Designed, printed and bound by Rhiannon Alpers
2016
Edition of 30
5.5 x 7.25"; 20 pages

The book explores an imagined journey, being carried through the comfort of one’s dreams. A journey guided by a murmuration of a thousand starlings, undulating and wisping through the evening sky, their soft voices calming and cooing as they head into the unknown.

Metaphors abound in this book. The support system of family and friends manifests in the starlings, and the twilight evokes a sense of comfort and stability amidst the unknown. The many threads pulling the dreamer along in this world are the guiding voices that safely and carefully show us our way. When we steer off course they gently nudge us and support us as we explore an unknown route. Murmurations themselves have an astonishing and dreamlike effect. Their immense rhythm and flow symbolizes the thin line between the dream and day.

Much of the symbolism also stems from the author’s rekindled
interest in the long tradition of fables, passed on in her new nightly
rituals of telling stories to small ears and eager eyes in the low light
of the evening. It is in these final hours that our day fades away
and our imagination is carried off to many wondrous places.

This limited edition book was created in an edition of thirty signed and numbered copies with artist’s proofs. Written, illustrated, and letterpress printed by Rhiannon Alpers. Letterpress printed with photopolymer plates and monotype, with an under layer of hand painted stars beneath, on Somerset Velvet Black. The endsheets are Fabriano Tiziano Anthracite and bound in Asahi Grey Crepe bookcloth. Foil stamped birds and title, this false accordion is masquerading in a Secret Belgian binding cover sewn with Italian film yarn.