ROCKPORT — Structure & Narrative III, an exhibit of new work by 15 Maine book artists, is on display in Rockport. The exhibition is sponsored and curated by Midcoast Maine Book Arts and hosted by the Michael Good Gallery, at 325 Commercial St., in Rockport. It is open through December 30 during regular gallery hours (Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving weekend) or by appointment.

Participating artists include Jan Owen of Belfast; Sarah Strouss of Boothbay; Marcella Christensen, Avi Good, Nan Haid, Sue Michlovitz, and Richard Reitz-Smith of Camden; Karen Olson of Hope; Judy O’Dell of Rockport; Sally Ann Field, Virginia Slawson, and Sandy Weisman of South Thomaston; Naomi Howe of Spruce Head; Cynthia McGuirl of Thomaston; and Joelle Webber of Westport Island.

Artist books use the structure or function of the traditional book to express artists’ ideas, and can have either traditional book formats or sculptural formats that incorporate images, calligraphy, experimental bindings, and/or mixed media. 

Starting the weekend of November 30, the exhibition will include a Holiday Pop-Up Shop of seasonal gifts made by the artists, including cards, ornaments, small works, and decorative papers. 

The public also is invited to two free, drop-in workshops. The first, “Simple Books” with Naomi Howe and Cynthia McGuirl, will be available anytime during gallery hours on Saturday, December 2. Adults, families, and children will learn how to sew the pamphlet stitch, make an eight-page booklet from a single sheet of paper, and more.

On Saturday, December 9, Joelle Webber will offer “Paper Accordion Ball Ornaments,” a workshop geared for all ages and abilities. A $5 kit includes materials; tools and instruction will be provided throughout the day.

Midcoast Maine Books Arts is a collective formed to create a vibrant community of professional and aspiring book artists and collectors here in Maine, through exhibitions, workshops, and other events. The group meets on the second Thursday of every other month at Maine Media College + Workshops or via Zoom. For more information about the exhibition and future events and workshops, visit the Midcoast Maine Book Arts page on Facebook. 

Michael Good Gallery is open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving weekend) or by appointment.

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