Since 1981, the Alcuin Society has sponsored the oldest national competition that recognizes and celebrates fine book design in Canada, the Alcuin Society Awards for Excellence in Book Design in Canada, and
the Robert R. Reid Award and Medal to recognize lifetime achievement or extraordinary contributions, to the Book Arts in Canada. This exhibition at the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre showcases some of the finest book designs in Canada in appreciation of beautifully produced books.
T
he Alcuin Society focuses on three primary areas of activity that connect like-minded individuals and promote the finest in Canadian book design:
- Regular events feature world-renowned design, typography and publishing experts.
- Annual awards celebrate innovative books and showcase designers’ work across the globe.
- Publications delve into cutting-edge news about book arts, and offer a stunning keepsake for members.
The Society offers lectures and workshops on many aspects of the book, and sponsors exhibits of finely produced books including private press works and contemporary works notable for their excellence in design, working with institutions such as Simon Fraser University, University of British Columbia, University of Victoria, Vancouver Museum, Vancouver Public Library, Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design, Society of Graphic Designers of Canada, BC Book Arts Guild, Westcoast Calligraphy Society, the Art and Letters Club of Toronto to organize public events.
Amphora, the Society’s journal, covers a wide range of book-related topics including: collecting, typography, type design, type-setting, calligraphy, paper-making, book design, ornamentation, illustration, printing, binding and the impact of digital technology on the book. All members receive Amphora as well as occasional keepsakes and printed or calligraphic ephemera.
To see photos of this exhibition, please click here.
December 5, 2014 to January 6, 2015 at the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre