AFK Reading Intimately: What is an Artists' Book? (Activating Artists' Books)
Think books are just for reading? Think again! The Small Special Collections Library is home to hundreds of contemporary artworks that use the form and features of the book to convey meaning in creative and unexpected ways. Unlike paintings, sculptures, and other forms of visual art, artists’ books can provide a uniquely intimate interactive experience for the reader/viewer. Explore how artists’ books utilize the size, structure, sequencing, and materiality of the book to address narratives and concepts requiring an intimate means of creative expression.
This session will introduce participants to Artists' Books, and will be the first of multiple sessions throughout this academic year that invite you to engage with the UVA Library's incredible collection of artists' books! Join us for a series of hands-on workshops exploring artists’ books in the library’s collection. The series will culminate in a book-making workshop in the Spring. You are invited to join any or all of the sessions in the series.
This session will introduce participants to Artists' Books, and will be the first of multiple sessions throughout this academic year that invite you to engage with the UVA Library's incredible collection of artists' books! Join us for a series of hands-on workshops exploring artists’ books in the library’s collection. The series will culminate in a book-making workshop in the Spring. You are invited to join any or all of the sessions in the series.
This event is generously supported by the UVA Arts Council. It is one of a series of events that will be held this academic year, as part of the Library's 2026-2027 arts initiative, AFK: Away From Keyboard, which urges students, the UVA community, and Charlottesville to experiment with creating intentional connections between body and mind. We want to know: what happens to the way we perceive, learn, make, and research when we're AFK? How does tuning into our bodies deepen and expand research? Less blue light; more insight.
- Date:
- Friday, October 9, 2026
- Time:
- 2:00pm - 4:00pm
- Location:
- Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library, Auditorium of Harrison/Small
- Campus:
- Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library
- Categories:
- For FUN!
- Presenter:
- Yuki Hibben & Veronica McGurrin
Please note that no food or beverages will be permitted near the artists' books. Participants may be asked to store their bags and belongings while participating in the session.
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The UVA Library is committed to hosting library events that are inclusive and welcoming to all. If you need certain accommodations to participate fully in this event, please contact libevents@virginia.edu.