Irene Mitkus:  The Shape and Color of Research

This project started [three] years ago in the summer of 1998 when Max Yela invited me to use the UWM Library and Special Collections resources to create a work of art. The suggestion was made that I use the topic of multiculturalism. Being of East European extraction, I have always been aware of the veneration of the oak tree, going back to pre-Christian times. So I knew that most cultures have a special tree that has been held sacred. The mythology that I found concerning the sacred tree was vast and overwhelming. In order to create an artist�s book, I had to do some paring down and chose those trees and their myths that struck me visually and spiritually.

During the time that I started the actual work on the book, I became gravely ill, but have managed to finish the project with the kind help of my friend, Ney Tait Fraser. It has been a pleasure to see the parts all come together to form an artist�s book.