The Journal Project

Michigan-based mixed media artist Ruth Crowe debuts a uniquely personal and heartily relatable collection of layered stories inspired by 40 years of collecting her personal stories in The Journal Project. This collection reflects back on moments of bigotry, injustice, trauma, relationships, celebrations, and new experiences. Ruth’s stories, though deeply hers, are also all of ours.

Michigan-based mixed media artist Ruth Crowe debuts a uniquely personal and heartily relatable collection of layered stories inspired by 40 years worth of her own journal entries. Ruth’s collection of nearly 80 journals contain words, thoughts, fears, comic strips, doodles, motivational sayings, poems, letters, pictures, joys and much angst. In the entries she saved, Ruth reminisces on years of bigotry, injustice, trauma, relationships, celebrations and learnings that she experiences. Ruth’s stories, though deeply hers, are also many other people’s stories. This new body of over 30 works celebrates and reflects the essence of what it means to be a human; a visual culmination of the bad to the good, the mundane and the monumental events – they all shape us into the person we are. The Journal Project is a powerful and tender example of how art and storytelling can allow for communal healing.

Follow The Journal Project

We’re so proud to watch The Journal Project travel across the country as Ruth Crowe continues to share her incredible story. Travel along with Ruth on The Journal Project journey. Next stop: Center on Halsted in Chicago.

Learn more here >>

The Artist

Ruth has worn many hats throughout her life – but none have given her a greater pleasure than the hat of an artist. From coaching collegiate softball, to serving in the US Army, to policing with the LAPD – her life has been nothing but unique. Now residing in Michigan, Ruth has been creating art to share her stories as a powerful and tender example of how art and storytelling can catalyze communal healing.

Related Programming

Creative hands-on programming is available for learners of all ages surrounding and inspired by Ruth Crowe’s work. From classroom visits to field trips for students, behind the scenes experiences to specially curated dinners with a professional chef – explore any of your interests, or discover a new one at the SCA! Plus, educators have the opportunity to dive into Ruth’s programming with the return of professional development in partnership with Arbor Circle and Opportunity Thrive.

Works for Sale

Bring a piece of the stars home with you – Molly’s work is for sale at the box office at the SCA or virtually right here.

Thank You To Our Sponsors

Premiere Sponsor:

Elizabeth Estes & Mary Fechtig​

Sponsors:

Garnet Lewis & Vicky Cobb
Vickie & Dan Bischoff
Cathy North & Marcy Weston
Delano Foundation
Perrigo

Thank You To Our Partners

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