Unplug, Unwind, and Dive Into the Magic of Reading

Imagine a time when books were tiny treasure chests. Before mass printing, artisans handcrafted each one. They bound them in leather and adorned them with clasps and jewels. As a result, these treasures served as fashion statements, exuding wisdom and luxury. Moreover, medieval books were meticulously designed and often illustrated by hand. With shimmering gold leaf and intricate borders, their appeal was further elevated. Far more than simple reads, these creations celebrated the glamour of literature. Read Unplug, Unwind, and Dive Into the Magic of Reading.

During the Renaissance, books underwent a bold makeover. Thanks to the printing press, books became more accessible; however, this did not diminish their artistry. Cover art grew more daring, while typography evolved into an art form. Additionally, vibrant hand-painted illustrations infused books with personality. Later, the Victorian era took this artistic tradition even further. Cloth-bound books in a spectrum of colours, adorned with gold-stamped patterns, became irresistible objects of admiration.

Carrie Mae Weems: Varying Shades of Brown, The Bell / Brown Arts Institute, Brown University, September 18, 2023 – December 3, 2023. Photography by Julia Featheringill. 

Fast forward to today, and Carrie Mae Weems is redefining the concept of books for modern collectors. Known for her exploration of race, identity, and history, Weems presents Varying Shades of Brown. This limited-edition masterpiece, created in collaboration with New York’s Luminosity Lab, is truly extraordinary. With only 500 Copies printed it is not just a book, it is a work of art.

Carrie Mae Weems: Varying Shades of Brown, The Book Photographer The Bell / Brown Arts Institute. Design Direction Luminosity Lab

To achieve this, Luminosity Lab designed the book in five unique versions. Each version features altered signature sequences, thereby giving every copy a ‘fingerprint‘. Furthermore, the studio is renowned for blending art and design to transform books into immersive, collectable treasures.

For those lucky enough to own one, this book offers an experience, not just a read. Carrie Mae Weems, celebrated for exploring identity and culture, provides a powerful journey through her masterpiece.

The book’s design reflects pure luxury, minimalist yet striking. Importantly, it aligns deeply with Weems’ artistic vision. Each of the five versions challenges readers to interpret its meaning, thereby pushing the boundaries of what defines a “limited edition.”

Luminosity Lab Various Shades of Brown 2, The Book Photographer

Inspired by The Lindemann Performing Arts Centre at Brown University, the book echoes the centre’s transformative nature. Designed by REX Architects, The Lindemann offers spatial and acoustic flexibility. Similarly, Varying Shades of Brown plays with layout and sequencing. In doing so, it offers five unique configurations.

Each copy provides a fresh perspective on Weems’ powerful art. The modern cover mirrors The Lindemann’s iconic scalloped aluminium façade. Inside, the layout evokes the meditative act of turning vellum pages in medieval manuscripts. Moreover, when fully opened, the book aligns with The Lindemann’s façade. Thus, it seamlessly blends with Weems’ Remember to Dream artwork projection.

Caleb Cain Marcus, founder of Luminosity Lab and the book’s designer, emphasised the importance of typography and colour.

“They draw upon our reservoir of semiotics to set the mood and cadence that connects with our subconscious mind,” he explains.

Through this approach, readers don’t just view the art. Instead, they feel and interpret it, experiencing a sensory journey infused with The Lindemann’s energy.

The book originates from Carrie Mae Weems’ 2023 residency at Brown University. As the first Agnes Gund Professor of Art and Social Justice, Weems created installations across the campus. Collaborating with students, she developed this book for the IGNITE Series. Thus, it merges storytelling with architectural vision.

Facade of The Lindemann Performing Arts Center, designed by REX Architects. Photography by Iwan Baan.

For over four decades, Weems has pioneered conceptual art. Her work examines identity, history, and power. Consequently, this book continues her legacy, exploring these profound themes.

Ultimately, Varying Shades of Brown is a statement piece, a sculptural object, and a keepsake. Owners don’t simply shelve it, they display and revisit it. Therefore, it’s a collector’s dream, proving that books still push boundaries in a screen-dominated era.

Even if you never hold a copy, its existence reminds us of the enduring power of books. They can transcend stories to become art, history, and bold statements. If you’re seeking a read that doubles as an art piece, Varying Shades of Brown is for you. However, with only 500 copies, act fast, or risk letting this masterpiece slip away.

If you enjoyed reading Unplug, Unwind, and Dive Into the Magic of Reading then why not read Stepping Into The World of Kids Art for Adults?

.Cent Magazine London Be Inspired; Get Involved

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