This collaborative exchange between UWE Bristol and Indiana University Bloomington brings together students and alumni to explore the dynamic potential of artist’s books as conduits for cultural dialogue. Spanning the Atlantic, this project emphasizes the book as a vessel for ideas, fostering connections across borders, without prescribing the content of individual works. Participants were invited to share their creative voices, allowing diverse perspectives to converge organically through the act of exchange.

The IU participants in this exhibition include BFA, MFA, recent alumni, as well as a select few dedicated BA students, reflecting the diverse academic community fostered by the IU Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design. Established in 2016 through the merger of the Department of Studio Art and the Department of Apparel Merchandising and Interior Design, the Eskenazi School embodies Indiana University’s commitment to interdisciplinary education in the arts. Building upon IU’s legacy as a national leader in arts since 1895, the Eskenazi School integrates studio art, architecture, design, and merchandising, encouraging students to engage in creative research and exploration across disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the participants’ research interests, which span various media, art historical contexts, and philosophical perspectives, aligning with the exhibition’s goal of fostering the organic convergence of diverse creative voices.

This collaboration highlights the transformative nature of book arts, where materials, forms, and narratives intertwine to build bridges between distinct artistic communities. By shipping works between the UK and the US, the physical movement of books mirrors the intangible flow of thought and inspiration across cultures. Each book becomes a touchpoint, a tangible expression of personal and collective inquiry, enriching both institutions through a shared discovery.

In addition to showcasing artists’ creations, the exchange cultivates an ongoing dialogue that extends beyond the pages of each work. It encourages reflection on the evolving nature of book arts as a medium of connection, reinforcing the power of creative practices to transcend geographical distance. This partnership celebrates the enduring resonance of books as a tool for communication, collaboration, and cultural exchange.

UK and USA participants:

Catherine Cartwright
Clover Childers
Alyssa Davis
James Edwards
Lucy Eickelberg
Elizabeth Elich
Gen Harrison
Ben Jenner
Marian Kilpatrick
Suejin Ko
Eloise Lifton
Marie Lister
Katama Murray
Linda Parr
Bailee Parsons
Jono Sandilands
Forest Steele
Cathey Webb
Corinne Welch
Nick Whimster
Mel Winston
Nichole Wolz

Visitor information:

This exhibition is open to the public Monday – Friday 9am-5pm. No booking needed. The library is on the first floor of B block.

The nearest car parking for visiting UWE Bower Ashton campus is – public parking meters on main road or at Ashton Court.

For more information on Bower Ashton Library, visitor access and campus map, see the library website.

UWE Bristol, City Campus at Bower Ashton, Kennel Lodge Road, Bristol BS3 2JT.