This 1980s work by Canadian artistChristiane Baillargeon transforms an altered book—submerged in the ocean for aday—into a richly tactile and textured sculptural object. The piece features onthe cover, a metal grid structure, layered paint, string and remnants of woodthat reveal deliberate distress and decay. 

The grid exposes dark voids beneath,creating visual depth while the weathered surfaces invite touch. Inside thevoid are rows of wood sticks and a mass of threads. Along the book's edges,French words and phrases intermingle with illegible script. 

On the back is an abstract piece thatresembles a nebula. Bored holes add to the distress. 

This abstract, expressive approachexemplifies contemporary altered book art, where traditional objects becomethree-dimensional explorations of texture and transformation. 

Approximate measurements: 14" ×11.5" × 4" at widest. 

Baillargeon's practice centers onmixed-media techniques using recycled materials and sculptural or installation processesthat emphasize surface and texture. Her work bridges sculpture, language, andtext, creating dialogues between literary and visual artistic expression.