Golden memory

Golden memory, yellow version (2022). Pen on cotton and abaca paper. Dims vary, around 6.4 x 4.1 x 0.25” closed. Variable edition of 3. Cynthia Sears Artists’ Book Collection, SMFA @ Tufts Library.

Golden memory, persimmon version (2022). Inkjet print on persimmon powder dusted hanji, embedded in abaca paper. 6.5 x 4.75 x 0.13” closed. Variable edition of 10 (#s 1–5).

Golden memory, green version (2022). Inkjet print on pigmented cotton paper, embedded in abaca paper. 6.5 x 4.75 x 0.13” closed. Variable edition of 10 (#s 6–10). Oberlin Art Library Artists’ Books Collection, University of Michigan Library, Western Michigan University Special Collections, private collections.

We so often forget what our bodies actually know until we are compelled to use them, to become part of the world. This book speaks to how powerfully the things we learn by doing become embedded in our bodies. Stories of how heat affects color and strength are encapsulated in the pages of the book itself, available to read but permanently integrated. All of the paper is made by hand and the book was created in wet stage, spread by spread.

Golden memory

Grandmothers know
if you wrap an egg in onion skins,
tie them tight, and boil—

The shell changes color.

What children might not know
is that the leaves that stain sidewalks
are bursting with color

eager for release.

It’s so easy to crack an egg when raw.
But once the egg is boiled hard,
You could squeeze forever and it won’t break.

Heat strengthens and tempers.

What you learn in the world by doing
you never forget

Not a stain that washes away,
but forever part of the language of your hands.