Same Sum by Peter Happel Christian explores observation, chance, and the magic of everyday life. The title takes inspiration from an Italo Calvino essay wherein experience is fluid and meanings flexible—that within the finite is an infinite. Similarly, Same Sum has no fixed sequence, allowing for seemingly endless experiences of the same images.

The book’s interactive design is inspired by card games and magic tricks; the double coil binding creates two decks of photographs that can be shuffled to create unique sets of image combinations.

We worked with artist GeorgeWylesol to create illustrations used across the book’s covers and interior that speak to the vernacular content and motifs within Happel Christian’s photographs.

Photographs by Peter Happel Christian
Edited by Christina Labey
Illustrations by GeorgeWylesol
Published, printed, and bound by Conveyor