Field Work is a vibrant and multifaceted exhibition that explores the many meanings of "field" from geographic landscapes and personal histories to spiritual realms and social commentary. Artists responded to an open call with imaginative interpretations that blend theme, book structure, and artistic expression. Their work spans diverse terrains, both literal and metaphorical: from meadows and coastlines to distant lands like Tunisia and Tibet; from intimate memories and regional histories to tributes honoring artistic predecessors. The exhibition invites viewers to consider how place, time, and perspective shape our understanding of the world around us.
The artists "field work" also delves into ecological interdependence, spiritual reflection, and pressing social issues. Naturalists highlight flora and fauna from their chosen sit spots, while others explore dreamscapes, magical parables, and moments of personal or collective significance. Whether grounded in the earth or reaching toward the ethereal, each piece contributes to a rich tapestry of voices and visions. Presented by the Puget Sound Book Artists (PSBA), this exhibition celebrates the intersection of art, education, and community.
Field Work will be displayed on the 2nd (main) floor of the Daniel J. Evans Library through December 12, 2025.
Join us for two open case events this quarter where you can learn more about the materials on display. These events will take place in the library's 2nd floor classroom, LIB 2302D, on these dates:
The Rare Books Room staff have curated a collection in tandem with the theme of the Puget Sound Book Artists’ 14th Annual Members’ Exhibition: Field Work, on display throughout the Daniel J. Evans Library.
This collection embodies the concept of field work in both conventional and non-conventional ways. Field work is traditionally defined as pragmatic, hands-on work or research outside of an office, studio, or lab. It asks one to immerse oneself in direct experience, to collect data to formulate ideas and artifacts. However, field work can also be a particular branch of study or sphere of interest. Field work can be understood as linguistic aphorisms, such as “out in left field” or “the field is wide open.” The field, and fieldwork, can refer to the land, the country, and the body. It could be the space where all those entities connect and intersect. The field may be understood as an exploration of an internal landscape and the way that one relates to one’s body, mind, and soul. Field work can be agricultural, spiritual, scientific, or an articulation of the complex aspects of identity. The Rare Books Room’s Field Work exhibition consists of many handmade and non-conventional books, some of which take on experimental form as well as unconventional bindings and illustration methods.
You can read more about this display here.