About Jodene
I see glimpses of God in nature, in little things, in small moments with people. I see glimpses of His ways and His character and His loving intentions toward me, toward us.
Then I use artistic tools like collage, art-making, photography, and writing to share and to teach these things that I “see”. What I “see” and “teach” are foundational concepts to build a good life upon…an abundant life with fullness of things like joy, grace, and love. These tools are ways to teach, but also are ways of seeing…ways of opening the eyes of the heart. For example, going for a walk outdoors with a camera and looking for beauty to photograph is like a doorway into the presence of God which is a place of fullness of joy, of healing, of peace of mind, of gaining strength, courage, and confidence. I often do this when I am stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, and it settles my spirit.
The making and selling of art and art classes may be my business, but my calling is the sharing of tools that help people discover the treasure who they are, discover the wonders of God, and discover firm foundations to build a life upon. Broad concepts such as gratitude, wholeheartedness, grace, becoming and growing, trusting in God, authenticity—being yourself, and trading anxiety for peace of mind become something tangible. They become things that can be seen and held, even if in the mind’s eye, through these tools. I do this through creating curriculum for classes that incorporate creativity (making things), photography (seeing things), words (writing and reading), walking in nature, and faith/God’s word. I invite people not only to see and hear what I have to share but also to immerse themselves into the process so they make discoveries for themselves, not simply because I taught it.
More About my White Owl Wings story . . .
White Owl, South Dakota. About 2008, my heart began to stir. Something calling to me to pay attention and to begin to walk in a new direction. I listened and took my first steps of writing, making collage art on wood and sharing the journey through photographs. Four statements resonated with me: believe truth, be real, be who you are, and don't blink. Each one gives its own little message and all of my art and classes weave in at least one of these statements.
As a child, my grandmother taught me the names of all the song birds that would visit her bird feeder. This precious time planted a seed in my life that has grown as I discovered my own wings and embraced my interests and passions.
As an adult, my husband and I are growing the wings of three kids on a family cattle ranch that has been in his family for over 100 years. Some people call it the middle of nowhere, but I call it the center of my life.
Read and see photos of the blessing that continues to inspire White Owl Wings: My Snowy Owl Story.
Believe Truth
