Tiny Vices Books
by Gabriel Bell
We've gotten lost in photographer Tim Barber's online gallery, Tiny Vices, more than we probably should. Carefully edited and simple to use, Tiny Vices does a great job of introducing readers to an entire clique of visual work ranging from the ghostly, back-alley photography of Christian Patterson to the truly cracked illustrations of David Benjamin Sherry. With artists ranging from the near-unknown to scene faves (including Ryan McGinley), Tiny Vices has evolved into a virtual perch from which to watch the growth of current minor movements and future major names. Until now, Barber's reach has been limited to the internet and periodic on-site exhibitions, however, lucky for us, Tim today unveiled TV Books, his new independent publishing house.
With the introduction of TV Books Barber's domain has moved beyond the computer screen to the coffee table. TV Books, which is just now releasing its first pressings of limited-edition artist volumes, already has a catalogue of 12 titles including the "The Island," Julia Burlingham's curious photo tribute to Manhattan (pictured) and "I am not a Shrinking Violet," a collection of Kim Krans' beguiling collages.
In keeping with Tiny Vice's charming DIY flavor, the site's "flip through" feature consists of Barber literally flipping through his titles in front of a camera. If you see something you like especially like, larger prints are available on request.
