Brian Dettmer
Das Weltheater, 2009 Altered Book
Hello my name is
Brian Dettmer
I was born in
Naperville, Illinois. I was born in a small town that turned into a massive suburb while I grew up- right outside Chicago.
I currently live in
Atlanta, GA. We moved here from Chicago 3 years ago. More nature, less culture- but still a good balance.
Fate Far Fast Fall Final, 2009 Altered Book
It all started when
I first cut into a book. I sealed it up thinking I would just dig a hole, exploring the material. And then I came across an image and began to cut around it. Another imge emerged below and I kept going. That was the 'Eureka' moment.
My work is
I mostly work with altering books. Books become sculpture. I seal them and then cut into them- not moving or adding anything.
My ideal work environment
I think I have it now. My studio is a large sunroom with huge windows in the front of our house. Great commute, excellent lighting.
Standard Circle, 2009 Altered set of vintage Encyclopedias
I spend my days/nights
Working on my work/ thinking about my work/ trying to not think about my work
I'm under the influence of...
caffeine and lack of sleep.
My favorite tool of the trade
The x-acto knife.
If you were to go through my trash you might find
Right now- A lot of diapers. My wife and I just had our first child, Isabella Zetta, about 6 weeks ago.
Full Set of Funk (detail), 2009 Altered set of vintage Encyclopedias
The one item to be buried with me
My blood in my body (instead of chemicals) so I can decompose properly.
Something I value that others might discard
Old books (that was too easy)
My last words
I haven't said them yet. I'll probably just say whatever I'm thinking of at the time when the time comes.
World Series, 2009 Altered set of vintage Encyclopedias
