THE LEIPZIG MEDAL WINNER

Smith, Ken (1938–2003) ; Poet

Between The Dancers [Signed Limited Edition] [Six Screenprints] [Artist Edition]

Guildford: Circle Press, 1980. Limited First Edition.
A MASTERPIECE OF COLLABORATIVE BOOK ART, THIS AWARD-WINNING VOLUME PAIRS THE VISCERAL POETRY OF KEN SMITH WITH SIX ORIGINAL SCREENPRINTS BY JOHN CHRISTIE.
Awarded a bronze medal at the 1982 International Book Art Exhibition in Leipzig, the work represents a pinnacle of late-twentieth-century British fine press production. Printed letterpress in 14 pt Optima on heavy Somerset mould-made paper, the interplay between Smith’s ten-poem sequence and Christie’s bold visual abstractions creates a tactile, immersive experience of the 'Livre d’Artiste' tradition.

KEY FEATURES
+++ Visuals: Six original screen-prints by John Christie; printed letterpress in 14 pt Optima.
+++ Limitation: Number 12 of only 75 bound copies; signed by both poet Ken Smith and artist John Christie.
+++ Binding: Quarter-bound in canvas and green boards; housed in a black cloth slipcase.
+++ Production: Four 8-page sections; 33 x 25 cm (approx. 13 x 10 inches) on Somerset mould-made paper.
+++ Award: Bronze Medal, International Book Art Exhibition, Leipzig (1982).
+++ Imprint: Circle Press / John Christie, 1980.

CONDITION: Fine. The book is pristine, exhibiting no flaws or blemishes and maintaining original gift quality. The black cloth slipcase is in Near Fine to Fine condition, remaining structurally sound and vibrant with only the most minimal evidence of shelf handling.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE –
Ken Smith was one of the most significant voices in post-war British poetry, known for his grit and linguistic precision. John Christie, a filmmaker and artist associated with the legendary Circle Press, is renowned for his ability to translate literary rhythm into visual form.

This specific title is a 'sleeper' in the Circle Press bibliography; notably, it was omitted from the 'Cooking the Books' retrospective catalogue, making it a critical acquisition for completeness in a fine press or British poetry collection. Its recognition at Leipzig cements its status as a document of international book art excellence during the transition from traditional letterpress to modern conceptual book design.

SUBJECTS: British Poetry, Book Art, Circle Press, Screenprints, Fine Press, International Book Art, Artist's Book, Signed Editions, Limited Editions, Livre d’Artiste.

Item #21644

Price: $425.00