Akina, Charlie's Widow and Lang Leav

I had the good fortune this week of winning a book. Not just any book, but a handcrafted limited edition copy of Charlie's Widow by Lang Leav of Akina. I'm not even sure the word book really covers what I won, this is an interactive piece of art.

I spend quite a bit of time a Kinokuniya in Sydney. I am always drawn to their exhibitions just at the front of the store. When I came across the Akina exhibit, I was mesmerized for hours. I imagine many wondered why someone would stand in the small window space for that long but I was soaking in every detail while I could, unsure if I would be able to see her work in person again.

The exhibition had forms to join the mailing list and enter for a chance to win a copy of Charlie's Widow. Whether or not I won, I wanted to make sure I was on the list to find out about future shows. When the announcement came this week, I squealed out loud on a city bus. Then I had to catch my breath.

The images in this post are from the Akina website with photography Helen Tan. They do more justice to the work than I possibly could. I encourage you to visit all of Lang Leav's project pages because they show you more about her process.






Charlie's Widow is a handcrafted limited edition printed on linen paper. Each painstakingly handbound. A true collector's piece appropriate for a gallery or the National Museum. I am mesmerized by the hauntingly sweet illustrations. They are so compelling and jarring at the same time.

And I'm not the only one who owns a copy. Tim Burton's was hand-delivered to him last week and he was "very impressed". If that's not an endorsement, I'm not sure what is. Do visit the Akina site to see more of her works! If you aren't quite ready to invest in a book, there are also notecards and clothes in the store.

Lang Leav also has a a gothic lolita fashion label that is making waves in Japan. Given that she's already apprenticed with Peter Morrissey and won a Qantas Spirit of Youth award, it's clear that she has staying power.

What are you waiting for? Go snap up your books before they are sold out.