The project:

I have only recently started working within the framework of the project. I have been lucky for all the years I worked as a photographer to enjoy being prolific and active making new work. I know other artists that always have a project in the works and I admired the way they were able to commit themselves to an idea, sometimes for years. In my practice I found myself making pictures that would often later be loosely grouped and gathered into a body of work.

Last year a student was here at Cascabel Press working with me to learn the photogravure printmaking the process. During a conversation I mentioned that I had been wanting to make a book of my photographs, but was reluctant to go down the path of traditional publishing. I went on to say what really interested me was to make books with my photogravure prints.  He answered by telling me about the world of fine press books, and that I could make my own book. I began to explore this lovely and fascinating culture of artists.

A simple statement  and I was off the rails making plans and sorting details. I published my first edition of books “ Still + Life” and immediately  started a second project “ Prague”. It has been a complete dream for me and it touches on all of the things I enjoy most about being a photographer|craftsperson.  All handmade, and straight from my heart. My pictures, my words, my ideas.

I have learned a few things with these first 2 projects. The most overwhelming part for me is the crazy number of decisions that are required.  Being a Libra decisions do not come easy for me so this has been a learning process indeed.  Next is knowing that being all hand made, means letting go of the perfection gene. I have been okay in this way in the past but a hand made book has lots of parts and so the hand of the artist shows.  In a beautiful way in my opinion,  

My last bit of advice is to buy way more paper than you think you will need and know it will take longer than you think.  I was struggling with the time part and this same student friend said to me “ This is your book it will be ready when you are ready” Thank you Zach, this helped me.

So this week I am shipping out the “Prague”book to my collectors and find myself dreaming of the next project. 

“ Maybe a book of small platinum prints to honor my work from years past”.

Please join the conversation and let me know about projects you have completed or are dreaming about.

Be well,

Ray