The study of calligraphy involves learning about the history of books, from the Egyptians and Phoenicians up through the Renaissance to Gutenberg. Understanding what makes the book form such a repository of knowledge. The styles of lettering, the materials used and the structure of the book itself have been a fascinating adventure. I've been to libraries in Europe a number of times, and have studied the manuscript collections there.
This led me to making artist's books of my own using the book format, as opposed to a painting or a broadside, to express more complex ideas. Some of my books are painterly, poetic and contemporary, others are more conservative, traditional and legible. I make these books for collectors as well as by commission, and find that they are a most gratifying way for me to work. A book is more private than a piece that hangs on the wall; some of my clients prefer to share their thoughts in the book form, as it is a way to show them to just a few special people, rather than broadcasting them to all visitors. A recent venture has been the making of Detritus Books, from all the leftovers from many other projects.
My books are in the special collections of some notable libraries, including the Yale University, the Lilly Library at Indiana University and the University of Denver, as well as private collections. Also see Steam Roller Prints and Painterly Books
