Rising and falling: The Australian book arts scene

Despite the usefulness of the internet, Australia has no formal national book arts associations other than some state craft bookbinding groups. Only one publication, the Print Council of Australia’s journal, Imprint regularly covers artist book activity. The book arts scene in Australia is fragmented, pulled together by events. Awards, symposia, fairs and publications tend to happen for a period of time then disappear. Exhibitions pop up sporadically, depending on the energy and commitment of individuals, usually organized by the artists themselves. This article attempts a snapshot of contemporary activity.