'The Oarsman's Library' on View in Springs

Springs Historical Society presents “The Oarsman’s Library: Books by Barry McCallion,” an exhibition of literary artworks at the Springs Community Library from January 10 to 26. Curated by Teri Kennedy, this exhibition of book art marks the inaugural solo artist series by the SHS Art Committee. The public is invited to join McCallion for an opening reception on Friday, January 10, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Springs Community Library.

“The Oarsman’s Library” merges visual art with narrative in a dynamic exploration of literature and tactile engagement. Drawn from themes from Walt Whitman and John Milton, ancient fables, to the storming of the Bastille, McCallion’s works take shape as multidimensional books that invite interaction. Visitors will have the opportunity to physically engage with these living books, exploring their layered visuals and texts as McCallion himself sits as a librarian, offering insights into the works and fostering a sense of discovery.

McCallion, known for his ability to bring literary narratives to life, began working on the Oarsman series in 1970. His vision, as he recalls, came to him in the form of “a man in a rowboat, hovering in the air” in the middle of his living room. This surreal image became the catalyst for his exploration of the Oarsman’s story, combining fine art with written works to create a deeply immersive and at times introspective experience with written works to create a deeply immersive and at times introspective experience.

Even when traveling the world, Springs, has served as both an early and returning point of inspiration in McCallion’s artistic journey. His creative process is sometimes driven by themes of social consciousness, addressing issues such as extinction, pollution, and environmental protection. In one such book, he tells the story of Earth’s fragility on rare Japanese nacre pearl paper, a material crafted in a method that is increasingly threatened by a rapidly changing global environment.

His process blends whimsy with absolute precision, using a wide range of mediums and collages to deepen the emotional impact of each piece. McCallion describes how “the visual book involves you in time,” creating a sense of anticipation and memory, as demonstrated in his 2013 work “Crossing Brooklyn Ferry.” The piece draws its name and inspiration from Walt Whitman’s iconic poem, whose meditation on the timeless connections between people across generations was an inspiration to McCallion.

Also on display throughout Springs Library will be McCallion’s prints and fold-out style books, both current and past works.

“The goal of these one-person shows is to highlight a Springs artist who works in a unique medium or has developed a body of work of specific interest to our community,” said Kennedy.

Springs Community Library is at 1 Parson Place in the East Hampton hamlet of Springs. Visit springshistoricalsociety.org for more information.