The Life and Work of a Bookbinder (DVD) - Maureen Duke

Maureen Duke was one of the most respected bookbinders and teachers of our time. Over a career spanning more than sixty years she introduced many students to this special craft. She travelled widely, taking bookbinding to new audiences around the world, wrote extensively on the subject and was a pioneer in book restoration.

In this remarkable film, Maureen looks back over her career. She reflects on her early years of self-employment, her first forays into the world of teaching and talks with passion about her time leading the full-time course at Guildford.

In retirement Maureen was busier than ever and we see her in action at Urchfont Manor and West Dean and meet some of her students, past and present, who were inspired by her skills as a craftsman and communicator.

She takes us on a tour of her extraordinary bindery, which she occupied for the last forty years, and in a special feature demonstrates some of her favourite techniques which have evolved over many years at the bench.

With a combination of modesty, humour and sure command of her subject, Maureen gives us a rare glimpse into her fascinating world and we are fortunate to have this visual record of her work

165 minutes.