Author: Scarlett Mountain Art
I create the unexpected in the form of books and boxes. Using paper, paint, ink, and found objects, I construct vessels that require closer inspection to discover hidden elements. No two pieces are the same.
Upcoming Art Show
Here are a few of the books that’s I’ll have on display at our art show in December. The first two photos are of the Secret Belgian Binding technique. These are some of my favorite books to make.
Now on Display
“Waterfall” is now hanging in the Aways North gallery in Albuquerque. We’ll have a show sometime during the holiday season. More info on the gallery can be found at www.awaysnorth.com.
Post Bound Album
This style of album is a rare one for me. It is post bound, rather than the usual stitched or ribbon bound styles I’m most accustomed to. The sturdy, finished album looks nice.
Peony
I make few pieces that hang on the wall. Unless you like to hang books. “Peony” is one of those few pieces.
Preparing for my first show
A few months ago I started working out of a space in the Aways North Art Studios in Albuquerque. http://www.awaysnorth.com
It’s a relaxing place run by a lovely artist. In addition to a studio where I can work, I have access to a gallery space. In a couple of weeks I will participate in my first ever show. Until then I’m learning all I can from the more experienced artists around me and making sure that my work is ready for the public eye. Here is a sampling of what I’ll be showing.
Back to the Books
Over the winter I started making books at a feverish pace. Currently there are 30 completed books ready to be put up in the gallery – more details on the gallery soon.
I made all of the bookcloth and stitched pages into each book.
Online Class
I love art classes. Because I don’t have any formal education in art beyond a couple classes in junior high and high school, I eagerly learn from other artists. This evening I took a class online from Tiare Smith (tiaresmith.com) through the Art is Magic Retreat. I had to improvise on a couple supplies, but ended up with this 7.5 x 11 inch watercolor (mostly) painting.
Book Phase
I seem to be going through a book phase. Part of it stems from my love for the store in Albuquerque called Creative Culture. They carry a gorgeous selection of Nepalese paper, among other cards and gift items. *Edit – Creative Culture is now closed and sorely missed.*
These books were created from a kit. They are Tibetan style books put together with a pamphlet stitch. 
A Book That’s as Pretty as a Postcard
Postcard Book cover
Postcard Book pages
Postcard Book
I made this little book in a class taught by Mita Saldana (you can see her work at atgbooksnm.com). It’s a concertina-type book with pages inside folded to hold postcards. The paper with the bird on the front and the feather design paper inside are some of my favorites, in spite of the fact that I rarely use the pink and brown color combo in other works. Maybe that’s why I like the book. It’s different from anything else I’ve done.
Scarlett Mountain Art 