Black Beach Art Book Fair to Transform Minneapolis’ Glass House This Weekend

Minneapolis is poised to become a vibrant hub for art aficionados as the Black Beach Art Book Fair arrives at the Glass House, located at 145 Holden St. N., this weekend. The fair, the brainchild of Benjamin Peterson, author Brad Zellar, and photographer Erinn Springer, promises an immersive experience featuring over 1,000 new, used, and rare photo and art books.Running from Friday,Feb. 28, through Sunday, the event aims to foster connection, discovery, and inspiration through beauty and insightful discourse.

A Creative Collaboration Takes Center Stage

Benjamin Peterson,leveraging his extensive background in creative strategy and branding for multinational corporations,embarked on a new venture into the coffee business during the COVID-19 pandemic. This weekend, he masterfully blends his diverse passions by partnering with a talented team of artists for the Black Beach Art Book Fair. Peterson underscores the vital role of creative communities, stating, Creative communities have always been the backbone of the spaces I exist in.

The fair transcends the mere display of books; it is meticulously designed to cultivate a strong sense of community and provide a dynamic platform for artists and enthusiasts to connect,collaborate,and inspire one another.According to Peterson, When this world kind of seems dark and crazy, art is the thing that shines through in people’s personal experiences. Conversations are realy the driving force to keep us all going.

What to Expect at the Fair: A glimpse into the Artistic Offerings

Attendees can anticipate a diverse and engaging array of activities, including a captivating new film installation by Erinn Springer, book signings by renowned artists, and thought-provoking panel discussions. The fair presents a unique opportunity to discover emerging artists, forge connections with fellow art enthusiasts, and draw inspiration from a world that often feels increasingly disconnected.

Brad Zellar, a co-founder of the fair, previously organized a similar event in january 2024 at the Riverplace complex, which served as a triumphant precursor to this larger event. Peterson lauded Zellar’s extensive network within the printed matter and photography world, describing him as just an unbelievable human being and so connected in the printed matter and photography world. The resounding success of Zellar’s previous fair served as a valuable “testing ground,” demonstrating a significant and growing interest in art books, especially among younger audiences.

Peterson has keenly observed a cultural shift toward art books, especially within youth culture. Books and specifically art books are becoming such a commodity, he said, drawing parallels to the fervent enthusiasm seen at highly anticipated sneaker drops and the prestigious New York Art Book Fair. So I think there’s just a sort of general cultural shift toward having some of these tangible objects and exchanging human stories face to face.

Featured Artists and Diverse Offerings

The Black Beach Art Book Fair boasts an impressive lineup of artists and contributors, promising a rich and varied experience for attendees. Alec Soth, a longtime collaborator with Zellar, will be present to sign his recent publication, “Advice for Young Artists.” Adding to the fair’s prestige, local photographer Pao Houa Her, Turkish photographer Sabiha Çimen, and Minnesota photographer Paul Shambroom will also participate in book signings, offering attendees a chance to meet and engage with these talented artists.

The Walker Art Center’s Idea House will offer a curated selection of books for purchase, alongside offerings from Andy Sturdevant’s Birchwood Palace Industries and other self-reliant publishing groups, showcasing the diversity and innovation within the independent publishing scene.A selection of used and rare books will also be available, catering to collectors and enthusiasts seeking unique finds. To complement the artistic offerings, Black Beach Coffee will be serving coffee, and alcoholic beverages will also be available throughout the weekend, providing a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

Peterson’s Journey: From Music to coffee, A Creative Odyssey

Benjamin Peterson’s path to the art book fair is a multifaceted journey marked by diverse experiences and a deep-seated passion for creativity. Born in Wisconsin, he felt a strong and enduring connection to Minneapolis from a young age. I’ve always felt sort of creatively indebted to Minneapolis, being a weird Black kid in western Wisconsin, he explained. He frequented punk shows and immersed himself in the Twin Cities’ vibrant art scene, which he describes as that creative springboard for me.

Peterson’s career path led him to New York in 2010, where he worked for Nike, eventually relocating to Portland, Oregon. During the pandemic, he developed a passion for coffee, driven by his inability to replicate coffee shop quality at home. I just kind of started peeling back the layers on the onion, he said, describing his deep dive into the nuances of coffee beans, roasting methods, and brewing techniques.

After leaving Nike in 2022, Peterson took on a marketing role with “Luna Luna: A Forgotten Fantasy,” an amusement park installation backed by Drake. The impending arrival of his third child prompted a return to Minneapolis, where he launched Black Beach Coffee. The business partners with the Walker Art Center’s Idea House, Harmony coffee shop in Northeast Minneapolis, and Frgmnt, a cafe with four locations in the twin Cities, further solidifying his commitment to the local community.

