The Three Meetings

Sixteen New Brunswick artists arrived for the first “book meeting” at Hooper’s Studio in Hampton, September 2007. No-one had preconceived ideas; they were there simply to explore the concept of books. The discussion began and their enthusiasm was contagious as ideas bounced creatively back and forth. The artists were so taken with the topic that all sixteen of them stayed with the project from this initial meeting to the final exhibit. Peter Powning, also from New Brunswick; and Andrea and Brian Meeson of Toronto, became involved before the end of the year.

The idea of working towards an exhibit was considered at this time, but it wasn’t until George Fry took it to Kathryn McCarroll, Director of the Saint John Arts Centre, that the idea became solid. Kathryn provided a framework into which dates and times had to be fitted. Artists’ ideas blossomed, new venues (Fredericton, Moncton, Halifax), were suggested and a subsequent meeting at the Arts Centre in January 2008 had all nineteen artists committed to realistic deadlines.

By June 08, the majority of the artists were close to completing their books. They met at Susan Judah’s house near Fredericton. Many of them brought their work, or photos of their work to share with each other. This third and final meeting encapsulated everything that made the project so vibrant and exciting.

The artists, many of them well established, some just emerging, met with such collegiality and a sense of support that the room buzzed with ideas, enthusiasm, and constructive critique.