Image for Rika's book

My entry into Rika’s book was inspired during an artist retreat in the mountains of Pennsylvania, recently. Working with black paper was a bit of a challenge however I remembered that colored pencils actually glows on a black surface. I collaged some images from a collagraphic print and added shredded US money (commonly used in my work) to simulate hair for the standing figure, which is a fertility doll. The joined at the stomach crocodile symbol is one of many Adinkra symbols that visually illustrate Adinkra philosophy from Ghana. The name of this symbol FUNTUNFUNEFU-DENKYEMFUNEFU represents democracy and unity. (The Siamese crocodiles share one stomach, yet they fight over food). This popular symbol is a reminder, that infighting and tribalism is harmful to all whom engage in it. This journal project represents unity to me because we all live in different parts of the world and may not even know each other, yet we are unified by our contributions to each other through our art.

Image for Connections

”Connection” was a drastic difference from the triangular book; its narrow horizontal format gave me a more intimate space to work with. I was inspired by the three-dimensionality of the previous entries as well as the ceramic image and box that it came in. So I decided to use a symbol that appears in my art as the repetitive image. I often use the crocodile in my work inspired by Adinkra Philosophy and symbols. The crocodile serves as an intercession to the spirit world as protection, because it is the most powerful animal in the jungle.  The central figure was made of handmade paper, while the other figures are revealed by the negative space treatment.  I then added some three-dimensional rings along with text. Both book entries were completed in one weekend. Whew, the pressure was on.

Jo's Book

Jo’s triangular book; Last week when I went to church the sermon was about getting out of your comfort zone for the betterment of yourself and your community. This book, I can see already will force me to leave my comfort zone, in terms of media, topic and all of the above. It could not have come to me at a better time as I began to look more closely at where the lines are drawn in my comfort zone and when and how do I allow myself to cross that line and step out on faith. Building confidence in your abilities and yourself starts from freely going back and forth across that line until you know in your heart that what ever you put your ability and effort towards wholeheartedly will undoubtedly work out.  The result of my dice throwing led me to use pens in all colors, it was self-inspired (my portrait) with an emphasis on repetition (reference to my new grey hairs) while being extravagant. I had to use an unacceptable color( gold) and also honor thy error as a hidden intention (the arrow). It was a challenging and evolutionary experience. This would also make a great project for students. I enjoyed working within the confines of a triangular shape.

Image for Carol's book

 My image in Carol’s book is entitled “Moving at a snails pace”. As I transition into a new phase of my life I would like to focus more on working three-dimensionally. I have always considered myself a frustrated sculptor so now it is time to relinquish my fears and excuses to delve feet first into my latten obsession. Her book being about movement and what moves you seemed like a perfect place to come to grips with what has been in my head for a long time. I guess, sometimes you have to put your desires and dreams on paper in order for them to be realized.