A series of illustrated short stories by Cecilie M. Barstad. From the balcony of her home, Barstad spent weeks and months observing, studying, and drawing her neighbours in lockdown during the pandemic. In her colourful images and pithy narratives, the reader enters the back courtyard in Highbury with all its smells, conversations, noise and silence, morning light and night-time shadows. The narratives are heartfelt, insightful, humorous, and populated with endearing characters.
Author Benedicte Meyer Kroneberg has penned a personal essay reflecting on Barstad’s artworks, intertwining her own dramatic experiences from early in the pandemic.
The book also features an interview by anthropologist and cultural critic Sondre Sommerfelt, in which he engages in a discussion with Barstad about the development of 'Rear Window.'
160 vibrant pages that include illustrations, poetic writings, an essay and an interview.
This limited and numbered edition of 700 copies, showcases four unique covers. By utilizing leftover materials from earlier productions, we effectively reduced waste while producing four exclusive sets of book covers. The size of the book is determined by the dimensions of the paper and the number of folds, leading to minimal waste.
The selection of colours for the book spine includes dark green, purple, orange/red and bright green. Only a few copies in orange/red remain, which will be offered at the upcoming book fair.
The book is bilingual in English/Norwegian.
Format: 160 pages, hardback with book cloth, 175 x 245 mm.
Printed and bound in Norway.
PUBLISHED BY:
Ansten Press
Ansten Press, an independent publishing practice based in Oslo, engages in a thoughtful integration of content, design and materiality in its publications. The publisher works in close collaboration with artists, authors, museums and galleries. All books are produced locally, emphasising a dedication to sustainability and craftsmanship.
