Mary Uthuppuru creates artist books, bindings, boxes, and prints inspired by science, literature and travel. With a fascination in life’s mysteries, she draws viewers into her work with play.
After receiving a BA in Art History in 2004, Mary pursued a Masters in Library Science with a specialization in rare books. During her education she closely studied the history of the book accompanied by training through workshops across the Midwest. She worked as a Conservation Technician at the Lilly Library in 2007, and gained an in depth study of book structures and their repair under the direction of the head of Conservation.
As of 2010, she began her career as a full time book artist and book binder operating under the name Spring Leaf Press in her home studio in Bloomington, Indiana. She now owns and operates the online store Colophon Book Arts Supply.
Interviews
Book Artists and Poets
While teaching at the Paper and Book Intensive in 2015, I had the privilege to talk with Steve Miller for his podcast Book Artists and Poets. It was wonderful to chat with Steve in such a lovely setting.
Click here to listen
Bookbinding Now
In May 2014, I had a great conversation with Susan Mills of Bookbinding Now. During this podcast, we talk about my work as well as my volunteer position as Programs Chair for the Guild of Book Workers Midwest Chapter.
Click here to listen (Interview 77)
Flash of the Hand
In January 2014, I had the pleasure in participating in an online interview with Erin Fletcher of Herringbone Bindery on her blog Flash of the Hand. The interview was divided into five segments each of which appeared every Monday in the month. Below are the links to each interview.
First Segment: And then there were Eight (Pluto Book) and Introduction
Second Segment: Destiny of Choice, EcoEditions, 23 Sandy Gallery
Third Segment: Interpreter of Maladies, One Book One Chicago, Chicago Public Library
Fourth Segment: Fantasy & Nonsense, GBW Rocky Mountain Chapter, Marriott Library
Fifth and Final Segment: Undefined Lines and my process for paste papers/cloth