Canelino – Can(vas)-e-Lino(cut)
Redefining Artist-Spectator Engagement
Canelino is a visionary artist’s book project that seeks to revolutionize the traditional boundaries between artists, their creations, and the audience. The initiative is built on the principle of fostering a dynamic and interactive ecosystem where art becomes a bridge, connecting individuals through creativity, tradition, and global economic participation.
The Concept
At its core, the Canelino project is a celebration of collaboration, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary art. The project partners with skilled bookbinders who use age-old techniques passed down through generations. Together, they create high-quality notebooks and sketchbooks that are not just functional, but also pieces of art.
Each book is adorned with original artwork on its cover, designed by artists participating in the project. These covers transform the books into visual masterpieces, while the blank interior pages serve as a canvas for the buyer’s own expressions. Whether used for journaling, sketching, or writing, the books invite their owners to become co-creators in an artistic journey, making each book deeply personal and unique.
Strengthening the Artisan Community
Canelino places a significant emphasis on sustaining traditional craftsmanship by collaborating with local bookbinders. These artisans, who utilize techniques that have stood the test of time, are integral to the project. By involving them in the production process, Canelino not only preserves this valuable heritage but also provides economic opportunities and global visibility to these skilled workers.
Interactive Engagement through Exhibitions
What sets Canelino apart is its innovative use of these artist’s books in interactive exhibitions. Buyers of the books are encouraged to participate in an open call process, where they can submit their used or personalized books for public display. The registration process ensures that each submission is thoughtfully cataloged and included.
The submitted books are then curated into exhibitions, showcasing the diverse ways in which individuals have interacted with the blank pages. This creates a fascinating dialogue between the artist, the buyer, and the audience. Each book becomes a narrative, weaving together the creator’s vision and the participant’s imagination.
After the exhibition, the books are returned to their owners, enriched by their journey and the stories they’ve shared with the wider community. These exhibitions not only celebrate art but also foster a sense of community and shared creativity.
The Global Vision
Canelino’s mission extends beyond regional boundaries, aiming to create a global conversation around art, tradition, and innovation. By integrating traditional craftsmanship into the framework of a global market economy, the project highlights the relevance and adaptability of age-old techniques in today’s fast-paced world.
Additionally, by involving customers in the creative process and exhibiting their contributions, Canelino challenges the conventional notions of the artist and spectator, presenting a model where everyone is an active participant in the creative ecosystem.
Canelino is much more than an artist’s book project; it is a transformative initiative that bridges the gap between creation and participation. By bringing together artists, traditional craftsmen, and the global community, it creates a space where art becomes a shared experience rather than a static entity.
Through its notebooks and sketchbooks, Canelino not only preserves the essence of traditional craftsmanship but also inspires creativity and dialogue. The interactive exhibitions elevate these books from mere objects to living works of art, embodying the collective imagination of a global audience. This project is a shining example of how art can connect, inspire, and evolve, leaving an indelible mark on everyone it touches.
