After going through a particularly difficult time I decided I needed a “safe” place to explore my feelings and this book was the result. I used imagery that I often connect to, as well as a self-portrait image from an entry in one of my previous journals. I titled it “Inner Self” because I felt the clock represented the often used phrase of “what makes you tick”, while the biological imagery is symbolic of how our “insides” look under a microscope.

This unique handbound book contains 64 pages of 140-lb smooth press watercolor paper bound between two original mixed media collages on Plexiglas with waxed linen thread. The edges of the Plexiglas are covered in copper tape that will patina over time. Spacers were used in the binding process to allow for the easy addition of ephemera or photos without stressing the binding of chain and herringbone stitches. The book lies flat when open making for easy use.

This book is for the artist's personal use, but commissions for similar books are welcomed. You can view some of the work in this journal at http://www.designedlykristi.com/gallery/art_journal/journal5/index.html.