Publishing manifestos

More about the book

Independent publishing, art publishing, and related movements such as zines and DIY have surged in the past two decades, coinciding with the rise of art book fairs as vital venues for artistic expression. This resurgence mirrors a similar boom in the 1960s and 1970s, influenced by the culture's "linguistic turn." Today, art publishing faces the challenges posed by the internet's overwhelming flow of language and imagery, yet the printed book remains a crucial medium for artists seeking visibility and tangibility. This collection gathers diverse texts from artists, authors, editors, and activists, exploring the expanding landscape of art practice. It begins with historical contributions from figures like Gertrude Stein and Jorge-Luis Borges, while the majority of texts are contemporary, featuring voices such as Tauba Auerbach and Temporary Services. Contributors discuss innovative production methods, the political potential of publishing, and the collective power of bookmaking, addressing themes like artists' books, appropriation, and queer identities. Many texts are presented in facsimile, including a unique handwritten newspaper from South Africa. The collection encompasses a range of tones—from mission statements to playful explorations—laying the conceptual groundwork for this evolving field of practice and theory.