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Altered Sketchbook – Section 1

I’m working on an’altered’ hardback sketchbook, which differs from any I’ve done before. One difference is that every page is illustrated, the backs of the pages as well as the fronts. Someone will be able to open the book anywhere and see a double page spread illustration with papercut work.

The other difference is that most of the book will be illustrated and cut – not just the central 12 pages. I stick two pages together between spreads for strength and because I like to papercut thick paper. I intend to make about five sections, each with a different scene. It’ll be like five books in one – and will be a lot of work!

So far I’ve done the first section – a night wood scene with badgers and owls beneath a crescent moon:

The first spread of my altered sketchbook.
The first spread of my altered sketchbook.
The second spread of my altered sketchbook.
The second spread of my altered sketchbook.
Spread three of my altered sketchbook.
Spread three of my altered sketchbook. Note the reverse side of the badgers :)
Spread four of my altered sketchbook.
Spread four of my altered sketchbook. Note the backs of the owls :)

Sections to come? Perhaps, deer, foxes, nests… I’m not out of the woods yet!

7 thoughts on “Altered Sketchbook – Section 1

  1. This looks fabulous Alexi – so much work!

    1. Thank you Denise! It’ll take me a long time to finish :)

  2. Wow-
    What a wonderful, intricate world you have made. ?? I can imagine how much pleasure you might derive from being deeply in it: pondering, planning, creating, and then participating in what actually happens.
    Bravo you; that is a work of life and real passion.

    1. Thank you Fifi, yes I do enjoy getting thoroughly absorbed in this intricate world. Sometimes i get caught up in perhaps too much detail! :)

  3. When I saw your works first time they left me speechless, I thought how it is possible for a human hand to do something like this.If you asked me which of your works is the most beautiful I would not be able to decide-they all so fabulous! You are a real artist, I admire you and thank you for make more beautiful my day whenever I look at some of your work. :)

    1. Hi Aleksandra, thank you very much for your lovely words about my work, they have made my day :) Thank you!

  4. […] been working on my Altered Sketchbook and have added the next section, section 2, a nest in the undergrowth. I’ve based it on a […]

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