBA Exhibition has evolved since its inception in 2011. Since then, 73 artists have participated in the annual exhibition, with many returning year after year—including four who have exhibited every single year.

2025 Participation:

• 57 artists had work in the exhibition—the highest number to date, up from 27 artists in 2011.
• 15 artists participated for the first time
• books were submitted from members in nine states, with 30% coming from outside Washington.

Since 2011, the annual exhibition has showcased a total of 730 books.

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Award Winner Spotlight

This month we highlight Gabby Cooksey, Winner of the Thoughtful Use of Traditional Book Form Award for her beautiful Tarot for the Misguided.

This award celebrates books that masterfully use classic forms to tell their story. Gabby ’s work includes two Bradel-bound books, sewn on hinges, all tucked inside a slipcase with a separate box for tarot cards.

Time ’s a tricky thing when digging into tarot ’s origins—mixing truths, tall tales, and legends passed down through the years. Gabby hopes her work sparks your own journey into tarot, whether it ’s for learning, art appreciation, or getting to know the animals on the cards. A brilliant blend of craft, tradition, and truly unique imagination.

2026 Annual Members’ Exhibition: Celebrating 15 Years of Creativity and Community!

The 2026 Annual Members’ Exhibition marks a major milestone—our 15th year! The Exhibition Committee is already hard at work preparing for this special event, and we are deeply grateful to the 2025 Committee for their exceptional documentation and organization. Your efforts have made the path ahead smoother—Thank you!

Theme: “15”

The theme for 2026 is all about celebration. We invite members to creatively explore the number 15 in all its forms—as a reflection on the past, a celebration of accomplishments, and a vision for the future. Since our founding, we’ve grown together as book artists, fostering a vibrant, supportive community. Let’s honor that journey.

Key Date: March 15, 2026

Please note: the submission deadline will be earlier this year—March 15th, 2026—giving you nine months to create work that captures the spirit of “15.”

Creative Prompts for Inspiration:

Prospectus Coming Soon

The official prospectus will be released in the coming months with full details.  Please note that books submitted that do not reflect the above theme are welcome in the exhibition.

Questions?

Please email Jane Carlin after July 15, 2025, at carlin.jane@gmail.com,

2026 Exhibition Committee

Jane Carlin

Deborah Greenwood

Lucia Harrison

Mark Hoppmann

Gina Pisello

Upcoming Events

Panel Book Structure Workshop October 25-26

At the 2024 PSBA Book Exchange, a piece we saw was a charming little structure that involved four small books folded into a center container. When we

asked if anyone at the meeting would sign up for a workshop to learn this structure, many hands were raised. Elsi Vassdal Ellis will be coming to teach us how to create the Panel Book Structure this year. It will be a 2-day event October 25-26. Students will learn many basic book arts skills as well as basic decorative box making, and will go home with their own version of this wonderful structure. All skill levels are welcome. Event information and registration will be available soon on the PSBA calendar.

PSBA Seventh Annual Book Exchange - Bridges

The 7th Annual PSBA Book Exchange is an opportunity to exchange your artist book with another artist. This year’s theme is “Bridges.” There are many possibilities with the theme — physical bridges, such as viaducts or overpasses; paths from one place to another; relationships between people; or joining two objects or ideas together.

For those who are new to the Book Exchange, the rules are simple. Create a book using the theme as a guide and join us for the Exchange at the in-person event on October 5^th, 2025 (2–4 PM) at Collins Library, University of Puget Sound, McCormick Room #303 on the third floor. Drawing one name for each book will result in random exchanges.

If you cannot be physically present at the Exchange but would like to participate, you are very welcome to do so. Books being mailed need to arrive by October 1^st. Please include $10 (check made payable to PSBA) to offset the shipping costs of the book that will be mailed to you after the Exchange.

Send your book and check to:

LeeAnne Campos

4001 S Pine St

Unit 111163

Tacoma WA 98411

Complete the online registration form by September 21^st.

Please click this link: https://psba.formstack.com/forms/annual_book_exchange_2025

Books from previous annual Exchanges have been amazing! For inspiration, visit the PSBA website to view images of the books from the past few years.

We hope you’ll feel inspired to join in. It’s inspirational to see the books created with the theme, and you will get to add a fabulous new book to your collection!

Questions? Contact LeeAnneCampos@icloud.com.

2025 7^th Annual Book Exchange Committee

Denise Stephenson

Janet Reynolds

Deborah Poe

LeeAnne Campos

Pierce County Meetups this Summer

Wednesday August 13 from 6:15pm-8pm at the University Place Pierce County Public Library meeting room. Bring something book arts related to share. All are welcome!

Questions? Email Lucia Harrison at luciaharrison49@gmail.com.

Member News

Gina Pisello has a display of artists' books and paper sculptures at the Bainbridge Island Public Library for the month of August. If you stop by, it is right at the entrance of the Library.

Marilyn Stablein, collagist, book artist and mail art aficionado contributed a collaged art postcard that was included in Postcards to the Future, an international outdoor POSTCARD EXHIBIT July 4-6, at Don Davis Park gazebo, in Newport, Oregon. The exhibition was sponsored by the Coastal Arts Guild, on the Central Oregon Coast. To view the exhibition online visit their online gallery, Postcards to the Future.

Sincerely,

 

Your PSBA Board

Meet the Board members on the Contact Us webpage.

Hello PSBA members! Wishing you a happy summer!

Greetings from the PSBA President! Dear Friends, Important hint, read this newsletter carefully. There are a few great PSBA events happening this summer and whether you live far away from Tacoma or nearby, there are things you may want to attend (some in person and some on Zoom). We also have workshops, mini-workshops, and of course our great lunchtime speakers lined up. One new event that promises to be fun and a great way to meet and chat with other PSBA members is our first summer picnic. We hope to see many of you there. Have a wonderful summer, Belinda Hill

August 30, 11AM - 2PM at Wapato Park in Tacoma. Look for the announcement with more details in your email and be sure to sign up--the event is free.

This will be a time to share a meal and socialize with your PSBA friends old and new. Bring a potluck dish to share (and serving utensil).

PSBA will provide drinks, paper cups, plates and plastic ware.

Registration and further information available here.

PSBA Members’ Spotlight

July's Spotlight features book artist, visual artist and poet Carrie Larson. Carrie lives in Hoquiam and once a month she drives to Olympia for the PSBA Meetup. She once described her work in this way:

“A sense of place is often at the root of my art-making—even in its most abstracted forms. A particular piece may suggest the natural beauty of the physical landscape, sourced from the reflections found in rivers and puddles to the patterning of light and shadow under the forest canopy. Another work might build from an emotional place—grief, fury, longing, joy—and pull the viewer in to share that experience. I edit down to essences and sensations, evoking a poetry of sorts, wanting the viewer to connect with these ‘places’ in some meaningful, resonant way… I invite the viewer to a quiet intimacy.”

You'll find the full spotlight interview on the PSBA website under the News tab.

If you have a suggestion for a PSBA spotlight, contact Jane Carlin (carlinjane@gmail.com) or Diane Miller (dianemiller1914@gmail.com).

 

ZOOM Lunchtime Conversations

We'd like to thank everyone for attending our ZOOM Lunchtime Conversations over the last year. We will take a break over the summer and restart in August!  Please mark your calendars for our fall lineup and more details are forthcoming!

August 27: Noon-1. Allie Alvis returns for a second talk, focusing on color and the historic holdings of the Winterthur Library. Register here.

September 4: Noon-1. Pietro Accardi master paper marbler will share his insights into his amazing artistry. Register here.

October 23: Noon-1. Karen Kunc, a prolific book artist, will share insights into her artistic journey, Register here.

November 13: Noon-1. Randi Parkhurst invites us into her Olympia studio to share her colorful works on paper, including eco prints, gel prints and more. Register here.

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Updates!

The Collins Library at the University of Puget Sound— June 5 - August 3, 2025

Key dates:

• July 8, 2025—open case (zoom) noon -1:00; registration required.
• July 24, 2025—open case (in-person) 4:00 - 5:30; registration required.
• August 3, 2025 — Last day of the Collins Library phase of the exhibition. Books going to Evergreen will be packed and stored at Evergreen. Books not going to Evergreen will either be mailed or Debbi Commodore will reach out to you to coordinate pickup arrangements.

Library summer hours: Monday-Friday: 8am- 5pm; Saturday: 1-5; Sunday: closed. The Library will be closed July 4-6 for the holiday.

Please check the PSBA website for more information https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/2025-Members-Exhibition-Press-Release.

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Reception

The 2025 Members' Exhibition opened June 5 with a gathering of members and friends. As always, there was an air of excitement to see the many interpretations of the year's theme. And with 57 books, there was a lot to see. It was also a chance for attendees to catch up and to enjoy the lovely buffet offered by the University of Puget Sound. 

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Awards

The highlight of the reception was the awards ceremony! Each book in the exhibition shines with its own distinct brilliance, yet seven works rose above—radiating extraordinary creativity, craftsmanship, and vision.

To celebrate these exceptional pieces, we presented a series of distinguished awards in categories including Thematic Interpretation, Emotional Resonance, Thoughtful Use of Traditional Book Form, Innovation in Form, and Exemplary Craft.

LeeAnne Campos

Thematic Interpretation Award for Trabajar Los Campos (“To Work the Fields”).

Gabby Cooksey

One of two winners in Thoughtful Use of Traditional Book Form Award for Tarot for the Misguided.

Jan Dove

Emotional Resonance Award for Ghost Tree.

Kat Gower

One of two winners of the Thoughtful Use of Traditional Book Form Award for Edinburgh 2013.

Lucia Harrison

Exemplary Craft Award for her beautiful book, A Seasonal Companion.

Belinda Hill

One of two winners in Innovation in Form Award for her heartfelt piece, Essential.

Anna Moore

One of two winners in Innovation in Form Award for her amazing

One of two winners in Innovation in Form Award for her amazing interpretation, Retreat.

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Award Winner Spotlight

Each month through the end of 2025, the newsletter will feature an award winner of the exhibition. This month we celebrate Lucia Harrison, winner of the Exemplary Craft Award for her beautiful book, A Seasonal Companion.

