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Self-reflexivity as book form

 

Unfolding Self takes the form of a Chinese thread book. The origin of Chinese thread book comes from its function. It was traditionally used to store sewing supplies, especially thread, needles, and other embroidery materials. It is constructed from paper or cotton and had multiple layers of interlocking and collapsible compartments that could open up and fold down flat. 

 

Beyond its utilitarian purpose, the thread book also carries symbolic meaning. Similar to the universal nostalgic “grandma’s sewing tin”, this thread books serves as both a storage object and a repository of memory and heritage. It creates a space where memory can materialise and preserve.

 

As Johanna Drucker mentions in The Century of Artists’ Book, the physical form of an artist’s book fundamentally shapes its meaning:  

 

“The elements of visual, physical materiality participate in book’s temporal effect -- the weight of paper, covers, endpapers or insets, foldouts or enclosures– all contribute to the experience of a book” (Drucker, 2004, p.197). 

 

The physicality of Unfolding Self serves as a structural and metaphorical way of revealing the traces of my lived experience in the UK, an extention of my autobiographical painting practice. 

 

The use of hardcover binding and high GSM paper not only ensure the durability and functionality, but also as a metaphor of the act of preserving and passing down memory and heritage. Each pocket holds a fragment including drawing, photograph, small personal item that links to my life. Together they form an intimate autobiography. 

 

I have used different coloured papers for each individual pocket, creating a visual variation and emotional tone. As Drucker observes, “colour becomes a device for making each opening a separate space within the narrative as well as within the visual field (idem., p.202). Some pockets also contain short writings or reflective notes, adding a critical dimension that mediates between image and text. 

 

Ultimately, the Chinese thread book structure and metaphor, the folded compartments acting as vessels of memory, belonging and care. The act of unfolding mirrors the process of unveiling, invites reader to peek into a layered and tactile autobiography.

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Reference:

Drucker, J. (2004) The Century of Artists’ book. New York: Granary Books. 

​Smith, R. (no date) Alittle known Chinese folk art: Zhen Xian Bao . Available at: https://www.foldingdidactics.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/zhen_xian_beyo.pdf (Accessed: 01 November 2025).