Contemporary Volumes

Books have long served as vessels of knowledge, storytelling, and memory. In this exhibition, the book is reimagined not only as an object of content, but as a site of transformation—where material, meaning, and message converge. Through sculpture, installation, and mixed media, Contemporary Volumes explores how artists use the form, function, and symbolism of books to challenge conventions, reshape narratives, and expand the possibilities of both art and language.

Contemporary Volumes features the works of nine artists from across the US: Brian Dettmer, Colette Fu, Samuelle Green, Cheryl Gross, Amanda Love, Sarah Matthews, Cheryl R. Riley, Susan Rostow, and Diana Schmertz.

Support for this exhibition is provided by

Hero Captions: All images courtesy of the artists.
Front: Brian Dettmer, Illustrated Universe (detail), 2020. Hardcover books, acrylic varnish. Susan Rostow, COCHINEAL (detail), 2017. Dry-point prints on paper with home-made pigmented paints. Cheryl R. Riley, MALE I, 2023. Acrylic on 1957 Encyclopedia Pages (Lex Jet 170 gram stock paper). Colette Fu, Kaifuna (detail), 2008-2023. Archival inkjet pop-up book with hemp cover.
Top: Brian Dettmer, The World At Home (detail), 2019. Hardcover Books, Acrylic Varnish.

Gallery Artwork Caption: Colette Fu, Kaifuna, 2008-2023. Archival inkjet pop-up book with hemp cover, 17 x 25 inches. Image courtesy of the artist. Brian Dettmer, The World At Home, 2019. Hardcover books, acrylic varnish, and pedestal, 47 x 30 x 2.5 inches. Image courtesy of the artist. Diana Schmertz, 1836 Project, 2022. Laser cut ink and watercolor paintings on paper, 29 x 44 inches. Image courtesy of the artist.