Michael Boone, a California-based artist, is forging his path in the world of altered book art. With a lifestyle deeply intertwined with nature and a devotion to his craft, Boone’s work reflects a rugged and connected existence.
At the heart of Boone’s artistic journey is “Dazbog Buddha,” a mesmerizing piece that encapsulates his unique approach to altered book art. The creation, crafted from a Buddha book, a Dazbog coffee bag, a pale ale beer can, and even ground-up crystals, serves as a testament to Boone’s innovative spirit. The incorporation of elements like a dog bone hanging on a string and the background bricks further adds layers of meaning to this intriguing piece.
Boone’s evolution into an altered book artist is rooted in his surroundings, particularly in Crestone, Colorado. Here, he found inspiration in the abundance of books available in the free box, setting the stage for a transformational artistic journey. Crestone, known as a Buddhist world spiritual center, became the backdrop for Boone’s creative exploration, where he built his art studio and lived for two decades, immersing himself in a lifestyle disconnected from worldly influences and distractions.
Living in a cabin he constructed from free materials in Taos, New Mexico, Boone embraces a Spartan existence. His dwelling lacks running water and electricity, and the absence of bills liberates him to focus entirely on his art. This intentional lifestyle grants him the freedom to travel and immerse himself fully in his creative endeavors.
Boone’s artistic process is a reflection of his deep connection to the elements—rock, stone, water, Sun, and Moon. His pieces echo the ruggedness of his lifestyle, embodying a raw and unfiltered essence. The altered book art form, which he has embraced wholeheartedly, becomes a natural extension of his life philosophy, allowing him to breathe life into discarded books and transform them into captivating works of art.
The transition from Crestone to Santa Cruz, California, has not halted Boone’s artistic pursuits. Currently, he is engrossed in a Starbucks altered book art piece, a testament to his ability to find inspiration in diverse environments. The Starbucks project, unfolding in Santa Cruz, reflects Boone’s adaptability as an artist, showcasing his talent in bringing forth new narratives from seemingly mundane or everyday materials.
Boone’s work is not just an expression of creativity; it is a visual dialogue with the world around him. Each altered book art piece is a chapter in his life story, encapsulating moments, experiences, and the spirit of the places he has called home. As he molds and shapes each creation, he weaves together fragments of his journey, creating a tapestry that speaks to the core of human connection and the essence of living a life true to oneself.
In a world often dominated by the hustle and bustle of modern living, Michael Boone stands as a testament to the power of simplicity and authenticity. His Spartan lifestyle and devotion to his craft serve as an inspiration for those seeking a genuine connection with their artistic pursuits. Boone’s journey is a reminder that art, at its core, is a reflection of life, and through his altered book art, he invites us to see the beauty in the discarded, the overlooked, and the forgotten.
