Transformation of Bookplates in Ukraine in the Era of Independence: Artistic Imagery and Graphics

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to highlight the transformation of the bookplate of the independence era: artistic imagery and graphics. The research methodology is to use an analytical approach to highlight the peculiarities of the development of the bookplate of the era of independence. An important element of the research was observation and description, which allowed us to explore and outline certain aspects of international cultural cooperation, including active participation in international exhibitions and competitions. The novelty of the study lies in the systematisation and generalisation of the achievements of small-form graphics, important historical and socio-cultural changes that have shown a deepened interest in it on the part of graphic artists. For the first time, the volume of the most significant publications prepared by Ukrainian scholars on the way to a thorough study of the bookplate heritage is summarised. The fulfilment of the research objectives is clearly demonstrated. Conclusions. Significant achievements of Ukrainian bookbinders during the years of Independence were the result of a major shift in the country’s political, social, and economic system. Cultural institutions, museums, and libraries became interested in the bookplate, which led to the emergence of educational publications and research that stimulated an in-depth study of the stages of its development and symbolic language. Exhibition activities intensified, and Ukrainian bookplates became known in many countries around the world and were duly appreciated for their achievements. Not only collective but also personal exhibitions of famous artists were held abroad. The emergence of new book marks was facilitated by numerous exhibitions and competitions dedicated to anniversaries held in many countries of the world, and was also reflected in the work of bookplate designers, which encouraged them not only to new creative achievements, but also contributed to the creation of a large portrait gallery of prominent cultural and artistic figures. The art of small-form graphics of the independence era is marked, first of all, by the creation of new paradigms and canons, with special attention paid to national themes.

Key words: bookplate, transformation, collectors, publications, exhibitions, museums, libraries, anniversaries.