"When I want to express an idea or feeling in an all-encompassing way I use the book form. Because it incorporates both two-dimensional art on the pages and three-dimensional art with its structure, I can convey an idea on multiple levels at once. I start with a final picture of what I'd like a book to look like. I then decide what type of binding would best suit the content of the book. Using colored pencil, paint, collage elements, prints, or type I create the pages of text and images. Then I use traditional hand bookbinding techniques to create sewn signatures, accordion folds or even scrolls. This art form is meant to be handled and manipulated. You, as the viewer, are participating in the tale these books tell by interacting with the piece."

Johanna holds a Masters degree in Folklore and attended the North Bennet Street School in Boston where she received training in the centuries-old craft of bookbinding.