Together, BIMA and BARN are partnering to bring audiences and makers closer to contemporary book arts through both public dialogue (at BIMA) and hands-on creative exploration (at BARN).

Leading up to this talk, Banks will have led a five-day master workshop at BARN— “Speak Your Piece: Artist’s Books with Meaning” (April 27–May 1, 2026)—guiding participants in transforming personal stories into sculptural books through bookbinding, printmaking, material exploration, and narrative development.

George: George Lewis was born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1944 to parents who loved gardening, picnicking in the woods, and cooking. His mother, Wilma, instilled in him an early appreciation for the arts, and George began gardening and painting in watercolors as a child. After surviving the challenges of high school and college, he developed a passion for concrete sculpture and water gardening, which led to the creation of fountains and columns as integral garden elements. After meeting David, the two began a lifelong collaboration, expanding their work to include garden mirrors, plaques, fountainheads, paintings on concrete panels evoking ancient fragments, and column fountains. George continues to thrive creatively and personally, celebrating decades of partnership with David and a supportive community of friends. He expresses deep gratitude for this retrospective exhibition and the efforts of all involved.

David: Born in Cleveland, Ohio, David grew up surrounded by beauty and adventure. At 14, he lived for a year in a small fishing village on Crete, Greece—a formative experience that sparked his lifelong fascination with archaeology and mythology. After studying Classics at Oberlin College and exploring a variety of early careers, he moved to Bainbridge Island, where he met George in 1990.

Together they founded Little & Lewis, creating concrete sculptures, fountains, paintings, and gardens over 25 years. Married for 13 years and partners for 35, David and George retired 12 years ago to focus on giving back to the community that inspired and supported their work.