Premier Graphics
& Animation
Work with us
Menu
Studio
OverviewServicesCapabilitiesThe Collection
Institute
OverviewProgrammesCourse libraryHow we teachCareersGuidesFor universities
Journal About Contact Work with us
Fine Arts · MS elective · 3 credit hours · 16 sessions

Book Arts & Printmaking

This course reimagines the book as a sculptural object and a time-based medium. Students will explore the intersection of narrative structure, traditional binding techniques, and printmaking. The curriculum covers the engineering of paper (folding, stitching, glueing) alongside the creation of content using relief and screen printing, culminating in the production of limited-edition “Artist Books.”

§ 01 By the end you can
  1. Master traditional binding techniques: Saddle Stitch, Japanese Stab, and Coptic Binding
  2. Understand paper grain, weight, and the engineering of book structures
  3. Integrate printmaking (Linocut/Monoprint) into the narrative flow of a book
  4. Execute "Imposition": Layout and sequencing pages for printing
  5. Create a conceptual "Artist Book" that challenges the definition of reading
§ 02 Sixteen sessions

The whole semester.

  1. 01History of the Book: Codex to Scroll
  2. 02Paper Mechanics: Grain Direction & Folding
  3. 03The Zine: Instant Publishing (One-sheet books)
  4. 04Pamphlet Stitch & Accordion Folds
  5. 05Japanese Stab Binding (Yotsume Toji)
  6. 06Introduction to Imposition: Signatures
  7. 07Text & Typography for Artist Books
  8. 08 · MidtermMidterm Examination
  9. 09Coptic Binding: Exposed Spine Technique
  10. 10Hardcover Case Binding: The Flat Back
  11. 11Pop-Up Structures & Paper Engineering
  12. 12Content Creation: Narrative vs. Visual Flow
  13. 13Printmaking for Books: Linocut Illustrations
  14. 14Box Making: Clamshell & Slipcases
  15. 15Alternative Structures: Tunnel & Flag Books
  16. 16Final Project: The Limited Edition Artist Book

Midterm around session 8. Final project briefed at session 8 or 9 and developed in stages until the juries.

§ 03 Final project

Final Project: The Limited Edition Artist Book

How it’s judged

Recommended reading
  1. Volume I: Non-Adhesive Binding by Keith Smith
  2. The Art of the Fold by Hedi Kyle and Ulla Warchol
  3. Covert to Overt: The Artist's Book
  4. Making Handmade Books: 100+ Bindings by Alisa Golden
  5. Structure of the Visual Book by Keith Smith
More in Fine Arts
Abstract & Impressionist PaintingThis course explores Impressionist and Abstract painting traditions through color, gesture, texture, light, and expressive mark-making.
Advanced Cloth Figure PaintingDrawing the nude is a challenge; dressing it is an art form. This advanced course focuses on the complex relationship between the human form and drapery.
Advanced Figure DrawingThis course advances observational and anatomical figure drawing skills. Students study complex poses, skeletal and muscular structure, dynamic movement, foreshortening, expressive mark-making, and refined rendering to develop mastery in depicting the human form.
Advanced Landscape PaintingThe landscape is a challenge of light, atmosphere, and vastness. This advanced course moves beyond the "Blue Sky, Green Grass" formula.
Advanced MaterialsIn the world of 3D, a model is only as good as its surface. This course explores "Look Development" (LookDev) and the creation of photorealistic digital materials.
Advanced Mold Making TechniquesThis technical course is the bridge between a unique sculpture and mass production. Students will explore the science of replication, learning to create complex molds for sculpture, product design, and prototyping.