The Art of the Book

Although an exhibition about books may sound stuffy and boring, visitors to Russell Museum and the Art of the Book, are discovering a humerous aspect to rare books. "A must see, informative, yet funny exhibition that engages children and adults alike."

The Art of the Book exhibition considers how the role of the book influenced the social and cultural landscape of Russell from 1840 to 1960. Rare books in Russell Museum/Te Whare Taonga o Kororareka’s collection are brought out of hiding and in to the light. What information was available for people to read and what did that information look like? How much influence did printed information from the ‘Mother Country’ have? This exhibition reveals the integral part that books played in forming and substantiating ideology, setting and reflecting norms, as well as confirming what was acceptable daily practice. These delightful discoveries show us.

Ailments of the NZ Dairy Cow by J E Tomlinson (1929). "Therapy for sprains - Use cold water, or tie the animal in a creek or pond for one hour twice daily." Foulsham’s Almanack (1934) predictions - "Crime will be active, and many cases of arson and highway robbery will occur. A well-known actress will be attacked."

Books and their words don’t need an internet connection or electricity in order to transport us. The Art of a book is its ability to cultivate experiences through other people’s eyes.

Event listed by Marsha Davis

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