Artfully Altered Books

Teaching students to find creative solutions for transforming objects into art is part of our annual Altered Book Project.

The pages of a book hold endless possibilities to create, whether a sculpture, poetry, a canvas for new work, or niches for treasures. To start the project I introduced the concept of an altered book as a way to create 2D or 3D art work inspired by a book. On Pinterest I collected examples to show students and talked through a variety of approaches students could take with their altered book. (pinterest board link below!)
After a class discussion the students were able to sort through a large selection of books that have been donated from staff, and library discarded books. The books sometimes inspire the sculpture or students come with an idea of a new visual story they would like to create.  Students sketch their ideas in their sketchbook to prepare their ideas and plan the steps.
Students were given one week to complete the altered books with a variety of materials like cardboard, tissue paper, scrap paper, etc to add into their sculpture. The unique approaches were thrilling to watch as they developed.

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Above is an example by Safiyyah10 grade 8
"A Different Story"
Artist Statement: This piece of art symbolizes nature. I created this piece using an old book, colored tissue, hot glue, glue stick, tape, and thread. Books are made of paper, which comes from trees. Everything we use in life can eventually be traced back to nature. The original book was collection of Russian folk tales. I took this book and gave it a different story, about how we are all connected to nature.

Many of the altered books will be on display in our regional library and school library through out April and May! We hope you will stop by and check out their work either in the library or online in our Artsonia Gallery!

Follow Holly's board Book Arts on Pinterest.

interest board  above was used to inspire students with a few of the possible directions their altered book could take.

We used the Fyuse App to create an image that will allow you to see Sarah's book from different perspectives. An example can be seen to the right! We love this new app and think it will be a great way to capture views of our 3D art!
We would love to hear how you have altered a book to give it a renewed artistic life too!