Joyce Scott creates stories with her quilting. She also puts a narrative into her beaded sculpture by placing jars filled with memories inside the form. By doing this, Scott makes visible what is often unseen.

Minkisi are carved wooden figures made by the Kongo people in Africa. An inner cavity is filled with powerful substances with medicinal purposes. Minkis have been described as “hiding places for people’s souls.” Inside the figures of Jar People, objects are placed inside a jar or jars that represent a person’s likes or dislikes, memories, troubles, loves and talents. Inner workings of the heart, mind and soul become visible.

Questions to ask museum visitors when looking at the Jar People:

1. How much can you tell about a person from outer appearance?
2. Does our outer appearance match what we are felling inside?
3. To what extent do we display ideas, dreams, and life experiences on the outside of our bodies?

Source: Educational Material prepared by Baltimore Museum of Art, text by Linda Andre.

Joyce J. Scott (American, born 1948)
Jar Woman IV, 1995
Glass and beads
48 1/2 x 20 3/4 x 20 ¾ inches
Courtesy the artist
Photo by Joyce J. Scott and courtesy of ExhibitsUSA