One of our major projects this semester will be creating a print-on-demand catalog / portfolio of our work.
Catalogs can be incredibly helpful — they can be made available at exhibitions to add context to the show. Some artist opportunities — such as grants and residencies — will sometimes also ask for “extra materials,” of which a catalog could be a part.
If you find yourself working at a gallery, museum, non-profit, small business, etc., knowing how to produce and publish a small book / catalog can also be a very useful skill to have (and DIY books make great gifts).
Step 1: Choose a Tool
We will be printing our books through Blurb.com. This printer was chosen because they have a fairly strong application for designing books either online or on your computer, using their software. However, they also make it possible to use software such as InDesign to create a PDF which can then be printed through their company.
Designers, you MUST use InDesign. Artists, for this assignment you will need to choose a tool that is most comfortable for you, and that you think would be a realistic tool once you graduate. Options include the following:
InDesign — You can design your own book (design seniors) or hire someone to design the book with you. Once created in InDesign, you will need to export the book as a PDF. Information about book sizes / specifications can be found here: http://www.blurb.com/make/pdf_to_book/booksize_calculator (you will need to create a free account).
Booksmart — Blurb has developed their own proprietary software which can be downloaded and used on your personal computer. This software will give you the tools to add imagery and text to create your custom book (and you know that it will work, since it was designed by the printer). Booksmart can be downloaded here: http://www.blurb.com/booksmart
Bookify — Blurb also has an online book software called Bookify. Similar to Booksmart, but everything is completed within your browser; no need to install an application. Bookify can be launched here: http://www.blurb.com/bookify
Step 2: Determine Content
This book should be a showcase of your work — whether it is a portfolio or an exhibition catalog or some other type of book is up to you. The specifications for the content are as follows:
- The minimum page count for your book is 20 pages. This includes the title page, copyright page, colophon, flyleaves, etc. (look them up).
- You need to have photographs of your work. If your work is digitally-based, you can import those files directly. You can either photograph your works yourself, or hire someone to help take the photos with you.
- You should have something in the book that lists the copyright information. Typically, this occurs at the start of the book, on the back of the title page, but it is up to you.
- You will need to include your artist statement and bio.
- Images need to have captions / descriptions (dimensions, media, title, etc.).
- You may also choose to include other information / content as you deem necessary. Some catalogs will have in-progress or studio shots. You could include a short résumé. You may want to use a headshot somewhere near your bio. Any of these items can be included, but are not required. Similarly, a title page can be helpful, but is not required.
- Don’t forget the cover!
Step 3: Create a Draft
Using the tools you have chosen, create a first draft of your book. These will be viewed on-screen, so they do not need to be printed out. Make sure to save your work and to determine the best way to showcase your ideas.
GRADING:
12 pts – 2 pts per item (bio, statement, images, captions, cover, copyright) – Submit link on Blackboard
AUTOMATIC FAILURE
Not complete on time
Missing required elements