Sketchbooks as a ‘way of seeing’

The analogy will likely ring true for many designers and artists, who use notebooks and sketchbooks as a place free from judgment where ideas and pictures can be scribbled down, waiting for a time when they can be built or (or disregarded).

Maher’s sketchbooks and jottings are soon to be published in a beautiful book from Roads publishing, designed by Dublin-based consultancy Conor & David.

The consultancy chose to have the first half of the book printed on rough Olin, ‘giving a very organic feel both to the touch and the eye’, says Roads; while the second half, which showcases the artist’s work, printed on glossy photographic paper.

The book gives an illustrated overview of how ideas go on to form final works, delineating their evolutionary shifts and the sparks that form the full-fledged final pieces.

Maher started out drawing and painting, before moving into animation, photography, film, installation and sculpture, and sees her sketchbooks as ‘a way of seeing the future direction of your work’.

You can find out more about Maher and the book on this video. 

Reservoir: Sketchbooks & Selected Works by Alice Maher is published by Roads on 9 September, priced £40 €45. The book is also available as a slip-cased de-luxe Limited Edition, complete with one of 100 intaglio prints handmade, and signed and numbered by the artist.