A Biennial Symposium Celebrating the Book Arts
Hosted by University of North Texas Special Collections
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Willis Library, Denton, Texas
UNT Special Collections invites proposals for presentations, demonstrations, and workshops for Rethinking the Codex, a one-day symposium held in conjunction with UNT Special Collection’s 14th Biennial Artists’ Book Competition. The symposium aims to foster dialogue about the book as both an artistic form and a site of inquiry where material, textual, visual, and conceptual practices intersect, and we invite proposals that embrace this year’s theme of Rethinking the Codex through the exploration of sculptural elements, bindings, book structures, materials, and more in artists’ books.
Proposal Categories
Papers and Presentations
15-minute research-based or reflective presentation exploring historical, theoretical, or contemporary topics related to the book arts. Possible areas include but are not limited to:
- The book as material, performance, or archive
- Reading, viewing, and the sensory experience of the book
- Artists’ books in libraries, collections, and teaching
- Collaborative and community-based book arts projects
Artist Demonstrations
A 10-minute demonstration and overview highlighting the creative process, materials, or conceptual development behind the making of artists’ books and related forms.
Workshops
A 90-minute hands-on or participatory session that will be held during the symposium’s lunch break that explore techniques, technologies, or interdisciplinary approaches to book arts practice, pedagogy, or research.
Submission Guidelines
Please include:
- Title of proposal
- 250 words or less abstract or description
- Format (presentation, demonstration, or workshop)
- Any equipment or space requirements
Submit proposals by Saturday, January 31, 2026 using the application form
Notifications of acceptance will be sent by Friday, February 6, 2026.
For additional information, please contact Meagan May, Special Collections Instruction and Engagement Librarian, at meagan.may@unt.edu.