This work walks us through the seasons with the Red Flowering Currant, teaching us generosity, hospitality, reciprocity, and hope—values that help in tough times.

From hummingbirds visiting in spring, to butterflies laying eggs, animals spreading seeds, leaves nourishing soil, and hopeful winter buds—this piece captures the amazing cycle of nature.

Made with six French door folios of handmade daffodil and abaca paper plus delicate hand embroidery, it’s a true work of heart and craft.

From Lucia: “Walking the seasons with Red Flowering Currant, I learn key values—generosity, hospitality, reciprocity and hope—that help me in troubled times. In early spring, her cascading flowers welcome Rufous Hummingbirds on their long journey from Mexico exchanging nectar for pollination. In late spring, she hosts Zephyr Butterflies who lay their eggs on the underside of her leaves. In late summer, she nourishes animals with currants, and they spread her seeds. In fall, she sheds leaves and fuels the soil organisms who put nutrients into the soil around her. In winter, her swelling buds offer hope.”

Upcoming Events

Collage Book with Accordion/Tunnel Surprise: September 20, 9AM–Noon (PST), Zoom.
Workshop Fee: $25

Instructor Bio: Rosemary Rae is a creative director/designer, artist, and design educator living in San Diego, CA.

Skill Levels: all levels.

Questions? Contact Belinda Hill @ benjisnewadventure@gmail.com,

Register at https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/event-6201664.

PSBA Seventh Annual Book Exchange - Bridges

The 7th Annual PSBA Book Exchange is an opportunity to exchange your artist book with another artist. This year’s theme is “Bridges.” There are many possibilities with the theme — physical bridges, such as viaducts or overpasses; paths from one place to another; relationships between people; or joining two objects or ideas together.

For those who are new to the Book Exchange, the rules are simple. Create a book using the theme as a guide and join us for the Exchange at the in-person event on October 5^th, 2025 (2–4 PM) at Collins Library, University of Puget Sound, McCormick Room #303 on the third floor. Drawing one name for each book will result in random exchanges.

If you cannot be physically present at the Exchange but would like to participate, you are very welcome to do so. Books being mailed need to arrive by October 1^st. Please include $10 (check made payable to PSBA) to offset the shipping costs of the book that will be mailed to you after the Exchange.

Send your book and check to:

LeeAnne Campos

4001 S Pine St

Unit 111163

Tacoma WA 98411

Complete the online registration form by September 21^st.

Please click this link: https://psba.formstack.com/forms/annual_book_exchange_2025

Books from previous annual Exchanges have been amazing! For inspiration, visit the PSBA website to view images of the books from the past few years.

We hope you’ll feel inspired to join in. It’s inspirational to see the books created with the theme, and you will get to add a fabulous new book to your collection!

Questions? Contact LeeAnneCampos@icloud.com.

2025 7^th Annual Book Exchange Committee

Denise Stephenson

Janet Reynolds

Deborah Poe

LeeAnne Campos

Thank You May PSBA Volunteers!

The PSBA Outreach Committee would like to thank the Wayzgoose, Karshner Museum and Seattle Book Arts Festival Volunteers. We talked about book arts, handed out brochures and had a 1-sheet make and take. Through your work PSBA raised $1800! Becky Frehse, Jane Carlin and Lucia Harrison organized the outreach events.

Wayzgoose Volunteers included: Peter Newland, Robyn Johnson, Lee Ann Campos, Carli Schultz, Jane Carlin, Becky Frehse, Karen Benveniste, Belinda Hill, Sandy Campbell, Lucia Harrison, Kim Izenman, Sally Alger, Dorothy McCuistion, and Deborah Greenwood.

The Karshner Museum in Puyallup asked PSBA to create a mini-exhibit and lead a five-station book arts project for their Artist in Action Series. This involving making an accordion fold booklet, a collage, a popup, a gratitude envelope message and an origami fold cover.

Volunteers included Beth Lamama, Terry Bader, Kim Izenman, Mari Gower, Kat Gower, An Gates, Dorothy McCuistion, Deborah Greenwood, Rachel Watson, and Belinda Hill.

The Seattle Book Arts Fair drew in 4,000 people. Volunteers for the PSBA table and panel discussion included Lee Ann Campos, Carletta Carrington Wilson, Bonnie Thompson Norman, Jane Carlin, Candis Litsey, and Esther Ervin.

We would also like to thank Fran McReynolds for coordinating nine book arts workshops for the Whatcom READS No Two Persons (by Erica Bauermeister) library events in Whatcom County.

Pierce County Meetups this Summer

Wednesday, July 9 and Wednesday August 14 from 6:15pm-8pm at the University Place Pierce County Public Library meeting room. Bring something book arts related to share. All are welcome!

Questions? Email Lucia Harrison at luciaharrison49@gmail.com.

Call for Member News

Are you planning a special event or workshop? Have you recently presented your work at a Conference or event? Is your work included in an exhibition?

If you would like to share information, please send your submission to Julia.stringfellow@cwu.edu by Saturday, July 26. Subject line should read: PSBA Member News. The August newsletter will be sent out to the membership early that month.

Call to Share Upcoming Events

Do you have an upcoming event that you are holding or participating in? Let us know! Email psba.public.relations@pugetsoundbookartists.org to add it to the calendar.

Sincerely,

Your PSBA Board

Meet the Board members on the Contact Us webpage.

 

Hello PSBA members! Hope to see you at the Members’ Exhibition opening June 5!

Greetings from the PSBA President!

Dear Friends,

Many of you probably vary your schedule during the summer, vacations, retreats, workshops and family events. So do all the members of the board with members going from Great Britain to Australia. Don't forget to share news of exhibits, classes, or artists to our social media Facebook or send news to the newsletter. Our big events in June center around the Members' Exhibit (details below). Every year I am impressed by the wonderful work from our members and this year they are fantastic.

Have a wonderful summer,

Belinda Hill

Looking for Past PSBA Newsletters?

The archive of previous newsletters is located at https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/Newsletter.

PSBA Members’ Spotlight

June’s spotlight shines on LeeAnne Campos, https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/Member-spotlight. You’ll find a preview of her Field Work submission and the special meaning behind it. She answered questions about her wide-ranging art projects, her lifelong passion for music, and her perfect day in the garden.

If you have a suggestion for a PSBA spotlight, contact Jane Carlin (carlinjane@gmail.com) or Diane Miller (dianemiller1914@gmail.com).

 

ZOOM Lunchtime Conversations

We'd like to thank everyone for attending our ZOOM Lunchtime Conversations over the last year. We will take a break over the summer and restart in August!  Please mark your calendars for our fall lineup and more details are forthcoming!

August 27: Noon-1. Allie Alvis returns for a second talk, focusing on color and the historic holdings of the Winterthur Library.

September 4: Noon-1. Pietro Accardi master paper marbler will share his insights into his amazing artistry.

October 23: Noon-1. Karen Kunc, a prolific book artist, will share insights into her artistic journey

November: TBA.

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Update!

The 2025 Exhibition planning is in the home stretch. The draft catalog is in the final stages of review. 57 books were selected and they are amazing—each explores the theme in a way that matches the vision of the artist. Can’t wait to see them in person.

Since last summer, we’ve been working on the Field Work exhibit. And now the moment has arrived.

The Collins Library at the University of Puget Sound— June 5 - August 3, 2025

Key dates:

·       May 29, 2025—mailed entries should arrive at the Collins Library by this date.

·       June 3, 2025—in person library drop off between 1 - 3. Remember to pack your books securely whether mailing them or dropping them off in person.

·       June 5, 2025—opening reception 4:30 - 6:30. Awards will be announced, and catalogs will be available for those who ordered them.

·       July 8, 2025—open case (zoom) noon -1:00; registration required.

·       July 24, 2025—open case (in-person) 4:00 - 5:30; registration required.

PLEASE NOTE —THIS IS A DATE CHANGE FROM THE PREVIOUSLY SCHEDULED JUNE OPEN CASE.

Library summer hours:

Monday-Friday: 8am- 5pm; Saturday: 1-5; Sunday: closed

Daniel J. Evans Library at The Evergreen State College, Olympia, WA—

September 29 – December 12, 2025. More information will be available in the fall.

The exhibition is free and open to the public at both venues.  Accessible parking is available.

Please check the PSBA website for more information https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/2025-Members-Exhibition-Press-Release.

Field Work: A Community Artist Book

In the spirit of Field Work, this year ’s Puget Sound Book Artists exhibition invites you not only to observe—but to respond.

Postcard-sized cards will be available, asking a question about books:

What do books mean to you?

How is an artist’s book different from a conventional book?

Visitors are invited to pick up a card, consider, and reply. A word, a sketch, a fragment of thought—each mark becomes a gesture of participation in a larger unfolding conversation.

These cards, gathered over the run of the exhibition, will be bound into artist books—living archives of curiosity and reflection. Each book will reside in the libraries of the University of Puget Sound and The Evergreen State College, a reflection of a conversation about books as we know them today.

This is field work of a different kind—not of data and specimens, but of ideas and impressions. A collective act of noticing, questioning, and reimagining what a book can be.

Volunteers Needed: Peninsula Summer Arts Festival

PSBA will have a booth at the Peninsula Summer Arts Festival to be held in Gig Harbor July 19-20 as part of the Festival's Creative Corridor! We would love some volunteers to take on some shifts during this event that runs both days. Jane Carlin and Bonnie Julien are already signed up to volunteer, and we hope other members will consider joining us for 3-4 hour shifts on both days! Our table will be very similar to what we did for Wayzgoose and Seattle Art Book Fair. If interested, please email Jane at carlinjane@gmail.com.

PSBA Seventh Annual Book Exchange - Bridges

The 7th Annual PSBA Book Exchange is an opportunity to exchange your artist book with another artist. This year’s theme is “Bridges.” There are many possibilities with the theme — physical bridges, such as viaducts or overpasses; paths from one place to another; relationships between people; or joining two objects or ideas together.

