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Brian Dettmer

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Das Weltheater, 2009 Altered Book

Hello my name is
Brian Dettmer

I was born in
Naperville, Illinois. I was born in a small town that turned into a massive suburb while I grew up- right outside Chicago.

I currently live in
Atlanta, GA. We moved here from Chicago 3 years ago. More nature, less culture- but still a good balance.

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Fate Far Fast Fall Final, 2009 Altered Book

It all started when

I first cut into a book. I sealed it up thinking I would just dig a hole, exploring the material. And then I came across an image and began to cut around it. Another imge emerged below and I kept going. That was the 'Eureka' moment.

My work is
I mostly work with altering books. Books become sculpture. I seal them and then cut into them- not moving or adding anything.

My ideal work environment
I think I have it now. My studio is a large sunroom with huge windows in the front of our house. Great commute, excellent lighting.

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Standard Circle, 2009 Altered set of vintage Encyclopedias

I spend my days/nights
Working on my work/ thinking about my work/ trying to not think about my work

I'm under the influence of...

caffeine and lack of sleep.

My favorite tool of the trade
The x-acto knife.

If you were to go through my trash you might find
Right now- A lot of diapers. My wife and I just had our first child, Isabella Zetta, about 6 weeks ago.

bd3 Full Set of Funk (detail), 2009 Altered set of vintage Encyclopedias

The one item to be buried with me
My blood in my body (instead of chemicals) so I can decompose properly.

Something I value that others might discard
Old books (that was too easy)

My last words
I haven't said them yet. I'll probably just say whatever I'm thinking of at the time when the time comes.

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