Contemporary Calgary Art Book Club

About Art Book Club Join us for thoughtful conversations about art books - a dynamic format where artists continue to push boundaries, considering the book not just as an object but as a portal into their creative practices. As pioneering curator Seth Siegelaub insightfully stated, “Books and exhibitions are not separate, but extensions of the same idea.” Our Art Book Club embraces this philosophy, bridging the worlds of exhibitions and publications. Each session offers fresh perspectives and deeper engagement with contemporary art and publishing. This is a book club for curious minds - readers, artists, and art lovers who view books as both inspiration and artistic practice. What to Expect: Four sessions per year featuring guest speakers from the art and publishing worlds A welcoming community of art book enthusiasts A space for artists exploring the book as part of their own work Opportunities to deepen your connection to contemporary art and/or publishing Rich conversations with others passionate about art and ideas Registration Fee: $50/year includes two remaining sessions (#3-4), a welcome gift featuring items from the Contemporary Calgary Bookshop. All those in the Art Book Club community receive a 10% discount in the shop. $30 for individual sessions. Attendees may register for each individual session but this option does not include the welcome gift, book, or shop discount. --- 2026 Program Overview Session 3 | Simone Elizabeth Saunders, Encompass the Galaxy: From Studio to Publication November 1312 PM Join acclaimed artist Simone Elizabeth Saunders, one of Canada’s most compelling contemporary textile artists, as she shares the creative journey behind her recent publication Encompass the Galaxy, published by Contemporary Calgary. This session explores how artists can expand their practice into print, connecting with audiences through narrative, design, and materiality. Following the talk, join us for a Meet & Greet with fellow Art Book Club members to connect, share ideas, and continue the conversation around art and publishing. Session 4 | Zine-Making Workshop & Program Celebration December 96 PM Artist Blake McLeod leads a hands-on workshop exploring zines as dynamic tools for self-expression and storytelling. Participants will create their own small publications and celebrate the culmination of the program with an informal sharing session.Blake (they/them) is the Creative Director and founder of CINIC Studio, a creative practice and studio space born from a desire for safety, freedom, and collaboration. Working across drawing, writing, illustration, photography, videography, screen printing, and digital design, Blake centers storytelling as a means to connect, heal, and share experiences. Through CINIC Studio, they bring together techniques, insights, and practices to support others in building confidence, fostering belonging, and exploring creative expression.