Over the past few years, I have been preparing a series of authentic stories with the intention of illustrating them with the handwork of real people. Included in this, yet to be released, picture book series you will find a collection of beautiful puppets and props constructed by a community of real folks who are uniquely skilled in handcraft.
This picture book series has been a deeply personal project that connects me and my family to a better understanding of our Scandinavian origins. And I hope to someday share it with you! When I first began venturing into the world of storytelling I needed a way to help me and my children connect ourselves to our old origins. This happen as we discovered ourselves one story at a time, falling in love with timeless characters and themes. The journey began after sorting for hours upon hours through old tales and books, while reacquainting myself with, what seemed to be, forgotten characters and faraway lands.
Not only did I need to connect my family to our origins but I also needed a way to connect us to the real world and real community just outside our little home. This is when we discovered puppetry and the purpose it serves. Through puppetry we were able to re-create our stories in a way that everybody became a part of. Each puppet representing a glimpse into their makers inner world and personal interpretation of life. I can’t think of a more beautiful way to celebrate and preserve real people and the transformative magic found within our hand.
As I began acquiring creation after creation, I needed a space to develop my books. This is when I opened a small studio, which now displays my carefully selected puppet collection featuring puppet makers of all kinds. Some of the stories I tell are inspired by the old books we have read. And the picture books that I have been producing these past few years are bursting with life as they merge together real people and works inspired by old origins. It is my intention that each page will include the personal touches of each artist, preserving real people and forgotten stories together, forever.
Please note: The picture books I have described above have not been released, aside from the title Little Jack Frost. These drafted picture book productions are being kept in my personal vault and will be revealed in due time, as I focus on my live puppet productions in my hometown. Currently, I am releasing story books with only classical watercolor wash illustrations. While other titles have next to no illustrations; as they are merely guides written for parents and caregivers. Please read the description of each book carefully, as I have listed the content within very carefully. If you have any question, please ask me!
…and when we am not presenting stories or instructing the folk arts in the classroom, you can find us and our puppets (and our costumes) assisting with the launch of Heart Repertory Theatre, in Woodinville, Washington. A theatre with heart!