Nature and the Book: 2025
Sponsored by Puget Sound Book Artists
Bloedel Reserve is pleased to present “Nature and the Book: 2025”, a compelling exhibition showcasing the work of artists whose creative practices are deeply inspired by the natural world. This exhibition highlights the dynamic intersection between nature, art, and the printed page, exploring themes of sustainability, climate change, and the inherent beauty found in the environment. Locating this exhibit in the Founders’ former residence at the Reserve pays homage to their passion for collecting books focused on the natural world. The exhibit is organized by the Puget Sound Book Artists (PSBA) organization and Bloedel Reserve.
From intricate depictions of plant life to reflections on ecological change, the pieces in this exhibit use the book form as a medium to express both the fragility and resilience of our natural surroundings. Artists have drawn upon their unique environments in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, bringing attention to the patterns, colors, and textures found in the flora and fauna that surround us.
The exhibit also delves into pressing contemporary concerns, using nature as a lens through which to engage with global issues like sustainability and climate change. Through the language of printmaking, bookbinding, and mixed media, artists invite us to consider the role of books as both artistic objects and vehicles for conveying vital messages about the future of our planet.
Included in the exhibit are former creative residents of the Reserve including Lou Cabeen, Pamela Wachtler-Fermanis, Catherine Alice Michaelis and Jan Dove.
PSBA, now in its 15th year, is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to creating a spirit of community among book artists and those who love books. PSBA members use a wide variety of creative means and methods to create interactive artist books that delight the viewer, convey an idea, communicate an experience, express a concern, spark a conversation, and tell stories.
PSBA seeks to share this wealth through exhibitions and community outreach. The organization offers free membership for students and strives to encourage support for emerging book artists. For more information about PSBA, please take one of our brochures during the exhibit and visit our website: https://pugetsoundbookartists.wildapricot.org.
Join us in celebrating the power of art to provoke thought, inspire change, and deepen our connection to the world around us. “Nature and the Book: 2025” promises to be a thought-provoking and visually stunning exhibition for all who care about the environment and the art of the book.
Curators:
Jane Carlin
Lou Cabeen
Deborah Greenwood
Lucia Harrison
The exhibition takes place during business hours in the Bloedel Reserve Residence, March 4 – April 27 and is free with your timed admission ticket.
Purchase timed tickets in advance online here.
Don’t miss a panel discussion with some of the artists on April 1 – details here.
Meet one of the curators, Jane Carlin, at the Residence on March 22 or April 2.
