“Cranes are for good luck, but sometimes we have to create our own good luck. Sometimes it’s hard work, but I know you got it in you.”
Years ago, I heard a story that resonated strongly with me. In the Japanese legend of Senbazuru, the folder of a thousand origami cranes receives either a lifetime of happiness or one wish. The origami crane means hope for me. I see in it the many true and mythical stories connected to the deep human longing to move beyond one's current condition to a reality that looks more similar to the internal dream that one creates as a fuel or reason (meaning) to move forward in an often difficult or bland existence.
Since then, I have regularly crafted origami cranes, mostly with actual origami paper and sometimes with other materials at hand such as magazines. Once completed, I send them to friends scattered around the world, including elsewhere in the USA but also in places as far away as Sweden, India, Australia and beyond. These friends take these tokens of hope to various locations and photograph them against diverse backdrops. These images are then shared on our Instagram account, creating a visual tapestry that connects us across borders. Most of these cranes bear messages; some relate to pressing global issues while others reflect my personal journey and mindset.
These cranes are my ambassadors of hope, reaching far beyond these prison walls. My art and the cranes have forged connections with people from diverse backgrounds. These connections, nurtured through letters, messages and even shared moments here at the prison, have become a source of inspiration and support. It's a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the capacity of art to bridge even the most formidable divides.
As I create art, fold cranes and share them with the world, I find purpose in life beyond the cell. The messages I share alongside these cranes reflect my deeply held convictions on issues like racism, trans rights and the death penalty. For me, justice isn't just a concept; it's a lifeline. Through these channels, I hope to influence the world positively, to shed light on the issues that matter most to me and to inspire change. My connections around the world are an integral part of this journey. Support and shared commitment keep me moving forward. Together, we can strive to create ripples of hope one crane at a time.
For me, the origami crane symbolizes not just hope but also resilience. It reminds us that even in the harshest of conditions, the human spirit can soar.
