In store now! Dongas Sketchbook: The Struggle for Twyford Down, by Jai Redman
A limited edition (of 300), the Dongas Sketchbook is a facsimile of artist-activist Jai Redman’s art and journal entries from his time living with the Dongas Tribe as they fought to prevent the destruction of the Twyford Downs in the summer of 1992. It is not only a fascinating time capsule from one of the most significant environmental movments the country has ever known, but also a visceral and startling collection of words an images which highlight the importance of protest, the environment and community.
A perfect book to accompany Helen Beyon & Chris Gillam’s Twyford Rising.
Personalised description of book or general excitement about it. Making it sound fun!
Order your copy today directly through October Books or buy online through our bookshop store and we’ll get a commission on your purchase.
Dongas Sketchbook by Jai Redman
Paperback (limited to 300) £20
In the summer of 1992, a handful of people came together to camp on the threatened hillside, known locally as The Dongas. The tribe (a temporary commune), who took the same name, obstructed the road builders for many months, until they were violently evicted. However, their land occupation tactics subsequently had a powerful, far-reaching political influence and became a blueprint for eco-activists worldwide.
Artist-activist, Jai Redman (b.1971) was an art student in 1992. He was part of the Dongas Tribe and focused on building fortifications, developing resistance tactics, and illustrating propaganda material for the nascent anti-road movement. His more personal reflections were expressed through collages, kept in handmade sketchbooks.
Redman’s artwork contains a range of influences including Neolithic stone circles and Pagan folk imagery, the Grunge-era graphic design of David Carson, and the work of Anselm Kiefer, Antoni Tàpies, Robert Rauschenberg, Jasper Johns, and Leonardo da Vinci.
The Dongas Sketchbook is a limited edition (of 300) facsimile artist’s book including a new essay written by Redman and his archive photos of a rarely seen collection of ephemera from the time.
Order your copy today directly from October Books or buy online through our bookshop store and we’ll get commission on your purchase.
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