The Extended Ear: An Artist Book Fair

Show Statement A publication is a declaration, product, and means of dissemination all at once. Performing multiple functions, printed matter and publications allow writer and reader to connect, a meeting of minds through language. A precursor of the digital file, books are the original reproducible object, encouraging exchange, interchangeability, and wide dissemination. The Extended Ear: An Artist Book Fair celebrates and questions the act of publication. At a time when everyone is making a podcast, starting a vlog, or publishing a newsletter, what does it mean to publish? What does it mean to publicly memorialize our thoughts, and why are artists in particular drawn to this act, whether through print, image, video, or sound? What is it about the artmaking process that so often leads to an output through print and language? Part of language’s power is in its ability to rapidly replicate, but does publishing become more or less powerful with the access provided by social platforms and self-publishing options? Why is it culturally important to have a distinctive voice? And if everyone is talking, who is listening? Call Details We’re looking for books (1-10 copies), prints (1-10 copies), pdfs, and sound works (podcasts, spoken word recordings, interviews, etc) to feature in Carnation Contemporary’s local book fair! Participating artists may submit up to 3 works (up to 1-10 copies each) for inclusion. Please indicate whether your work is for sale or not. For sale works must have price and artist’s Venmo details clearly indicated and attached to the work. Works may be shipped in advance or dropped off at Carnation Contemporary. For shipped works, please include a return mailing label. Drop-off and shipping info: Works may be shipped in advance or dropped off at Carnation Contemporary. For shipped works, please include a return mailing label. Shipping details will be emailed upon receipt of submission form. Works shipped should arrive by February 25.