Crafters in the area of Melbourne Southbank can soon take advantage of a course to learn the skill of creating a concertina book.
A concertina book has a sculptural form that folds and unfolds in the manner of an accordion, and can be used as a basis for text and pictures. This style began with early bookmaking in ancient China. Bamboo was often used, cut into thin strips, and then laced together with cord so that the slats could be manipulated backwards and forwards. Latterly, paper made the structures lighter and easier to produce.
The workshop is to be led by Christina Darras, who is also an interdisciplinary artist and jewellery maker. She will be teaching attendees how to fold, cut and stitch, alongside using collage, drawing, images, text and mark-making to create an individual book. At the end of the session, participants will be encouraged to show their creation within the group for positive reinforcement.
Creative spaces such as galleries often use local printing services in order to create descriptive labelling for items on display, as well as to promote upcoming events like this.
The Concertina Books Workshop is taking place on 2 November, from 11 am until 2 pm. The venue is Mystik River, which can be found at Southgate Shopping Centre. Tickets cost $75. All supplies will be included.
