The creative collective known as The Paper Knife released their second “Volume” this past First Friday at Cartel in Tempe. “Volume of what?” you might be wondering. Is it a book? Is it a zine? What are we talking about? The publication, like The Paper Knife itself, evades clear definition.
So, really, what is it? Answer: A loose-leaf publication contained in a white, 7 x 10 inch box. The contents are a collection of visual art, poetry, and music, both recorded (a CD & cassette are included) and sheet music. The Paper Knife breaks the confines of traditional structures to offer creatives in the Valley a new outlet for expression, one that doesn’t trouble itself with the quandaries of limitations. The quality of the printing elevates each volume beyond the level of the traditional “zine” to an item you will want to retain for your personal art collection. Once you shuffle through the collection, you’ll understand why you just shelled out $25 for a copy of Volume 2 and feel like you left with a bargain.
And, each volume also includes several packs of TPK-branded matches just in case you have some confines of your own to burn down. If you missed the release show, you can contact The Paper Knife directly to get your hands on Vol. 2 before they’re all gone. Or keep an eye on their online store (here) for when the second installment of The Paper Knife’s publication is made available for online sales. In the meantime, we’ve included some examples of artwork you will find in TPK Vol. 2 below…