From January 21 to April 18, 2025, Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking will be hosting an Amusement exhibition called Night Circus This exhibition features amazing artworks made by some really talented artists from the Guild of Book Workers. This group helps everyone appreciate the magic of books and craft. For 13 weeks, the Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking invites visitors to step into a world where curiosity, creativity, mystery, and fun come alive!  

Visitors will have the opportunity to view 31 remarkable art pieces that evoke cherished circus memories. One notable artwork is titled "Nocturnal Popcorn," created by Chris McAfee. This piece resembles a large, red and white striped circus tent and features a binturong, also known as a bearcat, which is Chris's favorite animal. He notes that it has a scent reminiscent of popcorn. Chris is passionate about problem-solving in his artistic process and is dedicated to bringing his ideas to fruition. 

Another exciting piece is "Night Flight" by Alicia Bailey. She used all sorts of materials like paper, ink, thread, and shiny foil to create a sculptural book. Alicia wants you to think about how circuses and birds flying at night are related. She also shows how bright city lights can confuse the birds, making it harder for them to survive. 

A vintage poster called "The Boundless Lady Bookbinder”.  Features a tattooed lady who was a performer more than a hundred years ago, breaking the social rules of her time. This piece is made from elaborate materials like goatskin and colorful papers. It was created by two artists, Gabby Cooksey and Erin Fletcher, to celebrate amazing women in the bookbinding world. 

Artist Esther Kibby was inspired by the circus visits with her father. They would ride the Ferris wheel and look at the stars. Kibby’s father showed her constellations and told her stories behind them this memory inspired  "Aναμνηστικά” which means “mementos” in Greek. She used specialty papers like Stonehenge paper, paste paper, goat parchment, transparent vellum, And paper cuts to create this snap-shot of a special childhood memory. 

These and many other incredible pieces are on view at the Night Circus, full of fun, mystery, and beautiful craftsmanship. Be sure to check it out! 

The museum is open from 9 to 5, Monday to Friday. Admission is free. Groups of ten or more need to schedule a fee-advance program in advance. 

The museum is located at 500 10th St NW. visit https://paper.gatech.edu/ for more information.