Camden Public Library welcomes multimedia artist Larry Clifford for his exhibit “Off the Shelf,” featuring large-scale prints of his geometrically intricate BiblioQuilts made from salvaged books. On view in the Picker Room Gallery during the month of January.*

Clifford’s BiblioQuilts and murals are created using distressed books that were salvaged from basements, attics, and public libraries throughout Maine, according to CPL, in a news release. He repurposes every part of the books—the covers, the pages, the spines—breathing new life into the materials with the addition of dyes, inks, and acrylics.

“Postcards, maps, and other ephemera may be tempting, but I restrict my palette to neglected books,” Clifford says. “That’s what makes the work both challenging and unique.”

Quilts made from recycled cloth are nothing new. But the combination of mixed media and repurposed books presents a whole new challenge. Each piece is comprised of thousands of “tiles” that were meticulously hand-cut from discarded or damaged hardcovers – books that no one has read or paid attention to in decades. Most were on their way to the dump.

“I carry an inventory of pre-made BiblioQuilts, and I collaborate with families, libraries, and communities on commissioned pieces,” says Clifford. “My goal is to create original works-of-art that evoke warm memories for everyone involved. The books that my clients supply may be damaged, deaccessioned, or obsolete – but they should never be forgotten.”

After earning a B.A. in Art from Northwestern University then an M.A. in Biomedical Communications from the University of Texas, Larry Clifford spent 15 years producing award-winning biomedical illustrations, with an emphasis on traditional media like pen-and-ink, carbon dust, and watercolor.

Clifford then switched to strategic planning, marketing, and business development for the nonprofit sector. More recently he is thrilled to be getting back to his roots as a maker of fine crafts.

*The Picker Room is also used for programs, events, and private meetings. Check the calendar and call the library to ensure the Picker Room is open for viewing.