Fanwood, NJ — The Fanwood Memorial Library, Ellis Angel, a Scotch Plains-based artist and activist, and PEN America will present “The Censor’s Cut: Weavings for Intellectual Freedom,” an art installation of paper weavings taken from shredded banned books. The public is invited to view the exhibit at the Library through October 24 and also attend two special events about the freedom to read.
On Saturday, Oct. 4, at 10 am, Ellis will lead a hands-on, family-friendly workshop, which invites children and caregivers to explore themes of freedom, inclusion, and storytelling through a guided weaving activity. Through art, this workshop encourages self-expression and sparks age-appropriate conversations around book bans. The event is recommended for families with children ages 5-12. On Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 7 pm Ellis will be joined by members of PEN America to speak to the community about Ellis’ work that addresses censorship and freedom of expression through innovative artistic techniques.
Ellis’ exhibition at the Fanwood Library opened on September 15 and continues through national Banned Books Week (October 5-11) and remains on display until October 24. Ellis selected the books included in the exhibit based on the American Library Association’s Top 10 Banned Books of 2024.
PEN America’s programs defend writers, artists, and journalists and protect free expression worldwide. In the 2023-2024 school year, PEN America recorded 10,046 instances of book bans, and counted book bans in 29 states and 220 public school districts, with Florida and Iowa leading in number of bans. Of the most commonly banned books in the 2023-2024 school year, 44% featured characters of color and 39% featured LGBTQ+ characters. Book bans impact authors, educators, librarians, school boards – and readers.
In 2023, the Fanwood Memorial Library Board of Trustees joined a growing movement of libraries who have designated themselves Book Sanctuaries. In light of the dramatic nationwide increase in attempts to ban books and restrict library materials, the Library and Board acknowledge the vital importance of standing up to censorship in all forms and embracing the freedom to read as a cornerstone of democracy.
Angel Ellis is an activist and artist specializing in political paper weavings. Angel’s work addresses issues of censorship and freedom of expression through innovative artistic techniques. Learn more about Ellis at https://www.ellisangel.com/
