Sustainable arts association Atelier Páipéar is returning to The Tea Houses, Kilkenny, on 10 – 12 July 2026 with an exciting new offering – an Artist Book Fair, exploring the theme of ‘Interconnectivity’.
Developed in response to an open call earlier this year, the book fair will showcase a diverse collection of artist’s books created by local and national artists, writers, designers, photographers, illustrators and emerging creatives.
An artist’s book is a specific genre of art, where the artist book itself is the work of art – not the content. Artist’s books can be quite sculptural and interactive, and are usually one-off pieces of art.
The featured artworks also aim to examine the theme of “Interconnectivity” – connections between people, communities and nature, at a time of growing disconnection.
Visitors to the fair can expect to find a vibrant range of hand-bound, imaginative and experimental pieces, that challenge the conventional idea of a book!
A key focus of the project is sustainability, with all participating artists requested to create their works using existing or repurposed studio waste materials.
Atelier Páipéar co-founder Michelle McMahon said:
“The Artist Book Fair is an opportunity for artists to think differently about off-cuts, misprints and other studio waste materials. It’s like a challenge to think creatively about waste, and to give these otherwise waste products a life beyond the recycling bin. In doing so, we hope to inspire others to have a more sustainable approach to acquiring and creating with art materials”.
Lukas Dwan, co-founder of Atelier Páipéar, said this year’s exhibition has definitely challenged artists to create unique bodies of work:
“It’s been amazing to see how each of the 15 participating artists has interpreted the ‘artist book’ genre and the theme of interconnectivity. We have some stunning one-off sculptural pieces by local artist Saturio Alonso. We have an exclusive collection of beautiful, handmade artist books by Gypsy Ray, with detailed drawings and photos taken by the artist / photographer herself. We will also have well-known international artist’s book makers Red Fox Press exhibiting with us. So, attendees can expect to find a truly eclectic range of artworks”.
The launch is taking place this Friday evening, 10th July, 17:30 – 20:00, and will feature live music from Ciarán Mac Eochaidh.
This is BYO event.
Admission is free and all are welcome.
Artist books will be offered for sale at the opening event and across the weekend from 10:00 – 17:00, with all proceeds going directly back to the artists.
The organisers wish to express their gratitude to Tea Houses curator Shane Gallagher and Kilkenny Arts Office for supporting the Artist Book Fair.
