Shelf Memory #12

 

^ A slide from 'Shelf Memories' upcoming exhibition at the MAC

This was actually a book I found in a little free library in my town and took home to read before I realized that it was a book of erotic poetry (not my taste!) I do appreciate the message within and who knows who Kathleen (the poet herself I imagine) was writing to but I like to think it was her husband; the man who helped inspire her work! It's a very intimate gift to give and her message "We have come together in love. We shall love eternally" is so sweet. 

I hope Kathleen and her partner are very happy together!

Project Description

"Shelf Memories is a nostalgic photo series that documents the place of books within human relationships. In the first pages of these books lies a handwritten note from which we catch a brief yet intimate insight into the bond between people; the moments shared and milestones celebrated. The notes, paired with a cover image of the book, reveal the giver's intentions; from nursery rhythms and Bibles to poetry and self-help. No matter how meaningful they once were, the books are eventually outgrown and succumb to thrift store and community library shelves where they are found and photographed; the final resting place for many words chosen with care, signed with love, and given in hope. Relationships past and children grown, all that remains is a handwritten note, more often than not from XOXO Nana & Pops."