Event Details: Plan Your Visit

The Black Beach Art Book Fair kicks off with an opening party on friday, feb. 28, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The fair continues Saturday and sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Glass House, located at 145 Holden St. N., Minneapolis. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art books and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

A Weekend of Art and community: A Party of Creativity

The Black Beach Art Book Fair promises to be a vibrant celebration of art, community, and creativity. With a diverse range of books,artists,and activities,the fair offers something for everyone. As Peterson puts it, It’s bringing a little hope and joy in maybe a weird time of life.

Minneapolis Art Scene Blossoms: An Exclusive Interview on the Black Beach Art Book Fair

Is the resurgence of interest in art books a sign of a deeper cultural shift towards tangible experiences in our increasingly digital world?

Senior Editor (SE): Welcome, Dr.Anya Sharma, renowned art historian and cultural critic. The Black Beach Art Book Fair in Minneapolis is generating notable buzz. Can you tell us why this event resonates so deeply, and what it reveals about the current state of the art book market?

dr. Sharma (DS): Absolutely. The Black Beach Art Book Fair isn’t just another book fair; it’s a microcosm of a larger cultural trend. We’re seeing an engaging counter-movement against the pervasive digitalization of our lives. The tactile experience of holding a beautifully printed art book, engaging with its physicality, and the sense of connection to its creator—these are elements that digital platforms simply can’t replicate. The desire for authentic, tangible objects, stories, and human connection is driving this resurgence in the art book market, mirroring a broader societal longing for deeper, more meaningful experiences.

SE: The fair’s founders emphasize community. How significant is the role of community in fostering thankfulness for visual arts and the art book itself?

DS: Inconceivably significant. creative communities form the bedrock of artistic expression. Think about past examples like the Bloomsbury Group. The exchange of ideas, the collective inspiration, the mutual support—these are crucial for artistic growth. The Black Beach Art book Fair,by explicitly centering community,mirrors the accomplished model of events like the New York Art Book Fair. It’s not just about buying and selling; it’s about creating a shared space for dialog, collaboration, and the dissemination of artistic ideas. this collaborative spirit enhances the value of both the physical object – the art book – and the experience of acquiring and interacting with it.

SE: The fair features a blend of established and emerging artists. What role do these events play in supporting autonomous artists and smaller publishers?

DS: A vital one. Independent artists and publishers often lack the marketing reach and resources of larger publishing houses. Art book fairs provide a direct connection to consumers, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. These events create an essential platform for artists to showcase their work, connect with their audience, and establish their presence in the market. It allows for unique interactions that extend beyond the commerce of the book itself. It’s particularly valuable for cultivating emerging artists in a competitive market. This, in turn, fosters greater diversity and innovation in both the artistic landscape and the art book market.

SE: The fair highlights photography considerably. What makes photo books so appealing? What’s the current state of photographic art and its related publications?

DS: Photography, with its power to capture moments and evoke emotions, is extremely well-suited to the book format. Photo books offer a compelling narrative structure that transcends single images. They allow for a curated sequencing of images that constructs a coherent story or exploration of a theme.Moreover, the physicality of a photo book adds another layer to the photographic experience itself, moving from mere images to tangible, collectible art. There’s been a noticeable surge of interest in photo books, particularly those that push the boundaries of traditional photographic art. The medium is dynamic: from art photography and photojournalism to social documentary photography, it maintains its adaptability and impact. This is reflected in the array of artistic photographs, publications and the photographers featured at the Black Beach Art Book Fair.

SE: What are your thoughts on the observation made by one of the founders that art books are becoming a “commodity” similar to limited-edition sneakers?

DS: It’s an engaging parallel. Both coveted art books and limited-edition sneakers represent a convergence of art, design, and collector culture. The scarcity value and the unique artistic expression inherent in both drive demand. Though, while sneakers represent a primarily commercial pursuit, art books have an added layer of cultural meaning, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of artistic ideas and social commentary. It hints at the evolving intersection between mainstream culture and art; the pursuit of the “unique” and the “collectible,” regardless of the form it takes.

SE: What are the key takeaways for our readers interested in attending similar events or supporting the art book world?

DS:

Attend art book fairs: These events are invaluable for connecting with artists, discovering new talent, and broadening your artistic horizons.

Support independent artists and publishers: Purchasing art books directly from artists or smaller publishers helps sustain artistic expression and ensures the continuation of diverse voices and viewpoints.

Minneapolis Art Scene blossoms: An Exclusive Interview on the Black Beach Art Book Fair

Is the resurgence of interest in art books a sign of a deeper cultural shift towards tangible experiences in our increasingly digital world? LetS find out.

Senior Editor (SE): Welcome,Dr. Anya Sharma, renowned art historian and cultural critic. The Black Beach Art Book Fair in Minneapolis is generating notable buzz. Can you tell us why this event resonates so deeply, and what it reveals about the current state of the art book market?

