Transformation Stories: Altering Books and Awakening the New You

Step into the next chapter of your life to tell your transformation story with a newly recreated, interactive, multimedia book! Spend time in the sanctuary of Pendle Hill’s art studio with safe and brave community as we dive deep into re-creation, introspection, and transformation.

In this program, as we alter a book’s physical structure and narrative, we will contemplatively and creatively consider our life journeys, our next steps, and our spiritual leadings. Transformation Stories offers opportunities to draw, paint, collage, craft pop-ups and other architectural techniques, journal, and explore creativity in community. While techniques will be taught, participants will have the flexibility and autonomy to choose which experiences are right for them, their books, and their stories.

This course is especially relevant for those who wish to process a life change, honor an important memory, or seek vision. Adults, seniors, and teens are welcome to participate – from those who are new to altering books to those with vast experience in the art form.

Instructions on how to choose a book to alter and how to select fabric to decorate the cover will be sent to registered participants before the start of the program. If possible, participants are asked to bring their own books. Fabric options will be provided or participants may bring their own. All other materials will be provided.

Download the brochure to share with your community

Leader(s)

Jesse White is a narrative expressionist artist and writer. She has been teaching altered book-making as a transformative process for over 15 years. Jesse is the author of Pendle Hill Pamphlet #468, God’s Invitation to Creative Play. Her essay “Divine Creative Guidance and the Body” was published in the October 2022 issue of Friends Journal. A long-time teaching artist, she also has a work history in expressive arts therapy and paper and books conservation. Jesse served as the Arts & Spirituality Coordinator for Pendle Hill from 2013-2020 and currently serves as the Director and Spiritual Arts Doula for Pigeon Arts. Jesse currently serves as Clerk of Frankford Monthly Meeting of Friends (PA) and as Clerk of the Board of the Fellowship of Quakers in the Arts.

Financial aid may be available. If you are seeking funds to participate in this program, click to review and complete our Financial Assistance Application and a Pendle Hill staff member will follow-up with you shortly (please do NOT register online). Thank you for your interest.

Travel directions to Pendle Hill. Please make sure to review our health and safety expectations at https://pendlehill.org/stay/covid-19-information/.