• 2026 Workshop Series

    ARTSPLACE - Annapolis Region Community Arts Council, 396 St. George Street, Annapolis Royal, NS, B0S 1A0 / arcac.ca / admin@arcac.ca / 902-532-7069
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  • Beyond the Binding: Book Arts w/ Jenn Smith

    (photo credit: Agnes Lee, Unsplash)
  • SKILL LEVEL:
    All (For adults, 19+)

    LOCATION: Annapolis Royal Library, Dugua room, 143 Ritchie Street, Annapolis Royal (at the rear of The Academy)

    CONTENT:

    To complement the GIANT Book Sale fundraiser of The Friends of the Annapolis Royal Library (FoL), ARTSPLACE and FoL have joined forces to bring an altered book workshop on Sunday, November 8, 1-4PM. Following the GIANT Book Sale, ARTSPLACE and the Friends of the Annapolis Royal Library are extending the life of books in a different way, inviting participants to explore how books can become works of art. The workshop brings together a love of books and creative reuse, offering a chance to see familiar objects in a new light and discover the artistic possibilities held within their pages.


    Books have long been more than a way to share stories and ideas. From handmade manuscripts to contemporary artists’ books, people have explored the book as an art form in its own right, using paper, text, images, binding and found materials to create something new. Book arts encompass a wide range of practices, from zines and hand-bound pamphlets to altered books, where existing pages and covers become the starting point for creative experimentation.

    The altered book process offers a way to give unwanted books a new life, transforming them into unique works of art through collage, drawing, painting, cutting and other techniques.

    We'll start with a brief chat about book making and then warm up our creative energy by making a little zine. The next project is sewing a single-signature pamphlet, first created in the 6th century. Next, we'll start work on an altered book, which have been generously supplied by the Friends of the Annapolis Royal Library (many thanks!).


    Although you won't have time to fully complete your altered book during our session, it will be the perfect creative project to keep you inspired all winter!


    I look forward to meeting fellow creative book lovers. 

    About Jenn Smith:

    I'm Jenn, and am reclaiming the title "artist" after a hiatus from art making where I moved to UK, taught school, and became a psychotherapist. A mixed-media artist with a BFA from NSCAD University and a BEd in Fine Arts, I love teaching others and seeing them embrace the creative process and develop confidence in making their mark.

    MATERIALS PROVIDED:

    All materials are provided.

    WHAT TO BRING:

    • Snacks/water
    • If you have any images, flat sequins, or ephemera (like tickets, receipts, or wrappers) that you would like to add to your book, please bring them along! 
    • Since you  might choose to use paint, please wear clothes that can get grubby, or bring an apron.

    WHERE:

    • Dugua room, Annapolis Royal Library, 143 Ritchie Street, Annapolis Royal

    COST:

    • $45
    • 10% discount for ARCAC members and Annapolis Royal Library card holders

    CANCELLATION POLICY:

    Please note that refund requests must be received by email to admin@arcac.ca. If received 6 weeks prior to the start of the event the fee is 90% refundable. If received 2 weeks prior to the start of the event, the fee is 50% refundable. Less than 2 weeks, the fee is no longer refundable. If we cancel for any reason, the fee is 100% refundable.

  • REGISTRATION FORM

    Please fill in this form, then proceed to payment. If you have any questions or if cost is a barrier to participation, contact Geoff: admin@arcac.ca or (902) 532-7069. If SOLD OUT, contact admin@arcac.ca to be added to the waiting list.
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