Collaboration get together

Well, in amongst the madness that is the end of the year, Susan and I and our books got together on Wednesday, but we both knew there wouldn't be an opportunity to post until Friday so here we are; better late than never!

It was once again a wonderful get together, and a fascinating experience as we explored each other's books.

It was quite interesting to discover how intriguing the books were, even tho we were both familiar with the envelopes given that they were exactly the same. We had also had a glimpse of where the other was headed last Friday; but wow - it was totally different to experience the completed books.

For now, they are bundled together using some of Jennifer's Habu thread that made its way across the world to us here and which is a perfect addition to the work. It plays a role and brings Jennifer into play  with our books as well! We are finalising thoughts for the final presentation - soft or hard? box or pouch? see-thru or opaque? We shall see...

Anyhow, both books tell their stories in unique and individual ways, and both books still appear harmonious and complementary, despite our different approaches to finishing the envelopes and making the artworks within.

We thought we might photograph a few of the envelopes with matching artworks just to share; each of us will no doubt tell our own stories on another post...

These pre-made craft paper envelopes were where it all began and they sparked Susan's imagination. Who would have thought this humble envelope would have led us on such a fabulous adventure?

I think we are both still going thru a bit of as crush-phase with tracing paper.  We were both so happy that we included a couple of transparent envelopes - they added so much interest and softened things, hinted at but didn't disclose...

One of my favourites was this soft grey envelope. I also love what we both put inside it, and what Susan did to the outside of it.

One of the things I have noticed about this collaboration is that we are both acutely aware of the process, and the experience we are both having. At times, we seem to step back and observe ourselves and comment on it and talk about. This time we were both surprised by how intrigued we were with the work; how we felt a sense of excitement, inquiry and discovery as we sat in front of the envelopes and began to explore. I let out little sighs of "ohhh..." and squeals of delight when something beautiful or unexpected was revealed.

Despite the early challenges, this has been another wonderful book to make together, thanks Susan!