Jenn Law
postcards (ghost library series)
An object uncopied is under perpetual siege…
--Hillel Schwartz
Collectively alluding to the lost library of Alexandria, this ongoing series of hand-lithographed postcards of libraries is modeled on early twentieth century ‘disaster’ postcards—with a contemporary twist. In a time when the targeted destruction of artworks, archaeological treasures, and historical monuments has become a weapon in the war against humanity, the image of material culture under siege has become more urgent and potent than ever. Ultimately, the extant artifact invites us to reflect on that which has been preserved for posterity while (impossibly) imagining what is irrevocably lost over the course of time.
Installation view, Loop Gallery, Toronto, 2016, photographed by Thomas Blanchard
Installation view, Loop Gallery, Toronto, 2016, photographed by Thomas Blanchard
Installation view, Loop Gallery, Toronto, 2016, photographed by Thomas Blanchard
Ghost Library (Toronto Carnegie), 2016, double-sided, 4-layer lithographed postcard with hand-colouring, edition of 20, 5.8” x 3.5”
Ghost Library (Toronto Carnegie), back view, 2016, double-sided, 4-layer lithographed postcard with hand-colouring, edition of 20, 5.8” x 3.5”
Ghost Library (Montreal), 2016, double-sided, 4-layer lithographed postcard with hand-colouring, edition of 20, 5.8” x 3.5”
Ghost Library (Montreal), back view, 2016, double-sided, 4-layer lithographed postcard with hand-colouring, edition of 20, 5.8” x 3.5”
Ghost Library (Columbia University), 2016, double-sided, 4-layer lithographed postcard with hand-colouring, edition of 20, 5.8” x 3.5”
Ghost Library (Columbia University), back view, 2016, double-sided, 4-layer lithographed postcard with hand-colouring, edition of 20, 5.8” x 3.5”