VARIATIONS on the Dialectic between Mingus and Pithecanthropus erectus, 2005

Hand drawn and hand-cut woodcuts and watermarks, on pulp painted and watermarked handmade paper; accordion artist’s book with sewn pamphlet attachments; Edition of 55 and 5 artist’s proofs; Closed 10.5 x 7.5 x .5 inches; Open 10.5 x 60 inches.

Based on Charles Mingus’s musical work, “Pithecanthropus erectus” images and words weave the music’s story together with the factual tale of the discovery of early hominid Pithecanthropus erectus. In the symbolism of Mingus, Pithecanthropus erectus represents the accomplishments but also the tragic self-satisfaction of the dominant hominid. The four scored stages of his rise and fall are documented in the pages of this artist’s book, by works created in direct visual response to the music written and performed by Mingus.

This is an artist’s handmade object and a labor of fascination with the two subjects of the book, and with all the artistic and technical processes of conceiving and executing the project.

Original text for the book, in poetry and essay form, is by paleoanthropologist Rick Potts. Printing is by Terrence Chouinard.