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 10 artists from across the US: Jim Casey, Brian Dettmer, Colette Fu, Samuelle Greene, Cheryl Gross, Amanda Love, Sarah Matthews, Cheryl R. Riley, Susan Rostow, and Diana Schmertz.

Hero Artwork Caption: Susan Rostow, COCHINEAL, 2008-2023. A Sculptural book, mixed media, dry-point prints on paper, hand-painted with home-made pigmented paints, 16 x 21 x 16 inches. Image courtesy of the artist.

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.