Paper Words and Earth Day

Thirteen years ago today, I created a massive installation in RittenHouse Square Park in Philadelphia in honor of Earth Day. I made 100 abaca fiber paper words, five each of the words honor, respect, love, give and care. It was my meditation on what each of us needs to do to take care of our beloved Earth. Three of my friends woke and met me in the pre-dawn hours and we wrapped the trees in Rittenhouse with these words.

In the years since, I’ve made more words. Installed them in places all over the world. (Tasmania, Knoxville, Nebraska City, Williamstown, to name a few.) I’ve collaborated with Holly Wren Spaulding in our Here, Stands project that brought poetry to trees. The words were the backdrop for my wedding.

But perhaps my favorite is this one. These are images from my bedroom. I wake-up and see this every single day.  It inspires and encourages me every day that together, we can make a difference in the world. But we can never give up hope.

I have a few of these paper words remaining and available for sale in my shop. In honor of Earth Day, the cost includes shipping AND, if you buy four, I’ll throw one in for free!