Walter Gstettenhofer

Bookbinder

©Walter Gstettenhofer

Bookbinding beyond the book

Walter is a master of artistic bookbinding
The first bookbinding he ever did sits on his shelf as a cautionary tale
Tranquillity and rural life inspire him

Walter Gstettenhofer was very clear that he wanted to start working at a young age, so he started a bookbinder apprenticeship in a small printing shop where he worked for 25 years until opening his own workshop in 1993. Ironically, because the shop was mainly printing, he did not have many opportunities to use his theoretical knowledge of bookbinding, so he had to educate himself. This approach of studying reference books of different fields to learn about the history, techniques and the link to other bookbinders, remains central to Walter’s approach. With his unique use of technical skills from various crafts and for artistic bookbinding, he perfectly oscillates between tradition and contemporary.

Interview

©Walter Gstettenhofer

©Walter Gstettenhofer

Why is bookbinding endangered?: There are few jobs – and even fewer apprenticeships – where one can still practice the craft. Additionally, it can be challenging to articulate the added value of quality to costumers used to going to less expensive bookshops. This has encouraged me to hold exhibitions and attend big fairs.
How important is your collaboration with other artisans?: Networking with other craftspeople, from calligraphers to engravers, goldsmiths, carvers and joiners, is a big part of my work. I have a habit of really getting to understand how other people with great skills in other crafts can influence me, and this has often led to collaborations.
What does "well made" mean to you?: One could refer to perfection in craftsmanship but I feel "perfection" is a pointless term. I prefer to say that the well-made objects move people, they are touched by it – but not everyone will be moved by the same thing. One should feel something, anything, when holding a book in their hands.
Do you train apprentices?: Yes, it is very important for the survival of the craft. With me, and the type of bookbinding I am doing, good practical skills are important. Therefore, my apprentices tend to be older and have ended up in my workshop through many different routes.

Walter Gstettenhofer is a master artisan: he began his career in 1992 and he started teaching in 1999