In a world where digital communication often overshadows the written word, I found solace in the timeless art of letter writing. This journey began with a simple idea: to create a series of epistolary artworks that would deepen my connection with a dear friend and mentor, Mary Gotz. What unfolded over the course of a year was not just a collection of letters, but a profound exploration of my artistic voice and personal growth.
The Roots of Inspiration
As an artist and educator, journaling has always been a vital part of my life. It’s where I process thoughts, cultivate ideas, and explore my creative potential. At times, it was simply lists of things I wanted to include within a project; other times, it was hints of memories that surfaced while I worked. The "Letters to Mary" series emerged from a desire for a more meaningful artistic outlet—one that transcended the canvas and allowed for genuine personal expression that can only emerge in written conversation with a special friend.
I discovered a beautiful set of brown craft paper stationery in a quaint shop in St. Paul, Minnesota, years before starting this project, probably on the discount table. This stationery, with its rustic charm and small punched-out star shape in the bottom right-hand corner, became the perfect medium for my letters, each one a blank space for me to work through my ideas, process thoughts, and express emotions.
The intention was clear: to write weekly letters that not only shared my artistic explorations but also engaged Mary in a dialogue about creativity and life. This project became a reflection of my journey as I navigated the complexities of my youth and the experiences of becoming an artist, a teacher, and a friend.
The Impact of the Letters
Writing to Mary was more than just a creative exercise; it became a commitment to delve deeper into my artistic practices. Each letter represented an opportunity to explore themes that resonated with me, often inspired by everyday encounters, memories, or even a line from a song that surfaced. This process challenged me to think critically about my art and shape the stories I wanted to tell.
The act of writing transformed my perspective. I found myself asking questions like, “What does this image mean to me?” and “How can I convey these emotions visually?” This reflective practice made each letter a journey of self-discovery, revealing layers of meaning that I had previously overlooked. It was empowering to realize that my voice—my unique perspective—was more than just an attractive image to be displayed. It had qualities that dug deeply into understanding my thoughts, giving them value worth exploring and sharing.
Ephemera and Mixed Media
One of the most exciting aspects of the "Letters to Mary" series was the incorporation of ephemera—those small, everyday items that tell a story. I had been saving and organizing bits of these precious items for years. Now was my chance to give some of them a valued life in a new home. Each letter featured not just words, but a mix of materials: bits of fabric, pressed flowers, and found objects that added texture and depth to the narrative. This mixed media approach allowed me to create multidimensional pieces that spoke to the complexity of my overall experience. As each piece evolved, I could see and clearly organize my thoughts.
In my letters, I aimed to blend realistic imagery with abstract concepts, inviting Mary—and the reader—to engage in a conversation that transcended the written word or the image I created. The layering of visuals and text created an immersive experience, where each letter became a dialogue between the tangible and the intangible. The process is so deeply imprinted on my thoughts that I can return today and revisit my internal conversations as if they unfolded yesterday.
Where The Experience Led Us
The journey of writing these letters ignited a passion within me that I wanted to share with others. Even my conversations with Allen, my husband, shifted as he observed my creative process each week. He became invested in my goals and listened as I talked through themes and shared the stories that emerged. These discussions led us to develop the image-based style and paper varieties we now use in our handmade journal designs, intended to support users as they discover their personal style of journaling. It directly influenced the teaching method that has now become our Bound to Journal signature.
Journaling isn’t just about recording thoughts; it’s a powerful tool for self-expression, healing, and growth.
Whether you’re a seasoned journaler or just starting, we encourage you to embrace the process. Allow yourself the freedom to explore your thoughts, feelings, and creativity without judgment.
If you’re interested in discovering more about journaling, follow our blog and social media outlets for inspiration and tips. We’re continuing to share links and a growing number of videos that delve into the themes of each letter and the techniques I used, providing you with a behind-the-scenes look at my creative process.
Together, we can explore the transformative power of journaling and find our unique voices.
Recap
The "Letters to Mary" series was more than a creative project; it was a transformative journey that reshaped how I view art and communication. Through this experience, I learned that journaling and letter writing can be profound acts of self-discovery, connecting us to our inner selves and to one another.
Join us as we continue this journey together.
Follow us on social media and this blog. Let’s explore the world of journaling—where every word, image, and thought can spark inspiration and connection. Your voice and thoughts matter. We can’t wait to see how you express them.
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