A4 Catalogues.
4pp Cover onto 350gsm Silk.
Matt laminated to the outer.
56 inside pages onto 130gsm Silk.
Four colour print throughout.
Trimmed, collated and perfect bound.
Sophie Green’s Impermanence is more than just an art exhibition catalogue. It is a deeply emotive body of work that showcases her incredible talent for wildlife portraiture while simultaneously advocating for conservation awareness. Printed with precision and care, this A4 catalogue was crafted to mirror the level of detail, depth, and emotion found in Green’s original artwork.
From the moment you lay eyes on the cover—a striking close-up of a lion’s face—you are met with a sense of quiet power. The richness of detail, the warmth of the tones, and the soft, refined matte finish immediately set the tone for what lies inside. Every page is a seamless blend of artistry and information, designed to engage and educate its audience.
The Impermanence catalogue was produced with a high-specification print run that enhances the artist’s vision while ensuring a tactile, immersive reading experience:
This production setup allowed us to capture every delicate brushstroke, every subtle gradation of colour, and every intricate texture with astonishing accuracy.
Visually, Impermanence is a masterclass in restrained, sophisticated design. It allows Green’s artwork to take centre stage, supported by an understated yet effective typographic approach.
Every spread in the catalogue is carefully composed, whether it's a full-page artwork creating an immersive effect or a well-structured combination of text and image that narrates the deeper message behind each piece.
Beyond its visual appeal, Impermanence carries a strong emotional and ethical weight. The catalogue doesn't just showcase Green’s stunning animal portraits—it tells a story of conservation, urging readers to reflect on the fragile beauty of wildlife and the urgent need to protect it. The Impermanence Project Fund section in the book highlights Green’s dedication to environmental causes, reinforcing the book’s role as an artistic and activist statement.
The presence of QR codes linking to donation pages adds an interactive element, transforming a passive reading experience into an opportunity for action.
The use of matt lamination on the cover enhances the artwork while providing a premium feel. Future artists and designers should consider how finishes can add depth to their projects.
The layout proves that simplicity can be a strength. Leaving ample white space around artwork gives the impression of an exhibition rather than a dense book, making the catalogue feel curated rather than cluttered.
Perfect binding adds a level of refinement to the project, giving it a high-end bookshop-quality feel. For those producing art books, this method ensures durability while preserving the integrity of large-format images.
A combination of modern serif fonts creates a contemporary yet classic aesthetic. Future designers should pay careful attention to font pairings to ensure they complement the content without distracting from it.
By incorporating QR codes leading to conservation donations, Green has turned a catalogue into an interactive advocacy tool. This is a strategy that other artists and organisations can adopt to blend art with activism.
The four-colour printing process on silk stock ensures that the artwork’s integrity is preserved. Artists should work with their printers to test proofs and confirm colour fidelity before committing to large print runs.
Impermanence is a stunning example of how print can be used as a powerful storytelling medium. The meticulous attention to print quality, design, and structure ensures that Sophie Green’s work is not only beautifully presented but also emotionally resonant.
By working closely with Ex Why Zed, Sophie has achieved a publication that feels as valuable as the art it contains. The perfect balance of aesthetic appeal, material choices, and environmental consciousness makes this catalogue a standout project—one that will inspire both art lovers and conservationists alike.
The Start of a Creative Print Partnership
When artist and conservationist Sophie Green approached us to print a high-quality catalogue for her Impermanence exhibition, we knew this was more than just a project—it was a passion piece. This catalogue wasn’t merely an art book; it was an extension of Sophie’s mission to raise awareness about endangered species and their fragile existence.
Sophie needed a publication that would not only do justice to her breathtaking wildlife portraits but also serve as a lasting keepsake for exhibition visitors. The challenge? A tight deadline, a need for precise colour reproduction, and ensuring that every element—down to the smallest design detail—aligned with the sophistication of her art.
The journey from concept to final print required close collaboration, a meticulous approach to design execution, and some quick problem-solving along the way.
Sophie’s first contact with us revolved around pricing and print options. We provided a detailed quote based on her requirements. We also discussed premium print enhancements, such as foiling and spot UV, but given the project’s tight timeline, we collectively decided to prioritise a sharp, colour-accurate print on high-quality silk stock.
With an exhibition launch date set for 1st November, Sophie wanted the catalogues ready in time for opening night. This meant an ultra-fast turnaround was required.
We advised that to minimise stress, it would be ideal if she sent over a work-in-progress file before the final version so we could flag any potential issues early. This proactive approach proved invaluable.
Once we received the draft files, our preflight check uncovered some issues:
By 27th October, the final artwork was approved, and we pushed it straight into production. Sophie completed the payment, and we kept her updated on every stage.
The catalogues were delivered on 31st October, ahead of schedule, ensuring they were ready for the exhibition launch. Our tracking update and proactive communication helped ease any concerns about delivery.
Sophie’s response? “Can’t wait to see the brochures, and I really appreciate you squeezing it in at such short notice!!”
The success of Impermanence went beyond the gallery walls. The catalogues were so popular that Sophie reached out for additional print runs. We ensured the reprints were handled with the same care, guiding her through small-quantity options while maintaining cost efficiency.
The Impermanence catalogue was more than just a printed book—it became a part of Sophie Green’s conservation narrative. Our commitment to precision, flexibility, and clear communication helped transform her vision into a high-quality print product that continues to be in demand.
For artists and self-publishers looking to create a similar project, this case study underscores the importance of careful file preparation, clear communication with your printer, and choosing a print partner that understands the nuances of fine art reproduction.
Through collaboration and expertise, Ex Why Zed helped ensure Impermanence made a lasting impact—both in print and in the conservation community.