For those who are new to the Book Exchange, the rules are simple. Create a book using the theme as a guide and join us for the Exchange at the in-person event on October 5^th, 2025 (2–4 PM) at Collins Library, University of Puget Sound, McCormick Room #303 on the third floor. Drawing one name for each book will result in random exchanges.

If you cannot be physically present at the Exchange but would like to participate, you are very welcome to do so. Books being mailed need to arrive by October 1^st. Please include $10 (check made payable to PSBA) to offset the shipping costs of the book that will be mailed to you after the Exchange.

Send your book and check to:

LeeAnne Campos

4001 S Pine St

Unit 111163

Tacoma WA 98411

Complete the online registration form by September 21^st.

Please click this link: https://psba.formstack.com/forms/annual_book_exchange_2025

Books from previous annual Exchanges have been amazing! For inspiration, visit the PSBA website to view images of the books from the past few years.

We hope you’ll feel inspired to join in. It’s inspirational to see the books created with the theme, and you will get to add a fabulous new book to your collection!

Questions? Contact LeeAnneCampos@icloud.com.

2025 7^th Annual Book Exchange Committee

Denise Stephenson

Janet Reynolds

Deborah Poe

LeeAnne Campos

Seattle Art Book Fair Recap

Thank you to all our volunteers: LeeAnne Campos, Jane Carlin, Esther Ervin, Candis Litsey, and Carletta Carrington Wilson for hosting the PSBA table. According to the SABF organizers, over 4000 individuals attended the two-day event. That is incredible! We had lots of visitors to our table and many asked about workshops for beginners! The take-away one page book was very popular and everyone admired the items from the Ambassadors Box. We also thank Bonnie Thompson Norman, Jodee Fenton, Carletta Carrington Wilson and Esther Ervin for their presentation Redefining the Book. It was a great weekend.

Member News

Gina Pisello has an altered book juried into Bound and Unbound VIII that opens at the University of South Dakota in August, https://libguides.usd.edu/c.php?g=1424248&p=10562823.

Wayzgoose Kitsap Art Festival June 7

Wayzgoose Kitsap is a printmaking festival connecting local artists and bringing communities together.

Event information at https://search.app/eZZ6bbwFehwzfDCZ9.

Guild of Book Workers Scholarships Available

The Guild of Book Workers has announced its annual meeting, the Standards of Excellence seminar, in Iowa City this October.

The Guild of Book Workers offers scholarships to attend the Standards of Excellence in Hand Bookbinding. The scholarship consists of one year of Guild Membership, a waiver of seminar registration fees, lodging costs for four nights at the conference hotel, and the cost of the Saturday evening banquet dinner. The lodging costs covered do not include hotel parking, phone calls, movie rentals, or any other room services. Tour costs are not covered by the scholarship. The GBW Treasurer will reserve a room for each recipient at the conference hotel. Recipients are responsible for making their own travel plans. Scholarship recipients will be asked to volunteer a small amount of their time during the seminar to assist the event organizers, presenters, or other GBW volunteers.

The application link and more information is at https://guildofbookworkers.org/2025?section=2025-landing.

Great New Book Arts Resource!

Describing artists' books can sometimes be a challenge. The University of Utah has just released a great new resource: Opening Artists' Books https://oab.lib.utah.edu/artist-book-terms/

You can search for a term and link to a description as well as suggest terminology. It is a great resource to help describe and document artists' books.

PSBA thanks Vamp & Tramp!

Vamp & Tramp Booksellers will close June 30 after 30 years in business. 

The store will continue to take orders through May 31 and make sure they are fulfilled even if it means delivery after June 30.

 Vamp and Tramp will soon begin reaching out to artists to return any inventory we have in our Birmingham office. 

For further information, visit their website at http://www.vampandtramp.com/html/home.html.

Call for Member News

Are you planning a special event or workshop? Have you recently presented your work at a Conference or event? Is your work included in an exhibition?

If you would like to share information, please send your submission to Julia.stringfellow@cwu.edu by Thursday, June 26. Subject line should read: PSBA Member News. The July newsletter will be sent out to the membership early that month.

Call to Share Upcoming Events

Do you have an upcoming event that you are holding or participating in? Let us know! Email psba.public.relations@pugetsoundbookartists.org to add it to the calendar.

Sincerely,

Your PSBA Board

Meet the Board members on the Contact Us webpage.

Greetings PSBA members! Hope your Spring is going well!

Image courtesy of Suzanne Moore.

Greetings from the PSBA President!

Dear Friends,

The PSBA board and committees have been hard at work this spring. You'll read about some of them in the newsletter and there will be more throughout May. We hope that you are all having a wonderful spring, creating. What more can I say when you can read more below.

Belinda Hill

New PSBA webpage is now live!

We anticipate a month of review and testing and we would love your feedback. Please send feedback to the following email address: psba.public.relations@pugetsoundbookartists.org.

PSBA Members’ Spotlight

A new spotlight will soon be available on the PSBA website featuring our President Belinda Hill. Follow her circuitous path through academia to book arts—and what she learned along the way.

And next month we'll talk to LeeAnne Campos and what she learned in researching the background for her book.

 If you have a suggestion of a PSBA member to spotlight, contact Jane Carlin at(carlinjane@gmail.com).

Upcoming Events

May 10-11: Join PSBA at the Seattle Art Book Fair.  https://www.seattleartbookfair.org/About.  

For those of you attending on May 11, PSBA is sponsoring a panel discussion from Noon-1PM. 

Redefining the Book: A Conversation with Book Artists.

Facilitated by Jane Carlin with Carletta Carrington Wilson, Esther Ervin, Jodee Fenton and Bonnie Thompson Norman. In this interactive panel discussion, you will have the opportunity to hear from prominent Seattle book artists who are pushing the boundaries of contemporary book design through their artistry and creativity. Whether working with letterpress, fine binding, textiles as well as historical and contemporary text, these 4 artists each approach the art of the book in unique and inspiring ways to engage the viewer/reader to reflect and learn and be inspired. They will be sharing examples of recent work.

May 15: Lunchtime Conversation with Suzanne Moore. Zoom, Noon-1pm.

Last month we had the opportunity to learn from Heidi Gustafson and delve into the topic of color. This month we continue the conversation with noted artist Suzanne Moore. How do choices of various color media offer distinct effects, which reflect and convey the content of each book's message? How does each color technique create a unique look on paper, and how can color tell a story?

Suzanne will explore these issues as she shares examples of past and current work and discusses how her own work with a variety of color applications has played out in her book work. Suzanne weaves words and imagery with form, content, and rich color to engage and inspire the viewer.

For additional information and to register, visit https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/event-6130771?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=5/29/2025.

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Update!

The 2025 Exhibition planning is in the home stretch. The draft catalog is in the final stages of review. 57 books were selected and they are amazing—each explores the theme in a way that matches the vision of the artist. Can’t wait to see them in person.

Save these Dates:

• How to Pack Your Work: April 30 on Zoom. Tips from Suzanne Moore and other experienced PSBA artists. There’s still time to register for this “how to” class, but if you miss it, the video will be available in the PSBA website video library.

• Drop off for Installation: June 3, 1PM-3PM at the Collins Library.

• Opening Reception: Thursday, June 5, 4:30-6:30 at the Collins Memorial Library, University of Puget Sound. Awards will be announced at the event.

• Open Case: in-person Saturday, June 21, 2- 4 at the Collins Memorial Library. This is an opportunity to meet the artists and hear them describe their work.

• Open Case: zoom, Tuesday, July 8, noon. Participants should register for the event at the Puget Sound Book Artists website. There will be a moderated discussion with select artists about their books.

• Community Engagement Project: guests and participants will have the opportunity to write their thoughts about books and book arts in particular. A card station will be set up in the exhibit room. The cards will be collected throughout the show and turn into an artist book at the end of the exhibition. There will be a book for the Collins Library and one for Daniel J. Evans Library.

Questions? Send your inquiries to psba.exhibition@pugetsoundbookartists.org

Olympia-area PSBA Meetings

The next Olympia PSBA monthly meet-up will be on Monday, May 12, starting at 1 pm in the Olympia Public Library meeting room. Everyone is welcome! Please bring some book arts or creative writing to share. For more information contact Ann Storey aelizabeth.storey@gmail.com. 

Pierce County Meetup

The next Pierce County Meet- up will be held on Wednesday May 14 from 6:15 to 8:00 pm in the atrium entrance to the University Place Pierce County Library.  All are welcome.  3609 Market Place W.  University Place, WA 98466.  For More info contact Lucia Harrison at luciaharrison49@gmail.com

2025 Arts at the Armory

PSBA is planning to apply for a booth at the December Arts at the Armory event in Tacoma.  It will be a great opportunity to sell your art work if you don’t have enough work for your own booth.  Would you like to participate?  Please contact Lucia Harrison at luciaharrison49@gmail.com.

PSBA Seventh Annual Book Exchange - Bridges

The rules for the book exchange are simple. Create a book using the theme as a guide and join us for the Exchange at the in-person event. Drawing one name for each book will result in random exchanges.

If you cannot be physically present at the Exchange but would like to participate, you are very welcome to do so. Books being mailed need to arrive a week before the Exchange There will be a charge for mailing the book.

Send your book and check to:

LeeAnne Campos

4001 S Pine St

Unit 111163

Tacoma WA 98411

This year’s theme is “Bridges.” There are many possibilities with the theme — physical bridges, such as viaducts or overpasses; paths from one place to another; relationships between people; or joining two objects or ideas together.

The in-person Exchanges takes place October 5 from 2pm–4pm at Collins Library in the McCormick Room, University of Puget Sound.

Complete the online submission form by September 21 on the event page here.

We hope you’ll feel inspired to join in. It’s inspirational to see the books created with the theme, and you will get to add a fabulous new book to your collection!

Questions? Email LeeAnneCampos@icloud.com.

For additional information and to view works from previous years, click here.

PSBA thanks Vamp & Tramp!

Vamp & Tramp Booksellers will be closing June 30 after 30 years in business. 

