Arion Press

Arion Press
Arion Press is a renowned fine press and publisher based in San Francisco, California, specializing in limited-edition, handcrafted artist books that combine classic literature with original contemporary artwork.

Founded in 1974 by Andrew Hoyem as the successor to the legendary Grabhorn Press, Arion Press is unique as the only facility in the United States that produces books entirely by hand “from comma to cover” under one roof. This includes their own hot-metal type foundry (the last unified one in America), letterpress printing workshop with historic equipment (some dating to the 1910s and even machines used to cast the U.N. Charter in 1945), and complete book bindery.

They collaborate with leading artists to reimagine literary classics, creating museum-quality volumes through traditional craftsmanship while keeping the printed book relevant in the digital age. In 2024, they relocated to a 10,000-square-foot facility at the Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture.

Their publications are highly sought after by collectors, often featuring intricate illustrations, fine typography, and deluxe bindings. Notable examples include their famous 1979 edition of Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick (illustrated by Barry Moser), which has become a benchmark in fine press publishing.

Other titles have included works like George Orwell’s Animal Farm (with illustrations by Jonathan Hammer) and various deluxe editions of classics such as Edgar Allan Poe, Charles Dickens, and more recent ones like Isaac Asimov’s Nightfall.

The press maintains a gallery and store open to the public (typically Tuesdays through Saturdays, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.), where visitors can view books, prints, and sometimes observe the production process. They offer subscriptions for new releases and sell directly through their online store.

The best places to find Arion Press books online are:
eBay Books
Arion Press