SUNFLOWER PRESS

Artist’s Statement: “I began printing miniature books in 1972 after corresponding with James Weygand of Nappanee, Indiana. He suggested I try doing a miniature, and I enjoyed it so much, I have continued for 37 years. I enjoyed doing Masks more than any other book I have oriented. I have a small collection of masks, and finding out more information about the uses of masks in many cultures was fascinating. I had so much fun I could barely bring myself to stop and finish the book. I think books dealing with other cultures best represent my work, for I find it most challenging to try to learn something about them. I have printed books about the land of the Inca, The first Emperor of China, Kachinas, Muses and a book about the earliest Japanese printing titled One Million Pagodas. Recently I completed an alphabet book about the sun, finding specific references to the sun for each letter of the alphabet from mythology or history.”

- Carol Cunningham, for The Art of the Miniature Book, Selections from the Library of Alden Jacobs, an exhibit held September 23, 1999-November 24, 1999, Special Collections & University Archives, Alexander Library, Rutgers University.

Sunflower Press is the imprint of Carol Cunningham of Mill Valley, California. She publishes both full-size and miniature books, using a variety of techniques, including silk-screened images, linoleum blocks, zinc cuts made from drawings, and color photocopying of original watercolors for her artwork. Her first press was a 12 x 18 C & P press but an 8 x 12 Gordon soon replaced it. (Bradbury 287)