Dr. Sharma (DS): Absolutely. The Black Beach Art Book Fair isn’t just another book fair; it’s a microcosm of a larger cultural trend. We’re seeing a compelling counter-movement against the pervasive digitalization of our lives. The tactile experience of holding a beautifully printed art book,engaging wiht its physicality,and the sense of connection to its creator—these are elements that digital platforms simply can’t replicate. The desire for authentic, tangible objects, stories, and human connection is driving this resurgence in the art book market, mirroring a broader societal longing for deeper, more meaningful experiences. The fair’s success highlights a growing appreciation for the artistry of the book itself—the paper stock, the binding, the overall design—all contributing to a sensory experience absent in digital formats.

The Power of Community in the Art Book World

SE: The fair’s founders emphasize community. How significant is the role of community in fostering appreciation for visual arts and the art book itself?

DS: Inconceivably significant. Creative communities form the bedrock of artistic expression. Consider ancient examples like the Bloomsbury Group or even the Bauhaus movement. The exchange of ideas,the collective inspiration,the mutual support—these are crucial for artistic growth. The Black Beach Art Book Fair, by explicitly centering community, mirrors the triumphant model of events like the New York Art Book Fair. It’s not just about buying and selling; it’s about creating a shared space for dialog, collaboration, and the dissemination of artistic ideas. This collaborative spirit enhances the value of both the physical object – the art book – and the experience of acquiring and interacting with it. It fosters a sense of belonging and shared passion, enriching the entire art book ecosystem.

Supporting Independent Artists and Publishers

SE: The fair features a blend of established and emerging artists. What role do these events play in supporting independent artists and smaller publishers?

DS: A vital one.Independent artists and publishers often lack the marketing reach and resources of larger publishing houses. Art book fairs provide a direct connection to consumers, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. these events create an essential platform for artists to showcase their work, connect with their audience, and establish their presence in the market. it allows for unique interactions that extend beyond the commerce of the book itself. It’s especially valuable for cultivating emerging artists in a competitive market. This, in turn, fosters greater diversity and innovation in both the artistic landscape and the art book market. They provide a much-needed space for smaller presses to thrive and for new artistic voices to be heard.

The Allure of Photo Books

SE: The fair highlights photography considerably. What makes photo books so appealing? What’s the current state of photographic art and its related publications?

DS: Photography, with its power to capture moments and evoke emotions, is extremely well-suited to the book format. Photo books offer a compelling narrative structure that transcends single images. They allow for a curated sequencing of images that constructs a coherent story or exploration of a theme. Moreover, the physicality of a photo book adds another layer to the photographic experience itself, moving from mere images to tangible, collectible art. There’s been a noticeable surge of interest in photo books, particularly those that push the boundaries of traditional photographic art. The medium is dynamic: from art photography and photojournalism to social documentary photography, it maintains its adaptability and impact. This is reflected in the array of artistic photographs, publications, and photographers featured at the Black Beach Art Book Fair. the carefully chosen layout and design elevate the photographic work to a new level of artistic expression.

Art Books as a Commodity: A Modern Parallel

SE: What are your thoughts on the observation made by one of the founders that art books are becoming a “commodity” similar to limited-edition sneakers?

DS: It’s an engaging parallel. Both coveted art books and limited-edition sneakers represent a convergence of art, design, and collector culture. The scarcity value and the unique artistic expression inherent in both drive demand. Though, while sneakers represent a primarily commercial pursuit, art books have an added layer of cultural meaning, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of artistic ideas and social commentary. It hints at the evolving intersection between mainstream culture and art; the pursuit of the “unique” and the “collectible,” regardless of the form it takes. This trend demonstrates how high-quality, aesthetically pleasing objects, weather sneakers or art books, can become cultural symbols worthy of collecting and appreciating.

Supporting the Art Book World: Key Takeaways

SE: What are the key takeaways for our readers interested in attending similar events or supporting the art book world?

DS:

Attend art book fairs: These events are invaluable for connecting with artists, discovering new talent, and broadening your artistic horizons.

Support independent artists and publishers: Purchasing art books directly from artists or smaller publishers helps sustain artistic expression and ensures the continuation of diverse voices and viewpoints.

Engage with the community: Participate in discussions, workshops, and other events surrounding art books to foster a deeper appreciation for this medium.

Collect thoughtfully: Consider the artistry of the book and the artist’s message before making a purchase.

SE: Thank you, Dr. Sharma, for these insightful perspectives. Your expertise has provided a compelling look into the current revival of the art book and the crucial role of events such as the Black Beach art Book Fair.

what are your thoughts on the growing appeal of art books in our digital age? Share your comments below and join the conversation on social media using #ArtBookFair #MinneapolisArtScene #TangibleExperiences.