Abstract

Commissions include 'Bukowski: A life in Pictures', 'An Leabhor Mor - The Great Book of Gaelic' and 'The Scottish Islands', many of which have been commissioned by Canongate books. Canongate Books has emerged as one of the most dynamic publishing houses in Britain. Based in Edinburgh but with a distinctly international outlook, Canongate continues to nurture and publish new talent from around the world, whilst retaining the essence of the Scottish Canon. They were voted Publisher of the Year in 2003 and won the 2002 Man Booker Prize with The Life of Pi. They regularly employ a number of freelance designers such as Angus Hyland from Pentagram. ‘An Leabhar Mòr’ An international celebration of contemporary Celtic culture. Art Director: James Hutchinson Graphic Design: Barrie Tullett. The Great Book is a major contemporary artwork, a 21st century ‘Book of Kells’ that brings together the work of more than 200 visual artists, poets and calligraphers from Scotland and Ireland. It has generated an international touring exhibition of 100 artworks, a book publication, a website, a TV documentary, a series of BBC radio programmes, a music CD, a schools pack and an events programme. The final outcome, following the exhibition tour, is a visual anthology in one bound volume that will become a permanent visitor attraction. The website contains a large number of peer reviews and quotes. ‘My best book of 2002 is The Great Book of Gaelic, a wonderful collection which celebrates our rich cultural past and the artistic talent that exists in Scotland and Ireland today.’ - Scotland on Sunday – First Minister Jack McConnell MSP – 15 December 2002