David Laufer : Fictitious Texts, 1992-1996

Exhibition Information

The Fine Arts and Special Collections department of the Carnegie Mellon University Libraries is pleased to announce an exhibition of book sculptures by Carnegie Mellon alumnus David Laufer.

Artist's Reception
Thursday, September 26 5 - 8 p.m.
Hunt Library, Fine Arts, 4th Floor

Exhibit
August 15 through October 31, 1996
Hunt Library, Fine Arts, 4th Floor

Hours in Real Time
August 15 - September 8, M-F, 9-5
September 9 - October 31, M-F 9-9, Sat 12-5, Sun 1-9

"Fictitious Texts" are carved of wood and cannot be "opened" but are painted with such realism that the viewer is prompted to write a vivid self-narrative about what lies within these tomes which range from minute to folio size. With titles such asWhy Men Lie (a fat volume which looks very well worn), Why We Couldn't Let You Be Born (a tiny diary which speaks volumes) or the Pocket Cyclopedia of Systematic Doubt (a giant dictionary too big to fit in any pocket) the works are ironic, sad, impossible, scary, humorous and strangely familiar. Some works are complete with fictitious reviewerÕs comments and sales copy.

David Laufer has exhibited nationwide, most recently in the Olympic Ring at the Centennial Games. Virtual visitors can get a glimpse of the works from this same show. For the ultimate resolution, drop by the exhibition when you're in Pittsburgh!

A successful graphic artist, David Laufer has executed numerous commercial commissions such as product designs for the Museum of Modern Art, New York, and the 500th anniversary graphics for Oxford University Press. David lived and worked in Pittsburgh from 1968 to 1974. He now makes his home in Roswell, Georgia, with his wife, Geraldine (an author and horticulturist) and two sons.

For further information about the exhibition contact:

Mo Dawley md2z@andrew.cmu.edu or Mary Kay Johnsen mj0g@andrew.cmu.edu

Feel free to contact David Laufer: laufer19@idt.vivid.net