A Virtual Curator Talk with Eric Ensley and Emily Martin

Join Eric Ensley and Emily Martin, co-curators of Making the Book, Past and Present, for a behind-the-scenes look at their Main Library Gallery exhibition. Find out how they decided which Special Collections & Archives materials to share with visitors, discover more about some of the curators' favorite items, and learn why it is so important to show modern book art in conversation with historic books. 

Registration is required to attend this free virtual event.  
Register here: RSVP

Eric Ensley is the curator of rare book and maps in the University of Iowa Libraries Special Collections & Archives. 

Emily Martin is a book artist and adjunct assistant professor of bookbinding and book arts at the University of Iowa Center for the Book.

About the exhibit:   
Making the Book, Past and Present explores the intersections of history, art, and practicality. What can we learn by placing books, materials, and makers from the Middle Ages through today in conversation with one another? Many techniques and materials common centuries ago still inspire contemporary book artists and bookbinders. The exhibition features a global selection of rare historic books and modern book art. From medieval manuscripts and early modern works to recent book sculptures, pop-ups, and books that move, these Special Collections & Archives materials shown together make a visual feast representing the strong connection between books and makers past and present.