In my June 2023 blog, I left you wondering what I would do with the various visual elements I was experimenting with for a project titled Incognito, inspired by the textures and colors of California beaches. As we traveled, I continued planning the book. I needed to create a seamless panoramic background and ensure that the sand image on the accordion's reverse side matched perfectly by carefully adjusting each photo's hue, saturation, and brightness. Once my concept was clear, the initial title, Incognito, no longer captured the playful spirit of the idea. I began writing the statement or description to support the original idea. It was then that I realized the concept was derived from two experiences.

While brainstorming for my artist book Infatuation, I unexpectedly found myself in a rabbit hole of FanFiction stories that introduced me to the word « tallywacker. » The playful language I encountered offered a fresh, whimsical perspective, full of humor.

As an artist, collecting is in my nature. Walking barefoot on California beaches, feeling the sand stimulate my nerve endings, created a sensual experience I wanted to preserve. I initially planned to display my sand collection in my studio and was fortunate to find perfect containers. It suddenly struck me that when the vials were turned upside down and filled with sand, they resembled phallic symbols, evoking themes of masculinity, power, and psychology.

Ultimately, blending the sensory pleasures of the beaches with the playful, rebellious spirit of the quotes gave my artist book its unique character. The design was crafted as an accordion, reflecting its layered, complex theme.

After printing, cutting, folding, and gluing the pages, self-doubt arose due to a life’s challenge, making even the simple hardcover case feel daunting. I wanted the binding to be as smooth and enjoyable as the process of creating the book. I decided to work with Andrew Huot of Big River Bindery, even though it exceeded my budget. Sometimes, a little help makes all the difference in completing an artist book.

© 2024 Louise Levergneux. Andrew Huot is showing me around his bindery in Toronto, Ontario.

I am thrilled to finally share Pistolero with you! Take a look at my new artist book here.