‘Words about Words’ playfully explores the language of lexicography, using 26 captivating collages to bring to life esoteric terms, from abecedarian to zeugma. 

This handbound artist’s book subverts one of the oldest literary genres – a children's alphabet book – to illustrate unfamiliar yet fundamental words about language. Éilís is fascinated by how words evolve: falling in and out of use, being repurposed and given new layers of meaning. 

Each book is unique by virtue of hand-painted paste paper, which gives the cover the chalky feel of a painted canvas. This paper decoration technique has been used by bookbinders since the middle ages. 

Price: €30

Title: Words about words: A Lexicographer’s List

Details: Limited edition book of 250 signed copies

Binding: Hardback single section book with 40 pages printed on 100% recycled paper

Measurement: 16 x 15 x 1 cms

ISBN: 978-0-9935770-2-4

Created by: Éilís Murphy