Material World explores the concept of a book and encourages viewers to question the traditional understanding of what constitutes a book. Artists and bookbinders from the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Guild of Book Workers have been challenged to use non-traditional mediums to create their works.
This exhibit is produced in collaboration with the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Guild of Book Workers. The Guild of Book Workers promotes interest in and awareness of the tradition of the book and paper arts by maintaining high standards of workmanship, hosting educational opportunities, and sponsoring exhibits. The Delaware Valley Chapter — one of ten chapters in the US — is located in the Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware tri-state area with activities centered in Philadelphia.
On view September 4 to December 9, 2024. This exhibition is free and open to the public. Displays are located in two areas on the 1st floor of the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center: in the Kamin Gallery and next to the Circulation desk (view floor plan).
Penn faculty, staff, and students must swipe their PennCard for access. Visitors from outside the Penn community must present a current, valid government or school-issued photo ID that contains an expiration date. Find more information to plan your visit.
While you're in Van Pelt, experience our related exhibit on the sixth floor, The Movement of Books. Using rare books, video footage, and interactive models, this exhibit explores the myriad ways books move — as physical objects in different formats, and across space and time.
Featured image: “There Are No Words,” an Embroidered Scroll by Meg Kennedy.