The store will continue to take orders through May 31 and make sure they are fulfilled even if it means delivery after June 30.

 Vamp and Tramp will soon begin reaching out to artists to return any inventory we have in our Birmingham office. 

For further information, visit their website at http://www.vampandtramp.com/html/home.html.

Other Book Arts Upcoming Events

Community Print has several events in May! See full details and register at https://www.community-print.org/events

Call for Member News

Are you planning a special event or workshop? Have you recently presented your work at a Conference or event? Is your work included in an exhibition?

If you would like to share information, please send your submission to Julia.stringfellow@cwu.edu by Monday, May 26. Subject line should read: PSBA Member News. The June newsletter will be sent out to the membership early that month.

Call to Share Upcoming Events

Do you have an upcoming event that you are holding or participating in? Let us know! Email psba.public.relations@pugetsoundbookartists.org to add it to the calendar.

Sincerely,

 

Your PSBA Board

Meet the Board members on the Contact Us webpage.

Importance Notice

We are currently negotiating a tentative timetable for our website redesign process to commence. There is a strong possibility that our PSBA website will be unavailable between April 7-28.  We URGE you to go ahead and register for April and May events prior to April 7.  Additional emails on this schedule will be forthcoming. 

Greetings from the PSBA President!

Dear Friends,

I joined PSBA because there was a workshop that I really wanted to take. I also thought that it would be fun to challenge myself to enter a book into the Members’ Exhibition. Since then, I have continued to benefit from both the opportunities and challenges that are offered to members. Among the opportunities are working with other members of the organization. I learned so much and gained new friends from working on the exhibition committee for two years. Now as president I get to benefit further from getting to know and work with many of you.

Challenge yourself and consider joining one of our committees or taking on a small task like becoming a Zoom host and see how much you'll gain.

Happy Spring,

Belinda Hill

Call for Book Artists to Feature in PSBA Members’ Spotlight

PSBA is beginning a new series of spotlight interviews featuring its members. If you have someone in mind, contact Jane Carlin (carlinjane@gmail.com), chair of the Communications Committee.

Upcoming Events

On Display Now-April 27: Nature and the Book Exhibit at Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island. This exhibition, previously displayed at the Miller Library of the University of Washington, is now on display in the beautiful Residence on the Bloedel Reserve. Please note that tickets are required to visit the Reserve and may be purchased online. For those of you that are not members, you may want to take advantage of the Welcome Wednesday option. On the first Wednesday of the month visit the Bloedel for a pay-what-you-wish community day at Bloedel. You still need to book a ticket but will pay what you want. Read more about the exhibit here: https://bloedelreserve.org/nature-book-exhibition/.

April 10: Lunchtime ZOOM Conversation with Heidi Gustafson. Noon–1 PM, Zoom.

We are delighted to welcome Pacific Northwest artist, author and ochre specialist, Heidi Gustafson, to join us to discuss the process and relationship between two versions of her spellbinding field guide, Book of Earth. The original Book of Earth, is an oracular artists' book made of bioregional pigments and soils, intended to let the land/rocks speak for themselves. The commercial version, Book of Earth: A Guide to Ochre, Pigment, and Raw Color (Abrams, 2023) repeats the intention, but with more experiential guidance and land stories for the reader to further engage place, and working with pigment-bearing minerals through embodied, artistic practice. Learn more about Heidi on her website, earlyfutures.com or on instagram @heidilynnheidilynn.

April 26: Mini-Workshop Collage Book with Accordion/Tunnel Surprise. Zoom, 9AM-Noon.

Using random ephemera, images and scrap paper we will build an unique structure that houses a folded accordion which when fully opened, reveals a dimensional tunnel attached to the inside back cover. We will collage and paint the covers, the accordion and tunnel. Create a story that carries the viewer from the front cover to the inside panels and then to the dimensional collage in the back. Work can be based on a theme or a random exploration. Experience making books and working with collage is helpful, but not necessary. All skill levels are welcome.

Workshop Fee: $25.

Additional information and registration available at https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/event-6059716.

April 30: How to Pack Your Work Information Session. Zoom, Noon-1pm.

PSBA is thrilled to offer artists in our Annual Members’ Exhibition the opportunity to have work travel to multiple venues. As your artwork will be on the move, it’s essential to pack it properly to ensure it arrives safely at each site.

You do not need to have work in the Annual Exhibition to attend.

The Zoom event will be recorded and available on the PSBA website afterward.

For more information about the exhibition, please contact psba.exhibition@pugetsoundbookartists.org.

Registration is forthcoming and will be on the Events page at https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/events.

May 15: Lunchtime Conversation with Suzanne Moore. Zoom, Noon-1pm.

Additiona information coming soon on the Events page at https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/events/

May 17: Mini-Workshop Expand the Accordion Fold Structure. Becky Frehse Studio in Tacoma, 1pm-4pm.

The accordion structure has endless possibilities! In this workshop participants will learn variations of the structure including the pocket accordion, the flag book, and how to multiply the accordion structure when combining it with a sewn in signature. We will also look at sewing needles, thread, sewing templates, simple sewing techniques, and make 3-5 accordion structures.

Workshop Fee: $55.

Additional information and registration available at https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/event-6071425.

May 31: Mini-Workshop One Sheet Wonder--Explore the Maze Book Structure. Becky Frehse Studio in Tacoma, 1pm-4pm.

With a single sheet, a series of folds, and strategic cuts a beautiful book is created that has unusual formations, twists, and turns. Shereen LaPlantz describes maze books as spaces for stories within stories. Participants will learn multiple patterns for maze books and create books on both mock-up paper and fine art paper.

Workshop Fee: $45.

Additional information and registration available at https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/event-6071333.

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Update!

We’re entering into the season of the Annual Members’ Exhibition. The 2025 theme, Field Work, has been met with a lot of enthusiasm by the members putting the final touches on their books. Can’t wait until June when we get to see the unveiling? The exhibition committee is ready to announce the exhibition related events —mark your calendar.

Final Preparation:

•   04/01 midnight is deadline for the formstack submission.

•   04/30 a zoom tutorial on "How to Pack Your Work.” The lead presenter will be Suzanne Moore. Registration is required for the Zoom session; a recording of the session will also be available. See events calendar for more information.

Book Delivery—see prospectus (or tutorial) for packing instructions:

•   05/29 deadline for the mailed work to arrive at the Collins Library.

•   06/03 in person book drop off at Collins from 1-3pm.

Exhibit Events—more information will be posted to the PSBA Events Calendar in April:

•   06/05 The 2025 Annual Exhibition Opening Reception from 4:30-6:30—registration is not required.

•   06/21 Open Case in-person event from 2-4 pm—registration required.

•   07/08 Virtual Open Case from 12-1 pm—registration required.

Questions? Send your inquiries to psba.exhibition@pugetsoundbookartists.org

Shereen LaPlantz Salon Recap

Despite torrential rains on Sunday, March 23, members of PSBA gathered at Collins Library (University of Puget Sound) to view portions of the Shereen LaPlantz collections. One of PSBA's founding members, Rochelle Monner, donated this  extensive collection created by Shereen to the Library. Showcasing a myriad of book structures, from innovative modifications of classic bindings to her own creations, this collection contains many book structures shown as examples depicted in LaPlantz's instructive books about book arts, including The Art & Craft of Handmade Books, Cover to Cover: Creative Techniques for Making Beautiful Books, Journals, and Albums, and Innovative Bookbinding: Secret Compartments & Hidden Messages. 

Shout out to PSBA members Gabby Cooksey and Taylor Cox for their work on describing and documenting the collection.

Volunteers Needed for Tacoma Wayzgoose and Seattle Art Book Fair

PSBA is excited to be part of these two signature events and to showcase the events, programs, and artists of our organization. Please consider a volunteer shift at either one of these great events:

Tacoma Wayzgoose

This annual event will take place on Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3. This year, all events will take place inside the newly remodeled Tacoma Public Library located at 1102 Tacoma Avenue S.
The website for it is connected to the Write 253 website: www.write253.com.  Click on Tacoma Wayzgoose for more info.
New this year: On Friday evening, Write253 will be hosting an artists reception! After we shut down the event for the day, all the vendors and artists will be invited to attend for refreshments and an artist talk given by Tacoma printmaker (and 2025 poster designer) Liz Morrow! It’s a chance for you to visit with each other and chill a bit before the second day gets underway.
Our PSBA table will involve talking to people about book arts, handing out brochures and materials for a small “take and make” that kids and adults can do on the spot, selling decorative papers, book making books, book leather, etc. and a raffle basket. It really is a lot of fun!

Below is the schedule. If you are available to volunteer, please contact Becky Frehse at bfrehsestudio@gmail.com or text her at 253-380-1293 with your preferred day and time. Becky will contact you to confirm.

PSBA Wayzgoose Schedule 2025
Thursday, May 1
5pm: Load and set-up with Becky and Lucia. Nee additional volunteer.

Friday, May 2
10am-Noon: Volunteers needed.
Noon-2pm: LeeAnne Campos,
2pm-5pm: Carli Shultz,

Saturday, May 3
10am-Noon: Belinda Hill,
Noon-2pm: Volunteers needed.
2pm-4pm: Sally Alger,
4pm-6pm (includes clean-up hour): LeeAnne, Debbi G.,

Seattle Art Book Fair

This event is held on May 10-11 at Washington Hall in Seattle's Central District and will have over 80 exhibitors featuring art publishers, book designers and artists' books. The event will run from 10 am to 5 pm. If you are interested in a volunteer shift please contact Jane Carlin: carlinjane@gmail.com.

Olympia-area PSBA Meetings

The next two Olympia PSBA monthly meetups will be on Monday, April 7 and Monday, May 12 starting at 1 pm in the Olympia Public Library meeting room. Everyone is welcome! Please bring some book arts or creative writing to share. For more information contact Ann Storey aelizabeth.storey@gmail.com.

Pierce County PSBA Meet-ups

University Place Public Library -Large Meeting Room.

Wednesday April 9, 6pm-8:00pm.

Contact Lucia Harrison (luciaharrison49@gmail.com) with questions.

