About this project

At first COMPOUND was going to be a simple zine, something that was Xeroxed and stapled, but the book started to expand once we realized that we could use the publication to create a collaborative project between graphic designers and fine artists.

COMPOUND is a 156-page publication compiling 22 artists and designers. The book is broken up into two sections: the first section of the book includes artist reviews, interviews with COMPOUND members, and pieces of writing that the artists and designers consider influential or inspirational to their work.  The second section correlates the text section with the individual contributor’s visual practice.  Samples of each artist’s and designer’s work is presented in full color on high quality matte paper. In addition to the two sections there is a secondary narrative that runs through the publication that timelines the development of the studio space that we all share: our COMPOUND. The book ends with a detailed index that includes a brief artist statement from everyone involved.

The book became about bringing together artists that have a desire to work collaboratively. COMPOUND shows the reader how the disciplines of our program work together, and how our collective input helps shape our individual practices. Since the creation of the book we have expanded our efforts to be a part of not just MCAD’s community but also the greater Minneapolis artistic community.  We have had one exhibition, created an extensive social network, and are now working on a new exhibition that incorporates members outside of COMPOUND.

Our initial funding received for COMPOUND limits the print run of the first edition. We are asking for support to raise $6,500, the funding amount needed to print 200 copies of the first issue. If $9,000 in funding is reached, our print run will expand to 500 copies. Reaching each tier will lower the cost per book, and insures that COMPOUND remains free of charge and can reach as many people as possible. The printing cost appear to be high, but one of the main goals of this publication is to strengthen and support the local arts community in Minneapolis, which means printing locally. 

When you support this project, you are not just supporting a book, but a community of artists. With your donation you can receive incentives such as limited edition screen print posters, custom book bands from each artist, letter pressed bookmarks, mini-comics and even signed collector’s editions of COMPOUND’s first book.

Thank you for taking the time to experience COMPOUND. We greatly appreciate any and all support.

http://cmpnd.tumblr.com/