What happens to the books no-one wants?

Join a talk by artist and librarian Alissa Duke who draws in books that are about to be discarded. Alissa draws an image with watercolour pencils, inspired by words on the page, and the books are given a new life, to be appreciated by a new audience.

This talk questions preconceptions about writing and drawing in books, and discusses giving value to otherwise valueless books. Alissa will talk about her creative process and the event will include a display of some of her books.

There were a few familiar faces of friends and Library members in the audience of about 25 yesterday at the Melbourne Athenaeum Library. They were curious, with questions after the event. I had some books on display and available for purchase (and they were some), and I had lots of lovely conversations.

Some of the questions were about my watercolour pencils. I promised that I would share my hints and tips from my previous blog posts. Welcome if you are new to my blogpost . I have been writing this weekly (almost) blogpost for many years now.

• The 26  watercolour pencils I carry everyday http://alissaduke.com/2022/03/the-watercolour-pencils-i-use-2.html
• My top 12 http://alissaduke.com/2022/03/top-12-watercolour-pencil-colours.html
• Hints and tips  http://alissaduke.com/2014/03/five-watercolour-pencils-tips.html
• Practical hints and Tips http://alissaduke.com/2017/05/practical-blog-posts.html
• Video – sketching Autumn leaves https://alissaduke.com/2024/04/sketching-autumn-leaves-video.html
• … and even more https://alissaduke.com/2017/05/practical-blog-posts.html

Purchase my drawn in books on ETSY.

The heritage-listed Melbourne Athenaeum Library has operated from its Collins Street headquarters since 1839, making it Victoria’s oldest subscription-based library. The library holds a 30,000-strong collection, including new releases and classics, and hosts regular music performances, talks, and book and screen clubs. Members enjoy the historic atmosphere and quiet haven in a bustling city.

I have drawn in a Melbourne Athenaeum Library book!!! It was on their For Sale $2 trolley, It has windeful library stamps all over it !

I have been a member since I moved to Melbourne in 2014. The Librarians are friends and I am a regular at their events and have recently been their Artist in Residence and of course I borrow from their library.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

I have a few classes coming up in Melbourne. See the tab on my website.

Happy Sketching!

Photos by James Baker of Melbourne Athenaeum Library