New Work: Soul Books

People often think that their stories are not important, or they may not feel safe enough to tell them. Most of us can't listen well enough to hear each other's stories, let alone those of other creatures. I do think it is possible to though—on both counts. What is inside all of us is exciting, rich, complicated and important.

These objects are a tactile and symbolic way of reaching into someone's soul without embarrassment, censorship, fear; whatever it is that keeps us from really knowing each other. With these Soul Books you get to look, see, and touch what's inside.

Good things happen when we really get to tell our stories, when someone is really listening and wanting to hear. You learn all kinds of things; the world is a much richer place; healing happens; you get to connect in a unique and honest way; and most importantly, you care.

You cannot make another person/animal an enemy when you know them, when you can really see them.

I've never questioned the fact that animals have souls. I can see them. It is sometimes hard for me to see them in humans—grown up ones. But I think that you can see their souls in their stories, if they get to tell them. I love hearing peoples stories; and everybody has a story to tell.

The sculptures are high-fire porcelain, stained but unglazed. The books are mixed media on paper (ink, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, paste-papers, prints...). The bindings are exposed; they are bound with a link and kettle stitch.

Click here to see Judy's bio.