VIRTUAL. The Artisan and the Artists’ Book

Course Info:
  • Instructor: Patricia Silva
  • Department: Fine Arts
  • Area: Printmaking and Book Arts
  • Credit Hours: 3, Contact Hours: 90
  • Course Number (SRISA): TBA
  • Course Number (Maryville University): TBA
  • Prerequisite: None
Course Description:

In this innovative course, students will have the opportunity to experience the Italian artisan world in a virtual setting. Lectures on the history of Italian craft will set the groundwork for virtual visits to modern day Italian artisan "bottegas." Through a series of taped and live interviews with working craftspeople, students will get a peek into the world of bookbinders, paper marblers, goldsmiths, calligraphers, printers, and more. The course will have a special focus on the traditions of bookmaking and through online tutorials and lessons, participants will learn bookmaking techniques culminating in the creation of unique artists’ books. The artistic and artisan traditions of Florence will inform our exploration of the contemporary artist book, both conceptually and materially.

International Hosts:

SRISA students will meet local artisans, artists and curators. Visits to artisan studios through out Florence and Italy including but not exclusively related to book making. SRISA will visit glassblowing studios in Venice, Marble carving in Carrara as well as an array of artisans working in the tradition of book making.