Donald Glaister

Tuscaloosa, Alabama 
A design bookbinder for over twenty years and Professor of Book Arts at the University of Alabama, Glaister has explored the use of unexpected materials, visual humor and spontaneous expression within the classical framework of the European binding form. His bindings appear in private and institutional collections through North America and Europe.

Second Place, tie

Example Binding:
Wallace Stevens. 
Three Academic Pieces.
Cunningham, Massachusetts: The Cunningham Press, 1947.

Full Niger goatskin binding with onlays of wood veneers and brushed copper and aluminum in recessed areas. Pop-away straps span across the spine. The top edge is partially gilt and its pastedowns and fly leaves are of cork paper.

Design Description: 
The design reflects an exploration of the depth and complexity of language and its rhythm and pattern. The overall binding design (white paper and board) will be monochromatic with major sculptural components. Five panels (three leather, two Mylar) will stretch across the planes of the binding, all with rhythmic sets of slots. This construction allows the leather to move away from the spine as the binding is opened, further revealing elements underneath and obscuring others.