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Book Arts - Introduction - Art 414
Instructors: Bob Blesse
Credit Hours: 3 (1 + 4)
Location: Black Rock Press Studio - Room 282 Getchell Library
Tel. (775) 682-5930
email – blackrock@unr.edu
Objectives of Course
1. To introduce students to the art and craft of fine bookmaking.
2. To give students an historical perspective on printing and bookmaking.
3. To give students practical understanding and experience in letterpress printing, and the related arts used in the creation of limited edition, handmade books.
Course Outline
The following subject areas will be covered during the semester, not necessarily in the order listed:
Studio Modules
1. Typesetting
2. Operation of Vandercook cylinder press
3. Designing and laying out a broadside
4
. Building a form in the press bed
5. Bookbinding techniques
6. Creating Images
7. Book design and layout
8. Paper decoration
9. Papermaking
History/Typography Seminar Modules
1. The book before printing
2. Early Printing & Incunabula
3. Fine printing in the 20th Century
4. Artist's Books and Book Arts
3. Attendance
Attendance will be taken at the beginning of each class. Because of the nature of class exercises and projects, it is necessary for students to make every effort to attend all classes. All students are responsible for exercises, projects, discussions or announcements missed due to absence. There may be an occasion when it is unavoidable to be late or absent for class and these instances are acceptable within reason. There may also be times when a student may wish or need to work on their project outside of class. Please call Bob Blesse (784-6500 x317) if you are unable to attend. You may also send an email (sometimes better than a voicemail message) blesse@unr.edu Unexcused absences are unacceptable:
Every two unexcused absences will result in the reduction of a student’s grade by one point.
4. Use of the Printing Studio
Keep the pressroom clean. Because the regular work of the Black Rock Press also occurs in this room it is important to put things back where they belong and not leave tools and materials out when you are done working.
The studio is available to students to do work outside of class. This is to accomplish tasks in which the student is familiar.
Each student will be assigned a shelf for holding work and materials. A space to set type on one of the type cabinets will also be assigned.
5. Materials
The press will supply materials for the workshop projects. The student will supply all other materials. A list of suppliers will be provided. You may purchase some papers and other supplies from the press; a list of available items will be provided.
6. Tools
Most tools will be provided, however it is suggested that each student obtain the following for personal use:
X-acto blade cutter or utility knife, scissors, 18 or 24 in. metal ruler
7. Books
Designing With Type by James Craig. Watson-Guptill Publishers.
A Short History of the Printed Word by Warren Chappell. An excellent introduction to books, printing, and other aspects of the books arts.
Looking Good in Print by Roger C. Parker and Patrick Berry. This is an excellent introduction to graphic design. The book is actually geared toward desktop publishing design, but gives a great deal of information on design fundamentals that apply to all applications.
8. Notebooks
Each student is encouraged to keep a loose-leaf notebook in which all of the exercises and projects are documented and where handouts pertaining to each can be stored in an organized fashion.
9. Method of Evaluation and Grading
Grades will be assigned based upon the percentage system outlined below. Projects will be judged equally on the basis of technique and aesthetics. Students should discuss each project with one of the instructors to help assess how long a project should take to complete. Students should seek to create projects that are not too complicated, or beyond their means, to complete in the time given. Projects must be completed on schedule and all type must be distributed.
1. Test on printing and typographic terms 5%
2. Project 1 (broadside) 35%
3.. Project 3 (chapbook) 60%
TOTAL 100%
GRADES
A = 90-100%
B = 80-89%
C = 70-79%
D = 60-69%
F = below 60%
10. Incompletes
Because access to the pressroom facilities is very limited outside of class we are strongly opposed to giving an incomplete unless the reason is compelling. A written statement from a doctor, relative or other professional will be required. If the student does not inform us of their grade request, then we will assign a grade based on the work completed.
REMEMBER that you will be evaluated not only on the quality and creativity of your work, but also on your ability to manage your time and finish your projects.
Please note that finishing your projects includes carefully distributing your type. Students who do not distribute their type by the end of the semester will receive a failing grade.