I consider altered books to be a method of eliciting a further message from the printed page, augmenting the initial narrative created by the author. Adding an artistic twist to the physical form of the book allows me to merge my own impressions and message with that of the author. This provides the viewer with an added dimension to consider regarding the original literary work.
I began working in altered book art after seeing some works by an artist in Scotland. With very few people working in this medium, I essentially had to break new ground, experimenting with a variety of techniques and honing my methods to get the desired results.
As a result, I have developed a process for carving the books that I have not seen any other artist world-wide replicate. I’m very proud of being a pioneer in this art form!
Some people have criticized me for damaging books, but I prefer to think that I’m giving them new life. Most of my books are obtained from charity shops and are at their last stop before the landfill. I rescue them, transform them, and turn them into treasures to be appreciated.
Maggie Kerrigan’s collection is on display at the Stravitz Sculpture and Fine Art Gallery.