WMU: Book Arts in Europe (Faculty-led)

In this course students tour Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, visiting museums, libraries, and other historic sites, with a particular emphasis on traditional printing, papermaking, and book arts studios. Although the course has an emphasis in Studio Art and Graphic Design, it is designed for students from many departments of study at WMU. Traditionally the publication of books has been a collaborative effort, with people from many disciplines contributing: writers, artists, and craftsmen. This course is designed for student from all disciplines within the university, to foster a rich collaboration. In past years there have been students from Art, English, Creative Writing, Education, History, Science, and Chemical and Paper Engineering who have participated. All instruction in printing, papermaking, and bookbinding will be given at an introductory level, to give students the opportunity to explore new experiences in these beautiful, historic settings. The projects give the group a focus for the trip and allow access to local studios and resident instructors. This allows students to meet people from the host countries and have a more immersive experience in the local culture. While students will have the opportunity to visit five European countries and tour many historic sites, they will also come away with hand-printed books and posters to preserve and cherish from their trip.