New Zealand’s art publications will finally be getting the recognition they deserve with the launch of Off The Press: The Art Book Directory. Artists and publishers from around the country are invited to submit their latest books, monographs and catalogues for the free guide, which will be available nationwide.
Helping shine a light on New Zealand’s arts community
With many art books in New Zealand being difficult to find and buy, the project will shine a light on these specialist titles – online and offline. The guide will curate over 50 recently published works and is a labour of love for Soar Print’s Stuart Shepherd.
“Most of the arts publications in New Zealand are printed in very short runs which makes it a challenge for people to find the publications created by our arts community,” said Stuart. “With only a few specialist booksellers remaining in this country, and little in the way of an online presence, there’s a real need for a guide like Off The Press to catalogue these works.”
Off The Press will be edited and designed by Katie Kerr, a graphic designer and co-founder of GLORIA and Strange Events.
“Arts publications tend to be carefully-crafted objects, and often experimental in both editorial and design,” said Katie. “Without a better platform for national exposure, there is a real possibility of this alternative realm of publishing disappearing in New Zealand. Through Off the Press, we hope to champion both the publishers and the books, showcasing a diverse body of thought relating to art, design, theory and practice – while also exhibiting the creative powers of New Zealand's specialist bookmakers.”
Ensuring arts publications can be found offline and online
Soar Print’s Partica digital publishing technology will be put to good use to create a free mobile edition for Off The Press. The guide will also have digital and print ISBN numbers, ensuring every publication included will be a full searchable database recorded offline and online.
Where you’ll find Off The Press
The first edition of the semi-annual publication will be launched at Artweek Auckland in October 2018. Copies will be distributed to selected independent booksellers, galleries, museums, tertiary education institutions and participating publishers and artists.
It also marks the first series of occasional publications, guides and directories by Soar Print in support of New Zealand’s arts community.
Keen to submit your arts publication?
Submissions are now being accepted for Off The Press: The Art Book Directory. Spaces are limited to recent and upcoming publications and will be accepted on the approval of the guide’s editorial team:
