Idea:

My graduating show for the BFA program at Florida State University presented a unique issue that designers do not usually encounter. How does a graphic design student showcase design in a gallery setting next to oil paintings and sculptures? I decided I should choose something that I learned to love doing while earning my degree that addresses issues of design (type, image, packaging, presentation) while still fitting into a fine art environment. This is what led me to create a series of artist books.

The next problem was how to present books in a museum such that people would feel free to touch them and spend time with them. The solution was to create a reading room. The room was to have a vintage, nostalgic feel to match the look of the books. It was to have a level of comfort that would allow gallery patrons to feel at ease with entering the space and touching the books. And it worked.

The show opened on April 8th, 2005 in the Museum of Fine Arts of Florida State University. People sat down and looked through the books just as I'd hoped they would.

monet@lunarfusion.com