A national exhibition of original moveable and handmade books will open at the Florida Craftsmen Gallery on Friday.

News release:

‘Scissors: Pop-up’

For more than 700 years, artists, philosophers and scientists have been using the book form as a tool to teach anatomy, make astronomical predictions, navigate the seas, and create codes. Generally, these handmade books were used for scholarly purposes, yet their creators tried to challenge the two-dimensional design by adding moveable parts. It was during the 18th century that the first books for entertainment appeared, largely targeting children as their audience. The renaissance of the moveable book began in the mid-1960s and still continues today.

In addition to the book form, these artists utilize flaps, revolving parts, and other moveable pieces to execute a contemporary approach to the handmade book.  With over 50 participating artists and 100 plus original designs, visitors to this exhibition will find an elegant visual and kinetic tour of paper sculptures, mechanical marvels and the whimsical children’s book. 

This event is free and open to the public.

WHEN: Friday through Oct. 31, with an opening reception from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday

WHERE: Florida Craftsmen Klein Family Gallery, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 33701

Here are some images from the show:

“Reconstruction,” Andre Lee, New York, N.Y.

“Old Fear/ New Fear (Book after Park MacArthur),” Martin Casuso, Miami

“Tattoo II,” Rosemarie Chiarlone, Miami Beach

“A Ritual to Read Each Other,” Susan Lowdermilk, Eugene, Ore.