The superbly printed and bound photographic work "Andris Apse - Fiordland", printed for Andris Apse by the late Jim Clayton - Rangiora Printing 1984 Limited and entered by Cover To Cover NZ Ltd was entered in the binding and finishing category and was a finalist from that area - but it was the overall presentation that stunned judges.
The work reflects Andris' desire to publish a personal view of an area with which he has an affinity, and in a form that depicts the soul and wilderness of Fiordland.
Senior judge Chris Woodhead described the set of three books that made up the work as "pretty amazing".
"It represents collaboration among people that have helped bring together a collection of photographs from Andris Apse taken over a number of years. They are brought together in the collection that is wonderful to look at.
"An incredible amount of effort has gone into the prepress and the binding is exceptional, with calfskin leather, foil and debossing, and a black velvet lining. There is just about every category of binding you can find in this book.
"Overall, I have to say this is a job to show that there is true craftsmanship at work in the New Zealand print industry".
Convenor of judges Grant Letfus described the book as an "example of craftsmanship on a grand scale".
"The judges were unanimous in their praises of the obvious teamwork and pride in all areas of design, prepress, print and binding, culminating in the realisation of Andris Apse's vision.
At the judging, judges wore protective gloves while examining the book, because of the archival paper stock that was used. This paper will mean that the book will survive for generations without deterioration.
Designed by Guy Pask - Strategy Advertising & Design, the reproduction houses involved were Andrew Budd - Trade Scans Ohoka New Zealand and Rangiora Print 1984 Limited. Print finisher was Matthew Hinman - Cover To Cover NZ Ltd; Ian Marriott of Christchurch Photo Engravers was the Cutting Forme / Block Maker; and the book set was printed on a Komori 528 using Agfa Graphics film, Reeves Folio plates, and Flint Group - Best One inks.
The list of stocks used in the book show the extensive range of finishes used. The full list is:
Strathmore Grandee Smoke Grey / Strathmore Ultimate White Wove / Black Calfskin Leather /White Horse Board 1.0gsm / Manilla Card 270gsm / Grey Chip Board 2370um / Brillanta Cloth Calandre 34004/ Lynel Moire Flysheets / Dainel Charbon 14/ Foil: Colorit VB 912 / Colorit VB 905 / Alufin Matt Silver.
Paper suppliers were BJ Ball Papers / Leather: Lapco Kowhai NZ Christchurch / Foil: Kurz NZ / Boards: B & F Papers / Cloth: sourced from Europe.
