What is it, if it is not this? : exploring artist's books through an auto-ethnographic design practice : presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Design at Massey University, New Zealand

Abstract

What Is It, If It Is Not This? explores the ‘artists’ book’ landscape, and my position within it. As a practice, the development of ‘artists’ books’ encompasses a wide range of material qualities and conventions, resulting in many and varied book and ‘book-like’ formats; however, there is a significant dissonance regarding the terminology used to describe such work, and, as a book designer with an interest in experimental publications, I’ve found myself producing work that could be considered a part of this practice. The encyclopaedic curatorial practice of the cabinet of curiosities provides a unique conceptual framework regarding taxonomies, objects of wonder, and personal sense-making to examine the potential boundaries of the ‘artists’ book’. This research was conducted through an auto ethnographic design practice, acknowledging the centrality of the values, perspectives and experiences of myself as the designer. In utilising iterative practice-led research and research-led practice, and an alignment with Oulipian playfulness, the process of creation throughout this work has been responsive and intuitive. To identify the margins of what could be considered an ‘artists’ book’, a collection of bookworks have been designed that explore, subvert, or embrace the different facets of ‘artists’ books. In doing this, I’ve gained insights into existing theory and begun to add to the discourse surrounding ‘artists’ books’, and a designer’s place within them. This work enabled moments of self-reflection, and the initial development of such language has resulted in a more confident sense of identity in regard to my place in this area of practice.