Creative Reading with object|multiple

You are invited to Leeds Arts University Library’s new public event series, where artists are invited to speak about the books they make and the books they read.

In conversation with the Collections Librarian, guest artists share the ways in which books and reading play a role in their creativity. This intimate event, held inside the university library, will offer the opportunity to interact with the artists and to view examples of their work, along with a few selected items from Leeds Arts University's Special Collection of artist's books. Attendees take home a bespoke Creative Reading List of book recommendations compiled by the guest speakers.

For this event we will welcome object|multiple,  an artist-led platform and store, established by artists Robin Tarbet and Duncan Wooldridge in 2022, whose activity overlaps with the world of artists' books and art publishing.

o | m focuses on the presentation, distribution and understanding of the artists' multiple. Multiples question the categories, values, and systems of display through which art is usually encountered. A multiple might be an everyday object transformed or reconsidered, just as much as it might be recognisably a sculpture or photograph; it might be bought or sold at little to no cost, or be a precious item produced in small quantities; it might be exhibited by being carried in the hand, or reach its audience by passing through the postal system; it might be made for posterity, or for only a fleeting encounter.

o | m was set up because we believe that the artists multiple has much to say about how we live today, and offers a meaningful and direct encounter with the work of art. It acknowledges, for example, that for a global majority, small city flats and apartments are the norm. It recognises that how we approach production and exchange will have enormous consequence in the climate crisis. And it recognises that arts professionals commit to working in a field where they are rarely themselves given the pay that allows them to buy the work that is sold. The project also aims to make art approachable where frequently it is hidden behind layers of press releases and wall-like gallery desks.

Robin Tarbet is an artist working with casting processes from discarded technologies and the edges of the natural environment. He is the founder of Swap Editions, a project exploring artist-to-artist dialogue and alternative forms of exchange. See more about Robin Tarbet here

Duncan Wooldridge is an artist working with technologies of reproduction in and around photography. He is also a writer, curator and lecturer, focusing on art and photography, experimentation and play.
See more about Duncan Wooldridge here

Practical information

Creative Reading is held inside Leeds Arts University Library. This is a free event but registration is essential. As places are limited, please be aware that booking without attending will likely prohibit others from joining the event. Tickets are not transferrable. Visitors without a ticket will not be admitted. Booking will be open until midday on the day of the event.

Our building is accessible for wheelchair users. Please contact us to discuss any additional access requirements.

Ticket holders will be met at the reception of Leeds Arts University on Blenheim Walk from 5:15pm and directed to the library. The event will begin at 5:30pm.