The cutest and most visually interesting little book store I have stumbled upon in a while. My first visit, exactly a year ago was by total accident. I was visiting Vienna and was wandering the streets by myself, looking for someplace more pleasant to spend my time than the shopping streets. It’s a small place, one room to be exact, in the 7th district of Vienna.
The Salon for Art Book really is what the name says. It all started as an art project by Bernhard Cella, who designed the space as a 1:1 model. More or less, The Salon for Art Book is an exhibition of books, where you can buy a piece of art. It’s a must visit for all paper lovers, artists, editors, publishers, graphic artists, authors and so on. It was opened in 2007 and since has seen many book launches, exhibitions and public discussion sessions. The place is so exclusive, they won’t allow photographing indoors, so you just have to go and explore the place yourself!
The books you can find there are mostly about the visual arts, as the name suggests, but space itself is not limited to being a bookstore but works as an exhibitions space as well. The way the books in the store are presented and put on display makes you smile. Some of the books are not arranged by the typical way of theme, but by color. On one wall all books are red, on the next orange, next yellow..you get the idea! It makes you think about the visual aspect of books and how they convey the story found within. Maybe there is a time a bright green, letterpressed titled, thick covered book is exactly what I want to read. And if not, it will look fabulous on my bookshelf. But kidding to the side, the way the books are presented makes the store special.
Ps. They have an online store as well, and they ship all over the world. There you can find an amazing collection of art books. Also, check their website for the latest happenings and events!
Salon für Kunst Buch, Mondscheingasse 11, A-1070 Wien
