In 2011, when the hand-printed photogravures of the Astra Velum series were first introduced, collectors and curators were enthusiastic. As Melanie McWhorter of Photo-Eye Books wrote, “These lovely, luminescent, one-of-a-kind prints really must be seen to be appreciated.” Susan Burnstine wrote in Black and White Magazine, “Fritz Liedtke’s stunning photogravure portfolio Astra Velum is a remarkable achievement.”
Over the past year, I've worked on creating a handmade book of the series, and I'm very pleased to present the Astra Velum Limited Edition Artist Book. I’ve collaborated with author Gina Ochsner, whose writings have garnered Guggenheim and NEA grants, as well as the Flannery O’Connor Prize and Oregon Book Award, and are published in The New Yorker, Tin House, Glimmertrain and the Kenyon Review. She's written a poignant essay to accompany the work. And I’ve worked closely with bookmaker Rory Sparks, who's created other award-winning books for the likes of Lauren Henkin, Raymond Meeks, and Deborah Luster.
Together, we’ve created more than just another book of words and pictures, but a work of art in itself. The way the cover shimmers in the light, the text deeply embedded in the page, the richness of the images…it’s something that feels solid in your hands, but also moves deep into your heart.
The book is limited to an edition of only 25 copies. Additional options, such as the custom clamshell case, and the inclusion of a photogravure print, are also available. You can lean much more on the website.
Feel free to write or call with inquiries, or to request the complete prospectus in PDF form. We look forward to adding the book to your collection.
Current Shows and Publications:
▪ Astra Velum is currently featured in the new issue of Diffusion magazine, Vol IV. ▪ Astra Velum has a 20-page feature in the new issue of Mental Shoes magazine, issue 22: www.mentalshoes.com ▪ An image from Astra Velum was featured in the fall show and catalog of TRUST, a juried show at Pacific NW College of Art. ▪ An image from Astra Velum is in the current show X at Arte360 Gallery, Algeciras, Spain.