PSBA Seventh Annual Book Exchange - Bridges

The rules for the book exchange are simple. Create a book using the theme as a guide and join us for the Exchange at the in-person event. Drawing one name for each book will result in random exchanges.

If you cannot be physically present at the Exchange but would like to participate, you are very welcome to do so. Books being mailed need to arrive a week before the Exchange There will be a charge for mailing the book.

Send your book and check to:

LeeAnne Campos

4001 S Pine St

Unit 111163

Questions? Email LeeAnneCampos@icloud.com.

PSBA thanks Vamp & Tramp!

Vamp & Tramp Booksellers will be closing June 30 after 30 years in business. 

The store will continue to take orders through May 31 and make sure they are fulfilled even if it means delivery after June 30.

 Vamp and Tramp will soon begin reaching out to artists to return any inventory we have in our Birmingham office. 

For further information, visit their website at http://www.vampandtramp.com/html/home.html.

Call for Member News

Are you planning a special event or workshop? Have you recently presented your work at a Conference or event? Is your work included in an exhibition?

If you would like to share information, please send your submission to Julia.stringfellow@cwu.edu by Saturday, April 26. Subject line should read: PSBA Member News. The May newsletter will be sent out to the membership early that month.

Call to Share Upcoming Events

Do you have an upcoming event that you are holding or participating in? Let us know! Email psba.public.relations@pugetsoundbookartists.org to add it to the calendar.

Sincerely,

 

Your PSBA Board

Meet the Board members on the Contact Us webpage.

Greetings from the PSBA President!

Dear Friends,

We were so happy to see so many members join us for our 2025 Annual meeting. If you missed it, the video of our very inspiring speaker Rebecca Chamlee is up on YouTube. I was particularly pleased to get feedback from many of you and we have summarized your comments and suggestions and we're looking at ways that we can put some of them into action.

February was a busy month for the board and our committees as we work to provide events that you are interested in. You can view and register for events in our website calendar. I won't go over all of them since they are featured in this newsletter.

Remember that we want to hear from you, you can let us know about shows and events that we can share in the newsletter or on Facebook, you can let us know what you would like to see us plan, and you can let us know how you would like to be involved in our work. Email me at psba.executive@pugetsoundbookartists.org 

Belinda Hill

Call for Book Artists to Feature in PSBA Members’ Spotlight

PSBA is beginning a new series of spotlight interviews featuring its members. If you have someone in mind, contact Jane Carlin (carlinjane@gmail.com), chair of the Communications Committee.

Upcoming Events

March 4-April 13: Nature and the Book Exhibit at Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island. This exhibition, previously displayed at the Miller Library of the University of Washington, is now on display in the beautiful Residence on the Bloedel Reserve. Please note that tickets are required to visit the Reserve and may be purchased online. For those of you that are not members, you may want to take advantage of the Welcome Wednesday option. On the first Wednesday of the month visit the Bloedel for a pay-what-you-wish community day at Bloedel. You still need to book a ticket but will pay what you want.    Read more about the exhibit here: https://bloedelreserve.org/nature-book-exhibition/.

For more information, please contact Lucia Harrison at luciaharrison49@gmail.com.

March 23: Salon: Exploring the Shereen LaPlantz Archive. 2 PM-4 PM, Archives & Special Collections Seminar Room, Collins Memorial Library, University of Puget Sound.

This Salon will feature the Ken and Rochelle Monner collection of Shereen LaPlantz book structures. Ken and Rochelle (a founding member of PSBA) gifted this collection to the University in 1996. LaPlantz was an internationally recognized artist, author and teacher. Showcasing a myriad of book structures, from innovative bindings to her own creations, this collection highlights the many structures found in LaPlantz's well known books on the book arts including The Art & Craft of Handmade Books and Cover to Cover: Creative Techniques for Making Beautiful Books, Journals, and Albums. The collection contains several examples of concertina/accordion books. If you are new to the book arts, this is a great opportunity to browse and learn more about structures. Also on display will be some artifacts and items from Shereen's personal collection gifted to the University by her husband.

Questions? Contact Jane Carlin: carlinjane@gmail.com.

Event is free but registration is required. Register here.

March 27: Lunchtime ZOOM Conversation with Laurel Moorhead.Noon-1PM.

We are delighted to welcome Laurel Moorhead to our Lunchtime Conversation. Many of you will recognize her as our outstanding ZOOM manger, but her creative talents as a book artist are equally outstanding. Laurel (Laurie) describes herself as a book artist, sketcher and wanderer. After retiring from a career in nonprofit management, Laurel studied painting, book arts, paper cutting, stamp carving, and more. Within these mediums she discovered her love of memoir and creating community by bringing artists together. Over the last 8 years, she has combined these passions to lead seven collaborative projects that have included up to seven different book arts organizations across the country. Her journey as an artist is inspiring! Event will be facilitated by Jane Carlin.

Questions? Contact Jane Carlin at carlinjane@gmail.com

The Zoom link will be sent to registrants two days before the event. Register here.

April 5: Mini-Workshop Unfold the Accordion Fold Book Structure with Debbi Commodore. 1 PM–4 PM, Becky Frehse’ Studio in Tacoma.

In this workshop participants will learn the fundamentals of making accurate folds, how to expand the accordion structure with hinges, and explore how this versatile structure responds to a variety of artist paper. We will also look at the essential tools used to create the accordion fold structure and paper grain, paper weight. Participants will make 4-6 accordion structures, learn how to fold a simple soft cover, and receive an assortment of fine artist papers (14+) to utilize as reference samples.

Tool list will be provided in advance. Materials will be provided. The cost of materials is included in the workshop fee.

This workshop is suitable for all skill levels including beginners. This is the first of three workshops on the accordion structure. The other two classes in the series will be May 17 and May 31. Sign up of one or all three!

Questions? Contact Sally Alger: sarah.alger2@gmail.com.

Workshop Fee: $55 ($30 workshop fee plus $25 for materials).

Registration if required. Register here.

April 10: Lunchtime ZOOM Conversation with Heidi Gustafson. Noon–1 PM, Zoom.

We are delighted to welcome Pacific Northwest artist, author and ochre specialist, Heidi Gustafson, to join us to discuss the process and relationship between two versions of her spellbinding field guide, Book of Earth. The original Book of Earth, is an oracular artists' book made of bioregional pigments and soils, intended to let the land/rocks speak for themselves. The commercial version, Book of Earth: A Guide to Ochre, Pigment, and Raw Color (Abrams, 2023) repeats the intention, but with more experiential guidance and land stories for the reader to further engage place, and working with pigment-bearing minerals through embodied, artistic practice. Learn more about Heidi on her website, earlyfutures.com or on instagram @heidilynnheidilynn.

Questions? Contact Jane Carlin at carlinjane@gmail.com.

The Zoom link will be sent to registrants 2 days before and day of the event. Register here.

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Update!

June 5-August 3, 2025

Collins Memorial Library

University of Puget Sound

Tacoma, Washington

September 29-December 12, 2025

Daniel J. Evans Library

The Evergreen State College

Olympia, Washington

This year’s theme is Field Work which could mean the conventional sense of work performed not in the office or studio—but it could also mean the artist ’s area of interest or expertise, and how that interest is expressed in the work. Your field of vision is wide open. 

And as in years past, you are invited to submit work inspired by the theme or by your own muse.

Pre-Submission Preparation:

Formstack submission applications will be open from February 14, 2025—April 1, 2025. Submissions close at midnight April 1.  See link to the  exhibition page on the PSBA website. https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/2025

A virtual mini-workshop, with Suzanne Moore, on how to properly pack your artist’s book for submission is being planned. Dates to be announced soon.

See Brenda Gallagher’s video “Taking Photos of Your Work.” It’s a helpful tutorial for photographing your artwork. 

Questions?  Send your inquiries to: psba.exhibition@pugetsoundbookartists.org

Volunteers Needed for Tacoma Wayzgoose and Seattle Art Book Fair

PSBA is excited to be part of these two signature events and to showcase the events, programs, and artists of our organization. Please consider a volunteer shift at either one of these great events:

• Tacoma Wayzgoose: This event will be held at the newly refurbished Tacoma Public Library on May 2-3. The event will run from 10 am to 5 pm. Please contact Becky Frehse if you are interested in a volunteer shift; bfrehsestudio@gmail.com
• Seattle Art Book Fair: This event is held on May 10-11 at Washington Hall in Seattle's Central District and will have over 80 exhibitors featuring art publishers, book designers and artists' books. The event will run from 10 am to 5 pm. If you are interested in a volunteer shift please contact Jane Carlin: carlinjane@gmail.

Member News

Jan Dove (Dove Studio):

Hi, family and friends and artists of whose work I am in awe,

It's been a long haul, for those of you who heard the rumors, but after two surgeries on the ol' knee and after a round with Covid I am finally feeling much better and starting to get back up on my own two feet again.

I wanted to let you know about a recent work of mine, an eleven foot embroidered work which has been in process for almost two years, called Ghost Tree. You can see some pics and a one-minute video of it here:

https://jandove.com/ghost-tree/.

Also, you may have heard that I received a grant from SOLA at Artist Trust last spring. Well, the grant included the production of a short video about my art, which I meant to tell you about, but things started getting a little heavy around here and this one sank to the bottom. It's still a good video (about 7 minutes) showing lots of my work from many years. The YouTube address is: https://youtu.be/zKxGycl_-tA?t=21.

Tha-tha-tha-that's all folks.  Hoping I bring you some joy,

Jan Dove

Marilyn Stablein:

Marilyn’s artist book, “Wind-Powered Good Luck Charms: Tibetan Prayer Flags” was juried into an exhibition "RITUALS" which opened February 28 at Baylor University in Waco, Texas,. The show runs for three months and closes May 24.

A 4-page article on her “Hanuman Carousel Book” appears in the most recent issue (Volume 19: Number 4) of Bound & Lettered: Artists’ Books, Bookbinding, Paper Crafts, Calligraphy magazine. On pages 28-31 she describes how to construct the star carousel accordion pop-up binding and gives some background on her extended Asian travels where she learned Tibetan book arts, mandala paintings and calligraphy.

