"To Be Published, or Self-Publish? An Overview of Options Today" Mary Virginia Swanson with Dário Solari of Untitled Books in Echo Park
The journey to bring your completed project to the book form can take many paths, from utilizing “print-on-demand” technology to working closely with an experienced team of publishing professionals to choosing to self-publish and/or produce your book in small or limited editions. Depending on the role of a publication in your artistic practice, one thing is certain: there is much to consider well in advance of making decisions.
In this richly illustrated “big picture” presentation, Mary Virginia Swanson will explore the similarities (and differences) between seeking and securing a traditional publisher for your work vs. assuming all aspects of self-publish your book project. Pros/cons of each path, plus advice on gaining knowledge surrounding production options, maximizing book launch and marketing timelines, and critical resources to help bringing your book to its ideal audience will be shared with the audience.
Dário Solari, owner of Untitled Books in Echo Park, will join Swanson in conversation following her presentation to discuss opportunities for self-published authors to place their books with independent bookstores. Time will be allocated for a joint Q&A with attendees.
Cover and interior images from Publish Your Photography Book: Brad Trone courtesy Radius Books.
Mary Virginia Swanson has dedicated her career to helping artists find the strengths in their work, identify appreciative, responsive audiences, and present their work in an informed and professional manner. A respected contributor to the field, she frequently serves as a Portfolio Reviewer, Judge at contemporary photography and photobook competitions, and conducts public presentations at festivals throughout the year.
Swanson is co-author with Darius Himes of Publish Your Photography Book, first released in 2011, and updated in 2014 (Princeton Architectural Press). Radius Books recently published their greatly expanded Third Edition (August 2023) offering a window into publishing and self-publishing photobooks today. She has launched a dedicated website for the book, accessible by all: www.publishyourphotographybook.com
Social media links:
www.publishyourphotographybook.com
Swanson Headshot courtesy of © Allison V. Smith
Dário Solari is a Multidisciplinary Creative.
Beginning his creative practice in fine art Painting, he developed his visual language as a Photographer before pursuing a Design + Architecture education at Sci-Arc in Los Angeles.
In 2010 he founded Kanimambo Books, an independent online artbook marketplace and publishing consultancy. Working with Artists and Designers he facilitated the publishing process by providing creative/design direction and publishing resources, ultimately guiding clients to distribution channels.
Working with Design Studios, Boutique Retailers and Collectors he provided curatorial services into the vast world of Visual Art Publishing to match their vision.
In February 2020, Dário partnered up with Kristen Spilman (Airbnb/Stripe/Facebook/Pentagram) to launch Studio Xol, a design space and online book marketplace fostering inclusive and mindful perspectives with a passion for people, print and the visual arts.
As a creative practice, Studio Xol, worked directly with anti-racist partners, creative directors, progressives, libraries, and collectors around the world, on various print / brand / creative projects. Offering consultation, creative direction, design, photography, and sourcing for project-specific creative material.
In 2023, Dário founded Untitled.
Located in Echo Park, Untitled is an event space and bookshop that offers a meticulously curated assortment of collectible vintage and contemporary visual arts books showcasing a plethora of genres including music, design, architecture, the visual arts and some classic literature.
Social Media Links:
Dário image courtesy of Sean Ryan Pierce.