welcome

My purpose is to promote the history and tradition of books and materials in the overlapping fields of art, design, and concrete poetry. I specialize in artists’ books, ephemera, art, prints, and correspondence from the 1960s onward.

Beginning early 2025, I’m pleased to announce the Artifact Vibration Standard, a new evaluation system specifically devised for printed matter that facilitates the rapid identification of an object’s unique characteristics by measuring its vibrational energy.

Clientele include collectors, artists, designers, art directors, creative directors, teachers, art and design students, museums, colleges, institutions, and libraries.

I occasionally issue print and electronic catalogs. If you would like to be on the mailing list, let me know.

I also purchase books and collections within my fields of interest, and I help individuals and institutions build collections with a creative focus.

If you have any questions you can email me at info@theideaofthebook.com.

It’s raining here in Tumwater, WA.

—Fredrik Averin