A collage "Good Deals" appears in the latest issue of the international magazine Poeming Pigeon, published in Portland, Oregon.

Catherine Alice Michaelis:

Hi Artist Book Friends,

It’s time again to apply for the BRAVA Award from the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art.

Every two years a U.S. book artist is awarded $15,000. The awards will honor an exceptional contemporary book artist whose work demonstrates artistic excellence, technical mastery, and meaningful contributions to the arts community.

Online submissions will be accepted from April 1, 2025, through May 11, 2025.

Please check it out and share within the community. (All the other categories are for regional artists.)

Learn more at https://www.biartmuseum.org/the-brava-awards/.

Olympia-area PSBA Meeting

If you'd like notification of the April Olympia meet-up time and place email Ann Storey aelizabeth.storey@gmail.com.

Pierce County PSBA Meetup

University Place Public Library --Small Meeting Room

Wednesday March 12, 2025 6-8PM. All are welcome!

Contact Lucia Harrison (luciaharrison49@gmail.com) with questions

Call for Member News

Are you planning a special event or workshop? Have you recently presented your work at a Conference or event? Is your work included in an exhibition?

If you would like to share information, please send your submission to Julia.stringfellow@cwu.edu by Wednesday, March 26. Subject line should read: PSBA Member News. The April newsletter will be sent out to the membership early that month.

Call to Share Upcoming Events

Do you have an upcoming event that you are holding or participating in? Let us know! Email psba.public.relations@pugetsoundbookartists.org to add it to the calendar.

Sincerely,

 

Your PSBA Board

Meet the Board members on the Contact Us webpage.

Greetings and hope your Winter is going well!

Greetings from the PSBA President!

Dear Friends,

Happy 2025! We wish you a year filled with energy and creative ideas. We hope that you will join us Sunday, February 9 at 1 PM via Zoom to hear our special guest speaker Rebecca Chamblee. Then at 2 PM you’ll hear more about some of our exciting events for the year.

Belinda Hill

New Features for PSBA Members

We are excited to announce two new features:  an enhanced event registration form and member profiles!

New Event Notification Submission Form on the PSBA Website

This new online form, available at https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/page-18134, is for event notices and registration. 

Call for Book Artists to Feature in PSBA Members’ Spotlight

PSBA is beginning a new series of spotlight interviews featuring its members. If you have someone in mind, contact Jane Carlin (carlinjane@gmail.com), chair of the Communications Committee.

Inaugural Members’ Spotlight: Sally Alger

PSBA Board member Diane Miller is responsible for our first profile on our previous President Sally Alger:  https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/Member-spotlight.  Thank you Diane and Sally!

Upcoming Events

Help PSBA Make Valentine’s Day Cards February 4

PSBA is pleased to partner once again with the Print & Book Arts Studio, BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network) on this special event. Join us in the Print & Book Arts Studio on Tuesday, February 4, from 10am to 2pm for this special event. We'll be making Valentine's Day cards to distribute to community organizations or to special people in our lives. All the materials will be provided for this free gathering, and you can just show up!

If you have a special Valentine you'd like to share for inspiration, please bring it. 

This is co-hosted by Puget Sound Book Artists member Jane Carlin and BARN member Amy Goldthwaite. It's a great opportunity to come together and enjoy the time making unique treasures to share with others. Sweet treats will be provided. Hope to see you there!

And think about combining this event with a visit to BIMA and the Book Arts Gallery.   Questions?  Contact Jane Carlin: carlinjane@gmail.com.

Visit the BARN site for directions:   https://bainbridgebarn.org/.

Exhibition opening February 3 and reception February 8

Puget Sound Book Artists (PSBA) is proud to present "Nature and the Book: 2025 " a compelling exhibition showcasing the work of PSBA members whose creative practices are deeply inspired by the natural world. This exhibition highlights the dynamic intersection between nature, art, and the printed page, exploring themes of sustainability, climate change, and the inherent beauty found in the environment.

The exhibit opens February 3 at the Elisabeth C. Miller Library on at the University of Washington Seattle campus. The opening reception is February 8 from noon-2pm.  Questions? Contact Lucia Harrison at luciaharrison49@gmail.com.

Further information about the exhibit and events is here.

Portions of the exhibit will travel to the Bloedel Reserve from March 4-April 13. The Reserve is located on Bainbridge Island.  Additional events are planned.

PSBA Annual Meeting February 9

February 9, 2025, 1pm-3pm, Zoom meeting

Featured speaker: Rebecca Chamlee

Presentation:  1:00 to 2:00

PSBA Board Update on Programs, Exhibits, Events and Budget:  2:00 -3:00

Registration link forthcoming.

We are delighted to invite you to our 2025 Annual Meeting that will feature noted artist Rebecca Chamlee as our speaker. 

In 2019, Rebecca visited Tacoma and inspired many members during her two-day workshop on using botanical contact printing in artists’ books. Her work of directly printing from forms found in our natural world is a way to preserve the ephemeral beauty of nature and directly relates to many themes explored by PSBA artists.  

She can be described as a book artist, printer, writer, and bookbinder who has published innovatively designed, letterpress printed, limited-edition fine press, and artist’s books under the imprint of Pie In The Sky Press since 1986. Rebecca’s artists' books examine the intersection of her artistic and scientific interests by collecting and cataloging the natural world. Website: https://www.pieintheskypress.com/About-the-Press
Rebecca retired in 2023 as an associate professor at Otis College of Art and Design where she taught bookbinding, letterpress printing, and artists' book classes and headed the Book Arts minor program for over 20 years. She now holds workshops at her studio and book arts centers throughout the country.  

She is currently completing work on a new book: Listen, notes from the field. This book is a personal investigation into the sounds of birds; what the vocalizations mean and how they differ from bird to bird. As to her process, she states: “Utilizing a ‘sit spot’ routine allowed the natural world to unfold before my eyes and ears in a way I’d never experienced in the years of exploring trails on foot in a nearby wildland park. In a comfortable spot in nature I sit, slow down and observe to discover the wonder in the moment.”

Her thoughtful reflections and approach to writing, listening, and creating will inspire us all.

Registration is required and can be completed by clicking here and logging into your account.

Annual Membership Renewal

The annual membership renewal letter was sent out to members in December. Instructions for renewing memberships are also available online. 

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Update!

This year’s theme is Field Work which could mean the conventional sense of work performed not in the office or studio-but it could also mean the artist’s area of interest or expertise, and how that interest is expressed in the work. While it often has a professional, scientific, or academic undercurrent, other phrases like “the field is wide open” or “out in left field” suggest large competitive sport arenas. “Field” can typically mean “outdoors” but could equally be a different part of one’s country (“far afield”) but also of one’s brain or soul. You can even consider field work through an agricultural lens or a spiritual one. Your field of vision is wide open.

And as in years past, you are invited to submit work inspired by the theme or by your own muse.

More information will be posted in January and February. Key dates:

• Prospectus will be available on the PSBA website February 1, 2025

• Formstack submission applications will be open from February 14, 2025-April 1, 2025

Questions? Send your inquiries to psba.exhibition@pugetsoundbookartists.org.

Reminder:  The Annual Exhibition Prospectus will be available on the PSBA website on February 1, 2025.  We'll talk more about this at the Annual Meeting on February 9th. 

If you know a student who might be interested, please pass on this information.  Membership fee is waived for students.

Then add the flyer to the newsletter (not as an attachment but to the body of the text.)

Key dates:

• Prospectus will be available on the PSBA website on February 1, 2025
• Applications will be open between February 14, 2025, and April 1, 2025
• The Exhibit at the Collins Library at the University of Puget Sound from June 5—August 3, 2025
• The Exhibit moves to the Daniel Evans Library at Evergreen from September 29-December 29

Volunteer Coordinator for PSBA Needed

As PSBA continues to grow membership and expand programming, we recognize the importance of engaging and recognizing our volunteers. We want to recruit a member to serve as our Volunteer Coordinator. The Coordinator will report directly to the Executive Committee on a quarterly or as needed basis and is responsible for maintaining a volunteer list, establishing volunteer recognition events and assisting with opportunities to recruit volunteers! This is a great way to get involved with PSBA and have fun meeting and engaging with members. If you are interested in building our strong community of volunteers, enjoy outreach and are energetic, please contact President Belinda Hill to discuss details.

Volunteer Request from the Outreach Committee

The Outreach Committee is collecting book arts related items to sell at the next Wayzgoose event in Tacoma at the public library May 2-3. If you have book arts books, tools, papers, etc. to donate, please contact Becky to arrange pick-up or delivery.

Volunteers are also needed to staff the table at Wayzgoose. It's very easy and fun to demo a "make and take" project, sell our wares, and share all about book arts with old and new audiences.

To donate materials or help at this event, contact Becky Frehse at bfrehsestudio@gmail.com.

Olympia-area PSBA Meetups

The next Olympia PSBA meet-up will be on Monday, February 3, starting at 1 pm in the Olympia Public Library meeting room. Everyone is welcome! Please bring some book arts or creative writing to share. For more information contact Ann Storey (aelizabeth.storey@gmail.com) or Belinda Hill (benjisnewadventure@gmail.com). 

Tacoma-area PSBA Meetups

The next meet-up is Wednesday, Feb 12, from 6-8pm at the University Place Pierce County Public Library in the small conference room. Bring something book arts related to share.  All are welcome! Questions?  Contact Lucia Harrison at luciaharrison49@gmail.com

Spring Events from the Programming Committee

What book art form do we have that can be big and expansive or small and compact; can fit beautifully on a shelf or cover a large wall; can be any shape or colors; can even be made as a container for other works; and can be explored both by beginning book artists or experienced ones looking for new discoveries? Of course, the basic accordion book structure! Join us for three PSBA workshops on the accordion structure and its many possibilities, held on April 5, May 17, and May 31. Watch for more details and registration information coming soon.

