This curated event contributes to the field of artists book discourse and practice. It was the third iteration of abbe (artists books brisbane events) and included an academic conference, creative workshops and artists book fair. Under the umbrella of the Arlis (Arts Libraries Society of Australia and New Zealand). The conference was built around the theme of “reimagining the material: artists books, printed matter, digital transformation, engagement.”. Led by Tim Mosely, artists books were a prominent focus of the event. Two keynote presentations were supported by 21 selected academic papers and presentations, including international presenters, 13 of which focused on artists book practice. Over 100 delegates attended the conference and the creative workshops. Papers and presentations were recorded and have been made freely available to the public at https://www.arlisanz.org/programme-in-detail

The artists book fair attracted 35 national and international participants from Qld, NSW, Vic, WA, ACT and the UK, it was open to the public at no cost and attracted over 200 visitors. The fair’s developing profile is one of supporting the creative community and providing an avenue for curators and librarians to acquire significant works for recognised collections.