Zé Studio: Book design and publishing for Courts 02

Can you tell us about ‘Courts 02’ by Ward Roberts?

‘Courts 02’ is a photography project by New York-based artist, Ward Roberts documenting sporting courts in Hong Kong, Bermuda, Hawaii, New York, and Melbourne.

Why did you decide to publish the book with Ward Roberts?

Ward is a dear friend and client of the studio and we had spoken about potentially publishing his work through Éditions. In early 2016, whilst shooting the series in Hong Kong, Ward expressed his interest in publishing a subsequent release to his 2012 ‘Courts’ release which we were very excited about.

What is the concept behind the book design for Courts 02?

With all our releases, we aim to embody the work in an authentic manner. The series references Ward’s very linear, tonal and minimal approach to photography which we gave context through a subtle debossed grid cover. The book also has a designated area on the back cover for Ward to sign the book with his unique paint stroke. 

The release saw an exhibition at Kinokuniya's Wedge Gallery in Sydney. How was the exhibition?

Yes, this was the final leg of the release having launched the book at Soho House, New York, and Arcana Books, Culver City. The Kinokuniya exhibition was a nice way to bring the release home and celebrate with all our friends and fellow admirers of Ward’s work.

You are running a design and art direction practice Zé Studio. Why did you set up the Éditions?

It was really a natural progression for us to set-up our own publishing platform as it allowed us to collaborate with friends of the studio, follow our own agenda, have control over the design process and put our money on the table – so to speak – in artists we believe in and who ultimately believe in us! Releases usually come about in a very mutual way and it’s very much about relationships, care, and empathy for each other’s work. It’s a very personal thing for me and not so easily defined.