Other Book Arts Upcoming Events

Curated Conversation with Mita Mahato: Hybrid Poetics in TROPSSAP and Arctic Play

February 3, 6PM, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA) Auditorium

Featured in Seattle's publication The Stranger in “Best Books Out of the PNW This Year,” comix artist Mita Mahato will share insight into how place-making inspires her hybrid poetics, with special focus on how collage technique, poetic forms, and color theory inform her new book Arctic Play (published by The 3rd Thing) and its companion activity book TROPSSAP (on exhibition in Crossing the Line: The Passport Re-Imagined”). Audience Q & A to follow. Reception and book-signing prior to the talk at 6pm.

Additional information and registration is here.

Tropic Bound Fair February 6-9

If you want to beat the winter cold and grey, you may want to attend this great artists' book fair.  Details are at https://www.tropicboundfair.org/.

This event takes invites book artists, publishers, curators, librarians and book lovers to come together to enjoy an international event highlighting the art of the book!

The 10th Annual Washington State Zine Contest is now open! Submissions are due March 28, 2025. Visti the official website for further information, https://washingtoncenterforthebook.org/wszc/.

Community Print just released their spring class schedule, including:

• Reduction Linocut
•  Introduction to Collagraphy
•  Playing with Pantones: Ink and Color Theory
•  Intro to Letterpress
•  Intro to Risograph
•  Drypoint on Plastic
•  Collage / Poetry
• Paper Bag Junk Journals
•  Re-introduction to Letterwriting
•   Intermediate Letterpress
•  Treasure Books
• Intro to Photopolymer Printing

See full details and register at https://www.community-print.org/events

Call for Member News

Are you planning a special event or workshop? Have you recently presented your work at a Conference or event? Is your work included in an exhibition?

If you would like to share information, please send your submission to Julia.stringfellow@cwu.edu by Wednesday, February 26. Subject line should read: PSBA Member News. The March newsletter will be sent out to the membership early that month.

Call to Share Upcoming Events

Do you have an upcoming event that you are holding or participating in? Let us know! Email psba.public.relations@pugetsoundbookartists.org to add it to the calendar.

Sincerely,

Your PSBA Board

Meet the Board members on the Contact Us webpage.

Greetings and wishing you a happy 2025, PSBA members!

Image courtesy of Rebecca Chamlee.

Greetings from the PSBA President!

Dear Friends,

2024 has been a wonderful and eventful year. We had several travelling exhibits, numerous classes, and rich discussions of book arts in our small support groups. Our board is changing. We are sad to say goodbye to two long serving board members: Deborah Greenwood and Peter Newland. Both have done essential work for PSBA. I will be continuing on the board not as President but on the Programming Committee. I look forward to this good creative work. I am very excited to welcome Belinda Hill to the job of board president. She has become a vital leader for PSBA through her teaching, serving as Treasurer and on our team of curators for the 2023 Members’ Exhibit. And she makes it look easy!

See you all in 2025. Happy New Year to you all.

Sally Alger

As we start this new year, I am excited to take on the challenges and responsibilities as president. PSBA is such a great organization, and I love working with it. Instead of telling you about our plans for 2025 I want to encourage you to join us at 1:00 -3:00 pm on Sunday, February 9 for the PSBA membership annual meeting. We will share some of the successes from 2024 as well as the ideas and plans we have for the future.

Belinda Hill

New Features for PSBA Members

We are excited to announce two new features:  an enhanced event registration form and member profiles!

New Event Notification Submission Form on the PSBA Website

This online form is for sharing or PSBA-sponsored events for calendar purpose and is available at  https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/page-18134.

Call for Book Artists to Feature in PSBA Members’ Spotlight

PSBA is beginning a new series of spotlight interviews featuring its members. If you have someone in mind, contact Jane Carlin (carlinjane@gmail.com), chair of the Communications Committee.

Upcoming Events

Mini-Workshop: Strap Bound Books January 26

January 26, 1PM–3PM (PST)

Virtual event on Zoom.

Workshop fee: $25.00

In this workshop, Belinda Hill will teach you how to make strap bound journals. These wonderful small books make nice gifts, guest books, and small notebooks. Strap bound books can be completed in a few hours and don't require a lot of materials or tools to make. They are a great use for your dramatic gel prints, eco prints, paste paper or marbled papers.

For more information and to register, click here.

 

Help PSBA Make Valentine’s Day Cards February 4

PSBA is pleased to partner once again with the Print & Book Arts Studio, BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network) on this special event. Join us in the Print & Book Arts Studio on Tuesday, February 4, from 10am to 2pm for this special event. We'll be making Valentine's Day cards to distribute to community organizations or to special people in our lives. All the materials will be provided for this free gathering, and you can just show up!

If you have a special Valentine you'd like to share for inspiration, please bring it. 

This is co-hosted by Puget Sound Book Artists member Jane Carlin and BARN member Amy Goldthwaite. It's a great opportunity to come together and enjoy the time making unique treasures to share with others. Sweet treats will be provided. Hope to see you there!

And think about combining this event with a visit to BIMA and the Book Arts Gallery.   Questions?  Contact Jane Carlin: carlinjane@gmail.com.

Visit the BARN site for directions:   https://bainbridgebarn.org/.

PSBA Annual Meeting February 9

February 9, 2025, 1pm-3pm

Presentation:  1:00 to 2:00

PSBA Board Update on Programs, Exhibits, Events and Budget:  2:00 -3:00

Registration link forthcoming.

We are delighted to invite you to our 2025 Annual Meeting that will feature noted artist Rebecca Chamlee as our speaker. 

In 2019, Rebecca visited Tacoma and inspired many members during her two-day workshop on using botanical contact printing in artists’ books. Her work of directly printing from forms found in our natural world is a way to preserve the ephemeral beauty of nature and directly relates to many themes explored by PSBA artists.  

She can be described as a book artist, printer, writer, and bookbinder who has published innovatively designed, letterpress printed, limited-edition fine press, and artist’s books under the imprint of Pie In The Sky Press since 1986. Rebecca’s artists' books examine the intersection of her artistic and scientific interests by collecting and cataloging the natural world. Website: https://www.pieintheskypress.com/About-the-Press
Rebecca retired in 2023 as an associate professor at Otis College of Art and Design where she taught bookbinding, letterpress printing, and artists' book classes and headed the Book Arts minor program for over 20 years. She now holds workshops at her studio and book arts centers throughout the country.  

She is currently completing work on a new book: Listen, notes from the field. This book is a personal investigation into the sounds of birds; what the vocalizations mean and how they differ from bird to bird. As to her process, she states: “Utilizing a ‘sit spot’ routine allowed the natural world to unfold before my eyes and ears in a way I’d never experienced in the years of exploring trails on foot in a nearby wildland park. In a comfortable spot in nature I sit, slow down and observe to discover the wonder in the moment.”

Her thoughtful reflections and approach to writing, listening, and creating will inspire us all.

Annual Membership Renewal

The annual membership renewal letter was sent out to members in December. Instructions for renewing memberships are also available online. 

Greetings and wishing you a happy holiday season PSBA members!

Greetings from the PSBA President!

Dear Friends,

December 2024 already!

I am thinking of all the people who quietly donated their time, intelligence and support to our organization this year. THANK-YOU. We need you. You are the best!

May the coming year offer meaning and joy in your work on art projects, in learning new skills, and being part of the unique community that is PSBA.

May you all have a rich and wonderful holiday season.

Sally Alger, PSBA board president

Back by Popular Demand!

Lotus Fold Mini-Books Workshop- repeat session December 8

Image courtesy of Belinda Hill.

Sunday, December 8, 1PM–3PM via Zoom

Event is Free for PSBA members but Registration is Required!

To Register go to

https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org/calendar, find the workshop and click "register."

In this two-hour Zoom workshop, Belinda Hill will teach you how to make lotus fold mini-books. These books can be made into ornaments, necklaces or earrings. Easy to construct and personalize, they make fun gifts or accessories.

Skill Levels: all levels

Zoom Link will be sent out on December 2 and December 7.

Questions? Contact Lucia Harrison: luciaharrison49@gmail.com.

Save the Date! PSBA Annual Meeting

Image courtesy of Rebecca Chamlee.

February 9, 2025, 1pm-3pm

Featured speaker: Rebecca Chamlee

Presentation:  1:00 to 2:00

PSBA Board Update on Programs, Exhibits, Events and Budget:  2:00 -3:00

Registration link forthcoming.

We are delighted to invite you to our 2025 Annual Meeting that will feature noted artist Rebecca Chamlee as our speaker. 

In 2019, Rebecca visited Tacoma and inspired many members during her two-day workshop on using botanical contact printing in artists’ books. Her work of directly printing from forms found in our natural world is a way to preserve the ephemeral beauty of nature and directly relates to many themes explored by PSBA artists.  

She can be described as a book artist, printer, writer, and bookbinder who has published innovatively designed, letterpress printed, limited-edition fine press, and artist’s books under the imprint of Pie In The Sky Press since 1986. Rebecca’s artists' books examine the intersection of her artistic and scientific interests by collecting and cataloging the natural world. Website: https://www.pieintheskypress.com/About-the-Press
Rebecca retired in 2023 as an associate professor at Otis College of Art and Design where she taught bookbinding, letterpress printing, and artists' book classes and headed the Book Arts minor program for over 20 years. She now holds workshops at her studio and book arts centers throughout the country.  

She is currently completing work on a new book: Listen, notes from the field. This book is a personal investigation into the sounds of birds; what the vocalizations mean and how they differ from bird to bird. As to her process, she states: “Utilizing a ‘sit spot’ routine allowed the natural world to unfold before my eyes and ears in a way I’d never experienced in the years of exploring trails on foot in a nearby wildland park. In a comfortable spot in nature I sit, slow down and observe to discover the wonder in the moment.”

Her thoughtful reflections and approach to writing, listening, and creating will inspire us all.

Save the Date for February 4! Will you be our Valentine?

PSBA is pleased to partner once again with the Print & Book Arts Studio, BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network) on this special event. Join us in the Print & Book Arts Studio on Tuesday, February 4, from 10am to 2pm for this special event. We'll be making Valentine's Day cards to distribute to community organizations or to special people in our lives. All the materials will be provided for this free gathering, and you can just show up!

