‘Unshelving Memories’ Exhibition Turns Books Into Works of Art in Thiruvananthapuram

An exhibition in Kerala’s capital is inviting visitors to rethink what a book can be. Instead of traditional printed volumes, the show explores “artists’ books”—creative works where the book itself becomes an art object combining visual design, storytelling and experimental materials.

Titled “Unshelving Memories,” the exhibition is being held at the art gallery complex of the College of Fine Arts in Thiruvananthapuram. Curated by artist and academic Shijo Jacob, the show forms part of the institution’s golden jubilee celebrations and runs from late February to mid-March 2026.

The exhibition highlights the unique genre of artists’ books, where the format of a book is transformed into a medium for artistic expression. These works often combine drawing, painting, collage, photography and sculptural elements, turning pages into interactive spaces rather than simple carriers of text.

Featuring contributions from several artists, the show demonstrates how personal memories, narratives and visual experimentation can be embedded within book structures. Some works resemble handmade journals or sculptural objects, while others reinterpret traditional bookbinding and page layouts to create immersive visual stories.

By focusing on the idea of “unshelving,” the exhibition symbolically moves books out of libraries and into galleries, encouraging viewers to experience them through touch, form and visual storytelling. The display highlights how books can function not only as vessels of knowledge but also as artistic artefacts that carry emotional and cultural memory.

The exhibition also serves as an educational platform for students and art enthusiasts, offering insight into experimental publishing and contemporary book art practices. Through workshops and guided interactions, visitors can explore how artists transform everyday materials like paper, thread and print into creative narratives.

Ultimately, “Unshelving Memories” celebrates the evolving relationship between literature and visual art. By blending storytelling with craftsmanship, the exhibition shows how the humble book can become a dynamic canvas for imagination and memory.