I am a 24 year old artist living in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I have a BA in studio art, and I currently work out of my home in Grand Rapids. My main body of work consists of handmade books and digital illustrations.

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Being in dialogue with the community around me through art shows, art markets, and interactive projects is an important aspect of my work. I believe in the need for art to be representative of and accessible to everyone, and strive to make that a reality in the world around me. Included in this mission is my work creating books that engage the senses and my interactive Equity projects.

 

I find enjoyment in the hands-on nature of bookbinding, and the freedom to explore different mediums, binding techniques, purposes, etc., that can be used, and constantly toying with our understanding of what a book is. In balance with the labor-intensive bookmaking process, I enjoy the non-commital creative freedom that comes with the use of a digital platform when creating illustrations. This medium allows me to experiment with textures and colors, manipulate images, develop and discover new ways of creating. I have illustrated and published two books so far, and others are in the works.

 

I believe that one's creativity is never confined to one skill or medium. I have worked in ceramics, life drawing, painting, and mixed media, and constantly incorporate that experience into my work with books.

 

Sofia De Jong