If you have a special Valentine you'd like to share for inspiration, please bring it. 

This is co-hosted by Puget Sound Book Artists member Jane Carlin and BARN member Amy Goldthwaite. It's a great opportunity to come together and enjoy the time making unique treasures to share with others. Sweet treats will be provided. Hope to see you there!

And think about combining this event with a visit to BIMA and the Book Arts Gallery.   Questions?  Contact Jane Carlin: carlinjane@gmail.com.

Visit the BARN site for directions:   https://bainbridgebarn.org/.

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Update!

Questions? Email psba.exhibition@pugetsoundbookartists.org.

Recent PSBA Events

PSBA Annual Book Exchange

The PSBA’s annual book exchange took place in October, with over 20 members joining for an inspiring afternoon. This year’s theme was “threads,” and artists creatively interpreted it in unique ways. Abbie Birmingham, co-coordinator for the event, remarked, “The PSBA book exchange was such a positive affirmation of our extraordinarily creative community.” If you have suggestions for a theme for the 2025 book exchange send them to Abbie at abbiemi5274@gmail.com. Abbie shares that she has found the volunteer role to be enjoyable and fulfilling, requiring only a minimal time commitment.

 PSBA is seeking a few volunteers to help organize this inspiring event. If you’re interested in learning more or would like to volunteer, please Belinda Hill at benjisnewadventure@gmail.com.

 To explore the books featured in this year’s exchange, visit the PSBA website.  

Volunteers Needed to Review Book Arts Collection

This past summer Mary Jane Linford, book artist on Bainbridge, donated some papers, rubber stamps and brayers and other items to PSBA. They need to be reviewed and organized for possible inclusion in PSBA workshop kits and for sharing at Wayzgoose.  The collection is currently housed in bags in the PSBA storage area in Collins Library (University of Puget Sound). If you are interested in helping review these items one morning in January, please contact Jane Carlin at carlinjane@gmail.com to make arrangements.

Olympia-area PSBA Meetings

The next Olympia PSBA meet-up will be held on Wednesday, December 4, starting at 1:30pm in the Olympia Public Library meeting room. Everyone is welcome!  Please bring some book art or creative writing to share. This is a fun and supportive place to show your current work, ask questions if you are stuck, or get inspiration from other book artists.

Other Book Arts Upcoming Events

Vashon Island Visual Artists 2024 Holiday Studio Tour

The tour takes places December 7-8 and December 14-15, 10am-4pm. Visit over 140 artists from 44 studios. Click here to learn more.

2025 Paper and Book Intensive Financial Aid Opportunity

Applications for financial aid to attend the 2025 Paper and Book Intensive are open through 11:59pm on December 31, 2024. Read below to learn more about the various opportunities. You can apply directly at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeCvbodNyK4dfAWZHZvzKT8TWJMfPMwkdvMhEkbjgt3icRA2w/viewform).

General registration opens January 1, 2025. Visit https://www.paperbookintensive.org/2025classes to see our 2025 lineup of classes and instructors. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at brien@paperbookintensive.org.

The 10th Annual Washington State Zine Contest is now open! Submissions are due March 28, 2025. Visti the official website for further information, https://washingtoncenterforthebook.org/wszc/.

Call for Member News

Are you planning a special event or workshop? Have you recently presented your work at a Conference or event? Is your work included in an exhibition?

If you would like to share information, please send your submission to Julia.stringfellow@cwu.edu by Thursday, December 26. Subject line should read: PSBA Member News. The January newsletter will be sent out to the membership early that month.

Call to Share Upcoming Events

Do you have an upcoming event that you are holding or participating in? Let us know! Email psba.public.relations@pugetsoundbookartists.org to add it to the calendar.

Other Book Arts Resources

New Newberry Digital Collection: The Newberry has recently completed the digitization of over 750 maps printed in Italy during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The Franco Novacco Map Collection <https://digital.newberry.org/novacco>, one of the strongest of its kind in the world, reflects Europeans’ evolving conceptions of the world during a time of widespread exploration and colonization.

Sincerely,

Your PSBA Board

Meet the Board members on the Contact Us webpage.

Greetings and happy fall PSBA members!

Greetings from the PSBA President!

Dear Friends,

The Big End-Of-Year Holiday months are here! I hope that with all that traditionally pulls at us and delights us there is time for book artists to enjoy their work. Our PSBA Exhibit Curators have chosen an intriguing theme for our 2025 Members’ Exhibit, and I, for one, intend to brainstorm possibilities for it during the next month.

I also want to express appreciation for all of you who have volunteered your time and/or money for this year. We have been growing in membership and programs for the last few years; and we have certainly loved and needed your contributions to our organizational efforts.

Sally Alger, PSBA board president

2025 Annual Members Exhibition Update!

Theme Announcement for PSBA 2025 Annual Exhibition!

The PSBA board is pleased to announce the curatorial team for the 14th Annual Exhibition. They include PSBA members Kim Izenman, Diane Miller, Sha Towers, Suze Woolf, and chair, Debbi Commodore.

It's time to add the 14th Annual Puget Sound Book Artists Exhibition to your 2025 calendar.

As in years past, the exhibition will be at the University of Puget Sound's Collins Library in June and July.

This year’s theme is “Field Work,” which could mean the conventional sense of work performed not only in the office or studio but also in the artist’s area of interest or expertise and how that interest is expressed in the work. While it often has a professional, scientific, or academic undercurrent, other phrases like “the field is wide open” or “out in the left field” suggest large competitive sports arenas. “Field” can typically mean “outdoors” but could equally be a different part of one’s country (“far afield”) but also of one’s brain or soul. You can even consider fieldwork through an agricultural lens or a spiritual one. Your field of vision is wide open.

As in years past, you are invited to submit work inspired by the theme or your own muse (outside the theme).

More information, including prospectus and dates, will follow over the next few months.

Upcoming Events

November 10: Tools of the Trade: A Historical Viewpoint of Artist Tools with Mark Hoppmann, November 10, 2PM–4PM, Archives & Special Collections Seminar Room, Collins Memorial Library at University of Puget Sound.

Mark Hoppmann will be presenting at Collins Library (University of Puget Sound) on the Tools of the Trade sharing an amazing array of artifacts and tools.  Not to be missed!

Click here for further information and to register.

November 14: Whatcom Book Arts meeting, 12:30-4, WECU Education Center in Ferndale. You're invited to attend this outreach group of PSBA members and other book arts enthusiasts, who meet every month in Ferndale, WA.  Pat Wagner will be leading the workshop. Based on Seth Apter’s 52 Card Pickup and Paper Quilting workshops, we will turn a deck of cards into a journal. Once we complete the workshop, you’ll have a journal set up for use each week throughout a year, one card at a time.

Preregistration is required.  A supply list will be provided upon registration. Contact Fran McReynolds at whatcombookarts@gmail.com.

November 21, Lunchtime Conversation with Helen Hiebert: A Tour of Japanese Papermaking, Noon–1PM, Zoom. During this event facilitated by Jane Carlin, Helen will talk about the Japan Paper Tour that she led in June, an 11-day odyssey with a group of 10 paper enthusiasts. The group spent 3 days in Echizen, a village with over 1500 years of papermaking history; visited Gifu and Mino, where Isamu Noguchi revitalized lantern-making in the 1950's; and explored Kyoto, touring temples and gardens, visiting shops dedicated to paper. The tour culminated with a celebratory dinner complete with a geiko performance.

Click here for further information and to register.

Olympia-area PSBA Meetings

Image courtesy of Belinda Hill.

The 2024 Members’ exhibition continues at Daniel Evans Library on the Evergreen State College campus through mid-December. There was a great open-case event in October with a packed room. If you haven't seen the exhibit yet or want to see it again, join the Olympia area PSBA group on November 11 near the Rare Books Room at the Evergreen State College library from 2:00-4:00 pm. Come early and check out the exhibit or look through the collection of artists books stored in the Rare Book Room. If you'd like more information about the meeting contact Ann Storey at aelizabethstorey@gmail.com

There was also a display of PSBA artist book at the Lacey Library in October as well as an introductory class.

News From the Outreach Committee

November 13, 6:30pm -8pm Pierce County Meet-up University Place Library: Please join us at the November Pierce County PSBA Meet-up on Wednesday, Nov 13, 6:30-8:00 pm.  We will be brainstorming ideas for the PSBA Exhibition on the theme, “Field Work.” We will return to the University Place Public Library Meeting Room. Address: 3609 Market Place W., Suite 100, University Place, WA 98466. We are meeting at this new date, place and time to encourage more participation.

December 1, 1-3 pm, Lotus Fold Mini-Book Free Workshop: Please Join us for a Free Zoom Workshop: Lotus Fold Mini Books for Ornaments, Neckless and Earrings offered by Belinda Hill.  Look in your November Dues Renewal and Donation letter for the kit you will need for the workshop. Registration email coming soon.

Other Book Arts Upcoming Events

Fall Book Fair at Finnriver Farm and Cidery, Chimacum, WA.

Sunday November 10th, 12-5pm

Questions? Contact Conner Roberts of Winter Texts, publisher.wintertexts@gmail.com.

Seattle Art Book Fair Pageturner Fellowship!  Check out the SABF Instagram page and learn about this great opportunity.  Application closes in late November!

The 10th Annual Washington State Zine Contest is now open! Submissions are due March 28, 2025. Visti the official website for further information, https://washingtoncenterforthebook.org/wszc/.

Call for Member News

Are you planning a special event or workshop? Have you recently presented your work at a Conference or event? Is your work included in an exhibition?

If you would like to share information, please send your submission to Julia.stringfellow@cwu.edu by Tuesday, November 26. Subject line should read: PSBA Member News. The December newsletter will be sent out to the membership early that month.

Call to Share Upcoming Events

Do you have an upcoming event that you are holding or participating in? Let us know! Email psba.public.relations@pugetsoundbookartists.org to add it to the calendar.

Sincerely,

Your PSBA Board

Meet the Board members on the Contact Us webpage.