Going arty with books
Aditi Babel, the book sculptor’s unique artwork involves tearing, folding and distorting the shape of the books — an idea with which many people are not comfortable.
Spreading awareness about her art, Aditi says, “I am not destroying a book. I am taking an old rejected book and giving it a new form and a new life. Book making is a soulful and life-enhancing form of art, craft and design. Everyone should give it a try before rejecting the idea,” she adds. Aditi explains book sculpturing is about giving a new life to the old discarded books, which are in a bad shape. To make them into beautiful art pieces needs time and patience. Creating altered books is something what Aditi was introduced to in Italy while studying traditional book making and printmaking as a part of her course.
“The pre-requisites for this art are time, patience, a skillful hand and a calm mind,” says the 28-year-old, who’s a graphic artist and a visiting faculty at IIT Bombay.
When Aditi is at work, her tools for book sculpting depend on the concept she is working with.
“It could include more than just a book and papers; it could be thread, wood, metal etc. The most important tool is the bone folder if you are using paper,” adds Aditi, who has a Masters in Design from IIT Bombay and works under her brand, Babel Books.
Her first exhibition was held in Bangalore in March, she will be in Delhi for a book-making workshop later this month. Aditi is also planning for a group exhibition in Udaipur later this year.
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