How to Manifest(o) at MEL Photobook Fair 2026

How to Manifest(o) is an experimental, hands-on bookmaking workshop that frames publishing as a practical and immediate way to respond to images, ideas, and context. Participants will create, bind, and take home a self-published work using materials curated by N0 R3PLY.

Developed specifically for the Melbourne Photobook Fair, this iteration focuses on photography, image sequencing, and material process. Participants will work with bespoke paper designs, photographic ephemera, and a set of text-based prompts drawn from contemporary photography discourse. These materials include repurposed photographic test strips and production off-cuts provided by WETLAB - an independent large format, open access colour darkroom and printer based in Naarm. 

The workshop foregrounds the material conditions of photographic production while encouraging participants to think through sequencing, scale, and fragmentation. Alternative binding materials, such as dog clips, zip ties, bubble wrap, and other everyday objects, are also provided, supporting informal and adaptive approaches to book construction.

The session is largely self-guided, allowing participants to move at their own pace, with facilitation and support from the N0 R3PLY team throughout. The session runs for 2.5 hrs and is designed to accommodate drop-in participation.

All tools and materials are supplied, and no prior experience with publishing or bookmaking is required.