Frank Chimero, The New Golden Age of Bookmaking

This podcast episode explores the transformative impact of crowdfunding on the publishing industry, specifically focusing on Kickstarter as a platform for independent creators. The episode features various examples of successful Kickstarter campaigns, including the books "The Shape of Design" by Frank Chimero, "Designing Obama" by Scott Thomas, and "Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls" by Francesca and Elena. The conversation highlights the benefits of crowdfunding, such as the ability to gather support and funding, bypass traditional publishing methods, and create a sense of community and intimacy with backers. The chapter also discusses the challenges and learnings of writing and producing a book using Kickstarter, emphasizing the importance of finding the right form, structure, and approach. The significance of physical space, the integration of visual elements, and the need for post-project interactions and conversations are also explored. Overall, this episode showcases the power of Kickstarter in empowering independent creators, normalizing the act of paying for creative works, and revolutionizing the way books are produced, supported, and distributed. Takeaways • Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon have revolutionized the publishing industry by providing independent creators with opportunities to gather support and funding for their projects. • Kickstarter has enabled creators to bypass traditional publishing methods and take control of the writing and production process, allowing them to find the right form, structure, and approach for their books. • The integration of visual elements and the use of platforms like Keynote have played significant roles in the writing and production process of books, offering unique and engaging ways to arrange and present ideas. • Kickstarter campaigns create a sense of community and intimacy between creators and backers, fostering ongoing engagement and interaction throughout the production and post-project phases. • Crowdfunding platforms have normalized the act of paying for creative works and have made it easier for supporters to invest in and support the creators they appreciate on an ongoing basis. • The physical environment, such as walls or large physical spaces, plays a crucial role in the creative process, allowing creators to display ideas, create connections, and maintain focus. • The success of Kickstarter campaigns, such as "Designing Obama" and "Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls," has showcased the transformative power of crowdfunding and its potential to raise substantial funds for projects. • The publishing industry can benefit from replicating the social nature of physical bookstores in digital book spaces, fostering a sense of community and conversation around the books supported on crowdfunding platforms.