Data Driven Artist's Book by Mel Benkert
"Data Driven is a consideration of conditional if...then statements to process user input. The sculptural book explores sequenced data and shifting patterns represented by color blocks on the page. As a user interacts with the object, the visual outcome is changed. The combo-coptic stitch joins the signatures, creating a soft text block of content to parse. The discarded chip boards, once activated by programming code, are repurposed here as book covers and transitional support. The dos-a-dos binding flexes when handled, like a physical, conditional statement. When engaged, the form reveals different color blocked data, changing the outcome and altering the experience.
circuit boards, handmade paper, print catalog cut-outs, waxed linen, beading thread, acid-free adhesive" - Mel Benkert
2.2x" x 2.75" x 2.75"
*Consignment item. Not eligible for 10% membership discount. All consignment purchases are final and non-refundable once shipped.
"Data Driven is a consideration of conditional if...then statements to process user input. The sculptural book explores sequenced data and shifting patterns represented by color blocks on the page. As a user interacts with the object, the visual outcome is changed. The combo-coptic stitch joins the signatures, creating a soft text block of content to parse. The discarded chip boards, once activated by programming code, are repurposed here as book covers and transitional support. The dos-a-dos binding flexes when handled, like a physical, conditional statement. When engaged, the form reveals different color blocked data, changing the outcome and altering the experience.
circuit boards, handmade paper, print catalog cut-outs, waxed linen, beading thread, acid-free adhesive" - Mel Benkert
2.2x" x 2.75" x 2.75"
*Consignment item. Not eligible for 10% membership discount. All consignment purchases are final and non-refundable once shipped.
"Data Driven is a consideration of conditional if...then statements to process user input. The sculptural book explores sequenced data and shifting patterns represented by color blocks on the page. As a user interacts with the object, the visual outcome is changed. The combo-coptic stitch joins the signatures, creating a soft text block of content to parse. The discarded chip boards, once activated by programming code, are repurposed here as book covers and transitional support. The dos-a-dos binding flexes when handled, like a physical, conditional statement. When engaged, the form reveals different color blocked data, changing the outcome and altering the experience.
circuit boards, handmade paper, print catalog cut-outs, waxed linen, beading thread, acid-free adhesive" - Mel Benkert
2.2x" x 2.75" x 2.75"
*Consignment item. Not eligible for 10% membership discount. All consignment purchases are final and non-refundable once shipped.
Mel Benkert (she/they) is a book artist based in St. Paul, MN. Previously a metal and wood fabricator, Mel is drawn to the space where a book becomes sculpture. Like mapped terrain contextualizes time, their work examines 'place' through patterns left behind. They frequently collaborate with other artists when creating new work. Mel studied fine art at the College of Visual Arts in St. Paul and has exhibited at local art galleries since 2003. Their work is held at Hennepin County Library's Special Collections and by private collectors. Mel teaches at the Eagan Art House and recently completed a studio fellowship at the Minnesota Center for Book Arts (MCBA).
MelBenkert.com | Instagram: @Lemmanie
