EX LIBRIS, Artis

Ex libris: latin phrase meaning “from the library or collection of…” a decorative piece of paper stuck inside the front cover of a book showing ownership.

The art of the bookplate goes back centuries. Originally made from engravings and pasted into books, at ex libris artis we have taken the tradition of the bookplate and added a few new drawing mediums from digital to watercolor. We have also implemented the contemporary ease of self-adhesive, to make for a seamless process.

Have a look at our site and if there’s anything on our homepage or shop that you like and want customized, we are happy to create it with you! Likewise, we can dream up an entirely new bespoke design that will express the library owner’s tastes, character, interests and inspiration. Just click the button below to send us an email or head to our shop for inspiration and customizable options.

We look forward to collaborating with you!

From books, art…

Ex libris Prêt-à-porter

“Ready to wear” bookplates! Ready to adorn your book collection. Ready to order and give as the perfect hostess or holiday gift. For customization or bespoke requests please enquire: atelier@exlibrisartis.com

An ex libris created in homage to Josef Albers & Color Theory represented by an exercise in simultaneous contrast.
Ex Libris illustration of a bookshelf with red and white stripe "awnings", showing colorful books, and featuring the text 'Ex Libris' at the bottom with a line for the owner to fill in the name.
An ex libris created in homage to Josef Albers & Color Theory represented by an exercise in simultaneous contrast.

Ex Libris Bespoke

Whether hand-drawn digitally or using watercolor, ink or pencils, the bespoke bookplate is a timeless addition to any library and the most thoughtful gift for a loved one or acquaintance.

Classical-inspired illustration for an Ex Libris showing a figure resembling Princess Diana as a classical goddess with curly hair, crescent moon on the headband, and an arrow quiver. Text reads "ex libris DIANA" with decorative elements.
A personalized Ex Libris of Serena Crawford - designer, world-traveler, influencer - holding her favorite leopard print purse, adjusting a straw hat adorned with red and white flower, framed by a leopard print border, a nod to her South African roots
Line drawing of Kim Kardashian with her long hair loose on her shoulders, resting her face in her hands, hovering over an open book labeled "TORT LAW," in reference to her studies and law work.
Line drawing of a woman's profile labeled "Ex Libris" with the name "Diana" below.
Ex Libris bookplate with black and red vertical stripes and the name Frederic at the bottom.
Line drawing of a woman with wavy hair, wearing a collared shirt, captioned 'Ex libris Kaia.'
Illustration of a woman with styled hair and jewelry, accompanied by handwritten text "I am Diana, a goddess" and "Ex libris D.V." at the bottom.
Floral bookplate design with "Ex libris" and "Amanda"
Illustrated bookplate with "Ex libris" text, a line drawing of a woman's face wearing an earring, and the name "Kelly" with a heart symbol below.
“You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax all you need is a book!”
— Dr. Seuss
Illustration of a bed with a golden crown canopy, pink curtains, and pillows labeled 'Ex Libris.' The bed's footboard reads 'Franny & Lucy.' Blue decorative vases are on either side. Green scalloped border surrounds the image.
Circus-themed Ex Libris bookplate featuring a tent with red and white stripes, a seal balancing on ABC blocks, colorful balloons, a flaming hoop, and a night sky background with a crescent moon and stars.
Illustration of a doll-like figure with a sun halo, wearing a floral scarf and apron, surrounded by colorful flowers, birds, and decorative elements. The name "Maria" is written at the bottom.

Children!

The best gift for any child is a personalized bookplate, making the connection between a child and the child’s library that much more intimate and special. A lifelong love of books begins in childhood and a bespoke bookplate is the heart etched in the tree trunk!

“There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.”
— Walt Disney
Silhouette of a person with a blue bow above.

Silhouettes

Our Ex Libris logo mark, inspired by the timeless Bodoni ornaments, is an illustration of a stylized sun face with a symmetrical leafy design beneath it, symbolizing an open book.

As a bookplate for your children’s library or as a miniature memento in a lovely frame, the silhouette of a beloved child, grandchild or loved one is an endearing keepsake and perfect gift! We can even create custom ornaments for your loved ones for this holiday season! Please enquire about our various options, pricing and timeline.

Illustration of a light blue bow with a circular loop at the bottom on a white background.
Table with a blue lamp, framed silhouette portrait, and vintage clock
Open antique book with marbled endpaper, sealing wax stick, ex libris bookplate featuring a silhouette, and a wax seal stamp with a green handle on a wooden surface.
Illustrated interior featuring a mantel with vases of flowers, abstract art, and black-and-white portraits on a pink wall; the text reads 'Southern Interiors: A Celebration of Personal Style' by Tori Mellott with Mario Lopez-Cordero.
Sketchbook with artwork, colored pencils, and paintbrush on a wooden surface. A red Caran d'Ache Swisscolor pencil set is nearby.
Person holding a watercolor painting of a rooster, with watercolor paint palette visible in the background.

Watercolor & Illustrations

Watercolor painting of a lighthouse on a coastal landscape, with clouds and ocean in the background, surrounded by palm trees and grass.

All kinds of custom illustrations are possible! Whether you’d like a particular landscape or building, a book cover or a cozy bedroom or perhaps beloved pet, please contact us directly for enquiries and ideas to brainstorm and come up with a beautiful solution.

We can also create a custom stationery set, as we are in the midst of developing our own line, please reach out for more information.